As a part-time 16-year-old worker, your job options are subject to restrictions and limited compared to people a few years older, but there are still a variety of positions available. Some school districts offer jobs directly to teen students after school hours, while other companies offer positions in warehouses, grocery stores, customer service, food service, and other locations. Most jobs for minors require you have a work permit and focus on unskilled labor or basic office work, especially in the afternoons and evenings once school is out, though you may be able to find a position with more responsibility if you have the education or experience necessary for the role. Part-time jobs in this age range are rarely managerial, though if you stay on for a year or two, you may have the opportunity to start leading and guiding new hires. This often looks good on a resume right after college, so it is worth getting the experience if you can.

The primary qualifications for getting a job as a 16-year-old are customer service skills and the ability to get to your job consistently. Employers do not expect you to have professional experience, so the jobs are usually entry-level and offer some training before you begin. Any previous work experience—which, in this context, means labor you got paid for or proven skills—can help you stand out from others, but the deciding factor is usually whether or not you can convince a hiring manager that you are reliable. Employers look for applicants who are courteous, responsible, and willing to treat the job as a priority. Fulfilling the responsibilities and duties of these jobs requires communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work as part of a team.