Jobs for 15 year olds: Complete Guide to Teen

The job landscape for teens especially 15 year olds has transformed dramatically in the United States. With new labor laws emerging digital jobs and a tighter hiring market teens now have access to more diverse and flexible earning options than ever before. Whether you want work experience a summer job or to boost your allowance this guide uncovers the best and safest jobs for teens in 2025 how to apply and what to know about labor laws and online safety.

15 is the perfect time to start building your work experience and earning some of your own money This guide will tell you about the best job options, legal rules, ways to apply, and ways to learn new skills.

Understanding Legal Requirements and Work Permits

Before getting a job, it is important to understand what the legal rules are for 15-year-olds. In the U.S., 14 years is the minimum age for working (for non-farm jobs), but there are some special rules for children aged 14–15 years. These rules are made to balance both your safety and studies. https://www.indeed.com/hire/c/info/work-permits-for-minors

Top 15 Jobs for 15 Year Olds (With Latest Pay)

Job Title	Median Pay (2025)	Typical Hiring Season	Where to Find/Apply
Retail Sales Associate	$13–$16/hr	Year-round	Target, Walmart, Local
Fast Food Crew	$13–$16/hr	Year-round	McDonald’s, Chick-fil-A
Babysitter	$12–$18/hr	Year-round	Care.com, neighbors
Dog Walker/Pet Sitter	$10–$15/hr	Year-round	Rover, local flyers
Peer Tutor	$15–$22/hr	School year/summer	School, Wyzant
Yard Worker	$12–$20/hr	Seasonal	Nextdoor, neighbors
Social Media Assistant	$15–$25/hr	Year-round	Local small business
Online Store Helper	$15–$20/hr	Year-round	Etsy, Shopify, friends
Camp Counselor (Jr)	$12–$16/hr	Summer	YMCA, camps
Movie Theater Attendant	$12–$15/hr	Year-round	AMC, Regal
Lifeguard (certified)	$16–$20/hr	Summer	Local pools
Music Reviewer	$10–$14/hr	Flexible	SliceThePie, Slicethepie
Grocery Clerk	$13–$16/hr	Year-round	Kroger, Safeway
Library/Page Helper	$12–$15/hr	Year-round	Public library
Virtual Event Helper	$14–$18/hr	Seasonal	Local events, schools

Use job boards dedicated to youth: Indeed Teen Jobs and Snagajob Teen Listings
Start in your community: Ask teachers, family and local businesses.
Leverage online teen job resources: Novoresume’s Teen Job Guide provides a step by step path.
Gather all required documents beforehand: Most jobs require a work permit, social security card and parent consent.
Prepare a basic resume: Highlight volunteer work, extracurriculars and any digital badges or certificates.

Work Permit Requirements

In most states, 15-year-olds have to get a work permit before starting work. The process of getting a work permit is something like this: https://labor.maryland.gov/labor/wages/empm.shtml

Filling a form with parental signature
Providing proof of your age like (birth certificate, passport or school ID)
School approval or maintaining minimum grades
In some states, a medical certificate is also required

Hour Restrictions

How Teens Can Find Legit Jobs in 2025

According to federal rules, students under 15 years of age can work only limited hours: https://www.nd.gov/labor/wage-and-hour-topics/youth-employment

Only 3 hours on a school day
Only 18 hours during the entire school week
8 hours on non-school days
Maximum 40 hours during summer vacations or holidays
Can work only after 7 am and until 7 pm (June 1 to Labor Day 9 pm )

This is done so that your studies are not affected and you still get work experience. https://www.nd.gov/labor/wage-and-hour-topics/youth-employment

Top job categories for 15 year olds

Some job categories are quite popular and suitable for 15 year old students:

Retail and Customer Service Positions

Taking up jobs in retail stores is a good option for beginners. https://www.monster.com/career-advice/article/teen-jobs-0617 You can work as a cashier, sales assistant, or stock boy/girl. You can earn up to $10-15 per hour in these.

Part-time jobs are available in big stores like Target, Walmart or local shops. You get to learn how to talk to people, be on time, and work as a team. https://www.indeed.com/q-target-teen-l-minneapolis,-mn-jobs.html

Food Service Industry

Restaurants and fast food places hire a lot of 15 year old students. https://www.indeed.com/q-teen-mcdonalds-jobs.html You can take up these roles:

Restaurant host/hostess
Table cleaner or food server (busser/food runner)
Work in ice cream shops
Crew member in fast food chains

They have flexible timing which helps in working after school. You get $10-15 per hour, and some jobs also offer tips.

Childcare and Babysitting

Babysitting is the best and highest paying job for 15 year old students. You can earn up to $15-25 per hour.

You can decide your schedule and get long term work by building relationships with parents. If you do CPR training, trust increases even more. Taking care of children is a very responsible job, which makes you mature.

Average hourly pay rates for popular teen jobs showing the earning potential across different job categories.

Outdoor and Landscaping Work

If you like physical work outside landscaping is a great option. It can include jobs like:

tending gardens and Cutting lawns
Gardening and Caring for plants
Outdoor cleaning or Season cleanup services
Snow removal (where it is extremely cold)

Landscaping work often pays $15–$20 per hour. It is seasonal so perfect for summer. Work like this helps develop a habit of hard work responsibility and a little business thinking. Many teenagers even start their own small gardening business.

Entertainment and Recreation

Entertainment jobs are fun and full of energy especially for teens. https://europa.eu/youreurope/business/human-resources/types-employment-arrangements/teenage-workers/index_en.htm Some popular jobs are:

Working as a lifeguard at a beach or pool
Helping in amusement park
Giving tickets or snacks at a movie theater
Working as an assistant at a sports ground or gym

Some jobs like being a lifeguard require special training or a certificate. But this work is quite enjoyable and you also get a chance to work with friends.

Online and Digital Opportunities

In today’s digital age it has become easy for skilled in IT teens to find work from home. https://resumegenius.com/blog/job-hunting/jobs-for-teens These jobs are flexible can be done from home and you also get to learn new skills.

Freelance Writing and Content Creation

If you like to write, then you can earn money by writing content for blogs, Instagram posts or websites. Good writers earn up to $15–$25 per hour. https://in.indeed.com/q-age-15-years-old-job-jobs.html .

Social Media Management

Small businesses need help to handle social media. If you already use Instagram or Facebook, then this job is perfect for you. Its pay is $10–$20 per hour.

Online Tutoring

If you are strong in any subject, like Maths, English or Coding, then you can become an online tutor. Some websites connect you with students. Its pay is also $15–$25 per hour.

Data Entry and Virtual Assistant Work

This type of work involves typing on the computer, checking emails, or simple data filling. If you can work with a little concentration, then this job is right for you. This gives you both experience and steady income.

Essential Skills for Success

By working at age of 15 you will get to learn many important life skills which will be useful in the future.

Communication Skills
During work time you have to talk to the boss, co-workers or customers. You learn to speak clearly listen and explain. https://www.webmd.com/parenting/benefits-of-a-teenager-getting-a-job

Time Management
You learn to balance school, work and free time. You know how to complete the work on time. https://www.collegematchpoint.com/5-benefits-of-having-a-job-in-high-school

Responsibility and Reliability
Going to work on time every day doing your work properly and fulfilling the promise made makes you responsible and reliable.

Teamwork and Collaboration
In most jobs you have to work together with the team. This teaches you to work together and share ideas.

Problem-Solving
Problems arise during work. You learn how to understand problems and find solutions which helps a lot in the future.

Monthly earnings potential for teens based on different hourly wages and weekly hours worked.

(Example: If you work for $15/hour and work 10 hours per week, you will earn $150/week which becomes around $600/month.)

Financial Considerations and Tax Implications

It is very important for both parents and teens to have basic knowledge about their money and taxes. Most 15-year-olds do not earn enough from part-time work to have to pay taxes, but it is still important to understand the tax rules. https://www.paycor.com/resource-center/articles/minimum-wage-by-state/

Filing Requirements
If a teenager earns more than $14,600 in 2024, he has to file a tax return. But even if he has earned less money, and the company has deducted the tax, you can get a refund by filing a return.

Self-Employment Considerations
If you made more than $400 doing work like babysitting or lawn cutting you’ll need to file a tax return and pay self employment taxes.

Educational Benefits
When you start working early you get a chance to learn about money management budgeting and taxes. All of this makes you financially smart.

Job Search Strategies and Application Tips

Building Your First Resume
If you don’t have a lot of work experience, you can still create a good resume. You should highlight your:

school marks and subjects
extra activities and volunteering
Skills and talents that could be useful for a job
personal projects or hobbies

Application Best Practices
Avoid some common mistakes while filling the application:

Make the application a little different for every job
Check for mistakes and proofread it
Follow the instructions given
Submit the form on time
Write the correct contact number and email

Interview Preparation
Preparation for the interview is important:

Read about the company and the job in advance
Practice simple common interview questions
Keep questions ready to ask the interviewer
Wear good clothes and arrive on time
Don’t forget to send a thank you note after the interview

Networking and Referrals
Many jobs are found through personal contacts:

Ask your relatives and friends about any job about
Talk to teachers and school counselors
Go to local businesses near you and ask directly
Get involved in community groups or events

Safety and Legal Protections

Safety is most important while working especially for young workers. https://www.lni.wa.gov/safety-health/safety-topics/topics/teen-worker-safety There are special rules for working children under the age of 15.

Safety Rights

Working in a safe and hazard-free place
Getting proper training and safety tools
Right to report unsafe situation without any fear
Right to refuse dangerous work

Prohibited Activities
Children under 15 years of age are not allowed to do some work:

Driving very heavy machines
Working in dangerous places
Handling dangerous chemicals
Working for a long time

Employer Responsibilities
The company that hires you has the responsibility to:

Provide proper training and guidance
Make you work in a safe place
Follow child labor laws
Provide safety tools and equipment

Benefits of Early Work Experience

Working is not just for earning money, https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3567440/ it is also important for personal and professional growth.

Academic Benefits

You learn to manage time
Marks improve with focus and planning in school
You learn to set and achieve goals
College and scholarship applications become stronger

Personal Development

Self-confidence increases
You understand your interests and strengths
Good relationships are formed with professionals
You become ready for adult life

Career Advantages

You can explore career interests in advance
You learn useful skills that help in the future
You get references for future jobs
A strong base of experience is formed

Balancing Work and School

Students who manage school along with work become experts in time management yes.

Time Management Strategies

Make a proper routine that includes school, work and rest
Track your schedule with planners and mobile apps
Focus on important tasks and don’t overcommit
Make sure to schedule time to relax

Communication with Employers

Tell your school timing at the time of interview
If the schedule changes, inform beforehand
If there is too much work, keep open communication
Studies are important, tell this clearly

Academic Support

Keep regular contact with teachers
Take help when studying
Use your work in school projects as well
Apply the skills you learn at work in class

Future Career Development

Early Working at the age of 15 is a strong start for a future career: https://www.monster.com/career-advice/article/teen-jobs-0617

Skill Building
Every job teaches you something which is useful in any job.
For example, if you worked in customer service, your skill of talking to people becomes strong. Working in retail gives you an idea of how to sell and some idea of business.

Career Exploration
When you work at a young age, you understand which work you like.
For example, if someone likes teaching small children, he can become a good teacher in future. And if someone finds working in a shop easy, he can choose business or marketing.

Professional Network Development
While working, you meet people – these people can help you in your future, like giving references, advice, or giving you a chance for a new job.

Resume Building
Every job adds value to your resume. This helps you in getting college admission, scholarship or a good job.

EXTERNAL LINKING SOURCES (12)

Teen Job Search Success Checklist

Before You Start:

Learn about your state’s rules and work permit
See how many hours you can work
Think about your interests and skills
Keep your salary expectations realistic
Create a simple and basic resume that includes your achievements

Job Search Process:

Look which employers in your area hire teenagers
Make a list of references like (teachers, coaches or family friends)
Practice filling out job applications
To gain confidence do mock interviews
Understand dress code and company rules

Application Essentials:

Fill out the forms completely and correctly
Submit applications and apply on time
After applying Do not forget to follow up
Be prepared If background check is required
Gather necessary documents like ID Social Security Card ready

Interview Preparation:

Do some research about the company or the job which u are applying
Be prepared with answers to simple and common interview questions
Wear simple and cleen clothes for the interview
Practice eye contact and handshake
Be prepared to ask some good questions at the end of the interview

Starting Your Job:

Complete all paperwork (like W-4, I-9)
Understand your schedule and work
Read the company’s rules and policies carefully
Build a good relationship with your manager and coworkers
Keep a record of your working hours and money (will come in handy for taxes)

Caution: Teen Job Scams & Safety

Ignore job offers requiring payment to apply or promising huge pay for little work.
Never share sensitive information (SSN, full address) until you’ve met the employer or gone through a legitimate hiring process.
Always let a parent or guardian review online or remote job offers before you apply.
For more see Federal Trade Commission’s Teen Job Guide

TESTIMONIALS:

Sarah, 16, Former Retail Associate:
Sarah, 16, Former Retail Associate:
“For 15 years I worked at a local clothing store best decision ever!
I have learned how to communicate with customers work in a team and manage time.
I have became confident and it felt good to earn my own money.
The skills I learned led me to a better job next summer”.

Marcus, 17, Former Food Service Worker:
“I started to work in fast food restaurant at the age of 15. The work was little tough and fast but I learned to work under pressure and adjust with the team. My manager guided me and I also got a promotion. This experience prepared me for real life”.

Emma, 16, Babysitter:
“Babysitting was perfect for me I love spending time with kids. It was easy to fit in time with school and hobbies. The pay of $18-20 an hour was great!. I learned to be responsible and patient. Now a lot of families call me often and this experience will help me in my future career”.

CONCLUSION

Starting your first job at the age of 15 is an exciting and adventures step. It helps you earn money, learn new skills and learn to depend on yourself. If you understand the rules explore the options and search for a job in a smart way you will find work that will be useful for your future. Remember, an early job is not just for earning money it forms the base of your career, in which you get skills, responsibility and support of people.

FAQ’s

Q1: What is the minimum age to work in the United States ?
A1: In the USA, the minimum age for work is 14 years (for non-agricultural jobs). But 14 and 15 year olds can work with certain rules, such as how many hours to work, and they have to get a work permit (most states have this rule).

Q2: How many hours can a 15 year old work during the school year ?
A2: When school is in session (school weeks), 15 year olds can only work 3 hours a school day and 18 hours a week. When school is closed (vacation time), they can work 8 hours a day and 40 hours a week.

Q3: Do 15 year old’s need to pay taxes on their earnings ?
A3: Most 15-year-olds do not earn enough to pay taxes (the limit is $14,600 in 2024). But if taxes have been deducted from their salary, it is important to file taxes so that they can get a refund.

Q4: What are the highest paying jobs for 15 year old’s ?
A4: Jobs like babysitting, tutoring, and office assistant pay quite well ($15–25 per hour). After that, landscaping and delivery services also pay well ($15–20 per hour).

Q5: How can 15 year old’s find their first job?
A5: Create a simple resume that includes your skills and school activities. For the interview, read a little about the company and practice common questions

Jobs for 15 year olds: Complete Guide to Teen