After-School Jobs for Teens

Beyond the Summer Gig

Did you have a summer job? Even though you’re in school, you don’t have to cut off your cash flow. Taking a part-time job after school or on weekends can help you develop responsibility, save up for purchases you want to make, and get used to experiencing a workplace environment.

Fast-Food Services

While the workplace might not seem glamorous, a job at a fast-food place can prove quite flexible, thanks to the typical short shifts. Managers usually don’t mind working with teenagers’ schedules, including times when teens might want to go on vacation with family or take time off to study for finals.

The median hourly fast-food worker wage in the United States hovers around $7, but you might get paid more or less depending on where you live and the restaurant’s policies. Evening shifts might start after school lets out, but you’ll generally get home in time to study and finish your homework. As an alternative, you may want only weekend shifts.

Babysitting and Pet Sitting

Teenagers don’t have to work for a company. Babysitters and pet sitters essentially run their own businesses, and if you’re a budding entrepreneur, you might love the challenge. You can accept babysitting gigs from families in your neighborhood and set your own rates. According to Care.com, the going rate for babysitters stands at around $15 per hour, which can add up quickly if you take many jobs.

Pet sitters might not earn as much, but they also enjoy less responsibility. You might spend a few hours with an animal every day, making sure the pet you care for has enough food, water, and exercise. Teens can also offer both babysitting and pet-sitting services.

Bookstores or Libraries

Book-loving teens might like to work at a bookstore or library. Both venues offer an excellent chance to learn customer service, communication, and organizational skills. Bookstores might pay teenagers minimum wage or a little more. Some libraries hire teenagers, while others recruit volunteers.

If you’re looking for paid work, use that criterion while searching for a job. In general, customer service representatives earn an average of $30,000 when working in a full-time position, but as a part-time worker, you’ll be paid an hourly rate.

Delivery Driver

Teens who drive their own cars can use their wheels for more than meeting up with friends and picking up dinner. Delivery drivers often work part-time hours, which makes this job great for ambitious teens with excellent driving records. You can deliver anything from parcels to pizza, so check listings for job advertisements in your city.

Consider working only on weekends to avoid evening rush-hour traffic. You can use the weekdays to catch up on schoolwork and visit with friends, then devote your weekends to earning a few bucks. For some delivery jobs, you’ll earn tips as well as a base hourly wage, which increases your income potential.

Teens don’t have to save up their money all summer to make it last through the school year. If you’re looking for an after-school or part-time job, search CareerBuilder for openings in your area.

More advice and after school jobs for teens:

• 17 jobs for nerds
• Starting your first job search: A step-by-step guide
• 8 of the best entry-level jobs by industry

Research Jobs or check CareerBuilder’s Salary Tool