As a single mom, you’ll face unique challenges when choosing a career, such as:
- Finding a job with flexible hours to balance work and time with your child.
- Securing positions with good income and healthcare benefits to cover family essentials.
- Ensuring a work-life balance to meet both work and family needs while avoiding burnout.
- Accessing opportunities with minimal upfront investment and training to start your new career sooner—without breaking the bank.
The good news is that many career paths meet these needs. In this article, we’ll explore these options and offer actionable steps to help you choose a path that fits your busy lifestyle.
At Climb Hire, we’re a nonprofit organization that helps low-income and overlooked working adults secure jobs in tech.
The best part? Our programs are completely free throughout 2024. Plus, Climb Hire supports our graduates in finding jobs, leading to 80% of Climbers securing positions within six months of program completion.
With Climb Hire, you could have a well-paying tech job within a year that fits your schedule, supports your family, and offers plenty of growth opportunities.
Ready to get started with our training programs? Apply now or continue reading to learn more.
Two Perfect Tech Careers for Single Moms
When it comes to finding a career that fits the demands of being a single mom, tech jobs stand out for several compelling reasons:
- Many tech roles offer flexible work arrangements, including the option to work from home. This enables you to easily manage your work schedule around parenting responsibilities.
- Tech careers generally offer high-paying entry-level positions, with starting salaries averaging around $50k. This provides a solid financial base and room for growth as you gain experience.
- Many tech jobs offer a great work-life balance. This allows you to enjoy quality time with your family and reduces the risk of burnout.
Here are two tech roles that easily fit into a single mom’s schedule:
1. IT Support
Entry-level IT support positions are in high demand because nearly every company, regardless of industry, relies on technology. In these roles, you’ll troubleshoot technical problems, set up systems, and ensure smooth technology operations.
Many IT support roles offer the option to work from home, at least part of the time, helping you avoid daily commutes and better balance work with parenting responsibilities.
Here are a few examples of IT support positions that could be a good fit:
- Help desk technician: You’ll provide first-line support by resolving technical issues remotely through phone, email, or chat.
- Desktop support technician: You’ll assist with on-site troubleshooting and maintenance of computers, laptops, and related equipment.
- IT support specialist: You’ll handle more complex technical issues and ensure the smooth operation of an organization’s IT systems.
- Field service technician: You’ll travel to various locations to install, repair, and maintain IT equipment on-site.
According to Glassdoor, the average starting salary in IT support is around $55k.
Another reason an IT career is ideal for single moms is the ease of entry. You don’t need a college degree to qualify. Instead, Climb Hire offers a specialized IT Support training program to get you started in the field right away.
Use Climb Hire to Begin Your IT Support Career
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“I had two (basically) infants, I was breastfeeding… juggling one child’s school. I really appreciate the community behind Climb Hire, because if it wasn’t for them, I probably wouldn’t have made it through.”
– Roxy Fields, Climb Hire graduate
Our IT Support program teaches the fundamentals of tech support, including operating systems, hardware, software, networks, troubleshooting, security principles, and more, to help you launch a career in IT.
The course lasts 6 months and prepares you to earn CompTIA A+ certification, a qualification many hiring managers in the field seek on resumes. Thanks to our generous donors, students pay absolutely nothing for tuition throughout 2024. Additionally, we cover the cost of CompTIA A+ certification itself, which normally exceeds $500.
Every student who enrolls with Climb Hire receives:
- Fully-remote, instructor-led live classes, so you’ll benefit from direct, personalized instruction in addition to a learning environment that fits your schedule. Plan to dedicate 15–20 hours per week to classes, studying, and assignments.
- A dedicated Career Development Advisor to support all aspects of your job search and help you land your first tech role. This includes assistance with your resume, cover letters, and interview preparation.
- The benefit of studying alongside like-minded peers.
- Access to our extensive professional network, which simplifies the job search process. Some of our partner companies actively seek out our top graduates, giving you a distinct advantage in the job market.
77% of our alumni say that the Climb Hire community is the most valuable part of our programs, and 80% of graduates find jobs within six months, with an average starting salary of $50k.
By enrolling in this program, you could secure a well-paying tech job within a year that supports your family and offers exciting growth opportunities.
You don’t need an associate’s or bachelor’s degree to qualify—just a high school diploma (or equivalent). Apply to Climb Hire’s IT Support program today.
2. Digital Marketing
Digital marketing can be a great career choice for single moms for several reasons:
- Many entry-level part-time and full-time jobs are available, making it easier to get started in the field.
- Competitive starting salaries typically range from $50k to $60k.
- Hybrid and remote work options are common, offering flexibility that can ease the stress on a single mom.
Moreover, there are many paths within the digital marketing field to choose from, which can appeal to people with varying interests. For example:
- Content Marketing: Create and share valuable written content (often as a blogger for an agency or a specific company) to attract and engage a target audience.
- Social Media Marketing (SMM): Promote products and brands through platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.
- Paid search marketing: Create and manage online ad campaigns to drive traffic and sales.
- SEO (search engine optimization): Improve a website’s visibility and rankings by optimizing content, keywords, and technical aspects of the site to attract organic traffic.
- Data analytics: Analyze data to understand consumer behavior and optimize marketing strategies.
At Climb Hire, we offer a paid search marketing training program that only takes 4 months to complete and is a perfect fit for many single moms.
Launch Your Career in Paid Search Marketing with Climb Hire
Climb Hire’s Google and Meta Ads Certification program will equip you with the essential skill set and industry-recognized certifications to begin your career. Meanwhile, you won’t have to pay a dime, as training is 100% free for all students throughout 2024.
Throughout the program, you’ll:
- Learn how to set up and manage Google and Meta Ads campaigns, select effective keyword strategies to reach your target audience, and track and analyze the success of digital campaigns.
- Gain hands-on work experience with tools like Google Ads, Meta Business Suite, Google Sheets, Shopify, and more will set you up with a competitive edge in the field.
- Participate in live, virtual classes with a supportive instructor and cohort, allowing you to build meaningful connections with fellow students.
When you graduate from the four-month course, you’ll have earned both the Google Ads Certification and the Meta Certified Digital Marketing Associate certification, credentials that are recognized globally and can make your resume stand out.
Similar to our IT Support program, you’ll benefit from personalized support from a Climb Hire Career Development Advisor. They’ll help you find a job while working with you to build your resume, write cover letters, and prepare for interviews.
You’ll also gain access to our extensive professional network, so you’ll be connected to employers in the industry actively seeking new talent. These connections can be invaluable in helping you land your first role in the field.
Thanks to all these perks, 80% of our alumni land roles within six months of graduation, earning an average starting salary of $50k.
In case you’re not convinced, our graduates can offer proof of how our programs have changed their lives. Here is some feedback from Climb Hire graduate and single mother Fabiola Bedoya:
“As a single mom, I’ve had to leverage alternative education (and resources) to get ahead. Climb Hire isn’t just a class; it’s a supportive community that offers real-life experience and invaluable connections with industry experts – something that’s truly invaluable!”
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Ready to get started? Apply to our Google & Meta Ads Certification program.
9 Additional Career Options for Single Moms
If these roles aren’t quite what you’re looking for, there are many other career paths that cater to the needs of single moms. Here are some noteworthy options:
1. Graphic Designer
Graphic design is a creative field with opportunities ranging from freelance work to full-time positions in various industries like advertising, marketing, and UX/UI design. As a graphic designer, you can often work remotely, which lets you manage your schedule around parenting duties.
The average entry-level salary is about $66k (Glassdoor), with potential for higher earnings as you gain experience and build your portfolio.
To train as a designer, minimal upfront investment is needed, as there are free or affordable online courses. You can also get certified in Adobe Certified Professional and Google UX Design Professional Certificate to boost your resume.
2. Virtual Assistant
As a virtual assistant, you can work remotely, offering administrative support to businesses and entrepreneurs. This job is ideal for single moms, as it allows you to create a flexible schedule that fits your family’s needs.
Tasks such as managing emails, scheduling appointments, and handling social media can often be done during hours that work best for you.
The role requires minimal upfront training, meaning you can start earning quickly. This makes it easier to provide for your family without taking on a large financial burden.
The average starting salary for VAs is around $46k (Glassdoor).
3. Home Health Aide
Working as a home health aide places you in the service industry, where you’ll be giving care to those who need assistance with daily activities. The role tends to offer flexible schedules, making it easier to manage childcare responsibilities.
The demand for home health aides is consistently high, with an average starting salary at around $37k (Glassdoor).
Training is minimal and usually involves short certification programs or classes through your state government or the American Caregiver Association.
4. Massage Therapist
Massage therapy is another flexible career in the service industry with good income potential—the average starting salary is roughly $75k (Glassdoor).
You can set your own hours and even run your practice from home, making it easier to balance work and family life.
This career path allows you to build strong relationships with your clients while offering a service that promotes well-being. The upfront costs for training and certification are reasonable, and you can start working as soon as you’re certified.
5. Event Planner
Event planning is a solid option for single moms with strong organizational skills. The role allows you to work from home and on the go, providing flexibility to fit work around family life.
As an event planner, you’ll coordinate weddings, parties, and corporate events, often working nights and weekends—when childcare might be more accessible.
The average starting salary for event planners is around $59k (Glassdoor), with plenty of opportunity for growth as you build your reputation.
To get started, you can take training through online schools.
6. Medical Coder
Medical coding is a great way to break into the healthcare industry without a degree. The healthcare industry also offers a sense of job security, as the demand for medical coders continues to grow.
It’s a job that can often be done remotely, giving you the flexibility to work from home.
As a medical coder, you’ll be doing things like translating medical records into standardized codes for billing and insurance purposes.
Training programs for medical coding can be completed in less than a year, so you can quickly enter the workforce and start earning a steady income.
Entry-level salaries average around $51k (Glassdoor).
7. Real Estate Agent
As a real estate agent, you can set many of your own hours, even when working for an agency. This flexibility can be ideal for single moms, allowing you to manage family needs while pursuing a career with a higher starting salary, averaging around $68k (Glassdoor).
Keep in mind that this is a commission-based position, so success in selling houses directly impacts your earnings. You’ll also need to obtain a state license, which requires 60–180 hours of pre-licensing training.
8. Cosmetologist
As a cosmetologist, you can enter the beauty industry and enjoy creative freedom. This role is ideal for single moms, as you can set your own hours, whether working in a salon or running a home-based business.
The income potential grows as you build a loyal client base, though the average starting salary for full-time work is $46k (Glassdoor). Additionally, the job offers the satisfaction of helping others feel their best.
The training involves completing a relatively short and affordable cosmetology program, allowing you to start working and earning quickly.
9. Data Entry Clerk
In the data entry field, you’ll handle tasks such as inputting and managing information in databases or spreadsheets. This administrative or clerical role offers flexibility that can work well with your family schedule.
Many data entry positions allow you to work from home, making it easier to juggle work and parenting responsibilities.
The average entry-level salary for data entry positions is $38k (Glassdoor), with opportunities for growth.
Training typically involves on-the-job learning or short courses, so you can start working quickly without a significant financial investment.
Tips to Keep in Mind When Applying for Jobs as a Single Mom
As a single mom, you face unique challenges in the workplace. To improve your chances of employment and ensure a positive working life, keep these tips in mind:
1. Look for Jobs Offering Health Benefits
As a single mom, access to healthcare for your family is crucial. Many full-time positions provide health insurance, including medical, dental, and vision coverage. Tech and healthcare companies, in particular, are known for comprehensive benefits. In contrast, freelancing typically lacks health coverage, so you’ll need to buy it yourself—which can be costly.
2. Find an Employer Who Understands Your Childcare Needs
Flexibility, such as adjustable hours and remote work options, is often essential for single moms. Look for an employer who is supportive and accommodating of your role as a single parent.
Additionally, some employers offer childcare benefits, like subsidies for childcare costs, onsite daycare, or paid family and medical leave. You’re more likely to find these perks at larger companies that focus on employee well-being and modern work practices.
3. Know How to Address Gaps in Your Resume Before Applying
Single moms don’t always have the most linear employment history and that’s okay. The important thing is to address gaps in your resume from the start. At Climb Hire, our career support includes crafting resumes and cover letters that highlight your strengths and relevant skills, even with employment gaps.
We’ll help you frame any career breaks as necessary and valuable, presenting a strong narrative to potential employers. Plus, we’ll prepare you for interviews by guiding you on how to confidently discuss your employment history.
Launch Your Lucrative Tech Career with Climb Hire
Climb Hire offers a direct path into two tech careers that provide flexibility, great earning potential, and the ability to balance work with parenting responsibilities, making them ideal for single moms.
Our IT Support and Google & Meta Ads Certification programs are designed to give you the skills, support, and guidance you need to enter the workforce as a highly competent IT support specialist or digital marketer.
Here’s what you can expect from Climb Hire:
- Comprehensive tech training, 100% free for all of 2024, thanks to our generous donors.
- Industry-standard certifications that will make your resume stand out.
- Dedicated post-graduation support to help you find a job.
- A supportive community of peers and a wide professional network, offering ongoing benefits in your professional future.
It’s because of these features that 80% of our graduates find jobs within six months of completing a program.
Learn more about Climb Hire’s programs and apply today.