20 High Paying Summer Jobs For Teens

Remember being 16 and completely broke? I sure do. While my friends were lounging by the pool all summer, I was desperately searching for ways to earn my own cash. Summer jobs for teens opened up a whole new world of financial independence I never knew existed.

That first summer paycheck changed everything. Suddenly, I could buy my own clothes, save for a car, and stop asking my parents for money every weekend. The confidence boost alone made those early morning shifts worth it!

Teen unemployment hits hardest during summer months, but smart teenagers turn this challenge into opportunity.

With the right approach, you can land positions paying $15-25 hourly while building skills that last a lifetime. Ready to transform your summer from boring to profitable?

How To Find Summer Jobs For Teens

Job hunting strategy matters more than luck when securing quality summer positions. Smart teens start their search early, typically in March or April, before competition heats up.

First, identify your strengths and interests. Love working with kids? Consider babysitting or camp counselor roles. Enjoy outdoor activities?

Landscaping and lifeguard positions might suit you perfectly. Matching skills to opportunities increases your success rate dramatically.

Online job boards like Indeed and Glassdoor feature thousands of teen-friendly positions. Filter searches by age requirements, location, and schedule preferences to find relevant opportunities quickly.

Local networking often produces better results than online applications. Talk to neighbors, family friends, and community members about potential openings.

Many small businesses prefer hiring through referrals rather than posting public job listings.

Social media platforms like Facebook neighborhood groups and Nextdoor frequently feature local job postings.

Parents often seek reliable teenagers for various tasks throughout summer months.

20 High Paying Summer Jobs For Teens

Ready to explore proven money-making opportunities? These positions offer competitive wages while teaching valuable life skills you’ll use forever.

1. Lifeguard

Earning potential: $9.25-20 per hour

Lifeguarding combines responsibility with relaxation, making it one of the most coveted summer positions for teens.

The job requires Red Cross certification, but this investment pays off through higher wages and transferable skills.

Pool lifeguards typically earn $9.25-12 hourly, while beach and water park positions command $15-20 per hour.

Specialized environments like private clubs and luxury resorts often pay premium rates for experienced guards.

Certification requirements include CPR, first aid, and water safety training. Most programs take 1-2 weeks to complete and cost $150-300.

Many employers reimburse certification costs or provide free training to committed candidates.

Job responsibilities extend beyond watching swimmers. You’ll maintain pool chemistry, enforce safety rules, and provide emergency response when needed.

These skills translate directly to healthcare, education, and public safety careers.

Peak season demand creates multiple opportunities. Apply to municipal pools, private clubs, summer camps, and water parks to maximize your chances of landing preferred positions.

2. Babysitter

Earning potential: $11-18 per hour

Childcare demand skyrockets during summer months as parents juggle work responsibilities with out-of-school children.

Reliable babysitters earn premium rates while building relationships with families.

Experience and training significantly impact earning potential. Teens with Red Cross babysitting certification, CPR training, or childcare experience command higher rates than beginners.

Client acquisition starts with your immediate network. Friends, neighbors, family members, and parents’ coworkers often need trustworthy childcare providers. Word-of-mouth referrals remain the most effective way to build a steady client base.

Platforms like Care.com and Sittercity.com connect babysitters with families nationwide.

These services handle background checks, payment processing, and insurance coverage for professional peace of mind.

Specialized services like overnight sitting, multiple children, or special needs care justify higher rates.

Build expertise in specific areas to differentiate yourself from general babysitters.

3. Construction Worker

Earning potential: $15-20 per hour

Construction work offers some of the highest hourly wages available to teenagers.

Even if you aren’t certified, you can apply for the majority of construction worker positions from the age of 16.

Most entry-level positions require no experience beyond basic physical fitness and willingness to learn.

Age requirements typically start at 16 for most construction roles. Federal and state regulations protect teen workers through restricted hours, prohibited tasks, and safety requirements.

Physical demands make this work challenging but rewarding. You’ll develop strength, endurance, and practical skills while earning substantial paychecks. Career advancement opportunities abound for dedicated workers.

Seasonal nature of construction in cold climates creates summer hiring surges. General contractors, roofing companies, and landscaping firms actively recruit temporary help during peak building months.

Safety training and proper equipment usage receive heavy emphasis in reputable companies. These skills transfer to many other industries and demonstrate your commitment to professional standards.

4. Mowing Lawns

Earning potential: $20-30 per hour

Lawn care services provide flexible, profitable opportunities for entrepreneurial teens. You set your schedule, choose your clients, and keep all the profits.

Equipment needs vary by service level. Basic mowing requires a reliable mower, while full-service landscaping includes edgers, trimmers, and leaf blowers.

Many clients provide equipment, reducing your startup costs.

Pricing strategies typically range from $40-60 per average lawn. Time efficiency determines your effective hourly rate.

Experienced operators complete standard yards in 1-2 hours, maximizing earnings per job.

Client development starts in your neighborhood and expands through referrals. Consistent quality and reliable scheduling build loyal customer bases that provide steady income all summer.

Business skills like scheduling, invoicing, and customer service develop naturally through lawn care operations. These capabilities prove valuable in any future career path.

5. Youth Sports Referee

When I was in high school, I loved sports but wasn’t the star player. A friend suggested I try refereeing, and honestly, it turned out to be one of the best decisions I ever made.

If you enjoy sports and actually know the rules, becoming a referee or umpire can be a surprisingly fun way to earn money.

Plus, it gives you a sense of responsibility that most part-time jobs don’t.

Certification and Training

I remember signing up for my first certification course it was just one Saturday morning and cost me about $80. By the end of the day, I was already certified to start working.

Organizations like US Soccer and Little League make it easy; they give you structured training and even connect you to your first games.

The process is a lot quicker than people think you can literally train this week and be earning money the next.

Earning Potential

At first, I was nervous officiating small kids’ games.

The pay wasn’t huge, but once I got comfortable and started getting positive feedback from coaches, I began getting assigned to more competitive matches. That’s where the money really adds up.

One summer tournament still stands out to me: I officiated five games in one day and walked away with over $200.

For a teenager, that was more than I’d ever made in one weekend. And the best part? It never felt like “work” because I was doing something I genuinely enjoyed.

Refereeing makes you grow as a person. You’re forced to make quick calls under pressure, even when players or parents don’t agree with you.

At first, that can be intimidating, but over time you learn to stand your ground.

I noticed I became more confident, more professional, and even better at handling arguments in my everyday life.

How to Get Started

• Check local leagues: Visit websites for US Soccer, Little League, or even your city’s rec department. They usually post certification dates.
• Start small: Don’t jump into the biggest games right away. Youth leagues are perfect practice grounds.
• Show up ready: Being on time and looking professional makes a huge difference. Leagues remember who takes the job seriously.
• Aim higher as you grow: Once you’ve built up some experience, tournaments and playoffs pay much better.

If you’re a teen or young adult looking for both income and confidence, refereeing is honestly a win-win.

You’ll earn decent money, meet great people, and walk away with skills that stay with you long after the final whistle.

6. Golf Caddy

Earning potential: $50-100+ per round

Golf caddying offers unique access to successful professionals while earning solid wages. Most positions require minimal experience beyond basic golf knowledge and physical fitness.

Country clubs and upscale courses employ caddies during peak summer months.

Membership connections often lead to regular assignments with preferred golfers who appreciate quality service.

Tip income significantly boosts earnings beyond base wages. Experienced caddies develop relationships with generous members who request their services regularly.

Networking opportunities emerge naturally when working with business executives and professionals. These connections might benefit your college applications or future career prospects.

Physical requirements include walking 4-6 miles per round while carrying heavy golf bags. The outdoor exercise provides fitness benefits alongside financial rewards.

Top Summer Jobs For Teens

These positions offer excellent learning experiences while providing competitive compensation and valuable skill development.

7. Tutor

Earning potential: $15-35 per hour

Academic tutoring capitalizes on your recent classroom experience to help younger students succeed. Parents invest heavily in educational support during summer months to prevent learning loss.

Subject specialization commands higher rates than general tutoring. STEM subjects (science, technology, engineering, math) typically pay premium wages due to high demand and limited qualified tutors.

Certification and experience boost credibility and rates. Honor society membership, high standardized test scores, or previous tutoring experience demonstrate competence to prospective families.

Platforms like Wyzant and Tutor.com connect tutors with students nationwide. Online tutoring eliminates travel time while expanding your potential client base.

Success tracking and parent communication separate professional tutors from casual help. Document student progress and maintain regular contact with families to build long-term relationships.

8. Pet Sitter

Earning potential: $12-25 per day

Pet care services appeal to animal lovers while providing steady income through repeat customers. Summer travel season creates peak demand for reliable pet sitters.

Service options range from daily visits to overnight stays. Premium services like dog walking, grooming, or administering medication justify higher rates than basic feeding and companionship.

Apps like Rover and Wag streamline client acquisition and payment processing. These platforms handle insurance, background checks, and customer support.

Client relationships develop through consistent, reliable service. Pet owners become extremely loyal to caregivers their animals trust and love.

Flexible scheduling allows pet sitting to complement other summer activities or jobs. Many clients need services just weekends or vacation periods, not daily commitments.

9. Yard Worker

Earning potential: $15-25 per hour

Landscaping assistance extends beyond basic mowing to include planting, mulching, trimming, and general yard maintenance. These diverse skills increase your value to potential employers.

Landscaping companies hire seasonal workers to handle increased summer workloads. Physical demands require stamina and strength, but outdoor work appeals to many teenagers.

Independent contracting allows you to set your rates and choose your clients. Start with neighbors and family friends before expanding to broader community services.

Tool knowledge and proper techniques improve efficiency and results. Learn to use various equipment safely and effectively to maximize your earning potential per hour.

Portfolio development through before-and-after photos demonstrates your capabilities to prospective clients. Visual evidence of quality work generates referrals and repeat business.

10. Party Helper

Earning potential: $10-20 per hour

Event assistance capitalizes on summer’s busy celebration season. Graduations, weddings, barbecues, and birthday parties all need extra hands for setup, service, and cleanup.

Catering companies and event planners hire temporary staff for busy weekends. Reliable workers receive priority booking for high-paying events and overtime opportunities.

Service skills developed through party work transfer to restaurant, hospitality, and customer service careers. Professional demeanor and attention to detail set you apart from other temporary workers.

Weekend availability makes party work ideal for students with weekday commitments. Most events occur Friday through Sunday, allowing flexible scheduling around other activities.

Networking opportunities emerge through upscale events where you meet community leaders and business owners who might offer future employment opportunities.

11. Apprentice

Earning potential: $12-18 per hour

Trade apprenticeships provide hands-on learning while earning competitive wages. Skilled trades face worker shortages, creating opportunities for motivated teenagers.

Career pathways in plumbing, electrical work, HVAC, and carpentry offer excellent long-term prospects. Many apprentices transition to full-time positions or start their own businesses.

Union programs and technical schools partner with local businesses to provide structured apprenticeships. These formal programs include classroom instruction alongside practical experience.

Skill development through apprenticeships provides marketable abilities regardless of your ultimate career path. Technical knowledge and work ethic benefit any profession.

Mentorship relationships with experienced tradespeople offer guidance beyond just job skills. These connections often last throughout careers and provide ongoing support.

12. Customer Service Agent

Earning potential: $11-16 per hour

Customer service roles develop communication skills valuable in any career while providing steady employment throughout summer months.

Remote opportunities eliminate commuting time and expand job options beyond your immediate geographic area. Phone and chat support positions suit teens comfortable with technology.

Skill development includes problem-solving, communication, patience, and conflict resolution. These capabilities benefit you in school, relationships, and future careers.

Career advancement often exists within customer service organizations. Many managers started in entry-level positions and promoted based on performance and dedication.

Flexible scheduling accommodates other summer activities while providing consistent income. Part-time and seasonal positions suit teens balancing multiple commitments.

Great Summer Jobs For Teens

These opportunities combine learning experiences with financial rewards, setting you up for future success.

13. Intern

Earning potential: $0-15 per hour

Internship programs provide invaluable career exploration and networking opportunities. While pay varies, the experience value often exceeds monetary compensation.

Industry exposure through internships helps you make informed college and career decisions. Real-world experience supplements classroom learning with practical applications.

Professional networking begins during internships and continues throughout your career. Mentorship relationships with experienced professionals provide ongoing guidance and support.

Resume building through internships demonstrates initiative and career focus to college admissions officers and future employers. Skill development in professional environments accelerates your career preparation.

Conversion opportunities exist when interns excel during their programs. Many companies offer part-time positions during school years or summer employment in subsequent years.

14. Personal Assistant

Earning potential: $12-20 per hour

Administrative support roles teach organizational skills while providing insight into business operations. Busy professionals often need reliable assistance with routine tasks.

Task variety keeps work interesting while building diverse capabilities. Scheduling, communication, research, and project coordination develop valuable transferable skills.

Professional development occurs through exposure to business environments and successful professionals. These experiences provide career guidance and networking opportunities.

Technology skills improve through various software applications and digital tools used in modern offices. These capabilities benefit you throughout school and career.

Trust building with clients leads to increased responsibilities and higher compensation. Reliable performance often results in job recommendations and referrals.

15. Coach

Earning potential: $10-25 per hour

Youth coaching combines sports passion with leadership development. Summer sports camps and leagues actively recruit teenage coaches with relevant experience.

Certification programs through organizations like American Sport Education Program enhance credibility and earning potential while teaching proper coaching techniques.

Age group specialization determines responsibilities and compensation. Elementary programs require different skills than middle school or high school coaching positions.

Character development through coaching builds leadership, communication, and mentoring abilities. These skills benefit you in school, work, and community involvement.

Seasonal consistency allows coaching to complement other summer activities while providing meaningful work experience and modest income.

16. Concessions Worker

Earning potential: $9-15 per hour

Stadium employment appeals to sports fans while providing steady summer income. Baseball stadiums, entertainment venues, and fair grounds hire seasonal workers.

Fast-paced environment develops customer service skills under pressure. Teamwork and efficiency become essential during busy game periods and events.

Scheduling flexibility often accommodates other summer commitments. Event-based work means income varies with venue schedules but provides predictable busy periods.

Employee benefits might include free game admission, employee discounts, and catered meals. These perks add value beyond hourly wages.

Advancement opportunities exist for reliable workers who demonstrate leadership potential. Supervisory roles offer higher pay and valuable management experience.

17. Pool Tech

Earning potential: $15-25 per hour

Pool maintenance combines chemistry knowledge with outdoor work. Technical skills and attention to detail separate professional technicians from casual pool cleaners.

Business opportunity exists for entrepreneurial teens willing to build their own client base. Equipment investment remains minimal compared to potential earnings.

Chemistry applications from school science classes provide practical value while reinforcing academic learning. This connection between education and work enhances both areas.

Seasonal demand creates opportunities with pool service companies and private homeowners. Reliable technicians often receive year-round work in warmer climates.

Problem-solving skills develop through diagnosing and correcting various pool issues. These analytical abilities transfer to many technical and professional careers.

Best Summer Jobs For Teens

These premium opportunities offer the best combination of pay, experience, and future career preparation.

18. Camp Counselor

Earning potential: $8-15 per hour plus room/board

Summer camp employment provides immersive experiences combining work with adventure. Residential camps often include housing and meals, reducing living expenses significantly.

Leadership development accelerates through managing groups of children and coordinating activities. Responsibility levels exceed most other teen employment opportunities.

Skill diversification occurs through camp activities like arts, crafts, sports, and outdoor education. Teaching abilities and creativity flourish in supportive camp environments.

Community building skills develop through creating positive group dynamics and resolving conflicts. These abilities benefit you in school, work, and personal relationships.

Alumni networks from camp employment often provide lifelong connections and career opportunities. Many successful professionals credit summer camp experiences with shaping their character and career paths.

19. Farmhand

Earning potential: $10-20 per hour

Agricultural work provides authentic connections to food production while building strong work ethic and practical skills.

Physical fitness improves naturally through outdoor labor and active work responsibilities. Fresh air and exercise offer health benefits alongside financial compensation.

Business education occurs on working farms where you observe agricultural economics, planning, and management. These insights benefit any future business endeavors.

Environmental awareness grows through direct involvement in sustainable farming practices. Food appreciation develops when you understand production challenges and processes.

Mentorship opportunities exist with experienced farmers who often share wisdom about work, life, and business success. These relationships provide guidance beyond just job skills.

20. Seasonal Restaurant Staffer

Earning potential: $9-18 per hour plus tips

Restaurant employment develops fast-paced customer service skills while providing income throughout busy summer tourist seasons.

Tip income can significantly boost hourly wages, especially in popular tourist destinations. Quality service directly correlates with earning potential through customer appreciation.

Team collaboration becomes essential in busy restaurant environments. Communication and efficiency skills develop under pressure while serving customers.

Food service experience provides valuable background for future hospitality career opportunities. Many successful restaurant managers and owners started as teenage servers or kitchen staff.

Seasonal businesses often rehire successful employees year after year, providing reliable summer employment throughout high school and college years.

Final Thoughts

Summer jobs for teens offer far more than just spending money. They provide financial literacy, work ethic development, skill building, and career exploration opportunities that shape your entire future.

The money you earn this summer could fund your college applications, buy your first car, or start your emergency fund. More importantly, the confidence and skills you develop will serve you throughout life. That’s the best investment any teenager can make 🙂

Your summer job adventure starts now! Which opportunity calls to you most? Stop dreaming and start applying today.