Gen Z did not come to play. They came to work! In recent years, a remarkable shift has taken place in the teenage workforce, reversing a decline that has persisted for decades. According to the Labor Department, the number of working teens aged 16 to 19 has seen a significant increase, with approximately 250,000 more teens employed now than before the pandemic. This surge in teen employment has not only provided financial independence but has also fostered the acquisition of essential skills such as time management, responsibility, and interpersonal communication.

As teenagers embark on their journey towards adulthood, the pursuit of gaining work experience and earning some extra income has become increasingly important. Part-time jobs have proven to be a valuable avenue for achieving these goals. In this article, we will explore various job opportunities that teens can consider to kickstart their professional journey.

Teen Job Resources

Did you know that the Multnomah County Library has resources to help get teens jobs?  According to their website, the library can help you prepare for job interviews. You can meet with community professionals who will do practice interviews with you and give you feedback. To schedule an appointment, contact them at [email protected].

In addition, they have some great resources.  The following links are all highlighted on the Multnomah County Library website:

  • How to write a cover letter that sounds like you – An eight-minute video by the Harvard Business Review. Cover letters aren’t always required but might be needed for internships and other opportunities.
  • Indeed.com: 15 Best Jobs for Teenagers – This post goes over the types of jobs teens can get, what skills and experience are helpful, and how much the jobs typically pay.
  • Poached – Find jobs in the food service and hospitality industries.
  • Snagajob: Teen Jobs – Find jobs for teens within 20 miles of Portland, Oregon. 
  • Summerworks PDX – SummerWorks is a paid summer internship program for youth ages 16-24 in the Portland metro area.

Types of Teen Jobs

As we know, one of the most common sectors for teenage employment is the retail and food service industry. Fast food chains, cafes, grocery stores, and clothing retailers often hire young individuals for entry-level positions. These jobs offer opportunities to learn customer service, cash handling, and organizational skills, allowing teens to work as cashiers, sales associates, or even as servers in restaurants.

For teens who enjoy spending time with children or animals, babysitting and pet sitting present attractive options. These jobs allow them to earn money while providing care and supervision. Babysitting gigs can range from occasional evening babysitting to regular after-school care, while pet sitting offers flexibility in looking after pets when their owners are away.

Teens who enjoy being outdoors and have a knack for gardening can explore opportunities in lawn care and landscaping. They can engage in tasks such as mowing lawns, trimming hedges, raking leaves, or offering general yard maintenance services. This job not only helps them earn money but also enhances their physical fitness and knowledge of plants and gardening techniques.

Teenagers who excel in certain subjects can leverage their knowledge by offering tutoring services to younger students. They can assist with homework, provide academic support, or teach specific subjects. Tutoring can be done in-person or online, making it a flexible and rewarding job option for teens.

For strong swimmers who enjoy spending time at the pool or beach, becoming a lifeguard or swim instructor can be an excellent choice. These positions require obtaining certifications such as CPR and lifeguard training. Lifeguarding not only provides a sense of responsibility but also ensures the safety of others in aquatic environments.

The digital age has opened up a ton of opportunities for teens to explore remote jobs and freelancing. They can offer services like content writing, graphic design, social media management, or website development. Platforms such as Fiverr, Upwork, and Freelancer provide access to a wide range of freelance gigs that can be done from the comfort of home.

During summer breaks, teens can consider working as camp counselors. Camps offer a diverse range of activities, including sports, arts and crafts, and outdoor adventures. Being a camp counselor allows teens to develop leadership skills, foster teamwork, and create lasting memories while mentoring and guiding younger campers.

Finding suitable jobs as a teenager can be an exciting and rewarding experience. It not only provides financial independence but also instills valuable life skills that will benefit them in the future. From retail and food service to babysitting, tutoring, and freelancing, there are numerous job opportunities available for teens to explore. 

By choosing a job aligned with their interests and strengths, teenagers can embark on a fulfilling and successful professional journey. The reversal in the decline of teen employment indicates a positive shift in the aspirations and work ethic of Gen Z, as they embrace part-time jobs and set themselves on a path of personal and professional growth. Now can someone tell my teen to take out the garbage?