Meta Description: Discover the best jobs for 15 year olds! Explore part-time, online, and weekend job options that are perfect for teens looking to earn money and gain experience.
Introduction
Are you 15 and looking to make some money? Whether you’re saving up for a new phone, college, or just want extra cash, there are plenty of jobs for 15 year olds that are safe, legal, and rewarding. While your options might be limited due to labor laws, many employers are open to hiring responsible teens, and there are even some jobs you can do from home.
In this guide, we’ll cover the best job options for 15-year-olds, including local, online, and freelance opportunities. Plus, we’ll share tips to help you get hired and start earning early.
Are 15-Year-Olds Legally Allowed to Work?
Yes, but with restrictions. In most countries, including the U.S., teens as young as 14 or 15 can legally work with limited hours and in specific job types under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). Here are some general rules:
Can work outside school hours
Limited to 3 hours on school days and 8 hours on non-school days
Maximum 18 hours per week during school terms
Only non-hazardous jobs allowed (no factory work, heavy machinery, etc.)
Always check your state or local laws, as regulations vary.
Top Jobs for 15 Year Olds in 2025
Here are some of the best-paying, flexible, and teen-friendly jobs available to 15-year-olds today:
1. Babysitting
Why it’s great: Flexible hours, good pay, and a chance to develop responsibility.
How to start: Take a babysitting course (like the Red Cross), then advertise locally or use platforms like Care.com (with parental help).
2. Pet Sitting or Dog Walking
Perfect for animal lovers. You can offer your services in the neighborhood or list them on apps like Rover (again, you’ll need a parent’s help to set up a profile).
Estimated pay: $10–$20 per hour
3. Working at a Local Restaurant
Many fast food places and local diners hire 15-year-olds for roles like:
Host/hostess
Busser
Dishwashing
Ice cream scooper
Popular chains that hire at 15:
McDonald’s
Dairy Queen
Baskin Robbins
Chick-fil-A
4. Grocery Store Helper
Stores often hire young teens to bag groceries, collect carts, or stock shelves.
Chains to try:
Publix
Kroger
Safeway
Hy-Vee
5. Lawn Care or Yard Work
Great for earning cash in your neighborhood. Mowing lawns, raking leaves, or shoveling snow can bring in good money, especially during busy seasons.
Tip: Make flyers or post in community Facebook groups.
6. Retail Jobs (Limited Roles)
Some retail stores will hire teens as young as 15 for entry-level roles like stocking or greeting customers.
Places to check:
Giant Food
Winn-Dixie
AMC Theaters (concessions or ushers)
Online Jobs for 15 Year Olds
Want to work from home? Here are some online jobs perfect for tech-savvy teens:
1. Taking Online Surveys
Sites like Swagbucks, Toluna, or Survey Junkie allow teens 13+ to earn points and cash by answering questions. While it’s not a huge income, it’s a good starting point.
2. Freelance Writing or Design
If you’re good at writing, drawing, or using tools like Canva, you can offer services on platforms like:
Fiverr (13+ with parental account)
Upwork (18+, but you can work under supervision)
3. Starting a YouTube Channel or Blog
Got a passion for gaming, fashion, or crafts? Creating content can eventually earn you money through ads, sponsors, or affiliate links.
Tip: Focus on a niche and stay consistent. Parental guidance is key here.
Seasonal and Part-Time Jobs
Some jobs are great for summer breaks or weekends:
Amusement parks: Ticket takers, ride operators (age restrictions may apply)
Camp counselor assistant
Lifeguard: Requires certification, but possible at 15
Golf caddy: Pays well and involves walking outdoors
Entrepreneurial Ideas: Be Your Own Boss
At 15, starting your own small business is a real possibility. Here are ideas:
Selling crafts on Etsy (with a parent’s account)
Tutoring younger students
Cleaning services (e.g., garage or basement clean-ups)
Tech help: Setting up devices or helping seniors with phones/computers
How to Get a Job at 15: Tips for Teens
Here are some actionable tips to boost your chances:
1. Get a Work Permit
Some states require a work permit or parental consent. Ask your school counselor for help.
2. Create a Basic Resume
Include school achievements, volunteer work, or any experience like babysitting.
3. Dress Professionally
Even if it’s just for a fast food job, showing up well-dressed leaves a great impression.
4. Be Polite and Confident
Smile, make eye contact, and practice answering simple interview questions.
Benefits of Working at 15
Earn your own money
Build time management and responsibility
Gain early job experience
Boost your resume for future opportunities
Working as a teen also teaches life skills that school might not cover, like how to handle taxes, budgeting, and customer service.
Final Thoughts
There are plenty of jobs for 15 year olds if you know where to look. Whether you’re interested in local part-time jobs, online gigs, or starting your own mini business, the opportunities are real and rewarding. Use this time to explore your interests, earn money, and start building a foundation for future success.
