7 Entry Level Telecommute Jobs for Parents Who Want to Work Remotely

Parenthood is a challenge under the best of circumstances. If you’re a working parent, your challenge is even greater. Trying to get everything done in a day can seem like an impossible task. One solution is to find a remote job. Entry level telecommute jobs offer a variety of benefits for working parents. These include more time with their children, reduced childcare costs, and the flexibility to pick-up and drop-off as needed during the day. Working remotely may also offer harried parents a few extra minutes for personal pursuits such as exercise, hobbies, or a nap! Activities that otherwise fall victim to a busy calendar.  

Luckily, opportunities for parents interested in working remotely have improved, largely in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Today, more and more companies are offering employees the option to telecommute. In addition, many companies have also become proficient in remote hiring processes and feel more comfortable hiring for entry level roles. These circumstances, combined with a tight labor market, means there are more available entry level work from home jobs for parents.

If you’re a parent getting back into the workforce or switching careers, consider entry level telecommuting positions that align with your skills, interests, and desired work schedule. Below are 7 job ideas to help jumpstart your search for telecommute entry level jobs.

1. Administrative Assistant

Administrative Assistants help organizations operate efficiently by completing common and routine tasks such as organizing print and electronic files and responding to correspondence. While a high school diploma is the only necessary credential, additional community college or technical school training is helpful. Applicants also need to be technically savvy and have a well-equipped home office. In addition, many positions will require availability during specific business hours.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for administrative assistants was $39,680 in May 2021. While these positions may decline by as much as 7% between 2020 and 2030, remote opportunities are increasing due to the emergence of virtual assistants that provide administrative services on a freelance basis or work for a specialized agency.

2. Data Entry Specialist

Data Entry Specialists are responsible for gathering, reviewing, and entering information into database software to support a variety of operations including customer service, human resources, and shipping/receiving. Qualifications for these positions are usually a high school diploma and an understanding of computers.

The median annual wage for information clerks was $37,450 in May 2021 as reported by the BLS. Growth in this occupation is slow, only 2% through 2030, due to the emergence of new technologies, however there are still positions available.

3. Search Engine Evaluator

Remote Search Engine Evaluators, also known as Internet Judges, review websites, landing pages, and advertisements to determine quality and accuracy based on a stringent set of guidelines. Education and experience requirements are usually minimal, but you must pass a qualifying exam before you can work on a project. Note that it takes time to study and take the test, and you will not receive payment for this time.

Pay and work hours vary by company, but you can expect to earn between $11-$15 per hour. Once you are accepted to a project, you can get 10 – 30 hours of part time work per week, making it a perfect side hustle for busy parents. Check out the article below for more information and a list of companies that hire for these positions.

4. Sales Representative

Sales representatives sell products and services, often within an assigned territory. While they may provide you with an initial client list, you will also expand the customer base as part of your job. Educational requirements depend on the product or service being sold; however, many jobs will only require a high school diploma. The key to making sales a good option is to ensure that time in the office isn’t replaced by time on the road.

The BLS is reporting little or no change in sales and related occupations. Sales workers in the services and wholesale sectors will continue to be in demand, however, growth in retail may stall due to rises in e-commerce. The median annual wage for sales and related occupations was $30,600 in May 2021.

5. Medical Coding

Another career choice that offers flexible hours and remote work opportunities is Medical Coding. In this position, individuals review patient medical records and apply clinical codes for reimbursement by insurance companies. While a college degree is not usually necessary for medical coding, individuals with some healthcare experience and industry certifications will find it easier to get a good position.

The extra experience and training to secure a job as a remote Medical Coder is worth your time. The median annual wage was $44,090 in May 2020 according to the BLS. In addition, employment is projected to grow 9% from 2020 to 2030.

6. Customer Service Representatives

If you want to work from home and enjoy helping others, customer service is a great choice. These jobs typically involve responding to inbound calls, texts, and video chats, and/or emails to provide information, coordinate services, and resolve problems. Experience and education requirements are minimal for most of these positions; however, one challenge parents may encounter is the need to have a quiet office space for using the telephone.

The BLS reports that the median hourly wage for customer service representatives was $17.75 in May 2021. Over the next decade or so, demand for customer service representatives will probably stay the same. While some tasks are being automated, reducing demand, there is an increase in companies wanting to differentiate themselves by delivering live assistance.

7. Content Writer

These are writers that create original content in a variety of formats, including articles, blog posts, newsletters, and emails, in support of a business’s marketing plan. If you’re a natural storyteller with good grammar skills, this is a very flexible and sometimes well-paying remote work option. While many positions will require a college degree in journalism or communications, others value expertise in relevant subjects more than education.

The median annual wage for writers and authors according to the BLS was $69,510 in May 2021. The job outlook is calling for 9% growth over the next 10 years, about average for all U.S. occupations.

Considerations Before Applying to Entry Level Telecommute Jobs

No matter where you are in life, you can jump back into the workplace or switch jobs by securing entry level telecommute jobs. However, it’s important to consider your current circumstances before you embark on your job search. For example, think about your life goals, career interests, and desired income. In addition, it’s important to consider the practicalities of working at home too. Do you have a place to work? Can you really take care of your child and get your work done? The answers to these questions may determine your ultimate success working remotely.

Check out the articles below for more tips on how to be both happy and effective as a work from home parent:

• 10 Tips for Working Remotely with Your New Baby
• Work-From-Home Hacks for the Busy Parent
• 6 Ways Work-at-Home Parents Can Get Back-to-School Ready

Are you interested in entry level telecommute jobs? Which one interests you the most? Connect with Virtual Vocations on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube to share your thoughts. We’d love to hear from you!