28 Perfect Part Time Jobs for High Schoolers

These part-time jobs for high schoolers include positions that provide both steady and flexible work.

See also: 60+ Ideas for How to Make Money as a Teenager

a high schooler having cheese to a customer while working her part time job

As kids get older their need for extra cash increases inspiring many high schoolers to seek out work.

But since school takes up most of a teen’s day, what are some good part-time jobs for high schoolers?

Here’s what you need to know about when teens can start working and a list of part-time job ideas to get you started.

Job specifics can vary by location so it’s also helpful to ask for tips on local Facebook pages or see what’s available on job boards.

Is it possible to get a job while in school?

Legally, any teenager 14 or older can get a job in the United States. However, certain states require 14 and 15-year-olds to only work jobs outside of school hours. The federal government also limits the number of hours teens under 16 are allowed to work to 18 hours per week while school is in session. The federal government also prohibits this age group from partaking in what it defines as hazardous work.

It’s important to note that there may be additional restrictions and regulations set by state or local laws, so it’s essential to check the specific regulations in your area.

Beyond legal requirements, it’s also worth noting that having a job while also in school can be challenging. It requires careful time management and being realistic about how much time one can devote to a job while also balancing academic and extracurricular demands.

Students who do not have extracurriculars may be able to devote more time to steady, part-time work. While students with a heavy course load and extracurriculars may want to look for more flexible or sporadic work such as babysitting, food delivery, or dog walking.

What do high schoolers gain from getting a job?

High schoolers gain a lot from getting a job. First, they get to experience firsthand what it’s like to commute, interact with customers, handle money and transactions, and how it feels to be “on the clock”.

In some circumstances, students may learn or improve valuable skills such as writing, marketing, or sales. Students with specific interests in art and music who get jobs in these fields can explore if they want to pursue this line of work further.

Working an exhausting, mundane, or boring job can also inspire students to push themselves more academically or focus on a specific trade so they can pursue more interesting or meaningful work.

What are the best part-time jobs for high schoolers?

The best part-time jobs for high schoolers can vary by country and state. Some jobs will be more available in certain locations than others. But the following jobs are among the best and most typical jobs teenagers pursue while they’re still in school.

Fast food worker or server at a restaurant

One of the easiest part-time jobs for high school students can get is working as a fast food worker or server at a restaurant. Most of these establishments depend upon part-time staff whether it’s someone greeting guests, helping to make the meal, serving the meal, or washing dishes. These positions tend to have high turnover and require few skills so high school students can easily slide into a position. 

Retail associate

Another workplace that has high turnover and relies on part-time work are retail stores. These stores need employees who can easily interact with customers in a helpful and friendly way. They also need employees who can work a register and are willing to learn about the products sold in the store. 

Babysitter or mother’s helper

For high schoolers who enjoy working with children, becoming a babysitter or mother’s helper could be the perfect part-time job. Many working parents need extra help throughout the week even if they work from home. And other families require babysitters for when they want to go out on the weekend and either want or need to leave their children at home. 

Dog walker or pet sitter 

Another service many working families require is a dog walker. If both parents work outside the home, the family may need someone to walk their dog before they return. High schoolers can easily fill this role if they can take the dog on a walk in the middle of the afternoon. Families may also require someone to take care of their dog or pets while they’re vacationing, creating an opportunity for a teen to pick up additional flexible work. 

Tutor for younger students

Math, science, and foreign language wizzes can take advantage of their understanding of these subjects by tutoring younger students. Being a tutor takes time, patience, and a willingness to show empathy and think deeply about how best to help a struggling student. Teens can advertise for these positions on local Facebook pages, with fliers hung in retail stores around town, or by simply reaching out to friends and neighbors.

Grocery store clerk or stocker

Getting a part-time job at a grocery store is among the easiest jobs for high schoolers to obtain. Grocery stores seem to always be looking for more help and teens can help fill the gap. Most high schoolers, especially those ages 14-16, tend to work at the cash register, either accepting payment or bagging groceries. But teenagers have also been known to help stock shelves. 

Movie theater usher or concession worker

Movie buffs will want to seek out a job at a movie theater either as an usher or concession worker. These low-skill jobs are perfect for high schoolers as most movies occur during non-school hours. 

Delivery driver for restaurants, Uber Eats, Grub Hub, or DoorDash

Older teens with a driver’s license and a good driving record can work part-time as a delivery driver. There are two ways to go here – either a teen can seek out work from a local restaurant or find jobs through Uber Eats, Grub Hub or similar services. There are positives and negatives to each route so be sure to research each option before jumping in. Certainly, apps like Uber Eats provide more flexibility while a restaurant will most likely have more steady work. 

Administrative assistant or receptionist at an office

Often offices require at least a high school diploma to be an administrative assistant or receptionist. But smaller offices, needing a few hours of coverage, may turn to high schoolers for help. These jobs are most likely found through contacts like friends or neighbors who own their own small businesses. 

Library assistant or shelver

Local libraries are often in need of assistants or shelvers and turn to high schoolers to help. The job typically entails understanding the Dewey decimal system so that books are returned to the correct place and learning how to assist visitors in checking out books and other materials.

Assistant fitness instructor or personal trainer at a gym

Most gyms require that fitness instructors or personal trainers are educated and trained in their profession but teens can work alongside employees to assist them in their work. It helps to be physically fit and to have a general understanding of fitness before getting a job. 

Barista at a coffee shop

A fun part-time job for high schoolers could be getting a job at a coffee shop. In addition to making yummy drinks and serving food, some coffee shops even offer eligible employees health coverage, 401k plans, and even commuter expenses. Coffee shops do have their busy moments at which point it’s important to be ready to move quickly but accurately and spend hours on your feet.

Data entry clerk

Some offices need some basic data entry taken care of an would be willing to hire reliable and detail-oriented high schoolers part-time. This type of position is one that may only last for a short period of time if a business has a specific need.

Social media assistant or content creator for a local business

Teenagers typically understand social media better than older generations so many businesses would be happy to have their help. A social media assistant or content creator would most likely be given the task of taking photos or videos and then crafting marketing messages to promote the business.

Car wash attendant

If you like cars and don’t mind occasionally getting wet, a car wash attendant job could be a perfect match. Attendants typically help cars enter the car wash, collect payment, and program the machinery to match the customer’s preferred wash. 

Internship or apprenticeship at a local business or non-profit organization

While internships, and especially paid internships, are a little more difficult to get during high school, it is possible to find a few opportunities. The difference between an internship and a job is often the skills and learning one acquires. Check with local non-profits, trades, and other businesses to see if they offer internships. 

Freelance writer or content creator for online publications or blogs

High school students who excel in English and have a love of writing may be able to find work as freelance writers or content creators for online publications or blogs. The best place to find these jobs is through online job boards.

See related: 19 Freelance Writing Jobs That Teenagers Can Pursue

Virtual assistant for a small business owner or entrepreneur

Similar to freelance writing jobs, teens may also be able to find work as virtual assistants. These jobs require a willingness to do menial tasks such as answering emails, scheduling social media posts, or fielding phone calls. The best place to find virtual assistant jobs is online.

Customer service representative for a call center or online retailer

High schoolers with a positive and cheerful attitude can often work as customer service representatives. While traditionally these jobs occurred in an office space, many are now moving to remote work which can be done from the comfort of one’s home. 

Photography assistant for a local photographer

If you’re a high school student who’s into photography, becoming a photography assistant may be the perfect job for you. Assistants can help set up equipment, handle lighting, support post-production work, run errands and handle administrative tasks. Many photographers – especially those who capture weddings or do family photos – work on the weekend but some may need help during after-school hours. 

Swim instructor or assistant at a local pool or swim school

Teens who are strong swimmers may be interested in becoming swim instructors or assistants. The job requires teaching and demonstrating basic swimming techniques and water safety skills as well as monitoring students’ progress and providing feedback. These jobs usually occur during after-school hours or on weekends.

Art or music instructor or assistant at a local studio or school

Art and music schools may be looking for teens to hire for their after-school programs. Of course, these jobs require an appreciation for the art forms and some knowledge about art and/or music. It’s also possible for teens to teach music lessons in particular independently to local students.

Food service worker at a local sports arena or stadium

Sports enthusiasts may have fun working as food service workers at a local sports arena or stadium. These jobs entail either working at a food stall or walking among fans as they watch the game. 

Museum or art gallery attendant or guide

Some museums or art galleries have part-time jobs for high school students to help with the collection of tickets, providing directions or guiding visitors. A few museums may also offer art classes and look to teens for help in assisting with these classes. 

Assistant at a local bakery or pastry shop

Just like retailers, bakeries or pastry shops frequently experience high turnover and require part-time employees. High schoolers can be perfect for filling in the afternoon or evening hours when employees who are parents need to be home with their children.

Retail assistant at a bookshop

Teens who like to read will enjoy working at a local bookshop. Retail assistants in these positions will help customers find books and work the cash register when a sale is made. The work could also include stacking new books on shelves or creating displays.

Lifeguard at a local pool or beach

Year-round or seasonal pools are always in need of lifeguards and typically teenagers fill this role. While becoming a lifeguard requires certification, these jobs often pay above minimum wage.

Event staff at local plays, concerts or festivals

One fun part-time job for high schoolers is to work as event staff for local plays, concerts or festivals. This work could be sporadic depending on the venue but could be a good opportunity to earn some extra cash. 

Can high school students make money online?

Absolutely! If going to a physical job every day isn’t possible, a high school student can seek work online.

Some of the most popular online jobs for teenagers include:

  • Selling crafts, used clothing, or books through Etsy, Poshmark, Amazon or eBay
  • Designing websites or doing other work that requires knowledge of advanced code
  • Starting a Youtube channel or blog and making money on advertising
  • Taking paid online surveys or reviewing videos or ads

To find out more see: How to Make Money Online as a Teen

See related:

14 Sample Interview Questions for Teens (With Realistic Answers)

34 Perfect Summer Jobs for Teens Who Want to Earn Some Extra Cash

The Best Debit Cards for Kids and Teens

Everything You Need to Know About Giving Your Teen a Credit Card

Investing for Kids: a Common Sense Approach to Teaching the Basics

70+ Ideas for How to Make Money as a Kid

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About Kerry Flatley

Hi! I’m Kerry, the mother of two girls and a certified parent educator. I believe it is possible for parents to have a supportive, loving, and warm relationship with their kids while raising them to be independent and ultimately self-sufficient. Over the years, I’ve read numerous books and articles that support this belief and I’ve put these ideas into practice with my own kids. Read more about me and Self-Sufficient Kids here.