Careers

Best Jobs for 20-Year-Olds

Updated on February 29, 2024
Author Frank Gogol
Written by
Frank Gogol
Author Frank Gogol
Written by
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.

See all posts Frank Gogol

Entering the workforce or changing careers at 20 offers a unique set of opportunities and challenges. At this age, individuals are often looking for positions that offer a good balance between income, job satisfaction, and the potential for growth. Here’s a comprehensive look at some of the best jobs for 20-year-olds, considering factors like average salary, job responsibilities, and required education.

Retail Sales Associate

  • Average Salary: $13.13/hour​​
  • Job Description: Retail sales associates are the face of the store, interacting directly with customers to provide information and assistance.
  • Responsibilities: Greeting customers, assisting in finding products, managing inventory, and handling transactions at the checkout.
  • Required Education: Typically, a high school diploma is sufficient, with most training done on the job.

Barista

  • Average Salary: $11.00/hour​​
  • Job Description: Baristas prepare and serve coffee and other cafe beverages, ensuring a satisfying customer experience.
  • Responsibilities: Making coffee and tea, taking orders, maintaining a clean work area, and possibly handling food items.
  • Required Education: No formal education required, with training usually provided on the job.

Tutor

  • Average Salary: $19.51/hour​​
  • Job Description: Tutors provide individualized academic assistance to students in various subjects.
  • Responsibilities: Assessing student needs, preparing lesson plans, teaching academic concepts, and tracking progress.
  • Required Education: At least a high school diploma, though some subjects may require higher education or specialized knowledge.

Lifeguard

  • Average Salary: $13.00/hour​​
  • Job Description: Lifeguards ensure the safety of swimmers at pools and beaches by monitoring activities, preventing accidents, and performing rescues.
  • Responsibilities: Supervising swimming areas, enforcing rules, administering first aid, and conducting rescues when necessary.
  • Required Education: Certification in lifeguarding, CPR, and first aid is typically required.

Social Media Assistant

  • Average Salary: $16.36/hour​​
  • Job Description: Social media assistants help manage and grow an organization’s presence on social media platforms.
  • Responsibilities: Creating content, scheduling posts, engaging with followers, and analyzing engagement data.
  • Required Education: High school diploma is often sufficient, though some knowledge of digital marketing may be beneficial.

House Cleaner

  • Average Salary: $12.30/hour​​
  • Job Description: House cleaners maintain the cleanliness and order of homes, performing a variety of cleaning tasks.
  • Responsibilities: Dusting, vacuuming, mopping, bathroom cleaning, and sometimes laundry or organizing.
  • Required Education: No formal education required; training is usually provided on the job.

Usher

  • Average Salary: $10-$15/hour​​
  • Job Description: Ushers ensure the smooth operation of theaters and event venues by assisting guests.
  • Responsibilities: Checking tickets, guiding guests to their seats, and addressing any immediate concerns or questions.
  • Required Education: No formal education required, with most training provided on the job.

Video Editor

  • Average Salary: $24.00/hour​​
  • Job Description: Video editors compile and edit video footage to create cohesive and engaging content.
  • Responsibilities: Cutting and assembling footage, adding music or sound effects, and ensuring the final product meets the desired specifications.
  • Required Education: Although formal education is not always required, knowledge of video editing software is essential.

Youth League Umpire

  • Average Salary: $15-$20+/hour​​
  • Job Description: Youth league umpires officiate games for children’s sports leagues, ensuring fair play and adherence to rules.
  • Responsibilities: Calling plays, enforcing rules, and maintaining a safe and respectful environment for players.
  • Required Education: Knowledge of the sport is necessary, with training often provided by the league.

Receptionist

  • Average Salary: $16.00/hour​​
  • Job Description: Receptionists serve as the first point of contact for businesses, managing communications and administrative tasks.
  • Responsibilities: Answering phones, scheduling appointments, greeting visitors, and handling mail or email correspondence.
  • Required Education: High school diploma, with additional training in office administration or customer service preferred.

Final Thoughts

Embarking on a career journey at 20 opens up a world of possibilities. Whether you’re drawn to the fast-paced environment of a coffee shop, the rewarding challenge of tutoring, or the creative field of video editing, there’s a path that aligns with your skills and interests. Remember, the key to success lies not only in choosing a job that pays well but also in finding one that offers personal growth and satisfaction.

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Author Frank Gogol

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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