All businesses and employees are different, and 9-to-5 doesnât work for everyone. If your business provides round-the-clock service or you have clients in several time zones, you probably need to hire employees for non-traditional shifts.Â
As an employee, you might not have considered working alternative hours. However, for some people, the second shift turns out to be a perfect lifestyle fit.Â
Working a 9-to-5, Monday through Friday job has long been considered the norm. But for many people, this schedule simply doesn’t work. That’s where second shift jobs come in.
As the name implies, second shift work refers to jobs that take place during the afternoon and evening hours, typically starting between 1pm and 5pm. While second shift work is often seen as less desirable than the standard daytime shift, it actually offers some compelling advantages.
In this article, we’ll explore the key benefits of second shift work and help you determine if switching to an afternoon or evening schedule could be a good career move for you
Why Consider Second Shift Work?
First, let’s look at some of the main reasons people pursue second shift roles:
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Higher pay – Many employers offer shift differentials that boost pay by 5-15% for second shift workers, This extra income can really add up over time
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Schedule flexibility – A second shift schedule allows for more flexibility in your daily routine, whether you want more family time or to pursue other goals.
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Avoid traffic – By working afternoon and evening hours, you skip the dreaded rush hour commute.
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Work/life balance – Second shift roles allow busy parents and students to work while still having time for family and school during the day.
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Personality fit – Night owls and evening types often thrive and feel more energized working a late schedule.
Now let’s explore some of the most compelling benefits of second shift work in more detail.
1. Earn More Money with Shift Differentials
One of the biggest perks of second shift jobs is the chance to earn a higher hourly wage or salary. Many employers pay hourly shift differentials to incentivize workers to take on late shifts. These bonuses typically add between 5-15% (or more) to your base pay.
For example, if you make $20/hour on the day shift, you might make $22-23/hour to work the same job on second shift. While it may not seem like much, that extra 5-15% can really add up.
For a full-time second shift worker earning $20/hour, a 10% differential would equal an extra $4,000 per year! Over the course of a career, choosing second shift work can easily net you tens or even hundreds of thousands in additional compensation.
Besides shift differentials, second shift jobs also frequently come with overtime pay opportunities, which can significantly increase your earnings. Between higher base pay and overtime, second shift roles offer attractive income potential.
2. Enjoy a Flexible, Non-Traditional Schedule
Between commuting and getting ready in the morning, many daytime employees feel like their whole morning is consumed by work prep. Second shift roles free up your mornings, providing extra time to run errands, hit the gym, or just lounge around the house.
Having your mornings and days open creates all sorts of scheduling flexibility. You can make appointments, volunteer, pursue hobbies, and more on your own time. For parents of school-age kids, second shift work allows you to be there when your family needs you most in the mornings and after school.
Second shift schedules can also make it easier to work a side gig or part-time job during the traditional 9-to-5 hours. The extra earnings and flexible routine can open up new opportunities to pursue your passions and earn more.
3. Dodge Rush Hour Traffic
Ask just about anyone, and they’ll tell you that rush hour traffic is one of the most aggravating parts of a typical work schedule. Second shift roles allow you to avoid both morning and evening rush hours, making for a much less stressful commute.
You’ll also spend far less time idling in traffic and wasting gas during a second shift schedule. Not having to deal with bumper-to-bumper traffic jams can greatly improve your daily quality of life.
4. Match Your Circadian Rhythm
We all have an internal biological clock known as our circadian rhythm. But not everyone’s is set the same. Late sleepers and night owls often struggle to both fall asleep early and wake up on time for a typical 9-to-5 job.
Second shift roles better align with natural night owls’ circadian rhythms, allowing them to sleep during the hours they find easiest. Without having to regularly disrupt your natural sleep cycle, you’ll have more energy and enjoy better rest.
Research also shows that forcing yourself into an unnatural sleep routine can harm long-term health. Working a shift that matches your natural inclination can prevent these issues.
5. Enjoy a Quieter, Less Hectic Work Environment
Standard day shifts tend to be the busiest and most hectic work periods at many companies. Phones ring off the hook, quick questions fly at you constantly, meetings eat up your day, and interruptions derail your focus.
Second shift hours are typically less frenzied. You might share your workspace with a smaller team. Phones may ring less often, and impromptu meetings rarely get scheduled late in the day.
The quieter, calmer atmosphere can allow you to focus more effectively on your priorities. Without constant disruptions, you may experience greater workflow and job satisfaction.
6. Access Special Perks and Incentives
To attract talent, many employers that rely on shift work offer special perks and incentives exclusively to their evening and night staff. Some examples include:
- Free or discounted meals when working late
- Extra vacation days
- Free parking
- Gym discounts
- Childcare stipends
- Commuter benefits
If you want extra perks and benefits, second shift roles often provide access that regular day workers don’t receive. Make sure to research and negotiate the best possible incentives when considering evening and night shift jobs.
7. Gain Valuable Career Experience
While second shift jobs themselves don’t necessarily lead to career advancement, the skills you gain can open new doors.Successfully working late shifts demonstrates critical abilities like:
- Time management
- Initiative
- Reliability
- Adaptability
- Independence
Building this skill set makes you an attractive applicant for future roles with more responsibility. Second shift work provides a chance to develop qualities that lead to career growth.
8. Enjoy a Built-In Social Life
Second shift workers often form close bonds with their colleagues. You’ll frequently work with the same team on a regular basis. The smaller staff and late hours lend themselves to deeper connections.
Having a built-in social circle at work can help you make lasting friendships and feel less isolated than those who work alone all day. Friendly social interactions are a key factor in workplace satisfaction.
9. Get Your Foot in the Door
For many entry-level roles, second shift positions offer the easiest way to get your foot in the door. Due to higher turnover and unfilled shifts, applicants have a better chance of landing evening and night jobs.
Once you have some experience under your belt, it also becomes easier to transition to more coveted day shifts if you desire. Taking a second shift job can be the quickest path to gain experience and grow your career.
10. Feel Like Part of a Unique, Close-Knit Team
Second shift workers are often passionate about their schedules and shifts. They choose to work late nights and evenings for a reason after all.
This shared experience of working an unusual schedule breeds camaraderie. You’ll feel part of a unique team that understands both the challenges and perks of second shift work.
Second Shift Jobs to Consider
Now that you know the benefits, here are some great second shift jobs to consider:
- Server / Bartender
- Call center representative
- Remote customer service agent
- Pharmacy technician
- Assembly line worker
- Warehouse associate
- Security guard
- Hospitality & tourism
- Casino dealer/attendant
- Theater/entertainment
- Gym/fitness instructor
- Janitor/maintenance
- Tow truck operator
- Taxi/rideshare driver
- Broadcasting assistant
- Roadside assistance technician
Is Second Shift Right for You?
Second shift schedules aren’t for everyone. Before committing, make sure to consider:
- Will the late hours disrupt my sleep?
- Can I find reliable transportation late at night?
- How will this impact my family life?
- Will I still have enough social interaction?
- Is the extra pay worth changing my routine?
Everyone needs to evaluate their own situation. But if you want to earn more money, avoid traffic, and work flexible hours, second shift may be an ideal choice!
Key Takeaways
- Second shift jobs typically run between 1 p.m. and midnight.
- Key benefits include higher pay, flexible scheduling, less traffic, and matching night owls’ circadian rhythms.
- Second shift workers often form close-knit social circles and gain career-building skills.
- Look for roles like server, call center agent, pharmacy tech, security guard, and assembly line worker.
- Consider how a second shift schedule will impact your lifestyle before committing.
A second shift schedule isn’t for everyone, but it offers compelling advantages. If you want to earn more money and enjoy a life with fewer schedule constraints, second shift work provides an intriguing opportunity
What Is Shift Work?
Shift work describes any type of work schedule where an employee works outside the hours of 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. The Federal Bureau of Labor Statistics breaks shift work down into three main categories: evening, night, and morning. The term can also refer to rotating schedules.Â
While many people think of the 9-to-5 as a typical work schedule, many occupations involve shift work outside of normal office hours.Â
Businesses that regularly use shift work include restaurants, salons, and gyms. Shift work is also common in the retail, health care, protective services, broadcast, and sales industries.Â
Avoid Rush Hour Traffic
For those of you who canât stand sitting in traffic or waiting for public transportation during rush hour, the second shift might be a perfect fit. Starting work in the afternoon and finishing later at night means you can avoid commuting at the same time as day shift workers.Â
And finally, the second shift lets you sleep in. Scientists have found that there are six basic chronotypes, which is a technical way of saying that not everybody is a morning person. Some people are just more active, attentive, and alert in the afternoon and evening.Â
Instead of fighting your bodyâs natural clock, it might be worth exploring a shift time that works better for night owls.
The Truth About Working Second Shift
What are the benefits of working second shift?
Some benefits of working second shift to consider include: 1. Ability to cause change Second shift employees often complete work that’s vital to the operation and success of their organizations. They may perform work that affects others, and they often work in roles related to customer service and operations.
How does shift work affect a person with sleep apnea?
There are no direct correlations to show that shift work results in sleep apnoea. However, there is some evidence to suggest shift workers have more severe sleep apnoea when compared to non-shift workers. Additionally, poor sleep hygiene and irregular sleep patterns all negatively impact sleep quality. So, patients with untreated sleep apnoea should avoid night time shift work.
Should you work a second shift?
Whether you’re a student attending morning classes or a parent with childcare responsibilities, working second shift lets you take care of your commitments while still making money and growing your career. Plus, a second shift job gives you the freedom to schedule appointments and errands without using paid time off. 4.
What benefits does a second shift associate get?
Most companies offer full-time second shift associates the same benefits opportunities as those who work on first shift. At Schneider, for example, associates on second shift are offered: Paid time off. Paid holidays. Health, dental and vision insurance. 401 (k) with company match. 3. Have more flexibility.
