Summer is coming! Just about everyone loves the summertime; a lot of people go away on vacation, and you don’t have to deal with school. While you deserve a break after a long year, there’s no better time to make money for personal needs and the future. That’s why you should find a job that allows you to earn while also making the most of these precious few months. Here are four flexible part-time jobs you should consider that’ll heat up your summer and bring in some extra cash.
1. Camp counselor
Most kids head off to camp during the summertime, and if you’re past the typical age of being a camper, recapture your youth by becoming a summer camp counselor. Supervising young kids is both fun and rewarding. You can enjoy participating in activities, planning events, and partaking in arts and crafts. Many people find being a counselor to be one of the best decisions they ever make. It’s one of the best summer jobs because it also builds your leadership skills while you earn extra money. Depending on your desired work schedule, you can work part- or full-time to fit your needs.
2. Lifeguard
Spending time on the water is something many people do during the summer. And if you’re good at swimming, then being a lifeguard is a great option for you. With so many rewarding factors to the job, being a lifeguard can change your summer. Lifeguarding helps with your communication skills and self-confidence. And due to the large number of swimmers in the summer, a good lifeguard is needed to keep people safe, so job opportunities are plentiful. The hours are flexible, and the pay is great if you’re looking for a side job, with the average hourly rate at $11.50. Add the benefit of being by a pool, ocean, or lake on a hot summer day and this job is perfect! If you agree, try reaching out to local swimming pools, water parks, public lakes, or beaches, and more to ask about summer positions.
Related: 6 Part–Time Jobs Good for Your Résumé and Your Major
3. Amusement park employee
Want your break to be filled with excitement? Well, an amusement park is a great place to work during the summertime. People flock to every amusement park in the country from June through August, so it’s likely you’ll see job listings everywhere for park employees. With the benefit of meeting new people, having access to rides, and all the amusement park food you could want, this job is a summer dream. Most amusement parks have a minimum hiring age of 16, so if you’re a teen looking for extra cash, this is a great place to work. There are a variety of positions you can get hired for—from ride operator to food service to booth tender—and the average starting pay is $10 an hour. The hours are flexible and more negotiable depending on where you decide to work: the larger the park, the more employees they’ll have, which could mean fewer hours they’ll need you to cover. With the rise of carnival fairs and mainstream amusement parks, snagging this type of job shouldn’t be too hard.
4. Dog walker
Some people like their summers to be a little more chill. If you’re looking for a laidback but spontaneous job, being a dog walker could be the right choice for you. Most dog owners are off to work or on vacations, and they want their dogs to be placed in the care of good people while they’re away. This job is good for students who like being around animals and want some pocket change without the worries of being under a company's contract. Dog walking hours and pay are easily negotiable, as you can simply discuss with the dog’s owner what your availability is like, when they need you, and how much your pay rate is. Spending time outside getting some exercise with a furry friend will feel more like a relaxing pastime than a job. And if you wish to continue being a dog walker, it’s the job that’s easiest to keep year-round. It could even be turned into a business! Over time, your trustworthiness will become known in your community, and it’ll be easy to pick up new jobs with other pet owners.
Related: Video: Summer Jobs for Students
Summer is meant to be enjoyed, but you’re going to need some extra cash. And if you’re looking to make some money, it shouldn’t be dreadful. Make your summer break one to remember by having fun and building long-lasting skills that are necessary for life. With any of these four jobs, you can fill your summer days with fun and happiness all while making extra money and adding to your résumé.
If you’re looking for more skill- and character-building opportunities this summer, check out our article on Summer Jobs, Internships, and Volunteering.
