First Jobs for Teens in Westchester
There comes a point in every teen’s life when those instant hand-outs start to dry up. One way for them to learn responsibility and make their own money is to get a job. In Westchester, there are many opportunities to find work that can be flexible to their schedules and catered towards their interests. Check out some ideas below, including a list of upcoming job fairs in Westchester.
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Babysitting
One of the first entryways to work for many teens is their first babysitting gig. Some teens can start as young as 12 as a Mother Helper; while others start at around age 13. The actual age depends on the parents and their needs. Teens can advertise their services in their town by putting up flyers, sharing online in community groups, or you can help them by letting your friends know that your teen is looking for work.
Tutor
If your teen excels in a particular subject area, they might want to use those skills to help others as a tutor. They can volunteer their time, offer one-on-one services, or connect with a local agency for placement.
Lifeguard
Lifeguard hiring season is happening now. In Westchester, teens can become a lifeguard through the Westchester County Parks department and work at one of the County’s pools or beaches. Salary starts $16.50 an hour and all applicants must have current American Red Cross Lifeguarding/First Aid and CPR/AED certifications. The County also offers pre-test training and classes to prep budding lifeguards before they apply.
Local Amusement Park
In Westchester, Playland is hosting a job fair at the Cambria Hotel in Downtown White Plains on Saturday, March 25, 2023 from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm. The iconic amusement park has nearly 700 seasonal job openings, ranging from ride operators, lifeguards, beach and pool hosts, admission hosts, retail managers, guest services, IT Support, Group Sales assistants, and much more.
Job benefits also include competitive wages; unlimited play at Playland with a free season pass and free admission for friends and family; ability to earn rewards through the Reward & Recognition Programs; free roundtrip bus transportation for team members; flexible schedules including day, nights, weekends and holidays; employee discounts; and more. All applicants must be at least 16 years old to apply. Teens should visit playland.com/employment to apply in advance.
Playland will also provide lifeguard training and free certification for qualified swimmers who apply to Playland beach and pool as a lifeguard. Lifeguard rate begins at $18 per hour. Cambria Hotel, 250 Main Street, White Plains, NY.
Create their Own Business
Teens can also create their very own business right from their phone. Whether that’s selling their handmade jewelry, or creating a fashion inspo Instagram page, teens can use technology to create and market their own brand. Make sure you have open conversations with them about their plan, ways they are accepting transactions, and how they are getting the word out about their business.
Retail Associate/Cashier
Does your teen have a favorite store in your town? If they are personable, a good communicator, and organized, they might want to find a job at a local store/boutique. In addition to flexibility, they might also get a discount, work with friends, and learn more about the inner workings of sales.
Nature Camp Counselors
Camps in Westchester are also looking for counselors who specifically enjoy nature and the outdoors. Teens have to be at least 16 years old who will work with other kids in pre-K-middle school. Current openings are at Cranberry Lake Preserve, North White Plains; Edith G. Read Wildlife Sanctuary, Rye; Lenoir Preserve, Yonkers; Marshlands Conservancy, Rye; Muscoot Farm, Katonah; and Trailside Nature Museum at Ward Pound Ridge Reservation, Cross River. Interested teens can send their information and resume to Taro Ietaka, tqia@westchestergov.com.
Host/Hostess
If your teen is personable and good with people, they may want to work as a hostess. Many local restaurants hire teens ages 16 years of age and older. Have them visit some local restaurants with their resume.
Car Washer
Your teen and their friends can come together to form their own car washing business. This can be a great option for the spring/summer where your teen can earn money and make their own schedules.
Local Movie Theater
Have a movie-loving teen? Then maybe working in a movie theater is the perfect fit for them. They will likely have to give up their weekends but will have access to see the latest releases.
