What Is a Hybrid Job?

Working from home has become more popular over the past few years, but it’s not for everyone. Although working from home can offer many benefits including flexibility and a less stressful environment, people can miss out on in-person social interaction. A great option for someone looking for a more flexible position but also needing social interaction is a hybrid job. So, what is a hybrid job and how do you know if it’s right for you?

What Is a Hybrid Job?

A hybrid job or hybrid work is a mix of working at the actual location of your job and working remotely. It may consist of working from home a few days a week and going to the job site the other days. There are many schedules and situations possible with hybrid work, so it's important to understand the details. You'll need to decide if the job type is right for your lifestyle, ask the right questions of a possible employer and look for hybrid positions in reputable places.

Is a Hybrid Job Right for You?

According to a recent Gallup poll, 53 percent of U.S. remote-capable employees work in hybrid jobs while only 27 percent are exclusively remote and 21 percent are onsite. While working a few days from home each week can sound ideal, you will need to ask yourself “does this match with my home life?” It is important to make sure you have a comfortable and quiet place to work from home, uninterrupted. Make sure you have an atmosphere where you can concentrate on your work and be productive.

Also, consider your own personality. Are you the type of person who needs a great deal of in-person interaction each day? If so, being at home, isolated from co-workers a few days a week may have a negative effect on your mental health.

Think about the few days a week you will need to report to work. Are these days worrisome for you due to a long commute? Are you easily distracted working in a busy office setting? It's a good idea to think clearly about your own needs.

You may find you need a fully remote job, and not a hybrid. You may even find you need to be on location each day to be most productive. Take time to think about your employment and personal needs.

Questions to Ask Employers

Keep in mind that each company has a different definition of a hybrid job. If you ask questions beforehand, you may find that the job is not a good fit from the beginning and save yourself time. Here are a few possible questions to consider asking the contact person if the answers are not included in the job description:

• "Is the hybrid option permanent or temporary?"
• "How many days per week would I be required to work on location?"
• "How much notice would I have if I were required to come to the office on a scheduled remote day?"
• "What would the internet and home office requirements be if I worked from home?"
• "Would my work hours be the same if I were on location, as if I worked from home?"

Job Boards with Hybrid Job Choices

Be careful when you search for hybrid jobs online. Since it's a very popular choice, you may find websites that claim verified hybrid job listings that are part of or lead to a scam. Here are some reputable job boards that include hybrid and fully remote job options. (Some helpful keywords to find remote and hybrid positions on job boards include "hybrid," "partially remote," "remote," "blended," "telework" and "work from home.")

• CareerOneStop.org - Job search board, career exploration and training with many work from home and hybrid jobs.
• Indeed.com - Large job board that includes many remote and hybrid choices.
• RecruitMilitary.com - Website that has large job board with many remote and hybrid options for veterans and military spouses.
• disABLEDperson.com - Works with employers who have a strong desire to hire qualified applicants with disabilities. Includes remote and hybrid positions in many industries.
• LinkedIn Jobs - Job site with many hybrid options. You can see immediately if any of your LinkedIn connections work at the company you're interested in.
• USAJOBS.gov - Resource to find Federal positions in various industries. While some hybrid positions are available, most Federal employees are returning to the office throughout the nation for their workdays.

A hybrid position could be a good option for you to explore in your job search, especially since many companies offer some form of hybrid work these days. A position like this could help you have better work-life balance. Just make sure to research the company and ask any questions you have to ensure the position fits your needs.

How Can Ticket to Work Help

Social Security's Ticket to Work (Ticket) Program supports career development for people ages 18 through 64 who receive Social Security disability benefits (SSDI/SSI) and want to work. Through the Ticket Program, a service provider such as an Employment Network (EN) can help you along your path to financial independence. They can help you prepare for in-person and virtual interviews, understand what hybrid job opportunities are, decide if they’re the right choice for you, and help you identify potential job openings.

Learn More

To learn more about the Ticket to Work Program, call the Ticket to Work Help Line at 1-866-968-7842. For callers who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, call 1-866-833-2967 (TTY). Hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. - 8 p.m.; or visit choosework.ssa.gov.