Did you know over 6 million teenagers in the US have jobs? They make up a big part of the workforce. Many companies are looking for 14- and 15-year-olds for part-time and entry-level jobs. You can find these opportunities in various industries.
This guide will show you the many job options for teens in the US. We’ll cover legal rules, what you need for a job, and how to find your dream job.
Key Takeaways
- Millions of teenagers in the US are employed, making up a significant portion of the workforce.
- Many companies are willing to hire 14- and 15-year-olds for various part-time and entry-level roles.
- Understanding legal restrictions and qualifications is crucial when searching for teen jobs.
- Leveraging job sites, online resources, and networking can help teenagers find the best job opportunities.
- A wide range of industries offer diverse job options for teenagers, from retail and food service to tutoring and landscaping.
Introduction
Finding a job as a teenager can be tough. There are many challenges and rules that make it hard. We’ll look at the big hurdles teens face in their job search and what they need to think about.
Struggles of Finding Jobs as a Teenager
Teens have special challenges when looking for work. They might not have enough experience, have limited ways to get to work, or be limited in how many hours they can work. The job market is also tough, especially in some fields, making it hard for teens to get noticed.
Limitations and Qualifications for Teen Jobs
In the U.S., there are laws about how teens can work. For example, there are rules about what jobs they can do and how many hours they can work. Teens might also need to get special permits or complete training to work in certain jobs.
“The job market can be particularly tough for teenagers, but with the right approach and understanding of the legal requirements, there are still plenty of opportunities available.”
Even with the challenges, there are still great job options for teens. We’ll look at some of the best jobs for young people and how to find them. We’ll also share tips on how to overcome the unique hurdles they might face.
How to Find Jobs as a Teenager
Finding a job as a teenager can seem tough, but with the right steps, you can open many doors. Whether you want a part-time job or something for the summer, there are many ways to find what you’re looking for. These strategies can help you find the perfect job.
Using Job Sites Like Indeed
Online job sites are a big help in your job search. Sites like Indeed have lots of jobs for teenagers. By using these sites, you can easily find job search sites for teens. You’ll see many part-time and summer jobs that match your skills and interests.
Using Google to Find Teen Jobs
Google can also be a great tool for finding jobs. Just type in keywords like “jobs for teens” or “part-time jobs for teenagers” to find lots of options. You can filter your search by location and job type to find the best matches.
Being proactive, persistent, and open-minded is key to finding a job as a teenager. Use all the resources available to you and don’t hesitate to try new things. With hard work and determination, you can find great jobs hiring at 15 or any other age to start your career.
10 Best Jobs for Teenagers
Finding the right job as a teenager can be tough. But, there are many great jobs that pay well and are perfect for young workers. Here are 10 top jobs for teens in the U.S.:
Dog Walker
Dog walking pays about $15 an hour and is great for teens. It involves walking dogs, giving them exercise, and showing them love. It’s a flexible and fun job.
Babysitter
Babysitting is a popular job for teens, paying around $12 an hour. You’ll look after kids, make meals, and play with them in ways they like.
Library Assistant
Library assistants earn about $11 an hour. They help put books away, help customers, and keep the library tidy.
Tutor
If you’re good at school, tutoring can be a great job. You can make $15 to $25 an hour, depending on what you teach and your skills.
Landscape Laborer
For teens who love the outdoors, landscape labor pays about $13 an hour. You’ll work on lawns, trim hedges, and take care of gardens.
| Job | Average Hourly Pay |
|---|---|
| Dog Walker | $15 |
| Babysitter | $12 |
| Library Assistant | $11 |
| Tutor | $15 – $25 |
| Landscape Laborer | $13 |
These 10 jobs let teens earn well and gain work experience. They can choose from jobs with animals, helping others, or outdoor work. There are many high-paying jobs for teens in the U.S.
jobs hiring at 15
As a 15-year-old, finding a job can seem tough. But, many companies hire teens as young as 15. They offer work experience and ways to earn money. These jobs for 15 year olds are in different areas, like fast-food, retail, and entertainment.
The fast-food industry is a top place for 15 year olds to work. Places like Burger King, Chick-fil-A, and McDonald’s hire them as cashiers or food preparers. These jobs pay well and help build important job skills.
Retail stores also hire 15 year olds. Stores like American Eagle Outfitters and Best Buy look for young people who are friendly and good with customers. They work in sales, stocking shelves, and helping out in the store.
In the entertainment world, places like AMC Theaters and Chuck E. Cheese hire 15 year olds. They work as ushers or party hosts. These jobs are fun and help improve communication and leadership skills.
When looking for jobs for 15 year olds, know the teen employment laws in your state. These laws set rules for hiring minors. They make sure young workers are safe and learn valuable skills.
Knowing which companies hire 15 year olds and the teen employment laws helps teens find good jobs. This way, they can work in places they like and use their skills.
9 Best Online Jobs for Teenagers
In today’s digital age, there are many online jobs for teenagers that offer flexibility and convenience. If you want to earn extra money or save for the future, these 9 online jobs are a great start. They let teenagers join the workforce in a flexible way.
Completing Surveys
Platforms like SurveyJunkie and Swagbucks let teens earn cash and gift cards by sharing their opinions. It’s an easy way to make some extra money from home.
Watching Ads
Websites and apps like Clickworker and InboxDollars pay you to watch ads and videos. It’s a simple way for teens to earn a bit more in their free time.
Data Entry
If you’re good at typing and organizing, you can find data entry jobs online. Sites like Fiverr and Upwork connect freelancers with businesses needing their help.
Tutoring English
If English is your strong suit, you can tutor international students online. Websites like VIPKid and Qkids hire tutors for one-on-one lessons.
Reviewing Music
Love music? Sites like Slice the Pie let teens listen to and review new songs. You can earn a small fee for each review.
These online jobs for teens offer flexibility, convenience, and skills while earning extra income. Whether you like completing surveys, watching ads, or using your talents, there are many options in the digital job market.
5 Best Highest-Paying Jobs for Teenagers
Teenagers often look for jobs that pay well. Luckily, there are many good jobs for young people in the U.S. Here are five top-paying jobs for teens that can help them make more money:
- Tutoring: Tutoring is a top job for teens, paying an average of $21.31 per hour. Teens use their knowledge to help others and earn good money.
- Babysitting: Babysitting is a popular job for teens that can pay well. Experienced babysitters can make up to $20 an hour, making it a great choice for teens wanting more money.
- Lifeguarding: Lifeguarding is a job that pays well for teens, with an average of $15.15 per hour. It’s a job that teaches important safety skills too.
- Food Delivery: Working as a food delivery driver for companies like DoorDash or Uber Eats can pay teens a lot. These jobs offer flexible hours and can pay $15 or more per hour.
- Social Media Management: Teens with a strong social media game can find jobs managing social media for businesses or influencers. These jobs can pay up to $20 an hour or more.
These jobs offer teens a chance to earn well and gain work experience. By taking these opportunities, teens can reach their financial goals.
| Job | Average Hourly Rate |
|---|---|
| Tutoring | $21.31 |
| Babysitting | $20.00 |
| Lifeguarding | $15.15 |
| Food Delivery | $15.00 |
| Social Media Management | $20.00 |
If you’re a 16-year-old looking for a good part-time job or a teen wanting a great summer job, these options can help. They offer a chance to earn more money.
“I was able to save up for college by working as a tutor during high school. The flexible schedule and competitive pay made it the perfect job for me.”
8 Best Summer Jobs for Teenagers
As the school year ends, many teens get more free time. This is a great chance to find summer jobs that are both fun and can help you earn money. Jobs like lifeguarding or working at amusement parks are great options.
If you’re a 15-year-old looking for your first job or a teenage worker wanting a better-paying job, here are eight top summer jobs to think about:
- Lifeguard – This job is about keeping swimmers safe at pools, beaches, and water parks. It pays around $11-$15 an hour.
- Amusement Park Attendant – Working at amusement parks can be fun and pays well, with wages between $9 and $12 an hour.
- Camp Counselor – This job lets you spend the summer outdoors, leading activities and helping younger kids. It starts at $8 an hour.
- Lawn Care/Landscaping – If you like being outdoors, you can earn by mowing lawns or doing landscaping. Pay is usually $10 to $15 an hour.
- Retail Sales Associate – Helping customers, stocking shelves, and providing great service in stores is a rewarding job. You can earn $9 to $12 an hour.
- Restaurant Server/Hostess – Working in restaurants teaches you about customer service and teamwork. You can make $9 to $12 an hour, plus tips.
- Babysitter – Taking care of kids for families can be a flexible job. You can charge $10 to $15 an hour.
- Social Media/Content Creator – If you’re good with digital stuff, you can make money creating content for businesses. You could earn $15 to $20 an hour or more.
When looking at these summer jobs for teens, think about what you like, your skills, and when you’re free. This way, you’ll find a job that’s both rewarding and pays well. With some research and effort, teenagers can find exciting summer jobs.
| Summer Job | Average Hourly Pay | Job Duties |
|---|---|---|
| Lifeguard | $11 – $15 | Ensure the safety of swimmers, provide first aid if needed |
| Amusement Park Attendant | $9 – $12 | Operate rides, sell tickets, provide customer service |
| Camp Counselor | $8+ | Lead activities, mentor younger children, supervise campers |
| Lawn Care/Landscaping | $10 – $15 | Mow lawns, maintain gardens, provide landscaping services |
| Retail Sales Associate | $9 – $12 | Assist customers, stock shelves, provide excellent customer service |
| Restaurant Server/Hostess | $9 – $12 + tips | Serve customers, handle cash, work as part of a team |
| Babysitter | $10 – $15 | Provide childcare, supervise and engage children, light housekeeping |
| Social Media/Content Creator | $15 – $20+ | Create engaging content, manage social media accounts, assist with digital marketing |
These summer jobs for teenagers offer a chance to earn money and gain work experience. Think about what you like, your skills, and when you’re free when choosing a job. This way, you’ll find a job that’s a good fit for you.
Jobs for 14-Year-Olds
Finding a job at 14 can be tough, but many companies hire teens as young as 14. These jobs offer work experience and extra cash while you’re still in school.
AMC Theaters
AMC Theaters is a top choice for 14-year-olds looking for work. You might sell tickets, work at the concession stand, or help manage crowds. The pay starts at minimum wage, with chances for bonuses.
Bruster’s
Bruster’s, a favorite ice cream spot, is great for 14-year-olds. You could scoop ice cream, take orders, or help out around the store. The pay is good, and it’s a fun place to work.
Burger King
Burger King hires 14-year-olds for entry-level jobs. You might work the cash register, make food, or keep the place clean. The starting wage is around minimum wage, with chances for raises later.
Chick-fil-A
Chick-fil-A is another place that hires 14-year-olds. You could work at the register, help prepare food, or keep the restaurant clean. The pay is competitive, and Chick-fil-A values good customer service.
Remember, hiring laws for 14-year-olds vary by state. Both employers and job seekers should know the laws. Some companies might have special rules for 14-year-olds, like limited hours or needing parental permission.
Jobs for 15-Year-Olds
At 15, teens start looking for jobs to get work experience and make extra money. Luckily, many companies in the U.S. hire 15-year-olds for entry-level jobs. Here are some top jobs for teens.
Baskin-Robbins
Baskin-Robbins is a great choice for teens wanting to work in food service. They can scoop ice cream, take orders, and help customers. Workers earn about $9 an hour, a good wage for teens.
Boston Market
Boston Market hires 15-year-olds too. They can be cashiers, food helpers, or kitchen staff. They prepare and serve rotisserie chicken and sides. Pay is around $8 an hour, following teen employment laws for 15 year olds.
Chuck E. Cheese
Chuck E. Cheese is perfect for teens who love fun work environments. Companies that hire 15 year olds like Chuck E. Cheese need teens for game attendants, food servers, or party hosts. Pay is about $8 to $9 an hour.
Goldfish Swim School
Goldfish Swim School often hires 15-year-olds. Teens can be swim teachers, lifeguards, or office helpers. Pay varies from $9 to $12 an hour, based on the job and experience.
These are some jobs for 15 year olds in the U.S. It’s key for teens to know the laws and rules in their area before applying for jobs.
Jobs for 16-Year-Olds
At 16, teens look for work to gain experience and make money. Luckily, many companies in the U.S. hire 16-year-olds. They offer jobs that match their skills and interests.
American Eagle Outfitters
American Eagle Outfitters is great for young workers. They offer jobs like sales associates, helping customers, and stocking shelves. These jobs start at minimum wage and can lead to more opportunities.
Best Buy
Best Buy hires 16-year-olds for entry-level jobs. Teens can work as cashiers, customer service reps, or sales associates. These jobs help teens learn about customer service and the tech world.
Buffalo Wild Wings
Buffalo Wild Wings is another place that hires teens. They can work as hosts, food runners, or bussers. These jobs are a great way to learn about the food industry and make money.
Casey’s
Casey’s Convenience Stores also hires 16-year-olds. Teens can work as cashiers, stock clerks, or in food service. These jobs are fast-paced and help teens learn about retail and food service.
Remember, companies have rules about how many hours 16-year-olds can work. Teens should check the teen employment laws for 16 year olds in their state. This makes sure they follow the rules.
| Company | Jobs for 16-Year-Olds | Average Pay |
|---|---|---|
| American Eagle Outfitters | Sales Associate, Stocking, Visual Merchandising | Minimum Wage |
| Best Buy | Cashier, Customer Service, Sales Associate | Minimum Wage |
| Buffalo Wild Wings | Host, Food Runner, Busser | Minimum Wage |
| Casey’s | Cashier, Stock Clerk, Food Service | Minimum Wage |
By looking into jobs for 16 year olds, teens can start their work journey. They can gain experience and earn money to help reach their goals.
Conclusion
There are many job options for teens in the U.S., from in-person jobs to online ones. These jobs offer flexibility and let you work from home. It’s important for teens to know the rules and what they need for a job.
For teens looking for jobs, using online job sites like Indeed is a good start. Google can also help you find jobs. There are many jobs out there, from dog walking to tutoring, and even online jobs like surveys and English tutoring.
This summary wraps up the main points for teens looking for jobs. It gives a quick look at what we’ve talked about. With this info, teens can easily find jobs that match their interests and goals.