Best Jobs for a 17 Year Old

Updated on February 29, 2024

Finding the right job as a 17-year-old can be an exciting yet challenging journey. It’s a time when you’re not just looking for any job, but one that can offer you valuable experience, a decent income, and perhaps a glimpse into what you might want to do in the future. Here’s a curated list of some of the best jobs for 17-year-olds, taking into consideration factors like average salary, job responsibilities, and the level of required education, where applicable.

Social Media Manager

  • Average Salary: $25.13 per hour​​.
  • Job Description: Engage with social media platforms, creating and scheduling content, and responding to comments.
  • Responsibilities: Content creation, post scheduling, engagement analysis.
  • Required Education: None formally required, though digital marketing knowledge is beneficial.

Restaurant Server

  • Average Salary: $11.63 per hour, with potential for tips​​.
  • Job Description: Taking customer orders, serving food, and handling payments.
  • Responsibilities: Customer service, maintaining cleanliness, and managing transactions.
  • Required Education: No formal education required, on-the-job training provided.

Housekeeper

  • Average Salary: $12.30 per hour​​.
  • Job Description: Cleaning and maintaining homes or commercial spaces.
  • Responsibilities: Dusting, vacuuming, and general cleaning tasks.
  • Required Education: None required, training typically provided on the job.

Photo/Video Editor

  • Average Salary: $18.00 per hour for video editing, $34.00 per hour for photo editing​​.
  • Job Description: Enhancing and editing visual content.
  • Responsibilities: Editing footage, color correction, and adding effects.
  • Required Education: Skills in editing software; formal education can be beneficial but not mandatory.

Camp Counselor

  • Average Salary: $24.00 per hour​​.
  • Job Description: Supervising and engaging with campers in various activities.
  • Responsibilities: Planning activities, ensuring safety, and promoting teamwork.
  • Required Education: Often none required, but certifications in first aid and CPR are beneficial.

Virtual Assistant

  • Average Salary: $22.10 per hour​​.
  • Job Description: Providing administrative support remotely.
  • Responsibilities: Email management, scheduling, and making travel arrangements.
  • Required Education: High school diploma or equivalent; proficiency in office software.

Freelance Writer

  • Average Salary: $23.11 per hour​​.
  • Job Description: Creating written content for various platforms.
  • Responsibilities: Researching, writing, and editing content.
  • Required Education: Strong writing skills are essential; a background in English or communications can help.

Graphic Designer

  • Average Salary: $19.98 per hour​​.
  • Job Description: Creating visual content for digital and print media.
  • Responsibilities: Designing graphics, layouts, and branding materials.
  • Required Education: Proficiency in design software; a diploma or degree in graphic design is advantageous.

Customer Service Representative

  • Average Salary: $15.19 per hour​​.
  • Job Description: Assisting customers with inquiries and issues.
  • Responsibilities: Handling customer queries, providing product information, and resolving issues.
  • Required Education: High school diploma or equivalent; training usually provided.

Data Entry Specialist

  • Average Salary: $17.18 per hour​​.
  • Job Description: Inputting data into computer systems accurately.
  • Responsibilities: Typing, data management, and maintaining records.
  • Required Education: Basic computer skills and a high school diploma or equivalent.

Final Thoughts

As a 17-year-old, you have a variety of job options that can not only provide you with an income but also valuable work experience and skills that can be beneficial for your future career. Whether you’re tech-savvy, a people person, or enjoy hands-on work, there’s something out there for you. Remember to consider how each job might fit with your school schedule, your interests, and your future career aspirations.

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Frank Gogol

I’m a firm believer that information is the key to financial freedom. On the Stilt Blog, I write about the complex topics — like finance, immigration, and technology — to help immigrants make the most of their lives in the U.S. Our content and brand have been featured in Forbes, TechCrunch, VentureBeat, and more.

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