#217 Earn, Learn & Shine: 10 Hot Seasonal Jobs for Youth
Seasonal work is a fantastic way for young people to gain experience, earn extra cash, and explore different industries while keeping a flexible schedule that fits around school or other commitments.
Here in Orange County, CA, there are plenty of seasonal opportunities for job seekers aged 16 to 24. Here’s a rundown of the top 10 seasonal jobs, complete with what you’d be doing, the expected wages, and whether these gigs are typically part time or full time.
Retail Sales Associate
In bustling shopping centers and malls, retail sales associates help customers find what they need, restock merchandise, and keep the store looking great.
• Duties: Assist customers, manage cash registers, and maintain store appearance.
• Expected Wage: $12–$15 per hour.
• Job Type: Usually part time, with potential for full-time during busy holiday seasons.
Food Service Worker
From fast-food restaurants to casual dining spots, food service workers are in high demand, especially during peak seasons.
• Duties: Take orders, serve food, and keep dining areas clean.
• Expected Wage: $12–$16 per hour.
• Job Type: Typically part time, though full-time shifts may be available during busy periods.
Lifeguard
Orange County’s beautiful beaches and community pools need vigilant lifeguards to keep swimmers safe.
• Duties: Monitor pool or beach activities, enforce safety rules, and respond to emergencies.
• Expected Wage: $12–$20 per hour, depending on experience and certification.
• Job Type: Often full time during the summer season.
Camp Counselor
Summer camps in Orange County provide a fun, immersive experience for kids—and you can be a part of that!
• Duties: Supervise campers, plan activities, and ensure a safe, engaging environment.
• Expected Wage: $10–$15 per hour.
• Job Type: Generally full time for the duration of the camp season.
Amusement Park Attendant
Theme parks and local attractions ramp up staffing in the summer.
• Duties: Operate rides, assist guests, and maintain safety on the attractions.
• Expected Wage: Around $12–$18 per hour.
• Job Type: Mostly part time, with some full-time opportunities during peak times.
Resort Host/Guest Services Representative
Hotels and resorts in Orange County often look for friendly faces to greet guests and provide top-notch service.
• Duties: Welcome visitors, answer questions, and assist with check-ins.
• Expected Wage: Approximately $15–$20 per hour.
• Job Type: Can be either part time or full time, depending on the season.
Delivery Assistant/Driver
With increased online shopping and food delivery, there’s a need for delivery assistants or drivers in the area.
• Duties: Help deliver packages or food orders, interact with customers, and sometimes assist with logistics.
• Expected Wage: $15–$20 per hour.
• Job Type: Both part time and full time options are available, subject to age and driving eligibility.
Landscaping/Lawn Care Worker
For those who enjoy working outdoors, seasonal landscaping offers hands-on work in gardens and public spaces.
• Duties: Mow lawns, plant gardens, and maintain outdoor areas.
• Expected Wage: Around $12–$18 per hour.
• Job Type: Available as both part time and full time during the growing season.
Event Staff/Festival Worker
From local fairs to summer festivals, event staff play a crucial role in ensuring smooth operations.
• Duties: Assist with ticketing, crowd management, and setup/teardown tasks.
• Expected Wage: Typically $12–$16 per hour.
• Job Type: Mostly part time, with full-time roles possible during multi-day events.
Tour Guide/Attraction Assistant
Orange County is a popular destination for tourists, and attractions need enthusiastic guides.
• Duties: Lead tours, provide information about local attractions, and enhance visitor experiences.
• Expected Wage: $12–$15 per hour.
• Job Type: Generally part time, perfect for fitting around school schedules.
Each of these roles offer a chance to build skills, meet new people, and explore potential career paths while earning money. If you’re ready to dive into the workforce and gain valuable real-world experience, there might be a job just waiting for you. Happy job hunting!