Last Updated on June 14, 2016 by Tim
Parents with 16-year-olds should consider preparing them for the workforce, even though they are still in school. This will help them gain enough experience to see what it is like to be employed. They can either work part-time during the school year, or full-time during the summer. The list below contain the best summer jobs for 16-year-olds that will not only train them for the workforce, but also let them earn money during their extra time.
Store Cashier
Sixteen-year-olds are already capable of using the cash register. Being a store cashier requires caution and focus as the job involves handling money. You need to make sure that you give your customers the exact change, and see to it that they pay the right amount. This type of job will teach you how to handle money and how to be responsible for it.
Office Clerk
Companies often need clerks who can perform administrative tasks efficiently. Most of these tasks can already be accomplished by 16-year-olds. You will be asked to sort and file papers, assist staff with their tasks, and so much more. Being in an actual office will give you an idea about the everyday life of an employee. This summer job can help you decide early on whether you want to be in the same work environment in the future.
Waiter
This is one of the most popular jobs among teens. The work is easy, and the pay is somewhat good. Being a waiter or waitress allows you to mingle with different types of people. You will learn how to deal with their attitudes, which is a skill that you can use later on when you graduate. You are in-charge of getting customers seated, taking their food orders and placing them on their table once ready, and cleaning up afterwards. The company can also assign you in the kitchen and perform administrative tasks.
Grocery Bagger
This is another popular job for 16-year-olds. You are responsible for properly placing the customers’ purchases in the bags. You will also get to interact with the customers and staff, and learn how to deal with different scenarios and personalities. This job will teach you how the retail industry works, as well.
Library Associate
Teens who love books can consider working as a library associate. Not all teens love to read books, and want to work in a library. This job lets you help the librarian sort books, and manage those being returned and borrowed. What’s great about working in the library is that you can read different kinds of books during your free time. You can keep your mind busy absorbing new information on various topics without purchasing books.
Small Company Worker
Small businesses will need workers to get some jobs done. If you want to know how businesses work, then you may want to consider extending help to small business owners. This job can improve your flexibility as you may be told to perform various tasks and learn a lot of things while earning money. You will be given more learning opportunities and responsibilities as you earn the owner’s trust and respect.
Tutoring
If you are academically good and enjoy teaching, then you might want to consider tutoring as a summer job. Students usually need extra help in some subjects, especially math, English, science, and foreign languages. This is a great opportunity if you are considering to become a teacher in the future. Parents may need to help screen potential clients to avoid possible dangers.
Food Delivery Person
Some states or cities allow sixteen-year-olds to get a driver’s license. If you are in the right place, then you can apply for a food delivery job. You may need to work in the evenings and during the weekend, but you will surely learn a lot of things in this job. You should also be able to receive tips from customers for your great service. While most national food chains require food delivery persons to be at least 18 years of age, many local eateries allow 16-year-olds to have the job.
Bottom Line
Getting a summer job will not only let you earn money, but also expose you to more learning opportunities. These are experiences that you will not get from school, but will be very useful when you graduate. Learning how to deal with various people and situations will prepare you for the real world, giving you a better chance of succeeding in your chosen field.
