How to Find a Job as a Teenager (Including a Jobs List)

Updated 13 February 2023

As a teenager, you may want to know how to find a job to gain experience and independence. There are many part-time jobs available for teens that can allow you to earn money without falling behind in your schoolwork. Having a foundation of work experience in your teenage years can make finding employment easier later on in life. In this article, we explore how to find a job as a teenager, look at the types of jobs that best suit teens and list a few of the best jobs for teenagers.

How to find a job as a teenager

Knowing how to find a job as a teenager can give you an opportunity to earn money, experience and references. The things you learn in these workplaces can be helpful when searching for a professional job after school. Some of the steps you can follow include:

1. Explore job options

There are various businesses, organisations and companies across a range of industries that employ teenagers on a part-time basis. Make a list of the things that interest you and the skills you have, then determine which roles are likely to be the most suitable. Here are a few examples to consider:

If you enjoy working with children, you can check your local child care programmes or contact friends and family for babysitting opportunities.
If you like cooking, you can look for jobs in fast-food restaurants or hotels that may take employees without experience.
If you want to be active, consider finding jobs at moving companies, car washes and commercial cleaning companies.
If you enjoy spending time outdoors, you can look for jobs with garden care companies, animal shelters, plant nurseries and construction companies.

2. Search for job openings online

You can use online job boards to find vacant positions in your area and search based on your skills and interests. You may also find job sites that allow you to create a profile and upload your CV so that if any job that matches your interests comes up, you receive a notification. It's also worth regularly checking your favourite companies' social media, as some employers also post jobs there. Make sure that your profile is professional if you wish to enquire more through these channels.

3. Acquire a work permit if necessary

You can have a part-time job as long as you're above 13 years, but if you're under the age of 15, you may require a working permit. Your employer also requires a Child Work Permit to employ teenagers, whereby they include details of your duties and hours of work. Your guardian or parent and your school may also give written consent allowing you to work.

It's possible to work without a permit if the work is occasional and if you're helping in a family business, participating in charitable or religious activities, posing for still photographs, such as modelling, and if you're participating in sports events.

4. Ask for references

References are a good way of proving that you have a good work ethic. Consider asking adults if you can list them as references. You can talk to people who know you personally and who have knowledge of your diligence. Teachers, coaches and group leaders can all make excellent references. You can also ask adults for whom you've worked before, such as a neighbour whose lawn you mowed, even if it was for no pay.

5. Network to find job possibilities

Various places may have job openings, but don't post them online. To know of these opportunities, consider networking with adults and asking them to let you know if they hear of any opportunities. Someone referring you personally can give you an advantage over other candidates. Consider mentioning the referrer's name to your potential recruiter, as this makes you stand out and increases your chance of getting the job. This is because most employers prefer to work with a teenager when they know their guardian, family friend or parent.

6. Create a CV

As a teenager, you may have little to no work experience to add to your CV. Consider focusing on your skills and abilities rather than work experience. If you have previous work experience, it's definitely worth including even if you didn't receive payment for your time. This is also true if the previous job(s) don't relate to the job you're applying for, as they might still provide transferrable skills. You may also include any extra-curricular activities you participate in, such as sports and journalism clubs.

7. Fill out applications

After creating your CV, send applications in for the jobs that interest you. Applying for multiple roles improves your chances of finding a job rather than submitting one, then waiting for their reply. You may even apply to the same company more than once if they have multiple locations or postings. If you submit your application online, consider following up with a call to the hiring manager. You can also take that chance to ask about their reviewing process.

8. Check up your application

If you don't get any feedback from the business after sending your application, follow up after five to seven days. You can call the hiring manager to ask the status of your application, allowing you to know what to do next. Maintain a spreadsheet for the contacts of places you apply to. You can also set reminders to help keep track.

9. Prepare for the interview

If your application is successful, the recruiter may call you to attend an interview. Consider preparing for the interview by researching interview questions that relate to the position you're applying for. It's also a good idea to research the company, as the interviewer might want to know why you want to work there. You can ask your friend, parent or guardian to help you practise answering interview questions.

10. Attend the interview

Make sure to be punctual on the day of the interview. Consider showing up a few minutes early and try to dress appropriately, in a way that suits the business' dress code. During the interview, listen to the interviewer attentively and answer questions honestly. The interviewer is likely to ask fairly straightforward questions, as you probably don't have much experience to discuss. Try to remain positive, confident and composed throughout.

What type of jobs are best suited for teens?

Since most teenagers have school obligations, part-time jobs offering evening and weekend shifts are usually the best fit. Jobs that require little experience may also be great for most teenagers who have no prior working experience. Pursuing these positions can help you to earn an income and equip you with skills as you prepare for college, university or professional jobs in the future.

Tips to help you find a job as a teenager

Consider using the following tips to help you find a job as a teen:

Be realistic about how much work you can do as you juggle schoolwork and extra-curricular activities, such as sports.
As you prepare your CV and answer interview questions, focus on your skills and what you can offer the employer.
Let people know that you're looking for a job, as the more people know, the better your chances of finding a job.
Include referees that are up-to-date with your progress.
Offer your skills to people directly. For example, if you're good at organising, you can start cleaning closets and garages.
Consider sending a thank you note after the interview, letting the interviewer know you appreciate their time.

Best jobs for teens

You can pursue various jobs as a teen based on your skill set, interests and schedule. Here are some of the best jobs for teenagers to consider:

1. Restaurant server

National average salary: £9.76 per hour

Primary duties: Restaurant servers typically serve customers by taking their orders and bringing them food and drinks. They help to make sure customers enjoy their dining experience by speaking to them politely, serving them as fast as possible and attending to their general needs. Restaurant servers may also prepare customers' bills and clean and wipe tables.

2. Cleaner

National average salary: £9.49 per hour

Primary duties: Employers hire cleaners to keep a space clean and tidy. This may include office spaces for places of business or clients' homes. The sort of cleaning they do can vary a lot but typically involves washing and drying clothes, vacuuming, sweeping, dusting, washing dishes, cleaning toilets and bathtubs and wiping down counters.

3. Babysitter

National average salary: £12.16 per hour

Primary duties: Babysitters take care of children when their parents or guardians are away. They may feed, entertain, bathe and transport children depending on the employers' request. In some cases, they may also help children with their homework. Studying a course in first aid practices or CPR can help babysitters provide care in case of emergencies.

Please note that none of the companies mentioned in this article are affiliated with Indeed.

Salary figures reflect data listed on Indeed Salaries at time of writing. Salaries may vary depending on the hiring organisation and a candidate's experience, academic background and location.

The pros and cons of teenage jobs (plus example jobs)

How to Find a Job as a Teenager (Including a Jobs List)