Jobs

Getting a Job as a High Schooler

Here are some answers to common questions we get asked by students in the Counseling Department about getting a job:

Do I need a work permit?

The only reason you would need a work permit is if you were going to work DURING school hours on school days. This is something that is very rarely given to a student - it’s really important that students are in school learning during designated learning times. You DO NOT need a work permit to work a job after school or on the weekends.

How old do I have to be to get a job?

         This depends on the job!

There are many jobs you can do around your home or neighborhood (babysitting, gardening/lawn care, house-sitting, dog walking, etc.) that do not have an age requirement. Oftentimes, these jobs are ones that you market yourself for! Whether it’s creating a flyer, or going door-to-door to your neighbors and letting them know of the service(s) you are offering. 

If you are 14 or older, there are many places that will be willing to hire you. If you are applying to work somewhere and they are requiring proof of your age before hiring you, you can come back to us and let us know and we will work through that issue with you.

             Here is some more detailed information about the Colorado Youth Employment Opportunity Act.

Where should I apply?

This depends on the job you are looking for or wanting to spend your time doing! Many would argue that the best way to apply for a job is to do it in person - which means walking through the door and presenting yourself as a reliable, hardworking individual that they would be lucky to hire!

You can also give establishments a call and ask if they are hiring, or even look on their websites to see if there is an online application!

What else do I need to think about?

-Location - How will I get to work? Do I need a ride to and from work? If so, who will be able to take me?

-Time - How many hours can I work and still stay on top of other commitments like school, friends, and family?

-Resume - How much experience do I have? What do I have to offer that a business would really value?