Best First Jobs for Teens to Build Experience
Looking for that first job as a teenager can be exciting and nerve-wracking at the same time. You want something that pays decent money, teaches you skills, and still lets you have a life outside of work.
I’m going to break down the best first jobs for teens in 2025, what they pay, and why they’re worth your time. Plus, I’ll share some tips on how to stand out when applying.
The Best First Jobs for Teens in 2025
Let’s be real – the job market for teens isn’t what it was when your parents were young. Teen unemployment is sitting around 14.4% (yikes), which is the highest it’s been since right after the pandemic.
But don’t worry! There are still about 5.5 million teens working right now, and roughly a million summer jobs will open up between May and July. You’ve just got to know where to look and how to land them.
Top-Paying Jobs for Teens (No Experience Needed)
1. Lifeguard ($12-$22/hour)
Being a lifeguard is way more than just sitting in a tall chair looking cool (though that is a perk).
What you’ll do: Watch swimmers, respond to emergencies, enforce pool rules
Why it’s awesome:
- Great summer pay
- You literally save lives
- You get a tan while working
- Learn emergency response skills that look amazing on college applications
What you need: Swimming skills and CPR certification (which many pool facilities will help you get)
2. Camp Counselor ($15-$20/hour)
Remember how much you loved summer camp as a kid? Now you can get paid to create those memories for others.
What you’ll do: Lead activities, supervise campers, plan events
Why it’s awesome:
- Develops leadership skills
- Mostly outdoor work
- Looks fantastic on college applications
- Can lead to future education/childcare careers
According to the American Camp Association, camp counselors develop communication and problem-solving skills that benefit them throughout their careers.
3. Tutor ($15-$25/hour)
If you’re crushing it in a particular subject, why not get paid for your knowledge?
What you’ll do: Help younger students understand difficult concepts, prepare for tests
Why it’s awesome:
- Super flexible hours
- Higher pay than most teen jobs
- Can often be done online
- Reinforces your own knowledge
- Impressive college application booster
If you’re strong in STEM subjects (science, tech, engineering, math), you can often charge on the higher end of the pay scale.
4. Barista ($14-$18/hour + tips)
Coffee shops are busy social hubs, and working at one puts you at the center of the action.
What you’ll do: Make drinks, take orders, manage the register, clean
Why it’s awesome:
- Tips can significantly boost your hourly rate
- Learn customer service skills that apply to ANY career
- Free or discounted coffee (essential for studying)
- Year-round employment potential
The National Coffee Association reports that specialty coffee consumption continues to grow, meaning barista jobs remain in high demand.
5. Youth Sports Referee ($20-$30 per game)
Got a thick skin and know sports rules inside and out? Refereeing might be perfect for you.
What you’ll do: Officiate youth sports games, make calls, manage conflict
Why it’s awesome:
- Great weekend work that doesn’t interfere with school
- Develop confidence in high-pressure situations
- Stay connected to sports you love
- Learn conflict resolution (dealing with angry parents)
6. Landscaping/Lawn Care ($12-$24/hour)
This job combines physical activity with the satisfaction of seeing immediate results.
What you’ll do: Mow lawns, trim hedges, plant flowers, general yard maintenance
Why it’s awesome:
- Good exercise while earning money
- Can be entrepreneurial (start your own small business)
- Higher pay for specialized skills
- Mostly weekend work
Pro tip: You can also start your own lawn care business with just a mower and some basic tools, potentially earning much more than working for someone else.
7. Golf Caddy ($15-$25/hour + tips)
If you don’t mind walking and carrying golf bags, this job can be surprisingly lucrative.
What you’ll do: Carry golf bags, clean clubs, provide course knowledge
Why it’s awesome:
- Tips can double your hourly rate
- Network with successful professionals
- Learn about business through conversations
- Fresh air and exercise
According to the Professional Caddies Association, many successful business people started as caddies, making valuable connections on the course.
The Job Market Reality for Teens in 2025
Let’s get real for a minute. The job market for teens isn’t what it used to be:
- Automation has replaced many entry-level positions
- Older workers are taking jobs that used to go to teens
- Economic uncertainty has businesses hiring fewer people overall
According to a Bureau of Labor Statistics report, teen employment rates remain significantly lower than pre-2008 levels, with seasonal hiring spikes at their lowest point since 2010.
But don’t let that discourage you! It just means you need to be more strategic.
How to Stand Out and Get Hired
Get Certified
Some certifications that can immediately boost your employability:
- CPR and First Aid certification
- Food Handler’s permit
- Basic coding skills
- Microsoft Office certification
Build Skills That Transfer
Look for jobs that teach you skills that will help in future careers:
- Communication skills from customer service jobs
- Leadership experience from camp counselor positions
- Problem-solving abilities from tutoring
- Conflict resolution from referee positions
Use Your Network
Tell everyone you’re looking for work – your parents’ friends, neighbors, teachers, coaches. Personal recommendations are still the #1 way teens find jobs.
Quick Comparison of Top Teen Jobs
| Job | Pay | Key Benefits | Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lifeguard | $12-$22/hr | Responsibility, safety skills | Swimming, CPR cert |
| Camp Counselor | $15-$20/hr | Leadership, communication | Experience with kids preferred |
| Tutor | $15-$25/hr | Academic skill use, flexible schedule | Strong knowledge in subjects |
| Barista | $14-$18/hr + tips | Customer service, creativity | Friendly, quick learner |
| Sports Referee | $20-$30/game | Decision making, conflict resolution | Knowledge of sports rules |
| Landscaping | $12-$24/hr | Physical work, entrepreneurial options | Basic equipment handling |
| Golf Caddy | $15-$25/hr + tips | Networking, physical activity | Good communication |
Your first job probably won’t be your dream career, and that’s totally fine! What matters is gaining experience, building your resume, and learning how the working world operates.
Remember: every successful person started somewhere – usually with a pretty basic first job. The skills you learn now will set you up for bigger opportunities down the road.
So update that resume, practice your interview skills, and get out there. Your future self will thank you for starting early!
