26 Common Jobs for Teenagers (With Salaries and Tips)
Why Teen Jobs Matter
A job can give teenagers more than a paycheck.
Early work experience can help teens build responsibility, communication skills, problem-solving ability and confidence. It can also teach time management, customer service, teamwork and money habits.
Teen jobs can help students prepare for college, trade school, internships or future full-time employment. Even a simple part-time job can show future employers that a teenager is reliable, punctual and willing to learn.
For many teenagers, a first job is also a first chance to understand workplace expectations. They learn how to follow instructions, communicate with supervisors, handle customers, manage schedules and complete tasks without constant reminders.
What To Consider Before Getting a Teen Job
Before applying for a job, teenagers should think about more than pay.
Important factors include:
Age requirements
Work permits
School schedule
Transportation
Parent or guardian approval
Weekly hours
Evening and weekend availability
Safety
Physical demands
Local labor laws
Training requirements
Some jobs may be better for older teens, while others may be available to younger teens. For example, certain roles involving machinery, late hours, driving or hazardous tasks may have age restrictions.
Teenagers should also make sure a job does not interfere with school, sleep, sports, family responsibilities or health.
26 Common Jobs for Teenagers
1. Cashier
Estimated pay: $12 to $18 per hour
Cashiers work in grocery stores, retail stores, restaurants, movie theaters, convenience stores and other businesses. They handle customer payments, scan items, issue receipts and answer basic questions.
This is one of the most common first jobs for teenagers because many employers provide training.
Useful skills include communication, attention to detail, basic math, patience and customer service.
Cashier work can help teens become more comfortable speaking with customers and handling responsibility.
2. Retail Sales Associate
Estimated pay: $12 to $20 per hour
Retail sales associates help customers find products, organize shelves, restock items, fold clothes, prepare displays and keep the store clean.
This job is a good fit for teenagers who enjoy working with people and staying active.
Retail jobs can also teach sales skills, product knowledge, teamwork and professional communication.
Many stores need extra help during weekends, holidays and back-to-school seasons, making this a common option for students.
3. Fast Food Team Member
Estimated pay: $12 to $18 per hour
Fast food team members may take orders, prepare food, clean dining areas, operate registers, package orders and help customers.
This job can be fast-paced, especially during busy hours. It is a good option for teens who can stay calm under pressure and work well with a team.
Fast food jobs often offer flexible schedules, entry-level training and opportunities for promotion.
Teens can learn customer service, time management and how to work efficiently in a busy environment.
4. Restaurant Host or Hostess
Estimated pay: $12 to $18 per hour
A restaurant host or hostess greets guests, manages seating, answers questions, handles reservations and helps servers organize table flow.
This role is a good fit for teens who are friendly, organized and comfortable speaking with people.
Hosts often work evenings and weekends, which may fit well around school schedules.
This job can help teenagers build confidence, communication skills and hospitality experience.
5. Busser
Estimated pay: $10 to $17 per hour, sometimes with tips
Bussers help restaurants keep tables clean and ready for new guests. They may clear dishes, wipe tables, refill water, reset place settings and support servers.
This role can be physically active and fast-paced.
It is a good job for teens who want restaurant experience but may not be old enough or experienced enough to work as a server.
Bussers can learn teamwork, speed, attention to detail and responsibility.
6. Dishwasher
Estimated pay: $12 to $18 per hour
Dishwashers clean dishes, utensils, kitchen tools and sometimes food preparation areas in restaurants, cafes, cafeterias or catering businesses.
This job may involve standing for long periods and working in a busy kitchen environment.
It can be a good first job for teens who prefer behind-the-scenes work rather than direct customer interaction.
Dishwashing teaches work ethic, consistency, organization and teamwork.
7. Barista
Estimated pay: $12 to $20 per hour, sometimes with tips
Baristas prepare coffee, tea and other drinks. They may also take orders, operate a register, clean equipment, restock supplies and interact with customers.
This job can be a good fit for older teens who are friendly, quick learners and able to handle busy shifts.
Barista roles can help teens develop customer service, multitasking and attention to detail.
Because many cafes are busy before school, after school and on weekends, schedules may vary by location.
8. Grocery Store Clerk
Estimated pay: $12 to $19 per hour
Grocery store clerks may bag groceries, stock shelves, collect carts, help customers find items, check prices and keep aisles organized.
This is a common teen job because grocery stores often hire part-time workers.
The work can be active and practical. Teens may need to lift items, stand for long periods and help customers politely.
This job builds reliability, teamwork and customer service experience.
9. Movie Theater Attendant
Estimated pay: $12 to $17 per hour
Movie theater attendants may sell tickets, serve concessions, clean theaters, check tickets and help guests.
This can be a fun job for teenagers who enjoy entertainment environments and customer interaction.
Evening and weekend shifts are common, which may work well for students.
The job can help teens practice customer service, cash handling and teamwork.
10. Lifeguard
Estimated pay: $14 to $25 per hour
Lifeguards monitor pools, beaches or water parks to help keep swimmers safe. They may enforce rules, respond to emergencies, perform rescues and provide first aid.
This job usually requires training and certification, such as CPR and lifeguard certification.
Lifeguarding can pay more than some entry-level teen jobs because it requires safety skills and responsibility.
It is a good fit for strong swimmers who are alert, calm and dependable.
11. Swim Instructor
Estimated pay: $15 to $30 per hour
Swim instructors teach children or adults how to swim. They may work at pools, community centers, camps or private programs.
This job may require swimming experience, teaching ability and safety training.
It can be a good fit for teens who are strong swimmers and enjoy working with younger children.
Swim instruction builds leadership, patience and communication skills.
12. Camp Counselor
Estimated pay: $12 to $20 per hour
Camp counselors supervise children during summer camps, day camps, sports camps or activity programs. Duties may include leading games, helping with crafts, organizing activities, monitoring safety and supporting campers.
This is a popular summer job for teenagers.
Camp counselor roles are good for teens who are responsible, energetic and comfortable working with kids.
This job can build leadership, problem-solving and teamwork skills.
13. Babysitter
Estimated pay: $12 to $25 per hour
Babysitters care for children while parents or guardians are away. Duties may include preparing snacks, helping with homework, playing games, reading, cleaning up and following bedtime routines.
Pay can vary widely depending on location, number of children, experience and responsibilities.
Babysitting is a good job for teens who are patient, responsible and comfortable with children.
CPR or first aid training can help build trust with families.
14. Pet Sitter
Estimated pay: $12 to $25 per visit or hour
Pet sitters care for animals while owners are away. Duties may include feeding pets, changing water, walking dogs, cleaning litter boxes, giving basic care and sending updates to owners.
This job can be flexible and may work well for teens who love animals.
Pet sitting requires reliability because pet owners depend on the sitter to follow instructions carefully.
Teens can start by helping neighbors, relatives or family friends.
15. Dog Walker
Estimated pay: $12 to $25 per walk
Dog walkers take dogs on scheduled walks and may also provide basic care such as water refills or updates to owners.
This job can be a good fit for teens who enjoy being outdoors and are comfortable handling animals.
It may be easier to start in a local neighborhood than through large platforms that may have age requirements.
Dog walking teaches responsibility, scheduling and communication.
16. Tutor
Estimated pay: $15 to $40 per hour
Teen tutors help other students with subjects such as math, English, science, foreign languages, writing or test preparation.
This job can pay more than many entry-level roles if the teen has strong academic skills.
Tutoring is a good fit for students who are patient, clear and good at explaining concepts.
Teen tutors may work with younger students, classmates or local families.
17. Library Assistant
Estimated pay: $12 to $18 per hour
Library assistants help organize books, check materials in and out, assist visitors, shelve items and support library programs.
This job is a good fit for teens who enjoy quiet environments, organization and helping others.
Some libraries hire student assistants or volunteers, while others may have age requirements for paid roles.
Library work can help teens build attention to detail, responsibility and customer service skills.
18. Office Assistant
Estimated pay: $13 to $20 per hour
Office assistants help with filing, answering phones, organizing documents, data entry, scheduling or basic administrative tasks.
Teen office assistants may work for small businesses, schools, community centers, medical offices or local organizations.
This job is useful for teens who want professional office experience.
It can help build computer skills, communication, organization and workplace confidence.
19. Data Entry Assistant
Estimated pay: $13 to $22 per hour
Data entry assistants input or update information in spreadsheets, databases or business systems.
This role requires accuracy, focus and basic computer skills.
Some data entry jobs can be done remotely, but teens should be careful with online listings because scams are common.
Legitimate employers should clearly explain the work, pay and company information.
20. Social Media Assistant
Estimated pay: $15 to $30 per hour
A social media assistant helps businesses, creators or organizations with social media tasks. This may include drafting captions, scheduling posts, organizing content, researching trends or collecting performance data.
This job can be a good fit for teens who understand social platforms and can write clearly.
However, social media work should still be professional. Teens need to follow brand guidelines, protect passwords and communicate responsibly.
A small local business may be a good place to start.
21. Yard Worker or Lawn Care Assistant
Estimated pay: $12 to $25 per hour
Yard workers help with mowing lawns, raking leaves, watering plants, pulling weeds, shoveling snow or cleaning outdoor spaces.
This job can be seasonal and physically active.
It is a good fit for teens who enjoy outdoor work and do not mind physical effort.
Teens should use equipment safely and avoid tasks that are restricted by age or require dangerous tools.
22. Car Wash Attendant
Estimated pay: $12 to $18 per hour
Car wash attendants help clean vehicles, guide customers, operate basic equipment, dry cars and maintain the wash area.
This job can be active and may involve working outdoors.
It is a good option for teens who want a straightforward job with customer interaction and physical movement.
Some locations may offer tips, especially for detailed cleaning services.
23. Amusement Park or Arcade Attendant
Estimated pay: $12 to $18 per hour
Amusement park or arcade attendants help guests, operate games, check tickets, monitor safety rules, clean areas and answer questions.
This can be a popular summer or weekend job for teenagers.
It is a good fit for teens who are outgoing, alert and comfortable working in a busy environment.
The job can teach customer service, safety awareness and teamwork.
24. Sports Referee or Youth Coach Assistant
Estimated pay: $15 to $35 per game or hour
Teenagers with sports experience may work as youth sports referees, scorekeepers or assistant coaches.
This job often happens after school or on weekends, which can fit well with a student schedule.
It requires knowledge of the sport, fairness, confidence and communication.
This role can build leadership and decision-making skills.
25. House Cleaner or Cleaning Assistant
Estimated pay: $13 to $25 per hour
Cleaning assistants help clean homes, offices, community spaces or rental properties. Duties may include vacuuming, dusting, organizing, wiping surfaces and taking out trash.
This work can be part time and may be scheduled around school.
Teens should make sure the work environment is safe and that a parent or guardian knows where they are working.
This job teaches responsibility, attention to detail and time management.
26. Freelance Creative Assistant
Estimated pay: $15 to $40 per hour, depending on skill
Creative assistants may help with simple design, video editing, photo editing, writing, presentation formatting, content organization or digital projects.
This job is best for teens who already have creative or technical skills.
For example, a teen might help a local business create flyers, edit short videos, format a presentation or design simple social media graphics.
This work can be done project by project and may build a useful portfolio for future internships or college applications.
Comparison Table: Common Teen Jobs and Estimated Pay
| Job | Estimated Pay | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Cashier | $12-$18/hr | Friendly teens who can handle transactions |
| Retail sales associate | $12-$20/hr | Teens who enjoy customer service |
| Fast food team member | $12-$18/hr | Teens who can work quickly with a team |
| Restaurant host | $12-$18/hr | Organized teens who like hospitality |
| Busser | $10-$17/hr + possible tips | Active teens who want restaurant experience |
| Dishwasher | $12-$18/hr | Teens who prefer behind-the-scenes work |
| Barista | $12-$20/hr + possible tips | Older teens with multitasking skills |
| Grocery clerk | $12-$19/hr | Teens who want steady part-time work |
| Movie theater attendant | $12-$17/hr | Teens who enjoy entertainment settings |
| Lifeguard | $14-$25/hr | Certified strong swimmers |
| Swim instructor | $15-$30/hr | Strong swimmers who can teach |
| Camp counselor | $12-$20/hr | Teens who enjoy working with kids |
| Babysitter | $12-$25/hr | Responsible teens with childcare skills |
| Pet sitter | $12-$25/visit or hr | Teens who love animals |
| Dog walker | $12-$25/walk | Teens who enjoy outdoor work |
| Tutor | $15-$40/hr | Strong students who can explain concepts |
| Library assistant | $12-$18/hr | Organized teens who like quiet work |
| Office assistant | $13-$20/hr | Teens who want professional experience |
| Data entry assistant | $13-$22/hr | Detail-oriented teens with computer skills |
| Social media assistant | $15-$30/hr | Teens with writing and platform skills |
| Yard worker | $12-$25/hr | Teens who like physical outdoor work |
| Car wash attendant | $12-$18/hr | Teens who want active work |
| Amusement park attendant | $12-$18/hr | Teens who enjoy busy seasonal work |
| Sports referee | $15-$35/game or hr | Teens with sports knowledge |
| Cleaning assistant | $13-$25/hr | Detail-oriented teens |
| Freelance creative assistant | $15-$40/hr | Creative teens building portfolios |
Jobs for Younger Teens
Younger teens may have fewer options because of labor laws, age requirements and safety rules.
Common options for younger teens may include:
Babysitting
Pet sitting
Dog walking
Yard work
Tutoring younger students
Helping neighbors
Camp volunteer roles
Family business tasks
Simple creative projects
Some formal employers may require workers to be at least 16. Others may hire 14- or 15-year-olds for limited roles with restricted hours.
Parents, guardians and teens should check local rules before accepting work.
Jobs for Older Teens
Older teens often have more job options.
They may qualify for roles in retail, restaurants, grocery stores, lifeguarding, offices, entertainment venues, tutoring centers or local businesses.
Older teens may also be able to work more hours, take on more responsibility and earn higher pay.
Jobs for older teens can be especially useful for building resumes before college, trade school or full-time employment.
Online Jobs for Teenagers
Some teenagers may prefer online work.
Possible online jobs include:
Tutoring
Proofreading
Simple design work
Video editing
Social media assistance
Data entry
Content writing
Presentation formatting
Online selling
Digital product creation
Online work can be flexible, but teens should be careful. Some online jobs may have age restrictions, payment requirements or scam risks.
A legitimate online job should have clear work details, safe communication and transparent payment terms.
Summer Jobs for Teenagers
Summer can be a good time for teenagers to work because school schedules are often lighter.
Common summer jobs include:
Camp counselor
Lifeguard
Swim instructor
Ice cream shop worker
Amusement park attendant
Retail associate
Restaurant worker
Yard worker
Babysitter
Pet sitter
Summer jobs can help teens earn money, gain experience and learn responsibility before the school year begins.
However, teens should avoid overscheduling themselves. Summer work should still allow time for rest, family, school preparation and personal development.
Weekend Jobs for Teenagers
Weekend jobs are useful for teens who have school during the week.
Common weekend jobs include:
Babysitting
Retail work
Restaurant work
Movie theater work
Dog walking
Tutoring
Event work
Sports refereeing
Yard work
Car washing
Weekend jobs can be easier to manage during the school year, but teens should still protect time for homework, sleep and activities.
How To Find Jobs as a Teenager
Teenagers can find jobs in several ways.
They can:
Ask local businesses if they are hiring
Check company websites
Look at job boards
Ask teachers, coaches or neighbors
Visit community centers
Check school career offices
Ask family friends
Create a simple resume
Apply early for summer jobs
Follow up politely after applying
Many teen jobs are local, so walking into nearby stores, cafes, restaurants or community centers can still work.
Teens should dress neatly, speak politely and be ready to explain their availability.
How To Apply for a Teen Job
A teen job application may ask for basic information, availability, education, references and work history.
If a teenager has no paid experience, they can still include:
Volunteer work
School clubs
Sports teams
Babysitting
Tutoring
Class projects
Leadership roles
Awards
Technical skills
Relevant hobbies
Employers do not always expect teens to have a long work history. They often look for reliability, communication, willingness to learn and a positive attitude.
Resume Tips for Teenagers
A teenager’s resume should be simple and easy to read.
It can include:
Name and contact information
Education
Availability
Skills
Volunteer experience
School activities
Work experience, if any
Awards or achievements
References, if requested
Good skills to include may be communication, teamwork, punctuality, customer service, organization, computer skills and problem-solving.
Teens should avoid adding unnecessary personal details. The resume should focus on why they would be a reliable worker.
Interview Tips for Teenagers
Teenagers should prepare before going to a job interview.
Helpful interview tips include:
Arrive on time.
Dress appropriately.
Bring a copy of your resume.
Practice common interview questions.
Know your availability.
Speak clearly.
Make eye contact when appropriate.
Show enthusiasm.
Ask one or two questions.
Thank the interviewer.
Common interview questions for teen jobs may include:
Why do you want this job?
What is your availability?
Do you have any experience with customers?
How would you handle a difficult customer?
What are your strengths?
Can you work weekends?
A good answer should be honest, respectful and specific.
Skills Teenagers Can Build Through Jobs
Teen jobs can help build practical skills that are useful in many careers.
These skills include:
Communication
Teamwork
Punctuality
Responsibility
Customer service
Problem-solving
Money management
Time management
Leadership
Adaptability
Confidence
Professional behavior
Even if a job is not related to a teen’s future career, the experience can still be valuable.
For example, working as a cashier can help a teen become more comfortable speaking with customers. Babysitting can build responsibility. Tutoring can build teaching and communication skills.
Safety Tips for Teen Workers
Safety matters in every teen job.
Teenagers should understand their responsibilities, workplace rules and emergency procedures. They should ask questions if they are unsure how to do something safely.
Important safety tips include:
Know your schedule and work location.
Make sure a parent or guardian knows where you are working.
Avoid unsafe tasks.
Do not use equipment you have not been trained to use.
Report injuries or unsafe conditions.
Follow workplace rules.
Trust your instincts if something feels wrong.
Keep personal information private.
Be careful with online job offers.
Teens and parents should also understand local labor laws and age restrictions.
How To Balance Work and School
A job should not hurt a teenager’s education.
Before accepting a job, teens should think about how many hours they can work without falling behind in school.
Helpful strategies include:
Limit weekly hours during school months.
Keep a homework schedule.
Avoid too many late-night shifts.
Communicate availability clearly.
Plan around exams and major projects.
Take breaks when needed.
Talk to parents or guardians about workload.
A part-time job can be helpful, but balance is important.
What Parents and Guardians Should Consider
Parents and guardians can help teens choose safe and realistic jobs.
They may want to discuss:
Transportation
Work hours
Employer reputation
Pay
Safety
School responsibilities
Communication expectations
Bank accounts
Saving and spending habits
Workplace behavior
Parents can also help teens prepare resumes, practice interviews and understand paychecks.
The goal is not to control every part of the process, but to help teenagers make safe and responsible choices.
How Dokie Can Help Teens Present School and Career Projects
As teenagers start working, applying for internships or preparing for school presentations, they may need to organize their experience into clear, professional materials. Dokie can help teens turn notes, class projects, volunteer experience, portfolio work or career plans into polished presentation slides. This can be useful for student leadership applications, career day projects, interview presentations, club proposals or personal portfolios.
Conclusion
Teen jobs can help young people earn money, build confidence and develop important workplace skills.
Common jobs for teenagers include cashier, retail associate, fast food team member, babysitter, tutor, lifeguard, dog walker, camp counselor, grocery clerk and many others.
The best job depends on the teenager’s age, schedule, interests, transportation, local rules and safety needs. Pay matters, but it should not be the only factor.
A good teen job should teach responsibility, support personal growth and fit around school. With the right role, teenagers can gain experience that helps them prepare for future jobs, education and adult life.
FAQs
What are the best jobs for teenagers?
Some of the best jobs for teenagers include cashier, retail associate, fast food worker, babysitter, tutor, lifeguard, grocery clerk, dog walker, camp counselor and movie theater attendant.
What jobs can a 14-year-old get?
A 14-year-old may be able to work in limited roles such as babysitting, pet sitting, dog walking, yard work, tutoring or certain approved entry-level jobs, depending on local labor laws.
What jobs can a 15-year-old get?
A 15-year-old may be able to work in some retail, food service, tutoring, babysitting, pet care or seasonal roles, depending on employer policies and local rules.
What jobs can a 16-year-old get?
A 16-year-old often has more options, including retail, grocery stores, restaurants, movie theaters, lifeguarding, office assistance and seasonal work.
What jobs pay well for teenagers?
Tutoring, babysitting, lifeguarding, swim instruction, creative freelance work and sports refereeing may pay more than some basic entry-level roles.
Can teenagers work online?
Yes, some teenagers can work online through tutoring, design, writing, social media assistance, data entry or creative projects. However, teens should check age requirements and avoid scams.
How much do teen jobs pay?
Teen job pay varies widely by location, employer, role and experience. Many entry-level jobs pay near minimum wage, while skilled roles may pay more.
Do teens need a resume?
A resume is not always required, but it can help. Teens can include school activities, volunteer work, skills, awards and availability.
What should a teen put on a resume with no experience?
A teen with no paid experience can include education, school clubs, sports, volunteer work, babysitting, tutoring, projects, skills and references.
How can teens find jobs?
Teens can find jobs by checking local businesses, job boards, school career offices, community centers, company websites and personal networks.
What should teens wear to a job interview?
Teens should dress neatly and appropriately for the workplace. Clean, simple and professional clothing is usually best.
Can teens work during the school year?
Yes, many teens work during the school year, but they should limit hours so work does not interfere with school, sleep or health.
Are summer jobs good for teenagers?
Yes. Summer jobs can help teens earn money, gain experience and build responsibility while school demands are lighter.
What skills do teen jobs teach?
Teen jobs can teach communication, teamwork, punctuality, responsibility, customer service, problem-solving and time management.
Should parents help teens apply for jobs?
Parents can help teens prepare, but teenagers should take responsibility for applications, interviews and communication when possible.