15 of The Best Jobs for High Schoolers

High school is a busy time filled with classes, friends, and extracurriculars. But for many teens, it’s also a great time to start working. Getting a job for high schoolers isn’t just about earning extra spending money. It can teach time management, build confidence, and give students a head start on life after graduation.

There are many jobs for high schoolers that offer flexible hours, fair pay, and the chance to gain useful skills. Whether you’re looking for something fun, fast-paced, or quiet and independent, there’s something out there that fits your schedule and interests.

In this post, we’ll explore the best jobs for high schoolers to consider.

You might also want to read:

1. Babysitter

Babysitting has long been one of the most common jobs for high schoolers, and for good reason. It’s flexible, it usually pays well, and it often comes from trusted family or community connections. Teens who enjoy being around kids and have a strong sense of responsibility can do well in this role.

You don’t need any special training to get started, but knowing basic first aid or taking a babysitting course can help build trust with parents. It’s also a job that teaches patience, time management, and creative thinking, especially when keeping young children entertained for a few hours.

2. Pet sitter or dog walker

If you’re more of an animal person, pet sitting or dog walking could be the perfect fit. This job for high schoolers offers a good balance between responsibility and enjoyment. Walking dogs after school or feeding a neighbor’s cat while they’re out of town is a great way to earn money without giving up too much free time.

One of the best parts of this kind of work is the flexible schedule. You can often set your own hours, especially if you’re working with people you know in your neighborhood. Plus, spending time with animals can be calming and enjoyable.

3. Tutor

For students who do well in certain subjects, tutoring is a great way to help others while making solid money. This job for high schoolers is especially popular with those who enjoy explaining things and working one-on-one. You might help a younger student with math, science, reading, or even test prep.

Tutoring can often be done after school or on weekends, and it usually pays more than other part-time jobs. It also builds strong communication and leadership skills. If you’re thinking about a future in education, tutoring is a great place to start.

4. Barista

Working at a coffee shop is one of the more social and fast-paced jobs for high schoolers. Baristas learn how to make drinks, take orders, and handle money, all while staying friendly under pressure. It’s a great way to improve customer service skills and become more comfortable in a work setting.

Coffee shops often offer flexible shifts that work around school hours. As a bonus, many places give employees free or discounted drinks, which can be a nice perk during a long shift.

5. Cashier or retail associate

Retail jobs are a classic starting point for teens. Stores like grocery chains, clothing shops, and convenience stores often hire high schoolers for roles like cashier, greeter, or stock clerk. These jobs teach responsibility, customer service, and how to stay organized.

Retail is a good option for teens who enjoy helping people and don’t mind being on their feet. Hours are often part-time, and weekend shifts are usually available. It’s a great way to gain real-world experience and build a strong work ethic.

6. Grocery store worker

Similar to retail, working at a grocery store is another common job for high schoolers. Roles can include bagging groceries, stocking shelves, or collecting carts. Some students also work as cashiers or help in the bakery or deli sections.

Grocery stores often offer flexible hours and may be more willing to work around school schedules than other jobs. It’s a reliable way to start building experience and earning a steady paycheck. Plus, working close to home makes commuting easier, especially for those without a driver’s license.

7. Fast food crew member

Fast food restaurants are one of the top employers of high school students. These jobs are usually easy to get and don’t require experience, which makes them ideal for someone just starting out. While the work can be fast-paced, it teaches teamwork, time management, and how to handle customer service situations.

Many fast food places offer flexible hours, making it easier to work after school or on weekends. This type of job for high schoolers is also a good way to learn how businesses run and how to stay focused during busy times.

8. Restaurant host or busser

If working directly with food isn’t your thing, being a host or busser at a restaurant might be a better fit. Hosts greet and seat customers, while bussers clear tables and help keep the dining area clean. These roles are a great way to get experience in a restaurant without the pressure of taking orders or serving.

This job for high schoolers helps build confidence, especially in social situations. You learn how to communicate clearly, stay organized, and work as part of a team. It can also be a fun way to meet new people and possibly earn tips, depending on the restaurant.

9. Lifeguard

For strong swimmers, lifeguarding is one of the most rewarding jobs for high schoolers. It usually pays better than average and often comes with a sense of responsibility and pride. To qualify, you’ll need to take a lifeguard certification course, which covers safety skills, CPR, and rescue techniques.

Most lifeguard jobs are available during the summer at local pools, beaches, or water parks. It’s a serious job that requires focus and quick thinking, but it also comes with the chance to spend your days outside in the sun.

10. Camp counselor

Camp counselor jobs are popular during summer break, especially for teens who enjoy working with kids. Whether it’s a day camp or an overnight one, counselors lead games, supervise activities, and help create fun experiences for campers.

This job for high schoolers teaches leadership, planning, and how to handle different types of situations. It’s a great match for teens who are patient, energetic, and enjoy being part of a group. Plus, it often comes with free meals and housing for overnight camps, which can be a bonus.

11. Freelance work (writing, art, coding)

Some high schoolers have creative or technical skills they can use to earn money from home. Freelancing lets you take on small jobs like writing blog posts, designing logos, editing videos, or building websites. This kind of work is usually done online and can be a great way to grow a personal portfolio.

Freelance jobs for high schoolers are best for self-motivated teens who can manage their time well. It may take some effort to find clients at first, but even small projects can lead to bigger ones. If you’re interested in working from home and doing something you enjoy, freelancing is worth exploring.

12. Lawn care or snow shoveling

Offering to mow lawns in the summer or shovel snow in the winter is a classic way for teens to earn money in their neighborhoods. This job for high schoolers doesn’t require any special training, just a willingness to work hard and show up on time.

It’s also a great way to be your own boss. You can set your own rates, work on your own schedule, and grow your list of clients through word-of-mouth. For teens who enjoy working outdoors and don’t mind physical labor, this kind of job can be both simple and rewarding.

13. Movie theater staff

Working at a movie theater can be a fun and relaxed job, especially for teens who love films. Jobs might include selling tickets, working at the snack counter, cleaning theaters between shows, or helping customers find their seats.

Movie theaters often hire high schoolers for evening and weekend shifts, making it easy to balance with school. One of the best parts? Many theaters offer free or discounted tickets to employees, so you can catch the latest movies without spending a dime.

14. Delivery helper or runner

Some businesses hire teens to help with deliveries or run small errands. This might include helping a local florist, bakery, or office. As long as the job doesn’t require driving, it can be a solid choice for responsible teens who are good at staying on schedule.

This job for high schoolers teaches dependability, time awareness, and how to follow instructions. It may not be as common as some of the others, but it can offer steady work if you find the right fit.

15. Survey websites

If you’re looking for a simple way to make extra money without leaving home, survey websites might be a good fit. These platforms let you answer questions about products, services, or habits in exchange for small payments or gift cards. While it won’t make you rich, it’s one of the easiest jobs for high schoolers who want to earn a little during their free time.

Survey sites are flexible and don’t require any experience. You can log in after school, on weekends, or whenever you have spare time. Just make sure to use trusted survey websites and avoid any that ask for payment to sign up. For teens who like the idea of working online and setting their own pace, survey websites offer a low-pressure way to earn money from the comfort of home.

Conclusion

There are many great jobs for high schoolers that go beyond just earning money. From helping kids and pets to working in shops and cafes, each job brings its own set of lessons and rewards. Think about what fits your schedule, your interests, and your personality. Whether you’re looking to save for college, build your resume, or just try something new, getting a job as a high schooler is a smart and meaningful step forward.

Career Reload Team

We’re a team of writers and career experts who share practical insights to help you navigate the professional world. Our members include Certified Professional Résumé Writers (CPRW) and Certified Digital Career Strategists (CDCS), and we bring experience from many industries to help you build your career with confidence. Download free Word resume templates and resume templates for Google Docs.