Managing a military household is no small feat. Between frequent moves, unpredictable schedules, and the demands of military life, finding and maintaining a career can seem nearly impossible for military spouses. However, in today’s digital world, there are more opportunities than ever for flexible jobs that allow you to manage your household while building a fulfilling career. Here’s a practical guide for military spouses on how to secure flexible jobs that fit into the unique rhythm of military life.
Identify your skills and interests
Before diving into the job search, it’s crucial to take stock of your skills, experience, and interests. Ask yourself: What am I good at? What do I enjoy doing? What skills have I developed over the years, whether through formal work experience, volunteering, or managing a military household? These questions will help guide you toward the right kind of job that aligns with both your interests and your strengths.
Pro Tip: Don’t underestimate the skills you’ve gained through managing a military household, such as organization, communication, problem-solving, and multitasking. These are highly transferable skills in the workforce.
Try these:
Teaching/Tutoring. If you have a background in education, consider online tutoring or teaching positions.
Writing/Editing. If writing is your strong suit, freelance writing or editing may offer the flexibility you need.
Customer Service. Many companies offer remote customer service positions, allowing you to work from home on a flexible schedule.
Explore remote and freelance opportunities
Remote and freelance jobs are a great option for military spouses because they offer flexibility and the ability to work from anywhere—whether you’re stationed in the U.S. or overseas. Remote work allows you to keep your job, even when you’re required to move.
Remote job platforms
FlexJobs
A job search platform that focuses specifically on remote, part-time, and freelance positions. The site screens its job listings to ensure they’re legitimate and scam-free.
We Work Remotely
This platform offers remote jobs in various industries, including design, marketing, writing, customer support, and more.
Upwork
A marketplace for freelancers to find clients and projects. If you have a particular skill set (writing, graphic design, web development, etc.), you can create a profile and bid on freelance gigs.
Pro Tip: Set up alerts on job platforms that notify you when new remote or flexible positions are posted. This will save time and help you stay on top of opportunities as soon as they’re available.
Consider portable careers
A portable career is one that can move with you, regardless of where you’re stationed. Careers in healthcare, education, IT, marketing, and real estate are all great examples of portable careers that can be adapted to different locations and circumstances.
Popular portable career paths
Healthcare
Fields like nursing, physical therapy, and counseling are in demand everywhere. Consider earning certifications that allow you to work across different states or countries.
IT & Cybersecurity
Tech jobs are some of the most portable. Skills in web development, cybersecurity, and IT support are always in demand and often offer remote work options.
Real Estate
If you enjoy working with people and have a passion for property, real estate can be a highly flexible and portable career. You can earn your license in one state and easily transition to another with online courses and certifications.
Pro Tip:Many military bases offer spouse employment programs that provide career counseling and training in high-demand, portable careers.
Network within the military community
Networking is essential when looking for a flexible job as a military spouse. The good news is, the military community itself is a vast network of individuals who are often more than willing to offer advice, referrals, or job leads.
Where to network
Build a professional LinkedIn profile and connect with other military spouses, veterans, and professionals in your desired industry. Join LinkedIn groups dedicated to military spouses and career resources.
Military Spouse Employment Partnership (MSEP)
MSEP connects military spouses with employers who are committed to hiring and supporting them. Check out their website for job listings and resources.
Veterans’ Organizations
Many veterans’ organizations, like Hiring Our Heroes and Blue Star Families, offer programs designed to help military spouses find flexible work opportunities.
Pro Tip: Don’t be afraid to reach out to former military spouses or professionals you meet at events or through social media. Networking can open doors to opportunities you may not have found on your own.
Build a strong resume and online presence
Having a professional resume and online presence is critical when searching for flexible work. Many remote jobs, especially freelance and contract work, are competitive, so standing out from the crowd is important.
What to include on your resume
Transferable Skills
Highlight your soft skills, such as adaptability, communication, and leadership—qualities that are often developed through military life.
Remote Work Skills
Showcase any experience with tools like Zoom, Slack, Microsoft Teams, or project management software (Trello, Asana).
Gaps in Employment
If you have employment gaps due to moves or deployments, consider addressing them directly. Many employers who hire military spouses understand the nature of military life.
In addition, build your online presence If you’re interested in remote or freelance work, create a portfolio or website that showcases your skills and past work. Platforms like LinkedIn and Behance (for creatives) are great for making a professional impression.
Set realistic expectations and boundaries
While it’s exciting to dive into the world of flexible work, it’s essential to set realistic expectations for what you can manage. Balancing a career with the demands of a military household isn’t easy, so it’s important to establish clear boundaries between your work life and personal life.
Tips for managing your time
Time Blocking
Set specific hours for work and family time to avoid burnout.
Create a Workspace
If possible, set up a dedicated workspace in your home to help mentally separate work from household responsibilities.
Communicate Boundaries
Make sure your family understands when you need uninterrupted work time, and let clients know your availability if you’re freelancing.
Pro Tip: Don’t hesitate to ask for help when needed. Whether it’s childcare support or delegating household tasks, seeking assistance can lighten the load and make balancing work and military life more manageable.
Finding flexible work as a military spouse may feel daunting at first, but with the right tools, strategies, and mindset, it’s entirely possible. By exploring remote and freelance opportunities, networking within the military community, and building a professional online presence, you can secure a career that fits your life—no matter where you’re stationed. Stay adaptable, be proactive, and don’t be afraid to reach out for help along the way. With these steps, balancing military life and a successful career is within reach.