What Kind of Summer Job Should I Get?

In a few weeks Charlotte schools will let out and if you're looking at a couple months of summer you might be thinking about a summer job. So what kind of summer job should you get? Well, the first step to looking for a summer job is knowing what kind of job you can have. Teenagers under 18 have some restrictions as to what kind of jobs they can get and hours they are allowed to work.



Once you decide what kind of hours/employment you can legally get, next is to decide what to look for.



Working Outside

If you like working outside some options might be to work at Carowinds or another amusement park. Maybe you'd like to do something that keeps you more active and work in landscaping. While it might be hot, you'll be able to stay in shape and usually work early hours so you can have the rest of the day to enjoy summer activities. Another option would to look into lifeguarding, just remember the sunblock!



Working in an Office

Ok, so maybe working outside in the hot sun over the summer is not your idea of fun. Not to worry, there are plenty of office assistant jobs or customer service positions that offer full air conditioned environment. Depending on where you apply, the hours will vary and can provide a flexible schedule so you still have time to enjoy the daytime hours.



Working with People

If you'd rather have some more interaction with people than sitting at a desk or talking on the phone. Retail sales, waiting tables or childcare might be a great way to do that. If you have a knack for working one on one with customers than this is a great fit for you. While you'll be on your feet most the time you're working, you'll be able to improve some of your customer service and communication skills on the job. If people aren't your thing either, maybe there is a doggy daycare or boarding facility in your area that is hiring for people to care for the animals.





Once you decide what kind of job you want to focus on, then you have to start looking. Job searching can be frustrating and hard but if you know where to look it makes things a little easier. It's good to keep in mind what you want and temporary or part time jobs can provide a great way to gain experience for when you're ready to get a more permanent position.



- Rosie Reilman

A Minor Issue: Teens Get Ready for Your Summer Job by Knowing Labor Laws

Before you hit the websites and the streets looking for the perfect place to get your fall wardrobe money and weekend spending cash, you'll want to know the ins and outs of child labor laws in our state. Ok, maybe you don't need a thorough knowledge but it's good information to have when looking. Knowing what your restrictions are for your age will help you pick a job that will earn you cash and still leave you time to spend with your friends. Lucky for you, I did some research for you on some of the restrictions that go along with being a teenager looking for work.

Our government does not require any restrictions for working but states generally do and they vary. Make sure to check out Youth Rules website from the Department of Labor if you're outside of North or South Carolina.

If you're …

13 and younger:
You're out of luck. People under 14 really don't have much allowance to get a job. However, some positions like minor chores in private households, babysitting, acting or theatrical jobs or working on a farm are permitted by the state. South Carolina laws are pretty much the same, they just indicate that it's ok to deliver newspapers for those under 14. South Carolina also allows for restrictions to be waived for jobs that are at businesses completely operated and owned by your parent or guardian.

14-15 years old:
You can work outside of school hours in non-manufacturing and non-hazardous employment. The state allows for up to 18 hours a week while school is in session for no more than 3 hours per school day (including Friday) or up to 8 hours on a Saturday or Sunday. During the summer when school isn't in session you can work up to 40 hours a week and 8 hours a day. You're allowed to work from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Between June 1 and Labor Day, the hours extend to 9 p.m.

16-17 years old:
There are less restrictions on the actual places you can work, the only one that is required is you have to work in a non-hazardous environment. The state also restricts you to work between 6:00 a.m. and 11:00 p.m. but this can be waived by a parent or guardian if circumstances require otherwise.

In North Carolina, if you've been offered a job and are under 18, you'll need to complete and have a Youth Employment Certificate (YEC). For more information and documents click here. As far as I can tell, South Carolina does not require minors to have specific work papers or certificate, just that they provide proper identification (ex: birth certificate or social security card).

If you're unclear or have more questions check out North Carolina Department of Labor or South Carolina Department of Labor for more information. While it's kind of a drag to have to be restricted in your work hours, it's really so that you can focus on your school work and then plunge into the workforce. Trust me, you'll be glad you have the state backing you up. Some of us seasoned workers probably wish that the government would restrict us from working sometimes. But knowing what you can do will help you find the right summer job or first job for you.

- Rosie Reilman, Photo by Leslie Duss

Summer Jobs in Charlotte

Well that time is upon us! The weather is starting to really warm up, the pools are starting to open and schools are preparing to let the students loose for the summer. For students and those looking for jobs this summer, we're here to help. Be sure to see our new Summer Jobs Showcase! We'll have a special ad each week in The Employment Guide as well as a link on EmploymentGuide.com all to feature employers who are hiring during the summer months. This new featured section in both print and internet will help you get that summer job you've been starting to think about.

Currently, we have opportunities at Adecco and Chase Staffing. More employers are signing up so check back often! Don't wait: just click on the "Summer Jobs" logo. Be sure to check out all the great summer jobs in Charlotte.