Get Schooled

What to Know about Seasonal Jobs for Teens

Last updated October 1, 2024

Seasonal jobs are great opportunities for teens to earn money when they have a bit more free time from school. Whether it’s over summer break or during the holiday season, there are some key things to keep in mind to get the most out of your seasonal job. We share what teens should know about seasonal jobs! 

Interview Coach button - What to Know about Seasonal Jobs for Teens

Prepare in advance

If you want to work over the holiday or summer breaks, be sure to apply for jobs at least one month before you want to start working. When you start applying, it will be helpful to have your resume and cover letter ready to update and tailor to each job you apply for. 

Need a second opinion on your application materials? Send them to us for free review! We'll have them back to you within a week with advice and feedback. 

Be aware of your options

Depending on the time of year, there may be an increase in hiring. For example, in the summer, many cities host Summer Youth Employment Programs, which offer entry-level summer jobs to young people at local businesses, nonprofit organizations, and city governments. There may also be openings in your area for positions such as camp counselor, lifeguard, or childcare worker. During the holidays, there are also short-term ways to earn money with holiday-specific pop-ups, such as Halloween stores or Christmas tree sales. Large retail stores are also often looking to hire short-term workers during this time. Be sure to explore options like these when starting your job search. 

Network

When starting your job search, be sure to reach out to your network to see if anyone knows of seasonal opportunities. If you’re in college, the career center can also support you in your search!

Once you land your seasonal job, your coworkers and managers will become a part of your network, too. Building professional relationships with them may lead to gaining a reference for future employment, finding a mentor, or even returning to the same job season after season!

Know your rights and opportunities

Depending on your age, there may be limits to the amount of hours you can work per shift or per week, so it’s important to know your rights as an employee if you are under 16. Working on holidays can also mean making more money, since companies may offer “time and a half” pay for employees. This means that if you normally earn $20 per hour at your seasonal job, you would instead be earning up to $30 during peak days. Be sure to ask about this possibility when you’re hired.

Additionally, you will need to track your earnings for tax purposes, depending on how much you make in a given year. Your paycheck will deduct taxes from your overall pay each pay period, but when filing your taxes (if needed), you may be owed a refund. Talk to an educator or trusted adult if you are unsure about whether you will need to file taxes.  

Learn more here about managing your money wisely!

Have any questions about finding a seasonal job as a teen? Text #Jobs to 33-55-77 to chat with one of our advisors. If you're using a mobile device, click here to have the text message set up for you!

Find a Job

Seasonal Jobs

Benefits of AmeriCorps: Why You Should Join

See the whole series

Let Get Schooled help you achieve your goals

Sign UpLog In

Related


Companies That Have Jobs For 14- and 15-Year-Olds

Looking for a job during in high school? Here are companies that have jobs for 14 and 15-year-olds!

Seasonal Jobs in 2024! Here’s Who’s Hiring This Holiday Season

Who’s hiring for seasonal jobs across the country? Here are some job opportunities for teens during the holiday season.

What Teens Need to Know about Taxes

Here's what teens should know about filing taxes.

Game-Changing Career & Job Skills That Can Help Teens Land a Job

Learn new career and job skills at home that can help you land a job.

Get Schooled helps young people get to college, find first jobs, and succeed in both.

About UsOur TeamBoard of DirectorsFAQ

Pursue Your Goal

©2024 Get Schooled