Summer Jobs for Teens

Teens 13–17 · Explainer · Updated October 1, 2026 · LearnLife Editorial

What Exactly Are Summer Jobs for Teens?

Summer jobs for teens are temporary work opportunities available during the summer break when school is out. These jobs are designed for teenagers typically aged 13 to 17 to earn money and practice important work skills. The types of jobs vary widely: some teens might work in food service like ice cream shops or restaurants, while others may work in retail stores, amusement parks, camps, or help with administrative tasks in offices.

For example, a 16-year-old might take a summer job at a local bookstore, helping organize shelves, handling sales, and assisting customers. This kind of job helps teens learn punctuality, customer service skills, and how to work as part of a team. Summer jobs often last from a few weeks to a couple of months, matching the school summer vacation.

Employers hiring teens must follow labor laws that protect young workers, such as limiting the number of work hours and types of tasks allowed. These rules help ensure teens are not overworked or assigned dangerous jobs. For younger teens, like 13- and 14-year-olds, jobs are often more limited and must be safe and age-appropriate.

How Do Teens Get and Do Summer Jobs?

Getting a summer job involves several steps that teens can easily follow to improve their chances. First, teens should search for job openings by visiting local businesses, asking family and friends, or checking online job boards for teen-friendly jobs. For example, a 15-year-old interested in working at a local café might visit the café in person, ask if they are hiring, and fill out an application form.

Next, teens will need to complete a job application, which may ask for basic information like name, age, contact details, and availability. It’s helpful to prepare a simple resume or list of skills and past experiences, even if unpaid, like babysitting or volunteering. When filling out applications, teens should write clearly and honestly. For example, a teen might write: “Available Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.”

After applying, many employers conduct short interviews. Teens should prepare by practicing answers to common questions such as “Why do you want this job?” or “Have you worked before?” Practicing with a family member or friend can build confidence. Dressing neatly and arriving on time for the interview makes a good impression.

Once hired, teens should arrive on time, listen carefully to instructions, and be polite to coworkers and customers. For example, if working at a grocery store, a teen might greet customers with “Hello! Let me know if you need help.” Learning to communicate clearly and manage time well are key skills.

Why Are Summer Jobs Important for Teens?

Summer jobs matter because they teach teens responsibility, teamwork, and time management, skills that are useful throughout life. When teens earn their own money, they gain a sense of independence and learn to budget for things they want, like clothes or hobbies. For example, if a teen earns $8 an hour and works 15 hours a week, they could save $120 in a month toward a new phone or college fund.

Working also helps teens build confidence by showing they can meet expectations and handle challenges. It can improve communication skills by interacting with customers and coworkers, and teach problem-solving when unexpected situations arise—like handling a difficult customer politely.

Having summer jobs adds valuable experience to a resume or college application, demonstrating commitment and work ethic. For example, a teen who worked as a cashier and stocker can list those responsibilities, showing future employers or schools they have real-world skills. Additionally, summer jobs offer a chance to explore careers—if a teen enjoys working at a pet store, they might consider veterinary work later.

What Are the Age Rules and Work Restrictions for Teens?

Age affects the kinds of summer jobs available and the hours teens can work because of federal and state labor laws designed to protect young workers. Here’s a breakdown:

• Age 13: Paid jobs are very limited. Teens this age often do volunteer work or very light jobs like babysitting, lawn mowing, or helping family businesses. Paid jobs are usually restricted by local laws.
• Ages 14 and 15: These teens can work in many part-time jobs such as retail or food service but not in hazardous environments (like construction). They can work limited hours, typically outside school hours, such as after 7 a.m. and before 7 p.m. during summer.
• Ages 16 and 17: These teens have fewer restrictions and can work more hours, including later in the evening, but still cannot work in jobs deemed hazardous by law, such as operating heavy machinery.

Work permits or age certificates may be required, which teens can get from their school or local labor office. Parents usually have to give permission. It’s important to check specific state and local rules because they can vary.

What’s the Difference Between Summer Jobs and Summer Internships?

Summer jobs usually involve paid work where teens perform specific tasks, sometimes repetitive or customer-focused, to help a business run. A teen working at a fast-food restaurant is doing a summer job. The main goal is to earn money and develop work habits.

Summer internships, however, often focus on learning about a particular career field and gaining professional experience, which can be paid or unpaid. For example, a teen interested in engineering might intern at a local company, assisting with small projects and learning from mentors. Internships often include training, more guidance, and sometimes classroom or online learning components.

Internships can be more competitive and require applications or interviews, but they provide deeper insight into careers than typical summer jobs. Both are valuable—but summer jobs are more common and easier to find for younger teens.

Where Can Teens Find Summer Jobs?

Teens can find summer jobs by using several strategies:

1. Ask Around: Talk to family, friends, neighbors, or teachers who may know about openings.
2. Visit Local Businesses: Walk into places like grocery stores, ice cream shops, movie theaters, or community centers and ask if they are hiring.
3. Use Online Resources: Some websites and apps list teen-friendly jobs and internships.
4. Check with Schools: Some schools have job boards or career centers with local listings.
5. Explore Volunteer Work: If paid jobs are hard to find, volunteering can build skills and connections, sometimes leading to paid jobs later.

Creating a simple list of places to check and contacting several can improve chances. For example, a teen could visit five stores in a mall over a weekend and fill out applications, increasing the odds of getting hired.

What Are the Next Steps to Get a Summer Job?

To get started on a summer job, teens should:

• Check Labor Laws: Learn about age limits, work permits, and restrictions in your state.
• Prepare a Resume or Job History: Even a short list of skills (like “good with people” or “reliable”) helps.
• Practice Filling Out Applications: Write clearly and honestly. For example, use “Available Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.” to show your schedule.
• Practice Interview Answers: Questions like “Why do you want this job?” or “What are your strengths?” are common. For example, answer: “I want to improve my communication skills and earn money this summer.”
• Apply Widely: Don’t rely on one place. Apply to several jobs to increase chances.
• Ask for Help: Parents, teachers, or counselors can review applications or practice interviews.
• Be Professional: When hired, show up on time, dress neatly, and be respectful.

These steps prepare teens to succeed and create a positive work experience that builds skills and confidence.

For more detailed help on applications and interviewing, teens can check articles on how to apply for jobs for teens and job applications for teens.

Frequently asked questions

Can 13-year-olds legally work in the summer?

Paid jobs for 13-year-olds are very limited due to labor laws. Many teens that age find volunteer roles, family jobs, or light tasks like pet sitting. Always check your state’s rules before starting work.

What types of jobs are best for 14- and 15-year-olds?

Popular jobs include retail cashier, fast-food worker, lifeguard (with certification), camp counselor assistant, and yard work. Jobs must follow age restrictions and limited hours.

Are summer internships paid for teens?

Some summer internships pay, but many are unpaid and focus on gaining experience. Always check if the internship follows labor laws, and ask about payment during interviews.

Do I need a work permit for a summer job?

Many states require work permits for teens under 18. These permits confirm your age and allow you to work legally. Check with your school or labor office to obtain one.

How can a summer job help me later?

Summer jobs teach responsibility, teamwork, and money management. These skills help with future jobs, college applications, and personal growth. Employers and admissions officers value real-world experience.