Getting your first job as a teenager is an exciting milestone—it’s more than just a way to earn extra cash. First jobs for teens help them learn responsibility, build confidence, and develop skills that will serve them for the rest of their lives. Whether you’re saving up for something special or just eager to gain independence, finding a good first job can help you grow in ways you might not expect.
This article will guide you through what to look for in a teen’s first job and offer an impressive list of good first jobs for teens that can give you valuable experience, responsibility, and essential life skills. Plus, we’ll include bonus tips on how to land your first job and a sample resume for a teenager's first job that will crush the competition.
Check out these open entry-level jobs on The Muse and find the perfect first job for you »
Key aspects of first jobs for teenagers
A first job is an important step toward building essential life skills, so look for something that aligns with your interests. “Don’t chase the paycheck,” says Peter Lewis, who has coached over 200 CEOs as a consultant and led remote teams of young people for years. “I’ve seen young people work jobs they hate just because they think the money is worth it.”
Instead, let’s explore what teenagers should look for when choosing their first job.
Skills development
From learning responsibility to gaining independence, the right first job can set you up for future success. Teens should focus on jobs that build transferable skills—like customer service or problem-solving—that will benefit them no matter where they go next. “Every job is a stepping stone to the next one, even if it’s flipping burgers or stocking shelves,” Lewis says. “Grit is a skill that’s learned in the trenches, and trust me, you’ll need it.”
Networking opportunities
A strong first job can also help teens start building a professional network that may open doors later. “Everyone you meet in your career is a potential door to your next opportunity,” Lewis says. “Your manager today could be your mentor tomorrow, or a co-worker from your first job might recommend you for a role years down the line.”
A good first impression now can result in references or job opportunities later on. The earlier teens start proving themselves reliable and hardworking, the more their professional network will grow. “I’ve hired people based on recommendations from former colleagues—they remember who showed up and who didn’t,” Lewis says.
Ease of entry
Jobs that don’t require prior experience are ideal for teens looking to enter the workforce. Positions with straightforward application processes are also more accessible for beginners.
Flexibility
Many teens need to juggle school, extracurricular activities, and personal life, so jobs with flexible hours—like part-time or seasonal positions—can provide the right balance. “It’s about understanding capacity, knowing your limits, and being OK with saying 'no' when needed,” Lewis says.
Health work environment
A supportive, family-friendly, or community-centered workplace is ideal for teens. These environments provide room for growth without overwhelming pressure. Teens who communicate their limits and set realistic expectations with employers tend to thrive.
10 best first jobs for teens (with average salaries)
Many of the best first jobs for a teenager are customer-facing. “Whether it’s retail, hospitality, or even call centers, these jobs teach you how to talk to people, solve problems, and handle tough situations,” Lewis says. “One of my first jobs was in customer service, and it shaped the way I lead my teams today.”
With that in mind, here are some of the best first jobs for teenagers and their mean hourly wage according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. We selected these jobs based on their ease of entry, flexibility, average salary, and skill development opportunities.
1. Babysitter
Mean hourly wage: $15.42
Being a babysitter offers flexible hours, teaches responsibility, and builds trust. Babysitting also helps teens develop patience and problem-solving skills when caring for children. Plus, it’s a great way to build relationships with local families, which could lead to more job opportunities.
2. Dog walker or pet sitter
Mean hourly wage: $16.12
Great for animal lovers, work as a dog walker or pet sitter offers flexibility, and typically doesn’t require formal experience. It also teaches responsibility, as caring for pets involves following schedules and ensuring their well-being. Being a trusted pet sitter can also lead to referrals and regular clients in your community.
3. Retail sales associate
Mean hourly wage: $16.59
Working as a retail sales associate provides hands-on customer service experience, teaches teamwork, and improves communication skills. Teens learn how to handle different types of customers and manage tasks efficiently in a retail setting. It’s also a chance to develop sales skills and gain experience in inventory management.
4. Fast food worker
Mean hourly wage: from $14.31 to $14.48
Being a fast food worker is the perfect entry-level job to learn to work in a fast-paced environment and handle multitasking. Teens will also develop time management skills by balancing multiple tasks in a busy setting. This role also offers the chance to build resilience and handle customer interactions effectively.
5. Grocery store cashier/stocker
Mean hourly wage for stocker: $18.27
Mean hourly wage for cashier: $14.78
Working as a grocery store cashier or stocker teaches organization, customer service, and handling money—valuable skills for the future. It also enhances attention to detail and reliability. Teens can also learn about inventory management and how retail operations work behind the scenes.
6. Tutor
Mean hourly wage: $23.36
Ideal for academically strong students, being a tutor reinforces knowledge while earning money and also helps teens develop communication and leadership skills by explaining concepts clearly to others. Tutoring can lead to building a reputation within the community or school, which may result in long-term opportunities.
7. Camp counselor (seasonal)
Mean hourly wage: $17.44
Being a camp counselor is a great option for summer jobs, teaching leadership, teamwork, and responsibility. Being a camp counselor also strengthens problem-solving skills and the ability to think on your feet. Plus, it’s an opportunity to mentor younger kids and build lasting friendships with co-counselors.
8. Movie theater attendant
Mean hourly wage: $14.67
A movie theater attendant job offers fun, flexible hours and often comes with perks like free movies. This job also improves teens' ability to multitask and work in a team-based environment. Additionally, handling busy crowds during blockbuster openings can teach stress management.
9. Lifeguard (seasonal)
Mean hourly wage: $15.07
It’s perfect for swimmers and teaches safety awareness and responsibility. Lifeguarding also promotes quick decision-making skills and the ability to stay calm under pressure. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy the great outdoors while helping keep people safe.
10. Barista
Mean hourly wage: $15.74
Being a barista is a good job for teens who enjoy working in fast-paced, social environments. It helps teens develop customer service and teamwork skills while working under time constraints. Baristas often get the chance to develop creative problem-solving skills while mastering complex orders under pressure.
Bonus tips for getting your first job as a teenager
Landing the best first job for teenagers can be both challenging and exciting. With the right approach and preparation, you can enhance your chances of finding a job that not only pays but also teaches valuable life skills.
Build a simple resume (even without experience)
Creating a resume as a teenager might seem challenging, especially without formal work experience. However, a well-structured resume can highlight relevant skills and experiences that employers value. Focus on soft skills such as teamwork, communication, and problem-solving. If you’ve participated in volunteer work, school projects, or extracurricular activities, make sure to include those on your resume.
This might help: How to Write a High School Resume (Template and Examples Included!)
Use your network
Don’t underestimate the power of your existing network when searching for a first job. Talk to friends, family members, and community members about first-time jobs for teens. They might know of openings or be able to refer you to someone looking to hire. Networking can often lead to unexpected job leads, so don’t hesitate to reach out and express your interest in finding a job.
Leverage teen-friendly job platforms
The internet is a treasure trove of job opportunities, especially for teenagers. Platforms like The Muse (hi!), and local community boards often have listings specifically geared toward young job seekers. These websites can help you find positions that fit your age, skills, and availability, making it easier to start your first job search.
Start with volunteer work or internships
If paid positions are scarce, consider starting with volunteer roles or internships. These opportunities can give you valuable experience, develop your skills, and even lead to paid positions down the line. Volunteer work shows your commitment and can fill your resume with meaningful experiences, making you more attractive to future employers.
Prepare for interviews
Preparation is key to acing job interviews. Practice answering common interview questions, and be ready to discuss your skills and experiences confidently. Show enthusiasm for the role since employers appreciate candidates who are eager to learn and contribute.
“When I’m hiring young people, I’m not looking for what you’ve done, I’m looking for who you are,” Lewis says. “Teens need to own the fact that they lack experience and turn it into an advantage. Tell me how you handle pressure, how you keep going when things don’t go your way.”
Sharing your experiences openly, even if they include failures, can make you stand out. “I once had a candidate tell me a story about failing a major school project because they didn’t manage their time,” Lewis says. “They didn’t try to sugarcoat it—just told me straight. What stood out? They shared what they learned and how they changed their approach going forward. That kind of self-reflection in an interview is rare, and it strikes me as an employer.”
Bottom line
Getting your first job as a teenager is a significant step toward independence and personal growth. By focusing on building a strong resume that highlights your soft skills and relevant experiences, leveraging your network, using teen-friendly job platforms, and preparing for interviews, you can set yourself up for success.
Remember, every job is an opportunity to learn and grow, even if it starts as volunteer work or an internship. Embrace the journey with an open mind and a willingness to learn, and you'll not only land your first job but also develop skills and connections that will benefit you throughout your career.