Finding a part time job as a teenager can be a brilliant way to earn some extra cash, gain work experience, and learn valuable life skills. Whether you’re 14, 16, or 18, there’s a range of jobs across the UK and London that suit your schedule — from weekend jobs to evening shifts, or even summer jobs while you’re on holiday/vacation.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about part time jobs for under 18s, including your employee rights, how to write a CV, what to expect in interviews, and where to find part-time vacancies near you.
Why Get a Part Time Job as a Teen?
If you’re a teenager who wants to earn good money and build confidence, a part time job can be your first step toward independence. You’ll learn about teamwork, customer service, and responsibility — all things that employers love to see when you apply for your first full-time job later.
Common benefits include:
- Earning your own spending money
- Learning practical skills
- Gaining work experience for your CV
- Meeting new people
- Building confidence before or after your GCSEs
Top Part Time Jobs for Under 18s
There’s no shortage of part time work for young people — you just need to know where to look. Here are some popular and suitable roles for 14–18 year olds:
1. Retail Assistant
Work in supermarkets, clothing shops, or local businesses. Tasks might include helping customers, tidying shelves, and operating tills.
Where to look: Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Primark, or your local area shopping centre.
2. Restaurant or Café Assistant
Perfect for teens who enjoy fast-paced environments. You might serve food, clean tables, or work behind the counter in a café, pub, or restaurant.
3. Babysitting
If you’re responsible and love kids, childcare is a great way to earn good money locally. You can advertise your services through local Facebook groups or community noticeboards.
4. Dog Walking or Pet Sitting
Animal lovers can earn extra cash walking dogs, feeding pets, or helping neighbours while they’re away.
5. Paper Rounds
A classic Saturday job for 14 year olds. Start early, deliver newspapers, and you’ll still have your whole day free.
6. Tutoring or Homework Help
If you’re doing well in school, consider helping younger pupils with GCSE or homework revision. It’s a great way to share knowledge and earn while you learn — especially if you want to work in education later.
7. Lifeguard
Once you turn 16, you can train and register for a lifeguard position at your local pool or leisure centre. It’s rewarding, well-paid, and perfect during summer holidays.
8. Work at a Local Garage or Bar (Over 16s)
Older teens might find opportunities at a local garage, pub, or local bar helping with cleaning, stocking, or assisting customers.
9. McDonald’s or Fast Food
Major employers like McDonald’s and KFC often recruit young people for part-time roles — flexible evening and weekend jobs make it easy to balance with school.
Your Rights as a Teen Worker (UK Focus)
If you’re working in the UK, there are rules to protect young workers.
According to GOV.UK’s child employment laws:
- You can start light work at 13 (like paper rounds or babysitting).
- From 14, you can do limited part-time work (max 2 hours on school days).
- Once you’re 16 and finished school, you can work up to 40 hours a week.
- Employers must ensure the work is safe and doesn’t affect your education.
- You must have at least 1 hour’s rest break every 4.5 hours worked.
It’s also worth checking your local council’s rules, as they may vary slightly across the UK.
How to Find Part Time Vacancies
Finding part-time vacancies can be easy once you know where to look. Try these:
Online Job Boards
- Indeed.com – Filter by age, city, and type of work.
- National Careers Service – Great for advice and recruitment tips.
- Prospects.ac.uk – Ideal for jobs for students.
Local Businesses
Pop into shops, cafés, or supermarkets in your local area. Many employers still advertise jobs in windows.
School or College Noticeboards
Ask your tutor or career advisor if they know of local places hiring young people.
Social Media
Follow local recruitment groups on Facebook or Instagram, where employers advertise weekend jobs and summer jobs.
How to Write a Teen CV (Free Download)
Even if you’ve never worked before, your CV can still shine! Focus on your skills, achievements, and enthusiasm.
Your CV should include:
- Your name and contact details
- A short personal statement
- Education details (e.g., GCSEs)
- Skills (teamwork, communication, reliability)
- Hobbies and interests
- References (e.g., teacher, sports coach)
Common Interview Questions for Teens
Most employers understand it’s your first job, so interviews are friendly and relaxed. Still, it helps to be prepared!
Typical questions include:
- Why do you want to work here?
- What kind of work do you enjoy?
- Tell me about a time you worked well in a team.
- How would you deal with a difficult customer?
- What are your strengths?
Tip: Smile, make eye contact, and show enthusiasm. Employers care more about attitude than experience.
FAQs About Part Time Jobs for Under 18s
Can 14 year olds get a job in the UK or US?
Yes. In the UK, you can start doing light work like paper rounds or babysitting at 13–14. In the US, the rules vary by state, but most allow part-time work at 14 with limits on hours.
What’s the minimum wage for under 18s?
In the UK (2025), the minimum wage for under 18s is £6.40/hour. In the US, it varies by state, usually between $7–$10/hour.
Where can I find part time jobs in London?
Search “jobs in London” on Indeed, GOV.UK, or local business pages. Retail and hospitality are great starting points.
What are the best summer jobs for teens?
Try lifeguarding, dog walking, babysitting, or working at a local café. These offer flexibility and good money throughout the year.
How do I apply for a part time job with no experience?
Focus on your skills and attitude. Mention school achievements, hobbies, and why you want to work. Employers love enthusiasm!