Legitimate Work-From-Home Careers

As the demand for flexible work arrangements continues to rise, many individuals are seeking careers that allow them to work from home. Remote work is now a viable option for various professions, offering flexibility and the chance to balance personal responsibilities with career ambitions.

In this article, we’ll explore 15 legitimate work-from-home careers, highlight companies that frequently hire remote workers, and provide insights on potential earnings and tips for selecting the best online job for your skills and lifestyle.

Key Takeaways

• The top three work-from-home careers are insurance, freelance digital design, and marketing.

• Work-from-home opportunities are available for individuals with diverse skill sets.

• Annual salaries for remote positions can range from $27,000 to $120,000, depending on the role and experience.

15 Examples of Work-From-Home Jobs

1. Customer Service
   Median Salary: $31,709

   Customer service roles are abundant and can be performed from home with just a computer and phone. If you possess strong interpersonal skills, patience, and adaptability, a remote customer service position may be a great fit.

   A common entry point is a position in a virtual call center. Experience in retail or a traditional call center can help you stand out in this field.

   Customer service skills: Essential skills include:

   • Effective communication

   • Problem-solving abilities

   • Conflict resolution

   • Patience

2. Freelance Writing and Editing
   Median Salary: $61,482

   Freelance writing and editing allows you to be your own boss while working from home. A search for freelance opportunities reveals a wealth of projects available across various platforms.

   This field encompasses writing for magazines, blogs, websites, and more. If you have a background in writing or editing, you’re well-positioned to thrive in this area.

   Freelance writing and editing skills: Key skills include:

   • Proficiency in writing and grammar

   • Attention to detail

   • Time management

   • Effective communication

3. Virtual Assistant
   Median Salary: $39,915

   A virtual assistant provides professional administrative, technical, or creative support to clients from their homes. Tasks may include managing schedules, handling correspondence, and coordinating travel.

   This role is ideal for those who excel in organization and detail-oriented tasks.

   Virtual assistant skills: Essential skills include:

   • Strong organizational abilities

   • Attention to detail

   • Problem-solving skills

   • Clear communication

4. Transcription
   Median Salary: $43,541

   Transcription remains a popular work-at-home option. Those with prior experience generally earn more, but beginners can also find entry-level opportunities.

   Platforms like Rev.com cater to newcomers, while experienced transcriptionists may specialize in fields like legal or medical transcription.

   Transcription skills: Key skills include:

   • Fast and accurate typing

   • Attention to detail

   • Time management

   • Organizational skills

5. Online Data Entry
   Median Salary: $36,084

   Online data entry jobs involve inputting information into company databases. These roles vary significantly by industry and may be offered as freelance or independent contractor positions.

   As data entry positions can be targeted by scams, it’s important to exercise caution during your job search.

   Data entry skills: Essential skills include:

   • Multitasking

   • Attention to detail

   • Effective communication

   • Time management

6. Insurance
   Median Salary: $51,936

   The insurance sector has increasingly adopted remote work, making it easier for many roles to be conducted from home. Opportunities include positions for underwriters, appraisers, agents, case managers, IT professionals, and project managers.

   Insurance skills: Key skills include:

   • Strong interpersonal communication

   • Organizational skills

   • Adaptability

   • Problem-solving abilities

7. Quality Assurance Testing
   Median Salary: $74,140

   Quality assurance (QA) testing roles are well-suited for remote work and available across various industries. Entry-level positions typically have low barriers to entry for those with an eye for detail.

   Jobs in this field may involve testing software, websites, and products, with some roles requiring specific qualifications.

   Quality assurance testing skills: Key skills include:

   • Critical thinking

   • Effective communication

   • Teamwork

   • Flexibility

8. Medical
   Median Salary: $51,563

   The medical field offers various work-from-home opportunities that can include roles like medical coding, virtual nursing, telehealth services, and medical transcription.

   Some pharmacists also work remotely to review prescriptions and provide patient counseling.

   Medical skills: Key skills include:

   • Empathy

   • Critical thinking

   • Organizational skills

   • Attention to detail

9. Online Education
   Median Salary: $45,114

   Online education is an expanding field, with opportunities for those with a range of qualifications from formal degrees to tutoring experience. While higher-paying positions often require advanced degrees, many virtual tutoring roles are available.

   Online education skills: Essential skills include:

   • Effective communication

   • Empathy

   • Creativity

   • Time management

10. Freelance Digital Design
    Median Salary: $49,450

    Freelance digital design is a great option for those with design experience, as companies increasingly seek designers for marketing and branding initiatives.

    Building a strong digital portfolio is essential for freelance designers to attract clients.

    Freelance digital design skills: Key skills include:

    • Knowledge of color and typography

    • Understanding art, layout, and navigation principles

    • Proficiency in design software

    • Effective communication

11. Search Engine Evaluation
    Median Salary: $106,930

    As a search engine evaluator, you assess the relevance and accuracy of search engine results. This role typically involves contract work and requires attention to detail.

    Search engine evaluation skills: Essential skills include:

    • Effective communication

    • Attention to detail

    • Familiarity with search engine and analytic tools

    • Research skills

12. Working With Non-English Speakers
    Median Salary: $44,278

    Bilingual individuals have expanded opportunities for remote work, including roles in customer service, translation, transcription, and online education.

    Working with non-English speakers skills: Key skills include:

    • Effective communication

    • Problem-solving abilities

    • Adaptability

    • Patience

13. Accounting and Bookkeeping
    Median Salary: $54,890

    Accounting and bookkeeping roles are essential for businesses and can be done remotely. With today’s digital tools, these positions are increasingly accessible, especially for certified professionals.

    Accounting and bookkeeping skills: Key skills include:

    • Attention to detail

    • Mathematical proficiency

    • Problem-solving skills

    • Analytical abilities

14. Art and Design
    Median Salary: $51,173

    Artists and designers can find numerous freelance opportunities, from photography to illustrations and website design. Platforms like Fiverr and Upwork can connect creatives with clients.

    Art and design skills: Essential skills include:

    • Creativity

    • Time management

    • Customer service

    • Understanding of design principles

15. Marketing
    Median Salary: $60,359

    Marketing encompasses a wide range of roles that can be effectively performed remotely, including social media management, digital marketing, and content creation.

    Compensation in marketing varies based on experience and expertise.

    Marketing skills: Essential skills include:

    • Data analysis

    • Problem-solving

    • Creativity

    • Research skills

Companies Looking for At-Home Workers

If you’re seeking remote work opportunities, consider applying to the following companies, which frequently hire for remote positions. Below are examples of recent job openings across various skill sets.

• Amazon. As the largest global online retailer, Amazon consistently hires for various roles to meet demand.

  • Full-Time Virtual Customer Service Associate

  • HR Business Partner

  • Director of Engineering

• UnitedHealth Group. This leading healthcare company provides a range of healthcare products and services and is the largest healthcare company globally by revenue.

  • Senior Data Entry Clerk

  • Sales Support Coordinator

  • Senior Billing Coordinator

• Noticed. This eCommerce and marketing agency supports D2C lifestyle brands, focusing on growth and profitability.

  • Paid Social Specialist

  • Retention Marketing Manager

  • Digital Project Manager

• Aha! Aha! is a SaaS company that provides product management software for tech companies, recognized as one of the fastest-growing firms in the U.S.

  • Director of Digital Marketing

  • Customer Success Manager

  • Ruby on Rails Engineer

• Zagat. Zagat is a well-known resource for restaurant ratings worldwide.

  • Editorial Director

  • FOTI-Happy Hour Hotline

• Catchpoint Systems. Catchpoint helps organizations enhance their online experiences for clients.

  • Product UX Designer

  • Product Growth Manager

  • Director of Corporate Strategy Development

• Vox Media. Vox Media is a modern media company with a vast array of editorial platforms.

  • Front End Engineer, Revenue

  • News Writer

  • Content Manager

• Spin. Spin, owned by Ford, is a bike and scooter-sharing company that operates a dockless system via a mobile app.

  • Senior Public Policy Manager

  • Senior Manager, Workforce Optimization

  • Vehicle Operations Manager

• Strayer University. This accredited online university offers flexible classes tailored for working professionals.

  • Teaching Assistant in Introduction to Biology

  • Teaching Assistant in Mathematics

  • Teaching Assistant in English

• CrowdStrike. A cybersecurity company providing endpoint security and threat intelligence.

  • QA Data Engineer

  • Regional Manager, Global Customer References

  • Sr. Regional Sales Engineer

How Much Can You Earn From Working From Home?

With the right experience and industry, a full-time income from remote work is achievable. The shift towards digital operations has led to an increased demand for home-based roles.

Salary expectations vary widely. For example, virtual assistants can expect to earn between $27k and $43k annually, while medical transcriptionists typically earn around $35k. Translators can make between $50k and $90k, depending on their expertise. Software developers often earn between $70k and $125k, while freelance writers typically see earnings of $60k to $120k per year.

Ultimately, your earnings will depend on your experience level and the chosen career path.

How to Choose the Best Online Job

With numerous options available in the remote job market, choosing the right position can be both exciting and daunting. Here are some tips to help you find the best fit:

1. Be patient. It’s important not to rush into the first job offer unless it aligns with your career goals.

2. Create a profile of your ideal job and employer. Consider what you need from a job, what to avoid, and how to achieve a better work-life balance.

3. Know your worth. Remote work doesn’t mean you should accept lower pay. Don’t hesitate to negotiate your salary.

4. Promote yourself. Make it easy for recruiters to find you by updating your LinkedIn profile and consider working with a recruiter for more opportunities.

5. Don’t rush into a decision. Evaluate all your options and discuss them with trusted friends or family members before committing.

Final Thoughts

Remote work has transitioned from a rarity to an increasingly common option for job seekers. With a reliable internet connection, computer, and mobile device, you’re likely eligible for a range of work-at-home jobs.

As you embark on your search for legitimate remote opportunities, remember that having relevant or transferable experience can significantly enhance your prospects.

Stay vigilant and cautious of any job offers that seem too good to be true, as scams targeting job seekers remain prevalent. Conduct thorough research to ensure you’re applying to reputable companies and securing fair compensation for your work.

Author

Caitlin Mazur

Caitlin Mazur is a freelance writer at Zippia. Caitlin is passionate about helping Zippia’s readers land the jobs of their dreams by offering content that discusses job-seeking advice based on experience and extensive research. Caitlin holds a degree in English from Saint Joseph’s University in Philadelphia, PA.