Turning 18 and still being in high school can be an exciting yet challenging time. You’re nearing adulthood and independence, but may still be under your parent’s roof for a while longer. One of the best ways to start gaining freedom and financially preparing for your future is to get a part-time job.
But what are the best jobs for 18 year olds who are still in high school?
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer: Retail, fast food, grocery stores, tutoring, babysitting, and internships are some of the top jobs for 18 year olds in high school.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover the pros and cons of various jobs for 18 year olds, factors to consider when choosing a job, strategies for balancing work and school, how to build your resume, and much more.
Retail Jobs
Department Stores
Working at department stores can be a great option for 18 year olds in high school looking for part-time jobs. These stores offer a wide range of products and services, making them a popular choice among shoppers.
As an employee, you may be responsible for tasks such as stocking shelves, assisting customers, and operating the cash register. It can be a great way to gain experience in customer service and develop essential skills that can be valuable in future careers.
Websites like Macy’s and Target often have job openings for high school students.
Clothing Stores
Clothing stores are another popular choice for 18 year olds in high school. These stores offer a fun and upbeat work environment, where you can stay up-to-date with the latest fashion trends. Job responsibilities may include assisting customers, organizing merchandise, and maintaining a clean and organized store.
Popular clothing retailers like Forever 21 and Hollister often hire high school students for part-time positions.
Sporting Goods Stores
If you have a passion for sports and outdoor activities, working at a sporting goods store could be a great fit for you. These stores often offer a wide range of products, from athletic apparel to equipment.
As an employee, you may have the opportunity to learn about different sports and provide customers with valuable advice. Popular sporting goods stores like Dick’s Sporting Goods and Academy Sports + Outdoors often have job openings for high school students.
Pet Supply Stores
For those who love animals, working at a pet supply store can be a rewarding experience. These stores offer a variety of products for pets, from food and toys to grooming supplies. As an employee, you may have the opportunity to interact with customers and their pets, provide product recommendations, and assist with pet care advice.
Popular pet supply stores like PetSmart and Petco often hire high school students for part-time positions.
Hardware Stores
Working at a hardware store can be a great option for those who are interested in DIY projects and home improvement. These stores offer a wide range of tools, equipment, and supplies for various projects.
As an employee, you may have the opportunity to assist customers in finding the right products, provide advice on home improvement projects, and help with tasks such as cutting keys or mixing paint. Popular hardware stores like The Home Depot and Lowe’s often have job openings for high school students.
Electronics Stores
If you have an interest in technology and electronics, working at an electronics store can be a great opportunity to learn more about the latest gadgets and devices. These stores offer a wide range of products, from smartphones and laptops to home entertainment systems.
As an employee, you may have the opportunity to assist customers in finding the right products, provide technical support, and stay up-to-date with the latest technology trends. Popular electronics stores like Best Buy and Apple often hire high school students for part-time positions.
Food Service Jobs
Fast Food Restaurants
Working in fast food restaurants can be a great option for 18-year-olds in high school. These establishments offer flexible working hours that can easily accommodate school schedules. Fast food jobs also provide an opportunity to develop valuable skills such as customer service, teamwork, and time management.
Many fast food chains also offer employee benefits like discounted meals and opportunities for advancement. Websites like McDonald’s Careers and Subway Careers provide information on available positions and the application process.
Coffee Shops
Coffee shops are another popular choice for part-time employment for high school students. These establishments offer a more relaxed and friendly work environment. Working in a coffee shop allows young people to learn about different types of coffee, gain customer service skills, and develop an understanding of the art of making beverages.
Popular coffee shop chains like Starbucks and Dunkin’ Donuts often have job openings for entry-level positions. Their websites, such as Starbucks Careers and Dunkin’ Donuts Careers, provide information on available positions and the application process.
Grocery Stores
Grocery stores are another great option for high school students looking for part-time work. These establishments offer a variety of positions such as cashier, stocker, or bagger. Working in a grocery store can provide valuable skills in customer service, problem-solving, and organization.
Major grocery store chains like Walmart and Kroger often have job opportunities for young workers. Their websites, such as Walmart Careers and Kroger Careers, can be used to search for available positions and apply online.
Ice Cream Shops
Ice cream shops are a fun and popular choice for high school students seeking part-time employment. These establishments offer a lively and enjoyable work atmosphere. Working in an ice cream shop allows young people to learn about different flavors, serve customers, and develop skills in food preparation.
Popular ice cream chains like Baskin Robbins and Dairy Queen often have job openings for entry-level positions. Their websites, such as Baskin Robbins Careers and Dairy Queen Careers, provide information on available positions and the application process.
Caregiver Jobs
Babysitting
Babysitting is a popular job choice for 18-year-olds in high school who enjoy working with children. It offers a flexible schedule that can easily be balanced with school commitments. Many families are in need of reliable and responsible individuals to take care of their children while they are away.
As a babysitter, you will be responsible for ensuring the safety and well-being of the children, engaging them in age-appropriate activities, and possibly assisting with homework or meal preparation.
Pet Sitting
If you have a love for animals, pet sitting can be a great job option for you. Many pet owners are in need of someone to care for their pets while they are away for work or vacation. As a pet sitter, you may be responsible for feeding and walking the pets, providing them with companionship, and ensuring their overall well-being.
This job not only allows you to spend time with animals but also teaches you responsibility and empathy.
Tutoring
If you excel in a particular subject or have strong academic skills, tutoring can be a rewarding job for 18-year-olds in high school. Many students are in need of extra help and guidance outside of the classroom.
As a tutor, you can assist them in understanding difficult concepts, improving their study skills, and boosting their grades. Tutoring not only helps you develop your own knowledge and skills but also allows you to make a positive impact on someone else’s education.
For more information on caregiver jobs and opportunities, you can visit websites like care.com or sittercity.com.
Office and Administrative Jobs
Receptionist
One of the best office and administrative jobs for 18-year-olds in high school is working as a receptionist. As a receptionist, they will be responsible for greeting visitors, answering phone calls, and directing them to the appropriate departments.
This job provides valuable customer service and communication skills and allows them to gain experience in a professional setting. Additionally, working as a receptionist can provide networking opportunities and the chance to learn about different industries and businesses.
Data Entry
Data entry is another excellent office job for high school students. In this role, they will be responsible for inputting information into databases, spreadsheets, or other computer systems. It requires attention to detail, accuracy, and good organizational skills.
This job can be done remotely or in an office setting, providing flexibility and convenience. Data entry jobs can be found in various industries, such as healthcare, finance, and retail.
Filing and Clerical Work
Filing and clerical work are essential tasks in any office environment. High school students can gain valuable experience by assisting with filing documents, organizing files, and performing general administrative duties.
This job helps develop organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work efficiently. It also provides an opportunity to learn about different types of documents and the importance of maintaining confidentiality in an office setting.
For more information about office and administrative jobs, you can visit Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Other Jobs to Consider
Movie Theater
Working at a movie theater can be a fun and exciting job for 18-year-olds in high school. You’ll get to watch the latest movies for free and even enjoy some perks like discounted concessions. Plus, it’s a great way to meet new people and gain customer service experience.
Check out your local movie theaters to see if they have any job openings for ticket sales, concessions, or ushering positions. Websites like cinemark.com and amctheatres.com often list job opportunities at their theaters.
Amusement Park
If you’re looking for a job that’s a little more thrilling, consider working at an amusement park. From operating rides to selling tickets, there are plenty of opportunities for 18-year-olds in high school to work at an amusement park.
You’ll get to be in a lively and entertaining environment, and maybe even enjoy some free rides after your shift. Popular amusement parks like Six Flags and Disneyland often have job openings listed on their websites, so be sure to check them out.
Golf Course
For those who enjoy spending time outdoors, working at a golf course can be a great option. Whether it’s as a caddy, a groundskeeper, or a pro shop attendant, there are various positions available for 18-year-olds in high school.
Working at a golf course can provide opportunities to learn about the sport, improve your golf skills, and even make connections with golf enthusiasts. Look for job openings at local golf courses or country clubs in your area.
Internship
If you’re looking to gain valuable experience in a specific field, consider applying for internships. Internships offer hands-on learning opportunities and can provide a real-world understanding of different industries.
Many companies offer internships to high school students, allowing them to explore their interests and build their resumes. Websites like internships.com and indeed.com have listings for internships that are suitable for 18-year-olds in high school.
Conclusion
Turning 18 in high school opens up many new job opportunities that can help you start earning and saving money for the future. While balancing school and work can be tricky, choosing a flexible job that fits your schedule and interests is key.
Use this time to build valuable skills like teamwork, communication and responsibility that will serve you well into adulthood and in your future career. With some diligent searching and smart planning, you can find a part-time job that works for you.
