Health care is well known for being a ’round-the-clock industry, full of day-long shifts that run at an adrenaline-fueled pace. But with a number of part-time job opportunities up for grabs, health care also offers employee flexibility and can be a dependable source of extra income. Whether you want to care for patients on a less-intense schedule or are looking to earn a solid paycheck on a regular basis, these seven health care careers offer rewarding part-time jobs.

PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT

Acting as part of a doctor’s support staff, physician assistants work in teams to examine, diagnose and treat patients. They may serve in hospitals, specialized surgical settings and clinics. Part-time physician assistants are needed to cover vacation or weekend shifts, or on a per diem basis.

In most cases, physician assistants need a master’s degree. All states require a license.

PHYSICAL THERAPIST

When illness, injury or old age causes a patient’s mobility or strength to suffer, physical therapists are there to treat them. Part-time physical therapists may work in rehabilitation centers, through home health services or at clinics.

Physical therapists must have a doctorate of physical therapy and a license.

OCCUPATIONAL THERAPIST

Using therapeutic movements, occupational therapists treat patients with physical or mental conditions that interfere with their ability to perform everyday activities. Part-time OTs may work in rehabilitation centers, nursing homes, home health services, hospitals and schools.

OTs often have a master’s degree in the subject. All states require a license.

REGISTERED NURSE

Just like their full-time colleagues, part-time nurses provide direct care in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, clinics and specialty wards. Part-time nurses are also needed during ambulatory surgery, and labor and delivery. Front-line nurses in particular are in high demand, and even entry-level nurses will find plenty of opportunities.

An associate degree and license are required; a bachelor’s degree or higher is becoming increasingly desirable, depending on the setting.

RADIOLOGIC TECHNICIAN

People in this position use X-ray machines and other imaging technologies for diagnosing injuries or illnesses. Part-time technicians are needed at clinics; weekend shifts may also be available.

Radiologic techs often need at least an associate degree, and most states require a license or certification.

MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELOR

When mental and emotional disorders interfere with a person’s quality of life, mental health counselors use talk therapy as treatment. They may work in private practice, through public or private mental health services or in residential services. Part-time mental health counselors are often needed to help cover weekend shifts.

In most cases, people who work as mental health counselors must have a master’s degree and a license.

HOME HEALTH AIDE

Home health aides work with people who have disabilities or cognitive issues or who are recovering from an illness. They may cover overnight or vacation shifts in assisted-living facilities or home health services. Demand is only going to grow in the next five to 10 years as the population continues to age.

Most home health aides have highschool diplomas. In some cases they may have to complete formal training. ■