The 20 Best Overnight Jobs (With Salaries And Experience Required)

Overnight jobs are ideal for night owls and those who find traditional 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM roles incompatible with their internal clocks. If you prefer to sleep in, gradually wake up, and hit your stride after dusk, an overnight job might be the perfect fit.

But how can you discover an occupation that aligns with your nocturnal lifestyle? It’s simple: look for night shift opportunities that welcome your unique rhythm and allow you to thrive while most people are asleep.

Key Takeaways:

• The top four overnight jobs include bartending, warehouse work, truck driving, and 911 dispatcher.

• Overnight jobs such as police officer or maintenance engineer require prior training.

• Due to their high demand, many overnight jobs offer additional pay.

• Establishing a healthy sleep schedule is crucial when working overnight shifts.

20 of the Best Night Shift Jobs Around

If you’re unsure about suitable night shift jobs, don’t worry. We’ve compiled a list of engaging nighttime professions that could be just what you’re searching for.

1. Bartender
   Average Annual Salary: $22,000

   Bartending remains a quintessential nighttime job, with many bars opening only after sunset. Bartenders must verify ages and craft a variety of beverages, particularly cocktails.

   If you enjoy the vibrant nightlife, bartending could be your calling, and job openings are often plentiful.

   Experience Required: No formal degree is needed for bartending. While experience in food service is advantageous, entry-level positions as a barback can lead to bartending roles.

   Most bartending skills are learned on the job, but familiarity with drink recipes and strong communication skills are essential.

   Find Bartender jobs near me

2. Warehouse Worker
   Average Annual Salary: $28,000

   Warehouse roles include shipping and receiving, stocking, loading, and unloading, typically scheduled during nighttime hours. Many firms prefer to have their warehouse staff working at night to ensure readiness for the day shift.

   Experience Required: Warehouse positions are generally entry-level, requiring minimal prior experience. Essential skills include the ability to follow instructions, listen attentively, and operate industrial machinery.

   Find Warehouse worker jobs near me

3. Cashier
   Average Annual Salary: $24,000

   Cashiers are essential in 24/7 establishments like gas stations and grocery stores. The night shift often experiences a quieter pace, making it an excellent option for those balancing school or other jobs during the day.

   As a cashier, you’ll be responsible for scanning items, processing transactions, and providing customer service.

   Experience Required: Cashier roles typically require no prior experience, as training is usually provided on the job.

   Find Cashier jobs near me

4. Writer
   Average Annual Salary: $57,000

   For those whose creativity thrives at night, freelance writing offers the flexibility to work whenever inspiration strikes. As a remote writer, your schedule is highly adaptable as long as you meet deadlines.

   Experience Required: A strong writing portfolio or prior writing experience is typically required to secure freelance writing work.

   Find Freelance writer jobs near me

5. Casino Gaming Worker
   Average Annual Salary: $19,713

   Casino jobs encompass a variety of roles, all available during night hours. Whether as a dealer, maintenance worker, or cashier, working in a casino can be both exciting and lucrative.

   Experience Required: While many casino workers have college degrees, a high school diploma or GED may suffice, especially when coupled with customer service experience.

   Find Casino employee jobs near me

6. Security Guard
   Average Annual Salary: $29,000

   Night security guards play a vital role in protecting businesses and properties. This position is ideal for those who thrive in nighttime environments and enjoy responsibility.

   Experience Required: A high school diploma is often required, along with relevant experience in security being beneficial but not mandatory.

   Find Security guard jobs near me

7. Police Officer
   Average Annual Salary: $47,000

   Police officers are essential at all hours. Night shifts can often be busier, dealing with a range of situations, making it a dynamic and demanding role.

   Experience Required: Requirements vary from a high school diploma to a college degree, with successful completion of a training academy typically necessary.

   Find Police officer jobs near me

8. Truck Driver
   Average Annual Salary: $51,000

   Truck driving is a well-established night job, allowing drivers to navigate less traffic and deliver goods efficiently. Many companies prefer night deliveries for operational convenience.

   Experience Required: Typically requires a high school diploma and completion of a professional truck driving program, along with a commercial driver’s license (CDL).

   Find Truck driver jobs near me

9. Waiter/Waitress
   Average Annual Salary: $20,000

   All-night diners thrive after midnight, providing a bustling work environment for waitstaff. If you enjoy interacting with a lively crowd, this role could be a great fit.

   Experience Required: Most waiter and waitress positions require no formal education or prior experience, as training is typically provided.

   Find Waiter/waitress jobs near me

10. Baker
    Average Annual Salary: $27,000

    Bakers often rise early to prepare fresh goods for the morning rush. Their work typically begins in the late night, setting the stage for the new day.

    Experience Required: Most bakers learn through on-the-job training, though some may attend culinary school or complete an apprenticeship.

    Find Baker jobs near me

11. Maintenance Engineer
    Average Annual Salary: $64,000

    Maintenance engineers work during the night to ensure businesses are ready for the next day’s operations. Their tasks include cleaning and performing repairs in facilities that are closed to the public.

    Experience Required: A bachelor’s degree in engineering is often required, along with relevant work experience in maintenance roles.

    Find Maintenance Engineer jobs near me

12. Healthcare Social Worker
    Average Annual Salary: $52,388

    Healthcare social workers are essential around the clock, ensuring that support is available for patients and families in need at all hours.

    Experience Required: While a degree in healthcare or social work is typically required, many positions also accept relevant experience in related fields.

    Find Health care worker jobs near me

13. 911 Emergency Dispatcher
    Average Annual Salary: $39,000

    911 operators are vital for emergency response, requiring alertness and composure to handle urgent calls at all hours.

    Experience Required: Dispatch technology experience and strong communication skills are essential, with prior experience in healthcare or customer service being beneficial.

    Find 911 Emergency Dispatcher jobs near me

14. Cab Driver
    Average Annual Salary: $27,000

    Cab drivers often enjoy less traffic during nighttime hours, making it a pleasant time to work with more relaxed and satisfied customers.

    Experience Required: A valid driver’s license with a clean record is necessary, and previous customer service experience can be an asset.

    Find Taxi/Uber/Lyft driver jobs near me

15. Hotel Desk Clerk
    Average Annual Salary: $21,000

    Night shifts at hotels are crucial for accommodating guests arriving from late flights or needing assistance at odd hours.

    Experience Required: A high school diploma or GED is typically required, along with prior customer service experience being advantageous.

    Find Hotel Desk Clerk jobs near me

16. Broadcast Technician or Engineer
    Average Annual Salary: $52,000

    Broadcast technicians are essential for maintaining equipment at radio and television stations, especially during nighttime hours when fewer viewers are affected by maintenance.

    Experience Required: Many technicians start in smaller markets before moving on to larger stations, where experience and specialized skills are greatly valued.

    Find Broadcast technician jobs near me

17. Musician
    Average Annual Salary: $67,000

    While some musicians perform during the day, many thrive in late-night venues such as bars and clubs, allowing for flexible schedules.

    Experience Required: Extensive training and practice are generally required, either through formal education or hands-on experience.

    Find Musician jobs near me

18. Database Administrator
    Average Annual Salary: $74,000

    Many companies conduct database maintenance during off-hours to avoid disruption during peak business times, making this a vital overnight role.

    Experience Required: A bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field is typically necessary, along with relevant experience.

    Find Database Administrator jobs near me

19. Customer Service Representative
    Average Annual Salary: $29,000

    With the rise of e-commerce and global business operations, customer service representatives are needed around the clock to assist clients worldwide.

    Experience Required: Most positions require a high school diploma, with on-the-job training provided for specific skills.

    Find Customer service representative jobs near me

20. Highway Construction Inspector
    Average Annual Salary: $41,671

    Highway construction often occurs at night to minimize traffic disruptions, making inspectors essential for safety and compliance.

    Experience Required: Many inspectors have prior experience in construction or engineering roles, making it essential for this position.

    Find Highway construction jobs near me

Reasons to Work the Overnight Shift

Whether you refer to it as the night shift, graveyard shift, or third shift, working nights has numerous benefits for those who thrive during these hours. Here are some compelling reasons to consider:

• Less Road Traffic. Nighttime driving typically means reduced congestion, allowing you to avoid the stress of rush hour traffic.

• Fewer Coworkers or Customers. Night shifts often have fewer personnel on-site, making it ideal for those who prefer a quieter work environment.

• More Social Interaction. If you enjoy the energy of a bustling nightlife, night jobs in entertainment or hospitality can offer an exciting atmosphere.

• Higher Pay. Many companies offer additional compensation for overnight shifts, rewarding those willing to work less desirable hours.

• Avoiding Daytime Meetings. Working nights often means you can skip many of the tedious meetings that occur during the day.

• A Good Starting Point. Entry-level night jobs provide an opportunity to learn about the industry without the pressures of daytime positions.

• Less Competition. Fewer individuals are willing to work overnight, which can lead to more job opportunities for you.

Tips for Working the Night Shift

Whether you’re a night owl or transitioning to overnight work for a short time, these tips can help you thrive:

• Prepare. Adjust your sleep schedule before starting a night job to ensure you’re well-rested from day one.

• Make Sleep a Priority. Sleeping during the day can be challenging. Create a conducive sleep environment with blackout curtains and minimal noise to improve your rest.

• Set a Consistent Schedule. Maintain your night schedule throughout the week to help your body adjust more effectively.

• Prioritize Health. Maintain a balanced diet and regular exercise, as night shifts can lead to unhealthy habits.

• Schedule Personal Time. Make sure to allocate time for yourself during your off hours to support mental wellness.

Best Overnight Jobs FAQ

1. What does third shift mean?

   Third shift refers to working overnight hours. A typical third shift usually starts around 11 PM and ends around 7 AM, although specific hours can vary by employer.

2. Do you get paid more during an overnight shift?

   While the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) does not require extra pay for night work, many employers offer higher wages for overnight shifts due to the decreased number of applicants.

Author

Kristin Kizer

Kristin Kizer is an award-winning writer, television and documentary producer, and content specialist who has worked on a wide variety of written, broadcast, and electronic publications. A former writer/producer for The Discovery Channel, she is now a freelance writer and delighted to be sharing her talents and time with the wonderful Zippia audience.