Are you 14 and eager to start working? You’re not alone! Many teens your age are looking for ways to earn money, gain experience, and build skills for the future. But what jobs can you get at 14? The good news is that there are plenty of opportunities available, from part-time and summer jobs to online gigs and entrepreneurial ventures. In this article, we’ll explore the best jobs for 14-year-olds, including tips on how to find and apply for them. Whether you’re looking to save up for college, gain work experience, or simply earn some extra spending money, we’ve got you covered. Let’s get started!
Working as a Minor in the US
As a 14-year-old, there are certain laws and regulations you need to be aware of when it comes to working in the US. Here are some key things to keep in mind:
Child Labor Laws: The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) sets rules for minor workers, including:
- 14-15 year olds can work outside school hours in various non-manufacturing, non-mining, and non-hazardous jobs
- 16-17 year olds can work in most non-hazardous jobs
Hourly Restrictions: As a minor, your work hours are limited:
- 14-15 year olds can work up to 3 hours on a school day, 18 hours in a school week, and 8 hours on a non-school day
- 16-17 year olds can work up to 4 hours on a school day, 20 hours in a school week, and 8 hours on a non-school day
What Jobs Can You Get At 14?
As a 14-year-old, you may be wondering what specific jobs are available to you. Here are some popular options:
- Babysitting or Pet Sitting: If you enjoy working with children or animals, consider babysitting or pet sitting. You can advertise your services in your neighborhood or use online platforms.
- Lawn Care or Yard Work: Many neighbors and family friends may need help with lawn care or yard work. You can offer to mow lawns, rake leaves, or shovel snow.
- Tutoring or Teaching: If you excel in a particular subject, consider tutoring or teaching younger students. You can use online platforms like TutorMe or Chegg.
- Working in Retail: Many retail stores hire teens to work part-time. You can apply to stores like Target, Walmart, or clothing stores.
- Food Service Jobs: Consider working in food service, such as scooping ice cream, working at a snack bar, or helping at a family restaurant.
- Lifeguarding or Swim Instructing: If you’re a strong swimmer, consider getting certified as a lifeguard or swim instructor.
- Delivering Newspapers: This classic job idea is still a great option for teens. Contact your local newspaper to see if they have any delivery routes available.
- Camp Counseling or Youth Leading: Many summer camps hire teens as counselors or youth leaders. You can work with kids, lead activities, and gain valuable experience.
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Types of Jobs for Teens
As a teen, you may be wondering that what jobs can you get at 14? The good news is that there are many options to choose from, depending on your interests, skills, and availability. Here are some popular types of jobs for teens:
Part-time Jobs
Part-time jobs are a great way to earn money while still in school. You can work a few hours a week or on weekends, and many employers offer flexible scheduling to accommodate your school schedule. Some popular part-time jobs for teens include:
- Retail jobs (e.g., working in a store or mall)
- Food service jobs (e.g., working in a restaurant or cafe)
- Babysitting or pet sitting
- Lawn care or landscaping
Summer Jobs
Summer jobs are a great way to earn money during your summer break. Many employers hire teens for summer positions, and you can work full-time or part-time. Some popular summer jobs for teens include:
- Life guarding or swim instructing
- Camp counseling or youth leading
- Working at a summer camp or recreation center
- Interning or volunteering
Online Jobs
Online jobs are a great option if you have a computer and internet access. You can work from home and choose your own hours, making it a flexible option for teens. Some popular online jobs for teens include:
- Virtual tutoring or teaching
- Online surveys or market research
- Social media management or content creation
- Online freelancing (e.g., writing, graphic design)
Entrepreneurial Ventures
If you have a passion or talent, you can start your own business! This can be a fun and rewarding way to earn money and gain experience. Some popular entrepreneurial ventures for teens include:
- Starting a lawn care or pet sitting business
- Selling handmade crafts or artwork online
- Offering tutoring or lessons in a subject you excel in
- Creating and selling your own products (e.g., baked goods, jewelry)
Job Application
Now that you know what types of jobs are available, it’s time to start searching and applying! Here are some tips to help you get started:
- Update Your Resume: Before you start applying, make sure your resume is up-to-date and highlights your skills, experience, and education. Consider adding any relevant coursework, volunteer work, or extracurricular activities.
- Utilize Job Search Websites: There are many websites that cater specifically to teen job seekers. Some popular options include: Indeed, LinkedIn, Glassdoor, Snagajob, TeenJobs.
- Customize Your Application Materials: When applying, make sure to tailor your resume and cover letter to the specific job you’re applying for. Highlight the skills and experience that align with the job requirements.
- Practice Your Interview Skills: Prepare for interviews by researching common questions, practicing your responses, and preparing any materials you may need (e.g., references, portfolio).
- Consider Volunteer Work or Internships: If you’re having trouble finding paid work, consider volunteering or interning. This can help you gain experience, build your network, and make you a more attractive candidate for future jobs.
Location-Based Job Search
When searching for jobs as a 14-year-old, it’s essential to consider location-based job opportunities. Here are some tips to help you find jobs in your area:
Local Job Boards: Check local job boards at:
- Community centers
- Libraries
- Coffee shops
- Grocery stores
To search for jobs in your area. Use keywords like “jobs near me” or “teen jobs in [your city]”.
Local Businesses: Reach out to local businesses directly to inquire about job openings. Consider:
- Retail stores
- Restaurants
- Coffee shops
- Pet stores
- Lawn care services
Conclusions and Next Steps
Congratulations on making it to the end of this guide! You now know what jobs you can get at 14 and how to find them. Remember, getting a job at 14 is a great way to gain experience, build your resume, and earn some extra money.
Next Steps:
- Start searching for jobs in your area using the strategies outlined in this guide.
- Update your resume and cover letter to highlight your skills and experience.
- Practice your interview skills and prepare to talk about your strengths and weaknesses.
- Consider volunteering or interning to gain more experience and build your network.
- Keep an eye on job openings and apply as soon as you see something that interests you.
Final Tips:
- Always prioritize your safety and well-being when searching for and applying to jobs.
- Don’t be discouraged if you don’t land a job right away – keep trying and stay positive!
- Remember to balance your work and school responsibilities to ensure success in both areas.
By following these tips and staying focused, you can find a job at 14 and start building a bright future for yourself. Good luck!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What types of jobs can 14-year-olds do? A: 14-year-olds can work in various non-hazardous jobs such as retail, food service, babysitting, pet sitting, lawn care, and more.
Q2: Do I need a work permit to work at 14? A: In most states, minors need a work permit or employment certificate to legally work. Your school or potential employer can help you obtain one.
Q3: Can I work in any job I want at 14? A: No, there are certain jobs that are off-limits for minors, such as hazardous occupations like construction, manufacturing, or mining.
Q4: How do I find jobs for 14-year-olds? A: You can search for jobs online, ask friends and family for referral, or check local job boards. You can also consider volunteering or interning to gain experience.
Q5: What should I include in my resume and cover letter as a 14-year-old? A: Highlight your skills, experience, and education, and be sure to tailor your application materials to the specific job you're applying for.
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