Summer Job Opportunities FAQ
Q: How Do I Know What Summer Job Is Right For Me?
A: It may take some time researching different types of summer jobs before you know what job is right for you. Take the time to consider what your goals are in terms of your summer job. Do you want to travel? Be outdoors? Make money? Work long hours? Work very few hours? Work in a professional atmosphere? Work all summer? Work a portion of the summer? Or, work as a volunteer? After narrowing your focus, read our information about different types of jobs and the type of pay you can earn working in each of them. Then check out our job listings for jobs that meet your requirements and start applying now.
Q: When do I need to start searching for my summer job?
A: Some people start searching for their summer jobs as early as the fall. By applying early you increase your chances of finding the right job for you and increase your chances of beating out other people who are vying for the same position. The earlier you start thinking of summer work, the more likely you are to find a better job.
Q: Do I need to travel in order to find a good summer job?
A: Travel might be an aspect of some summer jobs, but it doesn’t mean you have to travel to find good work. Take the time to consider if you want to travel for your summer job and make your job decision according to what will make you most comfortable. There are good summer jobs in every city.
Q: What about volunteering?
A: We do talk about summer volunteering jobs on the website. Volunteering is an excellent way to build up a resume and gain professional experience. Volunteer jobs are common in hospitals, veterinary clinics, dental offices, zoos, homeless shelters, children’s hospitals and special needs camps.
Q: How much will I get paid?
A: The amount of money you make will depend greatly on the type of job you procure. Some jobs allow people to make a lot, while others compromise a job location or type of work for simply gaining the experience rather than a large paycheck. However, by starting your job search early you will be more likely to find a job that satisfies both.
Q: Are getting federal jobs more difficult?
A: Getting a government job for the summer, i.e., in a national park, requires following stringent government application procedures and meeting deadlines. The job benefits can be nice but all workers must pass background checks, be of a certain age and meet other qualifications. It doesn’t make getting these jobs impossible, but they can take longer to procure. By starting a summer job search early you will increase your chances of working in a parks environment or for a federal employer.
Q: How much experience do I need?
A: The amount of experience required for each job varies. Some jobs require specific requirements or qualifications while others lend themselves to hiring people with experience. Some jobs are willing to train. Again, looking early will help you find an employer that is willing to train you, give you enough time to become qualified and find the right position for what you’re interested in doing.