When you're stuck in a cubicle from 9 to 5, beautiful summer weather can feel more like a curse than a blessing. Fortunately, not all jobs require that you experience a sunless summer. With the proper career training and degree, you can transition into a job that's summer-friendly. Thanks to flexible scheduling and the ability to work from home, these in-demand jobs allow you to take advantage of all that summer has to offer.
1. Teacher
Teachers at the elementary, middle school, and secondary levels work throughout the school year to foster their students' intellectual and emotional growth, and some are rewarded at the end of the year with the summer off. Even teachers who work all year or who opt to teach summer school often enjoy reduced hours or blocks of time off during the summer. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), elementary and middle school teachers earned approximately $52,000 in 2008, while high school teachers earned an average of $54,000.
To become a teacher in a public school, you must earn a bachelor's degree and graduate from an approved teacher training program. Many teachers earn a bachelor's degree in education or in the specific subject they choose to teach. Even if you currently work full-time, online degree programs can help you earn a bachelor's degree and transition into a teaching career.
2. Graphic designer
Graphic designers ceate images and layouts for clients' advertising, marketing, packaging, and communications materials. Many graphic designers work for design firms or publishers, while others are self-employed. Because most graphic design work is done on a computer, self-employed graphic designers can work from anywhere, giving them the flexibility to travel during the summer or work after the sun goes down. Graphic designers earned an average of $46,750 in 2008, and the BLS expects their employment to grow by 13 percent from 2008 to 2018.
Most graphic design positions require designers to hold a bachelor's degree in graphic design, though some will accept a certificate or an associate's degree. A bachelor's degree in graphic design generally takes four years to complete and includes coursework in computerized design, studio art, commercial graphics production, and website design.
3. Chef
Chefs and head cooks are in charge of preparing meals for restaurants and other food-service venues. In addition to cooking, chefs often oversee the rest of the kitchen staff and prepare menus. Chefs put in long hours, but they are often busiest at night when restaurants receive the most customers. This schedule means some chefs have free time during the day to take advantage of summer weather. According to the BLS, chefs and head cooks earned an average of $42,410 in 2008, and job opportunities are predicted to grow.
Many chefs at high-end restaurants receive formal training from culinary schools. Culinary programs generally last two to four years and result in an associate's degree or a bachelor's degree in culinary arts. A bachelor's degree in hospitality can also prepare students for a career in the restaurant business, and many hospitality and culinary schools offer online courses for working students.
4. Computer software engineer
Computer software engineers work on developing everything from computer games to operating systems. While developing software, engineers must analyze users' needs and create programs that address those needs effectively. Advances in computer technology have made telecommuting possible for many computer software engineers, allowing them to work from home or travel during the summer. According to the BLS, employment of computer software engineers is expected to grow much faster than the national average from 2008 to 2018, which means job opportunities should be plentiful. In 2008, computer software engineers earned an average of $87,900.
Most software engineering jobs require employees to have a bachelor's degree in software engineering or computer science. In some cases, an associate's degree in computer science or information systems is also acceptable. Online degree programs in computer science and software engineering may allow you to transition into this in-demand industry without leaving your current job.
Enjoy your summer
In today's economy, there are countless alternatives to spending summer days inside an office. Whether by offering telecommuting or atypical schedules, the above jobs are just some options for enjoying the summer while building a rewarding career.
Jessica Hanley is a writer pursuing a graduate degree in creative writing. Her previous experience includes marketing for the Penguin Young Readers Group and teaching writing to students of all ages. Jessica received a B.A. in English from Stanford University.
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