Jobs for Teens in the US: With the job market rapidly evolving, you may be wondering what the highest paying jobs for teens will be in the coming years. As you look ahead to 2024 and plan for your career, it helps to understand where the opportunities lie.
In this article, we will explore projected data on teen employment and outline the top occupations expected to offer the highest wages for 16-19 year olds over the next few years. Gaining insight into these lucrative roles can guide your decisions around education, skills development, and work experience during your high school years.
Ultimately, with thoughtful planning and preparation, you can position yourself to land some of the most financially rewarding jobs available to teens fresh out of high school. The outlook is bright for ambitious young people willing to work hard and gain qualifications.
Top 7 Highest Paying Jobs for Teens
As a teen, finding a job that pays well can help set you up for financial success and teach you valuable skills. Some of the highest paying jobs for teens in 2024 may require additional training or education, but the investment can be well worth it.
1. Freelance Writer
Freelance writing allows teens to earn money writing and editing on their own schedule. Freelance writers research topics and write blog posts, articles, social media posts, and other content for companies and clients. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median pay for writers and authors in 2024 will be around $61,000 per year in the US. Freelance writers typically charge by the project or by the hour.
2. Tutor
Tutoring allows teens to earn money helping other students learn and improve their skills. Subjects like mathematics, sciences, English, and test preparation are always in high demand. The median pay for tutors and teachers in 2024 will be around $54,000 per year in the US. Many tutors charge between $14 to $22 per hour, depending on experience, qualifications, and the subjects they teach.
3. Freelance Virtual Assistant
As a freelance virtual assistant, teens can earn money providing remote administrative support to individuals and businesses. Tasks may include managing schedules and travel plans, handling expense reports and invoices, conducting research, and more. According to Glassdoor, the average pay for a freelance virtual assistant in the US is $23 per hour.
4. Online Survey Taker
Online survey companies hire teens and pay them to take online surveys in their spare time. Survey takers can earn between $5 to $15 per survey, depending on the length and complexity. Popular survey companies like Survey Junkie, Swagbucks, and InboxDollars allow teens to sign up, take surveys, and redeem their earnings for gift cards or cash.
5. Dog Walker/Pet Sitter
For teens who enjoy working with animals, dog walking and pet sitting can be rewarding jobs that pay well. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median pay for animal caretakers in 2024 will be around $24,000 per year in the US. Dog walkers typically charge $10 to $20 per walk, and pet sitters charge $15 to $25 per visit. Experience, qualifications, services offered, and location determine pay.
6. Retail Salesperson
A retail salesperson assists customers in finding and purchasing goods and services in retail stores. They provide product information to customers, handle purchases, and process returns or exchanges. No formal education is required for an entry-level position, though on-the-job training is common. The median pay for retail salespersons in the U.S. is over $11 per hour.
7. Cashier
Cashiers operate cash registers, accept payments, give change and receipts to customers. They scan the prices of goods and complete customer transactions in retail stores, grocery stores, and other places of business. This job typically requires a high school diploma and short-term on-the-job training. The median hourly wage for cashiers in the U.S. is $10.
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Requirements and Skills Needed for These High Paying Teen Jobs
To qualify for these high-paying jobs as a teenager in the US, certain requirements and skills will need to be met. The prerequisites will vary depending on the specific occupation, but some general guidelines apply:
- Education: Most of these jobs will require at least a high school diploma or equivalent. Some may prefer candidates currently pursuing or who have completed post-secondary education or certifications in a related field of study. Strong grades, especially in subjects related to the job, are valued.
- Technical skills: Proficiency with computers, software, and equipment commonly used in the workplace is expected. For example, retail sales associates should be comfortable operating a cash register and point-of-sale system. Childcare workers need to know basic first aid and CPR. Fast food crew members must be able to operate cooking equipment safely and according to food regulations.
- Soft skills: Useful soft skills for these roles include communication, critical thinking, time-management, problem-solving, teamwork, and adaptability. Teenage employees should have a polite, friendly demeanor; be responsible and reliable; take direction well; and provide good customer service.
- Certifications (optional): Some jobs may require or prefer candidates with specific certifications, such as in CPR, first aid, food safety, and more. These additional credentials can help applicants stand out and may lead to higher pay.
- Physical requirements (optional): Certain roles like construction laborers, warehouse workers, and movers have physical demands like heavy lifting, prolonged standing, and repetitive motions. Teenage candidates must be in good health and physical condition to properly and safely perform the necessary duties.
Conclusion
With some planning, research, and effort, there are many well-paying job opportunities for enterprising teens who want to get an early start on saving and career-building. Keep an open mind, network with trusted adults, pursue further education or training if needed, and be persistent in applying and interviewing.
The jobs highlighted here offer not only strong compensation but also valuable skills, experiences, mentors, and references to help set you on a path toward future success. Approach every position as a stepping stone to open more doors down the road. The earlier you build a strong work ethic and financial foundation, the more empowered you’ll be to pursue your passions and create the future you envision for yourself.