Summer is a fantastic time for teenagers to earn some cash and gain independence. It’s not just about making money, though. A summer job can help you save for college, reduce your reliance on student loans, and give you practical experience for your future career. Plus, there are opportunities that might not be available during the school year.
The tricky part is deciding what you want to do. Do you want to work outdoors? With people? With animals? Once you’ve figured that out, you’ll find there are summer jobs that cater to almost any interest.
You might feel like you don’t have enough experience to get a good job as a high schooler. But there are plenty of entry-level jobs that pay well and are more available during the summer. Here are some of the best ones:
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Babysitter: Good babysitters are in high demand. As a babysitter, you can earn a decent wage, especially if you have valuable credentials like CPR certification and a driver’s license.
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Camp Counselor: If you love the outdoors and enjoy working with kids, being a camp counselor could be perfect for you. There are summer camps all over the country for almost any activity you could imagine.
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Landscaping and Lawn Care Worker: If you enjoy working outdoors, consider offering to mow your neighbors’ lawns or tend to their gardens. You can also look for groundskeeping jobs with larger clients like schools or office parks.
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Pool Cleaner: If you live in an area with lots of private pools, you could offer your services as a pool cleaner. This job pays better than groundskeeping and can be quite enjoyable.
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Career-Track Intern: High school summers are a great time to try out a job you think you might want to pursue as a career. Even if the internship is unpaid, the experience and connections you gain could be invaluable.
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Tutor: If you’re good at a particular subject or have done well on standardized tests, you could earn decent pay as a tutor.
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Barista or Restaurant Server: Jobs in food and beverage service are plentiful and easy to get without prior experience. Plus, you can earn tips on top of your base pay.
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Grocery Store Worker: Jobs in grocery stores are also plentiful. The pay is generally above minimum wage, and you might even get union benefits.
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Golf Course Caddy: If you live near a country club and enjoy golf, consider working as a caddy. The base pay isn’t great, but you can earn generous tips.
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Lifeguard: If you’re a strong swimmer and can stay focused for long periods, lifeguarding could be a great summer job for you.
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Handyperson or Painter: Summer is a busy time for home improvement projects. If you’re handy, you could offer your services for jobs like painting, laying walkways, or moving furniture.
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Dog Walker or Pet Sitter: Many people need someone to take care of their pets while they’re on vacation. If you love animals, this could be a great job for you.
Remember, the most important thing is to find a job that aligns with your interests and goals. That way, you’ll enjoy your summer job and gain valuable experience for your future career.
