As high school graduations wrap up and summer approaches, employers are actively seeking teenage workers. Contrary to the common belief that teens only earn minimum wage, a recent study reveals many summer jobs for teens in 2025 offer substantial pay, competitive benefits, and valuable career-building experience beyond typical roles like pizza delivery or fast-food work.
The 2025 High-Paying Teen Jobs Report by Resume Genius, based on 2024 U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data, identified 15 top-paying summer jobs for teens aged 16–19. These roles employ at least 20,000 teens each and pay well without requiring a college degree or full-time experience. The highest-paying teen job is Food Service Manager, earning a median wage of $31.40 per hour, followed by Carpenter ($28.51/hr), Retail Supervisor ($25.01/hr), and Automotive Service Technician ($23.88/hr). Other notable jobs include Administrative Assistant, Construction Worker, Office Clerk, and Customer Service Representative, with wages ranging from about $18 to $22 per hour.
These jobs not only pay well but also help teens develop essential skills such as leadership, customer service, problem-solving, and technical abilities, laying a foundation for future careers. Career expert Nathan Soto emphasizes that teens should seek these higher-paying opportunities to gain financial independence and career readiness early in life.
To secure these jobs, teens are advised to:
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Look for local businesses hiring by checking for "Help Wanted" signs and proactively inquiring in person.
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Attend local job fairs or career events to connect directly with employers.
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Utilize school resources such as guidance counselors and career offices for job leads and references.
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Build a professional online presence, including a LinkedIn profile highlighting skills and achievements, to stay informed about openings and make a good impression.
While traditional summer jobs like flipping burgers or delivering pizzas remain common, parents and teens need to recognize that many higher-paying, skill-building jobs are available. These roles not only offer better pay but also valuable experience that can benefit teens’ long-term career paths.
In summary, summer 2025 presents a promising job market for teens with a variety of lucrative opportunities that go beyond minimum wage and provide meaningful career development.