Summer is the perfect time for teens to earn extra money, gain work experience, and build their resumes. However, finding a job that pays well can be a challenge. In this blog post, we’ll explore ten summer jobs for teens that pay high, offering both financial rewards and valuable skills. Whether you’re looking to save for college, buy a car, or just have some spending money, these jobs are worth considering.
Tips for Landing a High-Paying Summer Job
- Start Early: The best jobs often get filled quickly, so start your job search early in the spring.
- Network: Let family, friends, and teachers know you’re looking for a job. They might have connections that can help you.
- Create a Strong Resume: Even if you don’t have much work experience, highlight your skills, volunteer work, and extracurricular activities.
- Prepare for Interviews: Practice common interview questions and dress professionally. Show enthusiasm and a willingness to learn.
- Be Reliable: Once you land a job, show up on time, be responsible, and give your best effort. This can lead to positive references and future job opportunities.
1. Lifeguard
Why It’s Great: Lifeguarding is not only a well-paying job but also a highly respected position. You’ll be responsible for the safety of swimmers, which means you’ll gain important skills in first aid and emergency response.
Average Pay: $10-$20 per hour
Requirements: To become a lifeguard, you typically need to complete a certification course that includes CPR training, first aid, and water rescue techniques. Strong swimming skills are a must.
How to Get Started: Check with local pools, beaches, or community centers for job openings. Many places offer training programs, so you can get certified and start working in no time.
2. Tutor
Why It’s Great: Tutoring allows you to use your academic strengths to help others. It’s flexible, rewarding, and can be done from the comfort of your home.
Average Pay: $15-$30 per hour
Requirements: You need to be proficient in the subject you’re teaching and have good communication skills. Patience and the ability to explain concepts clearly are also important.
How to Get Started: Advertise your services at school, on community bulletin boards, or online. Websites like Tutor.com and Wyzant can connect you with students in need of help.
3. Babysitter/Nanny
Why It’s Great: Babysitting is a classic summer job that can pay surprisingly well, especially if you have experience and good references. It’s also a job that offers a lot of flexibility.
Average Pay: $10-$20 per hour
Requirements: Experience with children is crucial, and a CPR certification can boost your chances of getting hired. Reliability and trustworthiness are key qualities parents look for.
How to Get Started: Start by offering your services to family, friends, and neighbors. You can also sign up with babysitting apps like Care.com or Sittercity.
4. Pet Sitter/Dog Walker
Why It’s Great: If you love animals, this job is perfect for you. Pet sitting and dog walking can be a fun and relaxing way to earn money.
Average Pay: $10-$25 per hour
Requirements: A genuine love for animals and reliability are essential. Some pet owners may prefer sitters with experience or references.
How to Get Started: Offer your services in your neighborhood, or join platforms like Rover or Wag! to find clients.
5. Camp Counselor
Why It’s Great: Being a camp counselor allows you to spend your summer outdoors, engage in fun activities, and make a positive impact on kids’ lives.
Average Pay: $200-$600 per week
Requirements: Leadership skills, a positive attitude, and experience working with children are important. Some camps may require CPR and first aid certification.
How to Get Started: Look for job openings at local summer camps, or apply to larger organizations like the YMCA or Boy Scouts of America.
6. Golf Caddy
Why It’s Great: Golf caddying can be a lucrative job, especially if you work at a high-end golf course. You’ll also get plenty of exercise and fresh air.
Average Pay: $50-$100 per round, plus tips
Requirements: Knowledge of golf and physical fitness are necessary. Good communication skills and a friendly attitude can help you earn better tips.
How to Get Started: Contact local golf courses to inquire about caddy programs. Some courses offer training sessions for new caddies.
7. Freelance Writer/Editor
Why It’s Great: If you have a talent for writing, freelance work can be a great way to earn money. It’s flexible, and you can work from anywhere.
Average Pay: $15-$50 per hour
Requirements: Strong writing and grammar skills are essential. Attention to detail and the ability to meet deadlines are also important.
How to Get Started: Create a portfolio of your writing samples and start pitching to websites, blogs, and publications. Platforms like Upwork and Fiverr can also help you find clients.
8. Retail Sales Associate
Why It’s Great: Working in retail teaches valuable skills like customer service, sales, and inventory management. It’s also a great way to meet new people.
Average Pay: $10-$15 per hour
Requirements: Good customer service skills, basic math skills, and the ability to work in a team are important.
How to Get Started: Apply to local stores, malls, and shopping centers. Many retailers hire extra help during the summer months.
9. Landscaping/Gardening
Why It’s Great: If you enjoy working outdoors, landscaping and gardening can be a rewarding job. You’ll get to see the results of your hard work and enjoy the sunshine.
Average Pay: $12-$25 per hour
Requirements: Physical stamina and basic gardening knowledge are necessary. Some jobs may require you to bring your own tools.
How to Get Started: Offer your services to neighbors, or look for job postings on community boards and online classifieds.
10. Internship in a High-Demand Field
Why It’s Great: Internships provide valuable experience and can open doors to future career opportunities. Fields like technology, finance, and healthcare often offer paid internships for teens.
Average Pay: $10-$25 per hour
Requirements: Interest in the field and a willingness to learn are essential. Some internships may require specific skills or coursework.
How to Get Started: Check with your school’s career center, or search for internships on websites like Internships.com and LinkedIn.
Tips for Landing a High-Paying Summer Job
- Start Early: The best jobs often get filled quickly, so start your job search early in the spring.
- Network: Let family, friends, and teachers know you’re looking for a job. They might have connections that can help you.
- Create a Strong Resume: Even if you don’t have much work experience, highlight your skills, volunteer work, and extracurricular activities.
- Prepare for Interviews: Practice common interview questions and dress professionally. Show enthusiasm and a willingness to learn.
- Be Reliable: Once you land a job, show up on time, be responsible, and give your best effort. This can lead to positive references and future job opportunities.
Conclusion
Finding a high-paying summer job as a teen is not only possible but can also be a rewarding experience. Whether you’re guarding lives at the pool, helping kids learn, or taking care of pets, these jobs offer great pay and valuable skills. Start your job search early, network with people you know, and be prepared to show potential employers that you’re the right person for the job. With the right approach, you can make your summer both productive and profitable.