Summer is an excellent time for teens to gain valuable work experience, earn some money, and develop skills that will benefit them in the future. There are numerous opportunities available, ranging from traditional jobs to more creative and entrepreneurial ventures.
In this guide, we’ll explore a variety of summer job opportunities for teens, share practical tips on how to apply and secure a job, and answer common questions about teen employment, including important details on age requirements, work permits, and labor laws to help you navigate the process with confidence.
Also, we’ll dive into how teens can earn money using the Modak app and how they can use their Visa® debit card1, designed for kids and teens, to receive payments for jobs or allowances without any monthly subscription fees4.
Working during the summer can be highly beneficial for teens. Here are a few reasons why:
Retail jobs are common for teens during the summer. Working in a store can help develop customer service skills and provide experience handling money and transactions. Teens can work as cashiers, stock clerks, or sales associates. Retail jobs often provide flexible hours and can be a great way to meet new people and learn how to handle various customer service scenarios.
Restaurants, cafes, and fast-food outlets often hire teens for the summer. Positions like cashier, server, or kitchen staff can teach valuable lessons in teamwork and multitasking. Food service jobs can be fast-paced and demanding, but they also provide an opportunity to earn tips, which can significantly increase earnings. Working in food service also helps develop excellent communication and customer service skills.
For those who enjoy swimming and have the necessary certifications, lifeguarding at a local pool or beach is a great option. It’s a responsible job that also allows you to spend time outdoors. Lifeguards need to be vigilant and quick-thinking to ensure the safety of swimmers. This job requires a lifeguard certification, which includes training in first aid and CPR.
Summer camps frequently seek enthusiastic teens to work as counselors. This role involves supervising and engaging with children in various activities, which can be both rewarding and fun. Camp counselors help organize games, crafts, and outdoor adventures, making it an ideal job for those who enjoy working with kids and being active. It’s also a great way to develop leadership skills.
Babysitting is a flexible job that allows teens to earn money while caring for younger children. It’s ideal for those who enjoy spending time with kids and have a responsible nature. Babysitting jobs can be found through family friends, neighbors, or online platforms. Successful babysitters are reliable, attentive, and able to engage children in safe, fun activities.
Animal lovers can offer pet sitting and dog walking services. This is a great way to earn money while spending time with animals and getting some exercise. Pet sitting may involve feeding, walking, and playing with pets while their owners are away. Dog walking can be a daily or regular job, providing consistent income and the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors.
Providing lawn care and gardening services in the neighborhood can be a lucrative option. Tasks may include mowing lawns, weeding, planting flowers, and general yard maintenance. This job is ideal for teens who enjoy working outdoors and don’t mind physical labor. Building a regular clientele can lead to steady work throughout the summer and beyond.
Some companies offer internships to high school students, providing a chance to gain experience in a specific field of interest. While some internships are unpaid, the experience and connections gained can be invaluable. Internships can be found in various industries, including technology, healthcare, and marketing. They provide a glimpse into professional work environments and can enhance college applications.
Teens with skills in areas like writing, graphic design, or programming can explore freelance opportunities. Platforms like Fiverr and Upwork offer ways to find short-term gigs that match their talents. Freelancing allows teens to build a portfolio of work and gain real-world experience in their chosen field. It also offers flexibility in terms of work hours and location.
Summer jobs provide teens with valuable work experience that can be beneficial for future job opportunities. It helps them understand the dynamics of a busy work environment and develop essential skills.
One of the primary benefits of a summer job is earning money. Teens can use their earnings to save for future expenses, gain financial independence, or enjoy recreational activities. Additionally, they can deposit their earnings directly into their Modak account, making it easy to manage and spend their money using the Modak Debit Card.
Working during the summer allows teens to develop important social skills, such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. These skills are transferable to various industries and are highly valued by employers.
Balancing work and leisure time can be challenging for teens. It's important to create a schedule that allows for adequate time for both responsibilities. Prioritizing tasks and managing time effectively can help in achieving this balance.
Summer jobs can sometimes be stressful, especially during peak times. Teens should learn how to stay calm under pressure, manage their stress, and seek help when needed.
Effective time management is crucial for teens working during the summer. They should plan their work schedules around personal commitments, use calendars or planners to keep track of important dates, and set aside time for rest and relaxation.
Apart from a summer job, you can also earn money through the Modak App. On average, you can earn up to 800 MBX(2)(3) per week, equivalent to $8 (as of June 2024), by participating in activities such as walking 5,000 steps daily or completing challenges that promote good habits and financial learning. This is a great way to supplement your income from a summer job.
If you're ready for your children to start learning about finances and developing healthy financial habits, sign them up for Modak today. With our Visa® debit card1 designed for kids and teens, the intuitive app, and our range of educational tools and rewards, you'll equip your children with the skills to manage money responsibly. Get started with Modak Makers today and take control of your financial future!
Summer jobs offer a unique opportunity for teens to earn money, gain experience, and develop valuable skills. With the right approach and preparation, teens can successfully navigate the challenges and make the most of their summer jobs. Whether it's working in retail, food service, or as a camp counselor, there are plenty of opportunities for teens to explore during the summer months. And with the help of Modak, managing and maximizing their earnings has never been easier.
The minimum age to work varies by country and state. In the U.S., the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) sets the minimum age at 14 for most non-agricultural work. However, there are exceptions for certain types of work.
According to the FLSA, 14- and 15-year-olds can work up to 8 hours a day and 40 hours a week during the summer. There are no federal restrictions on work hours for teens aged 16 and older. However, some states have additional regulations, so it’s important to check local laws.
Some states require minors to obtain a work permit before starting a job. Check with your school or state labor department to see if this applies to you. Work permits are typically issued by schools and may require parental consent and proof of age.
If you experience any issues at work, such as unfair treatment or safety concerns, talk to a trusted adult or contact your state labor department for assistance. It’s important to address problems early to ensure a safe and positive work experience.
Yes, teens can offer freelance services or take on gig work. However, they should ensure that the work is age-appropriate and check if any platform-specific age restrictions apply. Freelancing can be a great way to gain experience and build a portfolio, but it’s important to manage time effectively and meet client expectations.
