When it comes to finding jobs for 13-year-olds, many may assume that there are limited opportunities for young teens to work. However, there are actually several industries and types of jobs available for 13-year-olds to gain work experience, earn money, and develop important skills. While there are restrictions on the types of jobs and hours that young teens can work, there are still many options available in traditional industries such as retail and hospitality, as well as opportunities in the gig economy and even for young entrepreneurs. By taking the time to explore these options and finding the right fit, 13-year-olds can gain valuable experience and confidence in the working world while also earning money to help them save for the future.
Jobs in traditional industries
Many traditional industries still offer jobs for 13-year-olds, including:
- Retail sales associate
- Dishwasher or busboy at a restaurant
- Movie theater usher or concession stand worker
- Grocery store bagger
- Camp counselor
Some popular websites that list job opportunities for teens in these industries include:
- Snagajob – features job listings for teens in industries such as retail, food service, and hospitality
- Groovejob – lists part-time and seasonal jobs for teens in various industries
Jobs in the gig economy
Another trend that has widened the range of jobs available for 13-year-olds is the growing “gig economy,” which includes freelance and short-term work opportunities. Some options for 13-year-olds include:
- Yard work such as raking leaves, shoveling snow, or mowing lawns
- Pet-sitting or dog-walking
- Babysitting for younger children
- Selling homemade crafts online
According to a recent survey by Junior Achievement USA and EY, 68% of teens have considered starting a business someday. These types of gig jobs can give 13-year-old teens the opportunity to test out entrepreneurship skills while earning money.
| Gig job | Average pay | Additional information |
|---|---|---|
| Yard work | $10-$25 per hour | Depends on the task and location |
| Pet-sitting or dog-walking | $10-$30 per visit or walk | Additional pay for taking care of multiple pets or more extended visits |
| Babysitting | $10-$15 per hour | Additional pay for more extended hours or caring for multiple children |
| Selling homemade crafts online | Varies greatly based on the product and demand | Takes time and creativity to turn a profit |
How to find work in the gig economy?
Finding work in the gig economy can be challenging, but there are a few things you can do to improve your chances:
- Sign up for gig economy platforms like Uber, Lyft, TaskRabbit, Upwork, and Fiverr.
- Create a profile that showcases your skills, experience, and availability.
- Network with other gig workers and potential clients through social media and industry events.
- Keep your skills up-to-date and diversified to make yourself more marketable.
- Consider offering your services directly to businesses in your local area.
You can also check out websites like GigSmart and Shiftgig that connect gig workers with short-term job opportunities. Remember to always do your research and verify the legitimacy of any platform or job opportunity before signing up or accepting a job.
Jobs That Will Hire 13 Year Olds
For teens determined to earn their own money, there are a range of job opportunities available to them. While some jobs have a minimum age requirement of 16 or 18, there are several options suitable for 13-year-olds:
Babysitting – Many families require a trustworthy and responsible babysitter. Teens can offer their services to family, friends, or neighbors within walking distance.
Animal Care – Pet owners often need assistance with feeding, walking, and grooming. Teens can offer these services to pet owners in their community.
Lawn Care – Mowing, weeding, and watering lawns are tasks that many people don’t have the time or energy for. Teens can offer their services to help maintain lawns in their local area.
Product Demonstrator – Many retail stores hire product demonstrators to showcase items and engage with customers. Teens can contact stores to inquire about job openings.
It’s vital for young teens to understand and comply with local laws and regulations regarding employment. In some locations, 13-year-olds may need to obtain a work permit or have restricted working hours. Parents or guardians should also supervise their teen’s job activities.
For more resources, the following websites can provide assistance and guidance to teens looking for employment:
Snagajob.com – This website has a section dedicated to job openings for teenagers. Teens can browse and apply for jobs on the site.
SummerJobs.com – This website primarily targets teens and students looking for summer jobs and internships.
It’s essential for young teens to approach their job search with enthusiasm and determination. With the right attitude and approach, teens can find suitable jobs and gain valuable work experience.
What can I do as a young entrepreneur?
As a young entrepreneur, there are a range of options to consider when starting out. A few tips to get started:
- Identify a problem you’re passionate about solving. This could be anything from reducing waste to improving healthcare outcomes.
- Do your research on the industry you’re interested in and look at competitors in the market.
- Develop a clear mission statement and business plan outlining your goals and approach.
- Find a mentor or network with other young entrepreneurs to gain insights and support.
If you’re looking to launch a product or service, websites such as Shopify or Wix offer easy-to-use website building platforms to get started. Additionally, consider using social media platforms to promote your business and connect with potential customers.
Conclusion
While the job opportunities available for 13-year-olds may be limited, there are still plenty of options for teens to learn responsibility, gain valuable skills, and earn money. Whether it’s working in traditional industries like retail and hospitality, pursuing gigs in the gig economy, or starting their own business, there are many paths that young teens can take.
However, it’s crucial for parents and guardians to guide and support their teens through the job search process. Safety and legality need to be considered, and it’s essential to ensure that young teens have the appropriate skills and training for a job. With the right guidance and support, working can be an incredible opportunity for young teens to develop responsibility, independence, and problem-solving skills that they can use throughout their lives.
