As the excitement of summer approaches, so does the need to keep kids busy. For high schoolers, finding a summer job may be a positive option.
Having a summer job can be beneficial to a teenager in several ways. For example, it can help them save up money, learn essential life skills and build character.
According to Michigan’s Department of Technology, Management and Budget, in 2022, the state had expected nearly half of the 500k teens in the state to take on summer jobs.
The National Institute of Health posted research by Jeylan T. Mortimer, Ph.D. through the Youth Development Study, which states, “…that work experience can promote the healthy development of some young people, especially when it is moderate in intensity and steady in duration—attributes that assure that employment does not interfere with other important elements in a teen’s life, and instead foster an appropriate balance between school and work.”
But how do you encourage teens to find a job?
Consider starting by talking with your high schooler about the independence and financial opportunities that jobs provide, in addition to the résumé building skills they will learn while working. Then, help them to create their resume and look for available jobs. Consider reaching out to Michigan Works for help in resume building and finding jobs, including tips to land your first job.
Things to consider when finding a job for your teen:
- Time required: How much time does your child realistically have for a job?
- Finding work they would enjoy: Do they like being outside, working with other people, learning specific skills, intensity at work, etc.
- Transportation: How will they get to work?
- Bank Account: They may need to open a bank account to deposit their pay.
- Let your child take the lead and responsibility – It’s their job, not yours.
If your teen is looking to get a jump on their summer plans, we started a list of a few local businesses that are looking for summer help. Contact them directly for more information.
Local businesses open to hiring teenagers:
Teens may enjoy working in some of the most popular and beautiful places in Ann Arbor – the parks! There are a variety of positions open for the 2023 spring/summer season at Mack Indoor Pool, Veterans Memorial Park and Fuller park pools, Argo and Gallup Canoe Livery, Huron Hills and Leslie Park golf courses and more.
Jobs include cashiers, swim instructors and lifeguards, day camp counselors and directors, recreation supervisors, golf course rangers, turf specialists and more!
Ann Arbor Parks & Recreation Services is offering wage increases for all temporary seasonal jobs. Staff enjoy providing great customer service, teaching valuable skills such as swimming and skating and enhancing their communication and leadership skills.
Ann Arbor Schools’ Rec & Ed has jobs available for those age 18 and up as well as roles for high school volunteers looking to gain experience and volunteer hours.
Babysitting is one of the best ways for teens to make money over the summer. Teens can connect with vetted parents nearby on the neighborhood babysitting app, Bambino Sitters.
Bambino uses social connections and local proximity to build the babysitter’s network. Sitters get requested by parents they are connected to and can accept or decline the jobs. Booking and payment are all done through the app for a safe and convenient process.
Teens age 13 and up can create a sitter profile with consent from a guardian and one recommendation from an adult. When creating your profile, showcase your professionalism and responsibility with a high-quality profile photo and thoughtful bio!
Parent tip: Parents of teens can download Bambino on their phone and sign in with the teen’s number. This will give the parents access to see who is in their community, the babysitting requests, and tracking payments. To get started create a sitter profile by downloading the Bambino app!
Best In Games (BIG) is a fun place to work – the product is fun, with excitement, and good family memories!
To apply, just come to the front counter during normal business hours to fill out an application. If someone is available to interview them we will interview right on the spot.
They usually hire someone in as a customer service attractions worker. They would be responsible for supervising laser tag, adventure course, drop tower, grave digger VR monster truck or bumper cars. They can be promoted from there to prize counter/redemption area or party host.
Cinemark typically hires ahead of their busy summer moviegoing season. All information on open roles, including requirements and how to apply can be found at careers.cinemark.com
Whether it’s the first role out of school, or a fun summer job, Cinemark Theaters has a position for all movie lovers. From expanded food and beverage offerings, in-theatre dining and cutting-edge technology to virtual reality gaming, Cinemark is a global company. You’ll have great opportunities to grow, advance and enjoy the excitement of an ever-evolving environment.
Some of the perks for working at Cinemark include:
- Free movies
- Employee discounts
- Flexible schedules
- Fun environment
The Thrivery is searching for workers who are motivated, health-conscious, and driven individuals to join the team.
If you would like to work in an environment where you are making a difference in people’s lives by helping them Thrive naturally through their convenient vitamin-packed nutrition focused on in-house cold-pressed juice, smoothies, salads, & ionized alkaline water, they want you!
A flexible or set schedule is available with both part time and full time opportunities available. Applicants must have reliable transportation and skills in food preparation, food service and strong customer service.
Benefits include:
- Employee discount
- Flexible schedule
- Food provided
- Paid training
The Produce Station would love to have you join their team for the summer, or longer! You can work outside on the garden team, work inside the store, learn about fruit and vegetables on the produce or cashier teams. Both morning and evening shifts are available.
They’re looking for energetic and outgoing people who are age 18 and older! The application process is easy – email a resume or a note to producestation@producestation.com .
Racquet Club of Ann Arbor is seeking high school students age 16 and older for lifeguard positions. Applicants must be fully certified with First Aid, Lifeguard and CPR. Candidates are considered on availability throughout the summer, as well as attention to safety, organization, customer service and positive attitude.
They will also have some limited positions for those age 18 and older in areas of food and beverage, grounds crew, and member services. Experience and availability requirements for summer months are considered. Parent inquiries are not welcome. Students should visit the website to apply.
At Travis Pointe Country Club, student will work hard, but have fun doing it!
If you have a positive, can-do attitude, the will to learn new things and a flair for customer service, you may be just who they are looking for! As a year-round club, they are always accepting applications for waitstaff.
Seasonal positions for grounds crew, lifeguards, bag attendants and food service are also available beginning in the early spring. Complete the application and email a scan to frontdesk@travispointe.com for employment consideration.
Are you looking to hire local high schoolers for summer work? Email us at annarboreditor@adamsstreetpublishing.com.
