35 Side Hustles For Computer Engineers [2024]
Balancing work as a computer engineer often comes with its own set of unique challenges and rewards. Despite the demanding schedule, there's an undeniable allure in seeking out side hustles that can both supplement your income and enrich your skill set. But the burning question remains: What are the best side hustles for computer engineers in 2024?
It’s time to explore the untapped potential lying at the intersection of your technical expertise and entrepreneurial spirit. Whether you're looking to boost your financial stability, chase a passion project, or diversify your career prospects, this article uncovers some of the top side hustles perfectly tailored for computer engineers. Stick around, as we provide actionable insights and real-world examples to help you kickstart your own profitable ventures. Ready to turn your skills into cash? Let's dive in!
Here's the full list:
1. Start a micro saas ($83.3K/month)
Starting a micro-SaaS as a side hustle is an excellent opportunity for computer engineers looking to supplement their income. As a computer engineer, you could leverage your technical expertise to develop a targeted software solution for a niche market. This side hustle is especially appealing because it allows you to address specific problems with precision, fostering a closer relationship with your customer base.
The beauty of a micro-SaaS business is that it requires relatively low upfront investment and can be easily managed alongside your primary job. You could start small by identifying a unique problem that needs solving within a niche market and gradually build your product based on user feedback. This incremental approach not only makes it easier to balance your workload but also ensures that your solution evolves to meet market demands.
Moreover, the micro-SaaS model is highly scalable, enabling you to grow your business at your own pace. By focusing on the specific needs of your customers, you could deliver highly customized solutions that set your product apart from broader SaaS offerings. This strategic niche targeting reduces competition and enhances customer loyalty, positioning your side hustle for long-term success.
How much you can make: $117 — $1,766,666/month
How much does it cost to start: $500 (?)
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
SuperLemon, a WhatsApp plugin for Shopify eCommerce stores, crossed $29,000 in MRR as of July 2020, with 20,000 users from 50+ countries and 1700+ paying customers, all acquired through organic marketing strategies and a relentless focus on customer service and satisfaction.
2. Start a cloud management software ($129K/month)
As a computer engineer, delving into cloud management software as a side hustle could seamlessly complement your skills and knowledge. This venture involves creating software solutions that help companies manage their cloud resources efficiently, covering crucial aspects like data storage, security compliance, and resource optimization. With businesses increasingly migrating to the cloud, the demand for effective cloud management tools is soaring across various industries, from healthcare to finance.
The beauty of this side hustle lies in its scalability and ease of initiation. Developing cloud management software doesn't require a hefty initial investment or massive time commitment, making it ideal for managing alongside your primary job. Moreover, your existing technical expertise and problem-solving skills will be invaluable, allowing you to tackle complex challenges and design user-friendly and robust backend systems. This could be your opportunity to step into a rapidly growing market, provide a critical service to businesses, and generate a substantial supplementary income.
How much you can make: $25,000 — $330,000/month
How long does it take to build: 180 days (?)
Third Wave Analytics developed the world's first cloud-based and customizable LIMS platform on Salesforce, generating $330k monthly revenue from clients such as Ohio State University and Boston University School of Medicine while partnering with the University of California-Berkeley for a COVID-19 study; founder Savitra Sharma advises aspiring entrepreneurs to focus on clear objectives to meet their goals.
3. Start a consulting business ($147K/month)
Starting a consulting business is an excellent side hustle for computer engineers looking to supplement their income or make extra money in 2024. You could leverage your specialized skills and expertise to offer advice and solve complex problems for various businesses, which can be incredibly rewarding and lucrative. With the global consulting industry valued at around $250 billion and growing year-over-year, there's ample opportunity to carve out your niche and attract clients.
This side hustle is particularly feasible for computer engineers because it’s easy to get started and doesn’t require a massive time commitment initially. You could begin by networking within your professional circles, sharing your knowledge, and gradually building a client base. Since consulting can often be done remotely and on a flexible schedule, it fits well into the spare hours outside your primary job, making it a low-risk endeavor with high potential rewards.
How much you can make: $100 — $1,666,667/month
How much does it cost to start: $1,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
Cybersecurity consulting firm Eden Data, launched in March 2020, scaled to four team members and generated over $45k MRR without large startup costs through their unique Virtual CISO offering, which outsources cybersecurity and compliance needs for a flat monthly price, rather than charging by the hour or for long-term commitments.
4. Start a product development consulting business ($119K/month)
If you’re a computer engineer, starting a product development consulting business could be an efficient way to supplement your income while leveraging your existing skill set. This side hustle involves guiding companies through market research, prototype creation, and product launch strategies, making it highly complementary to your technical background. The consulting nature of the work also means that you could often manage projects on a flexible schedule, making it easier to juggle alongside a full-time job.
What’s great about diving into this field is that it’s relatively easy to get started and doesn’t require substantial upfront investment. With each project, you get the opportunity to build your reputation by solving diverse problems, which can be intellectually stimulating and rewarding. Plus, interacting with various industries keeps your work dynamic and engaging, offering consistent growth and learning opportunities.
For entrepreneurial-minded computer engineers, this consulting niche presents a chance to not only make extra money but also to cultivate impactful, lasting relationships with clients. Your contribution can save companies time and resources while maximizing their product's market potential, making your expertise truly invaluable.
How much you can make: $21,000 — $300,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $6,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 30 days (?)
This case study is about a founder who launched a paywall platform for content creators in 2019, bootstrapping it from $0 and eventually selling it for $3.5M on Flippa, with the platform generating between $125,000 - $142,000 in Monthly Recurring Revenue (MRR) on 95% margins.
5. Build an analytics tool ($157K/month)
As a computer engineer, starting an analytics tool could be a highly lucrative side hustle that leverages your technical abilities. Given the increasing importance of data-driven decisions, businesses of all sizes are in constant need of efficient data visualization and analysis tools. You could build software that enables companies to make sense of their data, similar to how QlikView generated $750M in revenue in 2022 by offering self-service business intelligence solutions.
One of the major advantages is that developing an analytics tool is relatively easy to get started. Most computer engineers already possess the necessary skills in programming, database management, and data visualization. By tackling this project in your free time, you could create a tool that provides significant value to businesses without the need for ongoing heavy work. This not only allows you to supplement your income but also to venture into the entrepreneurial world with minimal risk and maximum potential.
How much you can make: $20 — $1,500,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $4,750 (?)
How long does it take to build: 135 days (?)
Plausible Analytics, a privacy-friendly web analytics tool, reached $4,557 MRR and 743 paying subscribers by focusing on content marketing and engaging relevant communities, rather than paid advertising, while positioning itself as a lightweight, cookie-free and affordable alternative to Google Analytics.
6. Start a tech talent platform ($852K/month)
As a computer engineer, you could start a tech talent platform to bridge the gap between tech talent and companies in need. This side hustle aligns perfectly with your industry skills and connections, requiring only a modest initial investment of time and resources. By creating a space where companies post job listings and tech professionals showcase their skills and portfolios, you could facilitate valuable job matches that benefit both employers and job seekers.
Given the growing demand for specialized tech skills, this venture could thrive with relatively low maintenance. You'd be creating opportunities and fostering professional growth within the tech community. With a robust, user-friendly platform and effective marketing, this side hustle could become a lucrative and fulfilling endeavor, enhancing your role as a critical player in the tech recruitment ecosystem.
How much you can make: $1,000 — $5,000,000/month
How long does it take to build: 133 days (?)
CloudDevs, a tech talent platform that sources and vets freelance tech talent and matches them with companies, has achieved $1 million in GMV in its first year, plans to achieve 100% growth year on year, and focuses on customer loyalty through its Net Promoter Score metric.
7. Start a lead generation service ($287K/month)
Starting a lead generation service could be a practical side hustle for a computer engineer, leveraging your skills in digital marketing and data analysis. The service involves creating strategies, campaigns, and tools to attract and convert potential customers for various businesses, providing them with a steady stream of high-quality leads. In the digital age, your technical expertise can offer tremendous value to companies looking to stay competitive.
What's great about this opportunity is that it's relatively easy to get started without requiring a significant time commitment, making it a manageable side project. You can automate many of the processes, utilize analytical tools, and even run campaigns during your off-hours. For the entrepreneurial-minded, this side hustle offers the chance to build a reliable income source while directly influencing the success of client businesses.
How much you can make: $4,000 — $1,600,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $1,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)
Stackmatix achieved $20k MRR in under two years by providing integrated digital marketing solutions for businesses, from start-ups to Enterprises, with a holistic, consultative approach, and currently they're pacing towards their goal of $50k MRR in another six to twelve months.
8. Start a b2b lead generation service ($172K/month)
Starting a B2B lead generation service could make perfect sense as a side hustle for a computer engineer. Your technical skills in data analysis and your knack for leveraging technology tools can give you an edge in identifying and targeting potential business clients. This is an attractive option because it doesn't require an intensive time commitment, allowing you to manage it alongside your primary job.
Furthermore, the demand for high-quality leads is constant, and your ability to research and conduct cold outreach can fill a pressing need for many companies. The startup costs are low, and with your technical background, you could easily automate various aspects of the lead generation process, making it even more manageable. This side hustle harnesses your analytical and problem-solving skills, offering a scalable way to supplement your income.
How much you can make: $500 — $1,250,000/month
How long does it take to build: 165 days (?)
A 20-year-old digital nomad and serial entrepreneur shares his journey of starting a successful digital marketing agency, Nomads with Solutions, which specializes in Facebook lead generation, and offers insights on client acquisition, personal branding, and focusing on self-improvement.
9. Start a tech blog ($91.6K/month)
As a computer engineer, starting a tech blog could be an excellent way to supplement your income and make some extra money on the side. With your deep knowledge and experience in the technology industry, you are well-positioned to share insights on the latest tech news, new products, and industry developments. Writing about these topics could benefit from your expert perspective and appeal to a wide audience of tech enthusiasts and professionals.
Launching a tech blog is relatively easy to get started and doesn't require much work initially. With strong writing skills and a good understanding of current trends, you could build a steady readership and potentially earn around $37,073 per year. Blogging fits well as a side hustle, as you can manage your posting schedule around your primary job, making it a flexible and lucrative endeavor.
How much you can make: $150 — $700,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $275 (?)
How long does it take to build: 30 days (?)
Seedtable is an authentic weekly newsletter on European tech, business, and politics, with 10,000+ subscribers and 50,000+ monthly visitors to its startup rankings, providing an insight into the European tech industry for investors, founders, and employees of leading Euorpean tech companies and funds.
10. Start a productivity tool ($71.3K/month)
As a computer engineer, you could easily delve into the creation of productivity tools to supplement your income. Given your technical skills and problem-solving mindset, identifying a specific productivity challenge, whether in project management, time tracking, or another niche, should come naturally to you. The initial development phase could be managed in your spare time, enabling you to work on this side project without disrupting your primary job.
Creating a user-friendly software solution that addresses these challenges with simplicity and effectiveness is crucial. With your expertise, you could design a tool that not only functions well but also emphasizes an outstanding user experience. Additionally, marketing your tool with clear benefits and offering a free trial could help attract and retain users, making it a low-risk yet rewarding venture.
This side hustle requires minimal investment and can be scaled at your own pace. Besides, the ever-growing demand for productivity-enhancing tools in today’s fast-paced world ensures that your efforts could yield substantial returns.
How much you can make: $30 — $500,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $1,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)
Learn how a designer and developer from Indonesia created Session, an app that helps people stay focused by blocking distractions, which currently makes $5.8K per month in revenue through its freemium business model.
11. Start an online tool ($13.5K/month)
Developing an online tool is a practical side hustle for computer engineers, especially those with an eye for innovation and problem-solving. As a computer engineer, you could leverage your programming and design skills to create web applications that solve common problems, such as project management, scheduling, or financial tracking. The initial steps involve market research and development, but starting this venture doesn't require a significant time commitment, allowing you to manage it alongside your full-time job.
Moreover, the demand for efficient digital solutions is on the rise, which creates ample opportunities for success. Working on this side hustle involves continual improvement based on user feedback and market trends, keeping the project dynamic and engaging. With the potential for substantial returns and the ease of getting started, developing an online tool could be a fulfilling and profitable endeavor that complements your primary career.
How much you can make: $500 — $35,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $1,500 (?)
How long does it take to build: 70 days (?)
Stagetimer generates $8,000 in monthly revenue by providing a simple online countdown timer for event producers to keep meetings and presentations on time, built based on a need in the market and validated through word of mouth and search engine optimization.
12. Start a credit card comparison website
As a computer engineer, launching a credit card comparison website could be a lucrative side hustle. Given your technical skills, you could easily develop and maintain a user-friendly interface that allows users to compare different credit cards based on key features such as interest rates, rewards programs, and annual fees. This endeavor requires minimal startup costs and can be managed in your spare time, making it an excellent option for supplementing your income.
Additionally, your analytical prowess and attention to detail would be beneficial in regularly updating the site with the latest information, ensuring accuracy and reliability. The business model is scalable, and by establishing partnerships with financial institutions, you could offer exclusive deals and promotions, which in turn would drive traffic and increase revenue. This side hustle offers a great balance of leveraging your existing skills while requiring relatively low effort to maintain once set up.
How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)
13. Start a digital services business ($299K/month)
As a computer engineer, you could leverage your technical skills to start a digital services business, providing offerings such as web design, cybersecurity consultation, or software development. This side hustle is ideal because it can be managed on your own time, allowing you to supplement your income without sacrificing your full-time job. The low overhead costs and ease of starting—requiring just a reliable internet connection and the right tools—make it a feasible venture.
Platforms like Upwork and Fiverr can help you quickly connect with clients in need of your specialized skill set. You could start small, offering services individually and gradually scale by building a team of freelancers to handle larger projects. This setup allows you to monetize your expertise effectively while maintaining the flexibility needed for a side hustle.
How much you can make: $15,500 — $1,766,666/month
How much does it cost to start: $1,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 45 days (?)
A 25-year-old entrepreneur shares his journey of starting a property marketing agency, with a current monthly income of $18,000/month, and divulges the importance of having a niche and going all-in on client results and experience.
14. Start a biodiesel production business
Starting a biodiesel production business could be a practical side hustle for computer engineers due to the relatively simple setup process and low ongoing maintenance. You have the technical aptitude to design and optimize efficient production systems using open-source control software or IoT sensors, which can automate large parts of the process. This means you could easily manage the production during your spare time, making it a viable side gig without overwhelming your regular work schedule.
Additionally, the initial investment is modest, typically involving the purchase of affordable equipment and sourcing waste vegetable oil or other feedstocks, which are often low-cost or even free. With a bit of creativity and your engineering problem-solving skills, you could develop smart solutions to improve yield and efficiency, potentially turning this side hustle into a lucrative and sustainable business.
15. Start a personal finance management app
For computer engineers looking to supplement their income, developing a personal finance management app is an excellent side hustle. Combining your technical skills with a rising interest in financial literacy, you could create an intuitive platform that helps users effortlessly track income, expenses, investments, and savings. Given the increasing demand for financial management tools, this venture aligns perfectly with current trends.
Starting an app like this doesn't require a ton of work and can easily be managed alongside your existing job. You could begin with a minimal viable product that focuses on essential features such as budgeting, financial tips, and automated bill payments, gradually adding more advanced functionalities. This approach allows you to build a user-friendly and indispensable tool without overwhelming your schedule.
How much you can make: $50,000/month
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
Bootstrapped budgeting app Buxfer, founded by Shashank Pandit, has grown organically to profitability with a 15-person team and $0 spent on marketing, targeting niche "finance power users" with strong connections to banks all over the world.
16. Start an auto electric company
As a computer engineer, starting an auto electric company could be a lucrative side hustle, especially given the growing demand for electric vehicle expertise. With your technical background, you could easily grasp the intricacies of vehicle electrical systems and leverage your problem-solving skills to excel. This business doesn't require extensive initial setup, just essential tools and diagnostic equipment, making it relatively easy to get started.
Operating this company part-time could seamlessly fit into your existing schedule, allowing you to supplement your income without a major time commitment. With cars becoming more technologically advanced, your reputation for quality work will pave the way for business growth through word-of-mouth referrals. This opportunity lets you merge a passion for cars with your engineering skills, providing a dynamic and rewarding entrepreneurial venture.
How much you can make: $30,000/month
How long does it take to build: 180 days (?)
UK-based electric bike business GIN e-bikes co-founded by Marina and Rahul successfully sold a few hundred units of their flagship hybrid electric bike, the GIN X, within a few months of launch, through positive word-of-mouth referrals alone, without any paid marketing efforts.
17. Start a sales automation platform ($160K/month)
As a computer engineer, you could leverage your software development skills to create a sales automation platform—a highly relevant side hustle that could easily be managed alongside your main job. Given your expertise, you would be uniquely positioned to develop a tool that automates tedious sales tasks, thereby improving efficiency for businesses and allowing them to focus on closing deals. With the increasing demand for streamlined processes in today’s fast-paced business environment, your platform could become an invaluable asset for companies looking to minimize errors and optimize their sales workflows.
Starting a sales automation platform is relatively straightforward and doesn’t require a huge investment of time or resources. Utilizing your existing technical knowledge, you could gradually build and refine the software during your free time. This side hustle offers a promising opportunity to supplement your income while tapping into the growing trend of digital transformation in business operations.
How much you can make: $1,000 — $1,666,667/month
How much does it cost to start: $5,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 105 days (?)
GreenRope, a self-funded CRM and marketing automation platform with over 1,000 customers in 20 countries, was built organically and focused on creating a positive, customer-centric culture without outside investment, with an all-in-one interface solving challenges in managing sales, marketing, customer service, and operations.
18. Start a business communications software ($1.48M/month)
Starting a business communications software as a side hustle is a natural fit for computer engineers. Leveraging your expertise, you could develop cutting-edge tools that streamline processes and enhance productivity within companies. By addressing the pressing need for effective communication solutions in today's remote and tech-driven work environment, you could make a significant impact with relatively low initial effort and investment.
This venture is particularly suitable as a side project because it doesn't require an all-consuming commitment. You could start small, focusing on specific features that solve common pain points, and expand as you gain traction. The potential for success is vast, given the largely untapped market and the increasing demand for reliable, user-friendly communication software. This makes it an exciting and promising avenue to explore while continuing your primary career.
How much you can make: $5,000 — $10,000,000/month
How long does it take to build: 180 days (?)
PEAR Cards is a card-based tool/game that empowers players to open up and initiate positive conversations, and with the help of Ad Magic, their Kickstarter had an all-or-nothing fundraising goal, which they met with so much support the company is now growing through the power of Twitter and Instagram.
19. Start a tech support business ($139K/month)
Launching a tech support business as a side hustle makes perfect sense for computer engineers. With your robust technical skills and experience in IT support roles, you could efficiently provide troubleshooting and assistance to individuals and companies facing software, hardware, and other technology issues. This venture is particularly feasible on the side since many tech support inquiries can be handled remotely, and you could manage your workload based on your availability.
Getting started is relatively straightforward and doesn’t demand a hefty investment. You could offer your expertise through various channels, such as phone, email, or remote desktop support, making it convenient for both you and your clients. By providing exceptional customer service and staying up-to-date with the latest technologies, you could build a loyal client base and gradually supplement your income without an overwhelming time commitment.
How much you can make: $150 — $1,500,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $3,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)
A passionate computer-coder entrepreneur shares the story behind his successful PDFShift business which after a year and a half generates $3.2k of monthly revenues with the focus now on growth.
20. Develop a design tool ($408K/month)
If you're a computer engineer looking for an engaging way to combine your technical skills with creativity, consider developing a design tool as a side hustle. This venture requires you to build software that simplifies the design process, making it accessible for both professional designers and amateurs. The work mainly involves creating an intuitive interface, incorporating essential features like template libraries, drag-and-drop functionality, and collaboration tools for team projects.
Given the increasing demand for digital content, businesses and individuals are always on the lookout for efficient ways to produce professional-quality designs without hiring experts. This is where your design tool can fill a significant market gap, offering a user-friendly solution that saves time and resources. It's relatively easy to get started, demands limited ongoing effort, and can be an incredibly rewarding way to supplement your income while leveraging your existing skill set.
How much you can make: $1,000 — $2,290,747/month
How much does it cost to start: $5,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 250 days (?)
Learn how two friends bootstrapped a SaaS business to $55k monthly recurring revenue (MRR) by creating a simple graphic design tool for non-designers and focusing on content marketing for customer acquisition.
21. Start an education management software
As a computer engineer, you could leverage your skills to create an education management software as a lucrative side hustle. Given your technical background, developing a platform that helps educational institutions manage student records, track attendance, and streamline administrative tasks would not only be feasible but also relatively straightforward.
This venture aligns perfectly with a part-time commitment, as you could build the initial framework in stages, dedicating time after work or during weekends. Moreover, the increasing demand for digital tools in education means that a functional, user-friendly solution could quickly gain traction, offering you a steady source of additional income.
22. Start a writing tool ($381K/month)
As a computer engineer, you could leverage your coding skills to develop a writing tool that assists users in drafting well-structured and engaging content, revolutionizing the way people write. This software could offer essential features such as grammar checking, style suggestions, and even AI-generated content ideas, making it a valuable asset for a wide range of users including students, professionals, bloggers, and novelists.
Creating this tool as a side hustle could be particularly appealing because it's straightforward to get started and doesn't require a massive time investment. You could begin by building a basic version and iteratively enhance its functionalities based on user feedback. This approach allows you to balance this entrepreneurial venture alongside your primary career, making it a practical and attainable endeavor.
How much you can make: $30 — $2,000,000/month
How long does it take to build: 75 days (?)
Founder Kevin Miller's online word counter tool achieved over 300,000 keyword rankings, over 2,400 domain referrals and made $40,000 per month through Google's top results in just two years through SEO practices, proving the value of investing in quality and SEO.
23. Become a software developer ($51.7K/month)
Starting a side hustle as a software developer makes perfect sense for a computer engineer given the alignment of skills and industry knowledge. With strong technical skills and programming experience, you could easily transition to designing, testing, and overseeing the creation of various software applications. This type of work can be done on a flexible schedule, allowing you to tackle projects during evenings or weekends without compromising your full-time job.
In terms of scalability, initial efforts can be small—focusing on mobile apps or cloud-based solutions for local businesses or personal projects. Given that the average salary for software developers is over $110,000, the opportunity for significant supplementary income is evident, especially if you land higher-paying contracts. The growing demand for software developers and a variety of available tools mean you could start this side hustle with minimal overhead while tapping into a lucrative market.
How much you can make: $500 — $350,000/month
How long does it take to build: 100 days (?)
SkyVerge, a software company, has grown rapidly with revenue of $350,000 per month, over 100,000 eCommerce customers, and a globally distributed team of 30 people, all through starting with consulting projects and building focused and solutions-based products, acquiring small products from other developers, and focusing largely on content marketing and providing excellent customer support.
24. Start a bedding company ($741K/month)
Starting a bedding company as a computer engineer could be an excellent side hustle to supplement your income and align with your entrepreneurial mindset. Given your technical skills, you could easily set up an e-commerce platform and leverage digital marketing to drive sales. The low initial workload and the ability to automate many aspects of the business make it feasible to manage alongside your main career.
To get started, you could choose a niche, such as luxury sheets or high-quality yet affordable linens, and then find a reliable manufacturer to supply your products. Setting up a user-friendly website and creating engaging social media profiles would be relatively easy for you, given your background, and these online tools are crucial for attracting customers in today’s market.
This venture requires minimal ongoing effort and can be scaled gradually, making it an ideal way to make extra money without overwhelming your professional commitments.
How much you can make: $10,000 — $3,500,000/month
How long does it take to build: 100 days (?)
Sheets & Giggles, an eco-friendly bedding brand, earned nearly $500,000 and 6,000 orders in the first 6 months of business through Indiegogo, and utilizes pun-based marketing and a DTC model to tap into a fragmented, low brand loyalty market.
25. Start a postcard marketing company
Starting a postcard marketing company could make a lot of sense for a computer engineer looking to supplement their income. With direct mail marketing making a comeback, you could help businesses stand out by offering a tangible, memorable way to connect with their target audience. The necessary skills, like designing, printing, and mailing postcards, don't require advanced knowledge, making it easy to get started with minimal initial costs, especially with access to digital printing services.
This venture allows you to use your technical skills in crafting compelling messages, creating eye-catching designs, and managing mailing lists efficiently. You could start small, perhaps securing a few local businesses as clients, and expand through referrals and building a robust portfolio. Since the work is project-based, it fits well with a computer engineer's schedule, allowing you to tackle tasks during off-hours and gradually grow the business as demand increases.
26. Start a construction lead generation business
As a computer engineer, you could leverage your technical skills to start a construction lead generation business with minimal effort and substantial potential for side income. By using your expertise in data analysis, web development, and digital marketing, you could easily build and optimize a website that attracts potential clients for construction companies. Additionally, automating the lead capture and qualification process with software could save you time and reduce the workload, making this a viable side hustle that doesn't demand a significant daily commitment.
This business is relatively easy to start; you could begin by creating a simple website or landing page and utilizing SEO strategies to drive traffic. Partnering with local construction businesses and generating leads for them could be highly lucrative, as many construction companies are willing to pay a premium for qualified leads. This side hustle leverages your existing technical skills, fits into your schedule flexibly, and has the potential to generate reliable extra income.
27. Become a freelance web developer ($55.2K/month)
If you're a computer engineer passionate about technology, becoming a freelance web developer could be an excellent way to supplement your income. Web development is a highly sought-after skill across industries, and the pay rate is generally higher than other freelance options, such as writing or graphic design. This side hustle is especially viable for computer engineers, as you likely already possess foundational programming skills and a technical mindset.
Getting started involves learning essential web development languages like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, which should be relatively easy given your background. The best part is that this venture doesn't require a huge time commitment; you could work on projects during evenings or weekends. By finding a niche and gradually building a portfolio and personal brand, you could establish yourself as a high-value freelance web developer without overwhelming your primary job.
How much you can make: $6,000 — $148,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $2,500 (?)
How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)
Cantilever Web Design and Development, with clients including IBM and small businesses, reached a revenue of over $750k last year with a gross margin of 50% by prioritizing Digital Hospitality, fostering high-quality relationships, and constantly improving their process and philosophy.
28. Become a content strategist ($64K/month)
As a computer engineer, you could leverage your technical expertise and analytical skills to become a content strategist on the side. Content strategy requires a structured approach to targeting audiences and distributing content effectively, which aligns well with your problem-solving and data analysis strengths. Your familiarity with technical concepts also provides a unique advantage when working with tech companies that need detailed, accurate, and engaging content.
Starting as a content strategist is straightforward and doesn't demand a heavy time commitment. You could begin by offering your services to small businesses or startups, providing insights into market research, content planning, and performance analytics. With the flexibility to manage your own schedule and focus on projects that interest you, this side gig allows you to supplement your income while honing valuable, transferable skills.
How much you can make: $500 — $550,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $8,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
Draft founder, Karl, built a productized service for technical content, generating $10k in (mostly) recurring revenue in just three months of running the business, showing the success of skill-stacking and the impact of word of mouth and maintaining a strong network in a service business.
29. Start a home textile and curtain sewing business
As a computer engineer, starting a home textile and curtain sewing business could be an excellent side hustle that leverages your problem-solving skills and keen attention to detail. The thriving growth of the global home decor and textile industry makes this an opportune time to enter the market. You could easily manage this on the side, as it doesn’t require a significant time investment or a steep learning curve to get started.
Given the consistent demand for quality home textiles and curtains in typical homes, you could quickly carve out a niche by offering bespoke or unique designs. Additionally, you could offer repair services for torn curtains, providing a versatile range of services. Overall, this side hustle could supplement your income with minimal disruption to your primary career.
30. Start a real estate coaching business
Starting a real estate coaching business could be an excellent side hustle for a computer engineer with an entrepreneurial spirit. Leveraging your analytical skills and problem-solving abilities, you could provide valuable insights to aspiring and current real estate professionals, helping them navigate the complex world of buying, selling, and investing in properties. Your ability to break down complicated concepts into understandable strategies would be a significant asset in this field.
What's particularly appealing is that this venture doesn’t require a full-time commitment and is relatively easy to get started. You could begin by offering online coaching sessions, workshops, and even developing digital courses, all of which can be managed flexibly alongside your main job. With minimal initial investment and a growing demand for expert advice in the real estate sector, this side hustle could be both fulfilling and lucrative.
31. Start a marketing automation business ($46.7K/month)
Starting a marketing automation business as a computer engineer makes perfect sense due to your technical skills and problem-solving prowess. You could leverage advanced software to automate repetitive marketing tasks, allowing businesses to run efficient, targeted campaigns with minimal manual effort. This isn't just a practical venture; it's highly scalable and in growing demand, as companies are constantly looking to streamline operations and maximize their ROI.
This side hustle is particularly appealing because it doesn't require a tremendous amount of initial effort to get started. You could easily set up and manage marketing automation systems in your spare time, providing valuable services to clients without a constant time commitment. Plus, your background in engineering equips you with the analytical skills to track customer behaviors and personalize communications more effectively, making you an indispensable asset to any business looking to enhance its digital marketing.
How much you can make: $120 — $125,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $2,850 (?)
How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)
Ascend Marketing founder Jim Ackerman developed a six-month 1-on-1 coaching programme to help small business owners improve their marketing, advertising, and sales systems, resulting in over 600 businesses enrolled with a unique 200% ROI guarantee and a $15k monthly profit selling 2 dozen programs yearly, and now the company provides a business opportunity for marketing professionals seeking to become marketing coaches.
32. Start a social media management business ($128K/month)
Starting a social media management business makes perfect sense for a computer engineer looking to supplement their income. With your technical skills, you could easily navigate various social media platforms, automate posting schedules, and analyze data to craft effective marketing strategies for clients. Given the flexible nature of social media management, you could manage this endeavor on the side without it interfering with your primary job responsibilities.
You could start small, initially offering services such as setting up accounts and posting on behalf of clients, which require minimal upfront effort. As you gain more experience, you could further expand your services to include developing comprehensive marketing strategies and performing in-depth marketing analysis. Overall, the low barrier to entry and the ability to set your own work schedule make this an attractive side hustle for computer engineers.
How much you can make: $100 — $550,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $2,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
This case study is about how the founder of AdvertiseMint, a Facebook advertising agency, started the company with just one employee and has since grown it to 25 employees, managing close to $100 million in digital media buys for clients such as Coca-Cola and Viacom.
33. Start a gas inspection business
Starting a gas inspection business could be a practical and lucrative side hustle for computer engineers. You could leverage your analytical skills and attention to detail to perform thorough inspections, ensuring safety and compliance standards are met. The initial investment to get started is relatively low since it mainly requires training and certification, which is manageable alongside a full-time job.
Given its flexible nature, gas inspections can be scheduled on evenings and weekends, making it a convenient complement to your tech career. Plus, the industry’s demand for qualified inspectors means there’s a steady stream of potential clients. This side hustle doesn’t require a huge time commitment, allowing you to balance it with your primary career while enjoying an additional income stream.
34. Form I - 9 Services
As a computer engineer, you could leverage your organizational and technical skills to supplement your income by starting a Form I-9 Services side hustle. Given the increasing number of remote employees in the workforce, companies urgently need designated authorities to complete the mandatory Employment Eligibility Verification (Form I-9) for their employees.
This side hustle makes sense because it is relatively easy to get started—you could advertise your services on social media platforms and reach out to businesses that regularly hire remote workers. The role doesn't require a significant time commitment, making it an ideal side project that can be managed alongside your primary job.
35. Start a brand consultant business ($313K/month)
For computer engineers with a knack for shaping perceptions and building brands, starting a brand consultant business could be a lucrative and fulfilling side hustle. The analytical skills and strategic mindset you already possess will be invaluable in helping companies craft their identity, ensuring they stand out in a crowded market. You could guide fledgling startups through the nuances of brand positioning and messaging, leveraging your communication skills and market insights to create a compelling story for them.
Getting started in this field is relatively easy and doesn't require a significant upfront investment. With a solid understanding of market research, design, and strategic thinking, computer engineers could offer high-impact consulting on a part-time basis. Since it's a business built on expertise and credibility, you could gradually build your client base without sacrificing your primary job responsibilities.
How much you can make: $1,500 — $1,500,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $4,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)
TapResearch generates roughly $1.5M in revenue per month through their Sample and Insights platforms, which allow market researchers to access survey respondents they need and make fast and easy decisions through a highly scalable respondent network that delivers surveys to hundreds of millions of people.
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Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
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