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Top 7 winter break jobs for teens

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For teens and their families, winter break often means hot cocoa and cozy nights. But it’s also a prime opportunity for teens to earn extra cash, gain invaluable work experience, and take a step toward financial independence. Whether they’re saving for their first car, college, or spending money, short-term jobs over winter break can be a surprisingly lucrative way to build key skills.

From babysitting to snow shoveling, plenty of jobs don’t require a lot of experience but can still make a significant impact. Use our guide to the top winter break jobs for teens to put your kids on the path to success.

Why winter break is the perfect time for teens to work

Beyond the obvious free time, winter break is a unique window to explore work opportunities for several reasons:

Short-term commitment: In high school, most winter breaks are 2-3 weeks (sometimes longer in college). Between the holidays and winter weather, many companies and people need extra help, from retail to snow removal.
Flexible schedules: Many winter-specific and seasonal jobs offer part-time or flexible hours to attract job-seekers. It’s a great way for teens to balance work with family time or school-related activities.
Lower barrier to entry: When demand for workers is high, it’s easier to find work. That can help less-experienced teens find their first jobs.
Resume building: Any work experience at this age looks good on a resume, but it also builds essential life skills like responsibility, time management, and communication.

Encouraging teens to work fosters financial literacy, independence, and responsibility, key lessons that will serve them for a lifetime.

Best winter break jobs for teens

Here are some top job opportunities for teenagers looking to hustle over their winter break.

1. Sales associate

Many retail stores experience a surge during the holiday season, making sales associate positions a great option. Teens can help with customer assistance, stocking, and managing the holiday rush.

Perks: Store discounts and potential for tips.
Pay: Average or median $16/hour

2. Tutor

For academically strong teens who enjoy teaching, tutoring younger students in subjects like math, English, or science can be a lucrative choice. Online tutoring services also offer remote options and online jobs.

Perks: Flexible hours and a high hourly rate.
Pay: Average $24/hour

3. Babysitter

Babysitting remains a classic job for teens, especially during winter break when parents may need extra help during the holidays.

Perks: Builds trust and responsibility. Great for teens who enjoy kids and are ready to take on the responsibility.
Pay: $14 per hour on average, nationally. But private babysitters can earn $16-$24 an hour or more, depending on where you live.

4. Snow shoveler

For teens in colder climates, helping neighbors clear snow from driveways and sidewalks can be a great way to stay active and earn cash.

Perks: Outdoor work, exercise, and immediate payment.
Pay: $15–$20/hour (depending on location)

5. Grocery stocker or bagger

Stocking shelves at a local grocery store is perfect for teens who excel at organization and don’t mind early or later hours. You may also get to do different jobs, like cleaning, bagging groceries, or gathering shopping carts.

Perks: Minimal experience required, builds communication skills, variety of tasks
Pay: Around $15 per hour

6. Recreation services

Teens can work at community recreation centers or sports facilities over the holiday break. Duties might include supervising activities or assisting with events.

Perks: Social environment, creativity, community engagement, communication skills
Pay: $12–$16/hour

7. Camp counselor or counselor-in-training (CIT)

Many winter camps, especially for younger kids during the holidays, welcome teens as counselors or junior CITs. These roles often focus on entertainment and supervision or assisting more senior leaders.

Perks: Leadership experience and teamwork skills; communication skills; resume building for babysitting or nanny positions
Pay: $12–$16/hour

By encouraging teens to explore these roles, parents can introduce greater financial understanding and help their kids build valuable connections.

6 tips to help teens succeed in their winter break job

Help them prepare a strong resume. Even for entry-level roles, a clean, well-organized resume can make a strong impression. Highlight school achievements, volunteer experience, and relevant skills.
Encourage professional communication. Teach teens how to write a concise, polite email and practice answering common interview questions. Don’t forget the thank you note!
Set clear goals. Help your teen decide what they want to achieve, whether it’s saving a specific amount of money or gaining new skills. Or both!
Teach workplace etiquette. Help them understand the basics of professionalism, like punctuality, dressing appropriately, and showing respect to coworkers and supervisors.
Monitor their workload. Remind them to balance work with rest, family time, and personal activities during winter break.
Celebrate their success. Acknowledge their efforts with positive reinforcement. Discuss what they’ve learned and achieved by the end of the season.

FAQs about winter break jobs for teens

1. Are winter break jobs good for teens with no experience?

Yes! Many winter jobs, like babysitting or sales associate roles, require little to no prior experience and provide on-the-job training.

2. How can my teen find available jobs?

Check local stores, community boards, apps like Indeed, or social platforms to find job openings suited for teens.

3. Can a teen work if they’re under 16?

Yes, but restrictions may apply depending on labor laws in your state. Jobs like babysitting or snow shoveling often don't have formal age restrictions. Check the U.S. Department of Labor’s YouthRules program.

4. Do teens need a work permit for winter jobs?

Some states require work permits for minors. Check with your local labor office for guidance.

5. Are flexible jobs available for active teens?

Absolutely! Jobs like dog walking or tutoring offer flexible schedules, making them ideal for busy teens.

6. How much can teens expect to earn during a winter job?

Earnings depend on the role. Entry-level jobs might pay $10–$15/hour, while skilled roles like tutoring can reach $20–$25/hour.

7. Can teens use apps to find jobs?

Yes! Platforms like Snagajob, Care.com, and Indeed often feature listings for teen-friendly jobs.

8. What about unpaid positions?

Unpaid internships or volunteer roles can be valuable if your teen wants to gain skills or references instead of earnings.

9. How can parents stay involved?

Parents can guide their teens through the job search, help set financial goals, and provide support when challenges arise.

Wrapping up

Winter break jobs for teens are more than just a way to earn extra cash—they’re an opportunity to learn real-world skills and take their first steps into the workforce. By choosing the right role and setting achievable goals, teens can make the most of this holiday season.

If you and your teen are ready to start, discuss which jobs align with their skills and interests. Life lessons, financial growth, and personal development are only a few weeks away!

Start early! Raise money-savvy kids with Greenlight’s award-winning all-in-one money and safety app for families. Try out Greenlight.

This blog post is provided "as is" and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional advice. Some content in this post may have been created using artificial intelligence; however, every blog post is reviewed by at least two human editors.