A summer job is a rite of passage for many Atlanta teens, offering some independence and much-needed spending money. You can also gain some valuable skills, contacts and references for future jobs.
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The following are some of the best summer jobs for teens in Atlanta:
Movie theater crew
If you love movies, working at a theater may be just the right job for you. You'll get the chance to see the latest summer blockbusters for free on your off time, sometimes even with a friend or family member who can also enjoy free admission. Crew positions are often responsible for a variety of duties, including taking tickets or preparing concessions. A variety of theater chains frequently have job openings in the metro Atlanta area, including AMC, Cinemark and Regal.
You'll need to be at least 16 years old to apply, and a positive, customer-friendly attitude is also needed.
Lifeguard
Being a lifeguard is a popular summer job for teens, since you'll get to spend your time poolside and in a fun environment.
You'll need to be a strong swimmer and will need to stay aware of your surroundings as you scan for signs of trouble. You'll also need to be comfortable interacting with the public, and a background check may also be required. Some employers offer their own certification, and others will want you to obtain certification on your own. Job openings are usually plentiful during the summer, as people flock to pools at recreation centers, apartment complexes and more locations.
Gwinnett County's Parks and Recreation Department is currently hiring lifeguards, and you can apply if you're certified and are at least 16 years old.
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Pet care
Convert your love of pets into some cold, hard cash by offering to walk or pet sit for owners who are on vacation. Start in your immediate circle of acquaintances by spreading the word in your neighborhood and among your friends and your family's friends.
You can also find individual Atlanta pet care gigs on sites such as care.com and sittercity.com, or create a caregiver profile.
Camp counselor
Warmer weather means it's time for summer camps, and they'll need to hire people to help out with kids. If you're responsible and relate well to young children, this could be a fun summer job.
Depending on the type of camp, you might need some specific skills. Some are looking for slightly older applicants, but for others, such as the YMCA of Metro Atlanta, you can be 16 or older.
Retail jobs
Many teens get their first job experience at a retail store, whether they're running a cash register or stocking merchandise. Many stores hire teens 16 and up, and although experience is a plus, it's often not required.
From malls to grocery stores, you won't have to look far to find a location to apply for a job in retail. Target has over 90 jobs available in the Atlanta area for hourly store employees age 16 and older, and QT also hires teens 16 and up for its 129 metro Atlanta stores.
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