The Best Jobs For 17-Year-Olds That Are Hiring Now

Ask any “oldie” and they’ll tell you they’ve been right where you are, searching for the best jobs for 17-year-olds that don’t make you question all your life choices. 

You see, seventeen is that sweet spot where you’re old enough to earn real money, smart enough to want more than a dead-end job, and still young enough to have the flexibility of youth. Whether you’re saving for your first car, helping out at home, or want extra spending cash, landing a part-time job at 17 can unlock independence, confidence, and real-world experience that puts you ahead of the game before graduation.

And guess what? Many of the jobs hiring 17-year-olds go way beyond flipping burgers or bagging groceries (though those are still solid options). The options have never been better, from in-person part-time positions at local businesses to remote gigs you can do from your laptop. 

In this guide, you’ll find high-paying, flexible, and even resume-worthy jobs to work at 17, including those that hire with zero experience and pay weekly. Whether you’re after fun, financial freedom, or a stepping stone to your future career, rest assured that you’re in the right place. 

The Whys of Getting a Job at 17

At 17, you’re at the perfect stage to start exploring employment opportunities without being weighed down by all the adult stuff (like taxes, rent, or wondering why your back suddenly hurts for no reason). Getting a job at this age means earning money, gaining a sense of independence, and starting to shape your future.

a. Financial benefits and independence

Who doesn’t like having a little extra cash? Whether it’s for gas, phone bills, or saving for college, earning and spending your own money hit different. Suddenly, you’re not asking your parents for every little thing; you have your own paycheck. 

And here’s the bonus: working at 17 teaches you how to budget, save, and even invest if you’re savvy. Some teens are already setting up savings accounts or investment apps, giving themselves a serious head start on financial freedom.

b. Building skills and experience for the future

Even if your first job at 17 is scooping ice cream or bagging groceries, you’re learning skills that stick for life. From time management, teamwork, customer service, and problem-solving, all look golden on a resume. 

Plus, you might even get a shot at training new hires or running small tasks solo, which is basically leadership 101. Every shift is low-key prep for whatever career path you chase down the road.

c. Figuring out the right work environment

Another perk of trying out jobs for 17-year-olds is that you get to figure out what kind of work you enjoy (and don’t enjoy). Perhaps you thought you were all about chatting with people, but after a summer at a coffee shop, you realize you’d rather have a quieter setup. Or maybe you discover you’re surprisingly good at sales, design, or even entrepreneurship

Employment opportunities for 17-year-olds come in all shapes and sizes, from outdoor work like landscaping to office internships, creative gigs, and everything in between. Each one helps you figure out what clicks and doesn’t before making big career moves later.

What to Look for in a Job for 17-Year-Olds

Here’s the truth: not every gig is worth your time. The “best” job for one 17-year-old could be a nightmare for another. So before you sign up for that first shift, here’s what matters most.

a. Flexibility for school and life

School is still a priority at 17. Whether you’re wrapping up high school or taking community college classes, your job shouldn’t wreck your grades or sanity.

The best jobs to work at 17 are the ones that fit around your schedule, not the other way around. Look for part-time roles with evening or weekend shifts, or companies that actually get it when you say you can’t work during finals week. 

b. Safe and supportive work environments

That employment opportunity for teens should never make you feel unsafe, overworked, or treated like you don’t matter. Especially if it’s your first gig, you want managers who train you properly, respect you, and don’t make every shift feel like an episode of Survivor. 

One easy hack? Check if other teens already work there and seem happy. If they’re thriving, chances are you will too. A safe, supportive workplace helps you build confidence for every job after this one.

c. Fair pay and learning opportunities

Yes, the money matters, but don’t chase only the highest hourly rate. Sometimes, a job that pays a little less can give you way more in return: new skills, great references, or even a path to future promotions. 

The best jobs for 17-year-olds usually strike a balance: solid pay and valuable experience. Think of it as an investment in yourself. Whether you’re learning customer service, tech skills, or how to handle responsibility, you’re stacking wins that go beyond your paycheck.

Best Places to Work at 17

You don’t have to wait until you are 18 to land a solid opportunity. There are tons of cool jobs hiring teens right now; the trick is knowing where to look. From big national chains to the mom-and-pop shop down the street, here are cool places to work at 17.

1. Retail stores

Clothing stores, shoe outlets, tech shops, and even bookstores are all teen-job classics. Retail teaches you customer service, teamwork, and how to handle money (without spending it all on snacks). Plus, the employee discounts can be a sweet perk if you’re into fashion, gadgets, or books

2. Restaurants and fast food chains

There’s a reason these are some of the best jobs to work at 17: restaurants are always hiring. You could be hosting, bussing tables, washing dishes, or helping prep food. Big fast-food chains like Chick-fil-A, McDonald’s, or Chipotle usually offer structured training, flexible hours, and the chance to move up if you stick around. 

Bonus: you’ll learn to work fast, stay organized under pressure, and communicate clearly, all great skills no matter what you do later in life.

3. Local businesses and community Centers

Don’t sleep on local spots! Small businesses, libraries, landscaping services, daycare centers, and community centers often hire teens for part-time or seasonal gigs. These stints usually feel more personal (and sometimes more fun) than working for a big chain.

You can also explore seasonal work like working at amusement parks, ice cream shops, or summer camps, all great places to work at 17 during school breaks.

4. Online tasks and remote opportunities

Here’s where things get exciting. Thanks to remote work, you don’t even have to leave your parents’ home to make money anymore. Online jobs for 17-year-olds include freelancing gigs like writing, tutoring, social media management, graphic design, or even basic virtual assistant work. 

There are also simpler online tasks like surveys, transcription, or data entry on platforms like Fiverr, Upwork, and Rev.

Where to start applying

Once you’re ready, you can find jobs to apply for at 17 on sites like Indeed, Snagajob, or even your local community Facebook groups. And don’t forget the old-school method: walk into a store or restaurant, ask if they’re hiring, and drop off an application. Dress neatly, be polite, and you’ll already stand out.

High Paying Jobs for 17-Year-Olds

Let’s talk about money. After all, minimum wage isn’t always enough to cover gas, late-night snacks, and that trendy hoodie. Luckily, not all teen jobs are created equal. Some gigs actually pay really well, giving you more freedom and way less stress about your wallet. Here are a few jobs for 17-year-olds with good pay

a. Lifeguarding

If you’re certified, lifeguarding at pools or beaches can bring in anywhere from $15 to $20+ per hour. Sure, it’s a serious responsibility (people’s safety is in your hands), but it’s also rewarding and often seasonal, which works great with a school schedule. Sun, water, and a solid paycheck? Not a bad combo.

b. Pet sitting

If you’ve got a good reputation with neighbors, family friends, or in your community, pet sitting can be one of the best-paying jobs for 17-year-olds. You can earn $20 per walk or drop-in, and up to $50 per day, especially if you’re CPR-certified or have hands-on experience.

Pro tip: If you’ve helped raise or care for dogs throughout your life, highlight that in your bio on local platforms like Facebook community groups. Don’t be afraid to ask around; the worst they can say is no, but the upside could be a steady gig (and puppy cuddles).

c. Freelancing or tech support

If you’ve got digital skills like video editing, social media management, building websites, or troubleshooting tech, you’re sitting on a goldmine. The best part? You can earn straight from your laptop without the hassle of commuting. 

Platforms like Fiverr and Upwork make it easy to start, or you can keep it local and offer your services in your community. It’s flexible, modern, and lets you work comfortably from home.

d. Tutoring younger students

Are you strong in math, science, English, or SAT prep? Tutoring could be a double win for you: you make $15–$30 an hour and help someone else succeed.

Parents love hiring responsible local teens who understand the school system, and with online tutoring platforms, you don’t even have to leave home.

d. Car detailing

Got an eye for detail and enjoy hands-on work? Car detailing is an in-demand service that can bring in $50–$150 per job, depending on the level of cleaning and type of vehicle. Start with family and neighbors, and offer to transform their car interiors and exteriors like new. 

All you need is basic supplies and a strong work ethic, and you can start small and scale fast.

e. Landscaping

Looking for other blue-collar jobs for 17-year-olds? Landscaping is always in demand, especially once the weather warms up. From mowing lawns and tidying up flower beds to raking leaves and trimming bushes, there’s no shortage of work in this field. You can earn $15–$25 an hour, and clients usually tip well if you do a great job and show up reliably.

If you’re strong, reliable, and don’t mind getting your hands dirty, this is a great way to earn real cash fast.

Jobs That Pay Weekly for Teens

Getting paid every week means faster access to your earnings, which is perfect for teens with expenses like gas, lunch money, or saving for weekend plans. While most jobs pay bi-weekly, quite a few companies and gig roles offer weekly pay for 17-year-olds and above.

Just remember to balance them with your school and extracurricular activities.

1. Fast food chains and restaurants

Some fast-food giants like Jimmy John’s, Pizza Hut, and even certain local franchises offer weekly paychecks to part-time employees. These roles may include cashiering, food prep, dishwashing, or even delivery (where legally allowed). These jobs are easy to get into, offer flexible schedules, and often have a high turnover, meaning they’re almost always hiring.

2. Grocery stores and retail Chains

Retail companies like Kroger, Dollar Tree, and even some locations of Walmart and Target have weekly or daily pay options through third-party services like DailyPay or Instant. That means you can access your earnings just a day or two after working. If you’re looking for weekly-paying jobs for 17-year-olds, ask about pay schedules during the interview process.

3. Temp agencies and gig Jobs

Many temporary staffing agencies will place teens into event staffing, warehouse assistance, or seasonal retail gigs and pay them weekly. While some jobs might be short-term, they can still offer decent pay and valuable experience. Teens can also explore freelance gig sites that pay after task completion, providing fast payment.

4. Babysitting and lawn care

Let’s not forget classic teen jobs like babysitting, dog walking, or lawn mowing. These roles often pay in cash and are typically paid immediately after the job, making them weekly paying jobs even if unofficially. If you’re reliable and build a client base, this can become a consistent stream of income.

Good First Jobs for 17-Year-Olds with No Experience

Seeking a no-experience job for 17-year-olds? Whether you’re shy, outgoing, curious, or creative, there’s a place for you to start building your work ethic and figuring out how the real world works.

a. Grocery stores

Bagging groceries, stocking shelves, or collecting carts are classic starter tasks. Stores like Publix, Safeway, and Albertsons are known for hiring teens and teaching young workers everything they need to know. The roles are simple, the hours are steady, and you’ll get a real taste of responsibility (and maybe a few funny customer stories)

b. Ice cream shops and cafés

Sweet jobs hiring 17-year-olds? Yes, please. Local ice cream shops, donut spots, and coffee cafés often need help during after-school hours or weekends. These low-pressure environments are great places to learn customer service and multitasking in a relaxed setting.

c. Movie theaters

From selling tickets, operating POS, assisting guests, to cleaning between showings, paid gigs at movie theatres are perfect for first-timers. They often come with perks like free movie passes and flexible hours, which is perfect for balancing work and school. Major chains like AMC Theatres and Regal hire 17-year-olds in many locations, so don’t hesitate to apply. 

d. Amusement parks and seasonal Events

Summer fairs, amusement parks, and holiday pop-up shops are perfect places to work at 17 when you’re not sure you want to stick with one job all year. They usually hire in bulk and offer straightforward roles like ride operators, ticket sales, or game attendants. The roles are simple, you don’t need a resume, and you’ll meet tons of people.

e. Mystery shopper

Want something a little different? Try being a mystery shopper. Brands pay you to act like a real customer and report back on your experience. It’s perfect if you’re naturally curious, self-motivated, good at written and verbal communication skills, self-motivated, and have an eye for detail. You’ll give feedback, sometimes fill out short reports, and get paid for your opinions (and sometimes your snacks, too!).

f. Internships or apprenticeships

If you’re curious about a field like business, tech, healthcare, or even the arts, consider looking for internships or apprenticeships that welcome high school students. Many companies and organizations run special programs for teens, often during school breaks or summer holidays.

These opportunities let you dip your toes into the real world of work, learn new skills, and make professional connections that can help you later. You might help with projects, shadow experienced employees, or even get involved in real tasks that look great on a resume.

How to apply without experience

When applying for jobs for 17-year-olds with no experience, don’t stress too much about your resume. Focus on school achievements, volunteer gigs, and even times you helped out at home or participated in clubs. All those experiences count.

What really matters is showing you have a strong work ethic, a positive attitude, and a willingness to learn. That’s what most managers are really looking for: someone eager and ready to grow.

Employers know you’re just getting started, and many prefer to train you their way. These good first jobs for 17-year-olds are a great way to ease into the working world and find out what you truly enjoy doing. Who knows, your first part-time gig might just lead you to your next big thing.

Part-Time Jobs for 17-Year-Olds (Students and Busy Teens)

Your schedule is already packed with school, sports, clubs, and maybe a little family drama on the side. That’s why part-time jobs are the real MVP for most 17-year-olds. Your goal is to find something flexible that fits around your life (not the other way around).

1. After-school and weekend shifts

Retail and food service jobs are classics for a reason. Stores in the mall, grocery chains, and spots like Subway or Domino’s are usually happy to work with your school schedule. Even if you only have a few evenings or weekends free, these places will often make it work.

Plus, these jobs to work at 17 go beyond making money. You’ll master time management and learning how to juggle school, work, and, well, everything else. Trust me, those skills will come in handy later in college or your career.

2. Tutoring and babysitting

If you’re great at subjects like math, science, or English, consider tutoring younger students online or in your neighborhood. Or if you’re good with kids and have a good relationship with families in your community, babysitting is a classic part-time job for 17-year-olds. Both are flexible and usually happen in the afternoons or evenings, so they will hardly mess with your schoolwork.

3. Library and campus jobs

Don’t overlook your school or local library! Many libraries and school offices hire students for things like shelving books or helping with clerical tasks. It’s usually calm, quiet, and matches up perfectly with your class schedule.

4. Freelance projects or hobbies turned jobs

Got a creative streak? Turn your hobbies into a paycheck. Design graphics for local businesses, play your favorite musical instrument at events, help people manage their social media, or create digital content. You might be surprised how much you can earn doing something you already love.

5. Beach attendant

If you love being by the water and want a job with flexible hours, a beach attendant job could be perfect for evenings, weekends, and holidays. Your day-to-day could include everything from collecting payments for the water park, keeping counters neat, and handing out life jackets, to organizing gear and ensuring everyone plays by the safety rules.

This job is for someone who’s friendly, doesn’t mind a bit of light lifting, is comfortable using a computer, and can follow instructions well. Bonus: you’ll be outside, enjoying fresh air and waterfront views while you work.

Time-saving tips for student workers

Balancing work and school takes planning. Use a calendar app to keep track of shifts, homework, and deadlines. Be clear with your employer about how many hours you can work each week. Don’t forget to take care of yourself. If things ever feel too hectic, it’s okay to cut back on work until you catch your breath.

Remember, part-time jobs for 17-year-olds shouldn’t take over your life. Pick a role(s) that respect your time, match your interests, and help you reach your own goals. You’ve got this.

Online Jobs for 17-Year-Olds at Home 

Not a fan of leaving the house? You’re in luck. There are tons of online jobs for 17-year-olds at home that let you earn real money without setting foot outside. Whether you’re a straight-A student, super creative, or want to try something new, there’s a digital gig out there with your name on it. 

1. Online tutoring and homework help

Websites like Studypool, Skooli, and even Fiverr let you offer tutoring sessions or answer homework questions. You set your availability, so it’s super flexible. If you’re patient and can explain things clearly, this could be your perfect remote hustle at 17. 

2. Freelance work (Writing, editing, graphic design)

You don’t need years of experience to start freelancing. Create a profile on platforms like Upwork or Fiverr and offer simple services like social media captions, article rewriting, basic logos, or typing assignments. 

These online jobs for 17-year-olds at home are great for those with digital skills and creativity. Build up your profile with a few successful gigs and watch your confidence (and client list) grow.

3. Data entry jobs for 17-year-olds

If you’re detail-oriented and don’t mind repetitive tasks, data entry could be your thing. While some companies require you to be 18, there are still microtask sites where 17-year-olds can get started, like Amazon Mechanical Turk or Clickworker. You can do mini tasks like surveys, transcriptions, or image labeling, all great for earning a little extra cash between homework sessions.

4. Selling crafts or products online

How about setting up an Etsy store or promoting your crafts on Instagram or TikTok? Whether you make jewelry, art, or other unique products, you can reach buyers worldwide with a little social media marketing. Not crafty? Try reselling thrifted clothes, rare books, or sneakers on eBay, Depop, or Poshmark. Some teens have turned this into a serious side hustle.

Be cautious of scams

This is important: online jobs are awesome, but scams are everywhere. Never pay money just to apply for a job and be wary of any gig promising huge pay for almost zero work. Always use legit platforms, and if anything seems weird, talk to a trusted adult before you hand over any info.

Extra tips for success:

• Set up a professional email address for job applications
• Create simple work samples (like a short blog post or a digital drawing) to show off your skills
• Schedule work around homework, not the other way around
• Stay organized with a spreadsheet or calendar to track your gigs and payments

Best Jobs for Teens With Anxiety or Social Challenges

Not every teen is comfortable in noisy, fast-paced, or super social environments, and that’s totally okay. If you struggle with anxiety, shyness, or get drained from too much people time, there are still plenty of good jobs for teens with anxiety that let you work in your comfort zone and still earn some cash.

a. Library assistant

Libraries are about as peaceful as it gets. You’ll be surrounded by books, working in a calm, structured environment where things rarely get hectic. Most tasks involve shelving books, organizing materials, or helping out with basic paperwork. The best part? You can go at your own pace, and there’s usually very little customer interaction.

b. Dog walking or pet sitting

If you love animals, this could be your dream job. Dog walking lets you spend time outdoors and enjoy peaceful walks with a happy pup or two. Pet sitting is usually pretty chill, too. You’ll be feeding pets, tidying up, and maybe playing a little fetch. Plus, you get to set your own schedule and don’t have to deal with busy crowds or high-pressure situations.

c. Stocking or janitorial work

These jobs are often done after hours when the store is quiet and customers are gone. Grocery stores, retail outlets, or cleaning companies sometimes hire teens for night-shift stocking, organizing inventory, or general maintenance, great jobs for 17-year-olds who prefer solo tasks.

d. Online freelance or artistic work

If you’re creative or tech-savvy, you can find tons of online gigs that let you work independently. Write blog posts, edit videos, create digital art, or run social media pages, all from your own space and on your own terms. You get to express yourself without having to constantly interact with people.

Applying for the right roles for teens with anxiety

When you’re looking for jobs as a 17-year-old with anxiety, be honest with yourself about what kind of environment feels right for you. You don’t have to disclose any personal mental health details, but it’s perfectly okay to ask employers about things like the work setting, team size, and what a typical day looks like during the interview process. 

Sometimes the best opportunities are close to home, so try reaching out to places you already know, like your local library or a neighbor who might need help with their pets.

There’s no “perfect” job for everyone, especially if you’re managing anxiety or other mental health stuff. With a little research and a good sense of what makes you comfortable, you’ll find a role that lets you grow at your own pace.

How to Apply for Jobs for 17-Year-Olds

Applying for jobs for the first time can feel a little nerve-wracking, but trust me, you’ve got this.  Whether you’re applying online or walking into a store, a few simple steps can help you stand out and boost your chances of landing that gig.

a. Prepare a basic resume

Even if you have no formal work experience, a simple resume can help you look prepared and professional. Include

• Your name and contact info
• Education (current school, GPA if it’s something you’re proud of)
• Volunteer work or extracurricular activities
• Skills (like being organized, good at math, creative, team player)
• References (teachers, coaches, or family friends, not parents)

Tip: With a ton of resume templates for students online, you’re spoilt for choice; find one you like and fill in what you can offer.

b. Be ready with a work permit (if required)

Depending on where you live, you might need a work permit at 17. If you’re not sure, check with your school’s guidance counselor or your state’s labor website. Having this sorted before you apply can really speed things up when a manager says yes.

c. Where to find work for 17-year-olds

Start with places you already know: local businesses, family-owned shops, grocery stores, and retail outlets. You can also search employment opportunities for 17-year-olds on job sites like:

• Snagajob (has filters for teen-friendly jobs)
• Indeed
• Craigslist (with caution)
• Local Facebook groups and community boards

Don’t forget to check the careers section on the websites of companies you’re interested in; sometimes that’s where the best jobs are hiding.

d. How to apply

If you’re applying in person, dress neatly, bring a few copies of your resume, and walk in with a smile. Ask to speak with the manager, be polite, and simply ask if they’re hiring. Sometimes just showing up in person is enough to impress.

For online applications, double-check your spelling and grammar, answer every question as fully as you can, and always attach your resume and any required documents. Treat your application like a first impression.

Tip: When it comes to applying for jobs for 17-year-olds, employers care more about your attitude than your experience. Show that you’re reliable, polite, and willing to learn, and you’ll be ahead of the pack.

e. Follow up after applying

Once you’ve applied, don’t just sit around waiting. If you haven’t heard back in a week, it’s okay to call or stop by to follow up on your application. Reaching out shows initiative, and managers appreciate seeing that you’re genuinely interested in the job.

How to Get a Job at 17 With No Experience

It’s the classic catch-22: you need experience to get a job, but you need a job to get experience. Luckily, you don’t have to have a long resume to get hired at 17. With the right attitude and a bit of creativity, you can break into the workforce, even when starting from scratch.

a. Play up your strengths

Think about what you’re already great at, even if it’s not from a “real” job. Have you spent weekends babysitting your little brother or sister? That’s childcare experience. Managed to rack up followers on TikTok or run your school’s club page? That’s social media marketing. Helped organize a school event or fundraiser? You’ve got project management chops. Employers love these soft skills and often value them as much as previous job experience.

b. Highlight school and volunteer work

Any relevant experience counts, even if you didn’t get paid. Babysitting for neighbors, volunteering at food drives, tutoring classmates, or leading a group project all show you’re responsible and motivated. List these on your resume and mention them during interviews. It paints a picture of someone trustworthy and capable.

c. Start small and build up

Some of the greatest jobs for 17-year-olds with no experience are ones where you can learn as you go. Look for entry-level positions in retail, fast food, or local businesses that offer training. Once you get your foot in the door, you’ll pick up new skills and open the door to even bigger opportunities down the road

d. Ask around and network

Don’t be shy; Let your family, friends, neighbors, and even teachers know you’re job hunting. So many jobs never get posted online and are filled by word of mouth.  When people know you’re eager to work, they’re more likely to pass your name along when something pops up.

e. Stay persistent and positive

Getting a job without experience takes some patience. Not every application will get accepted, and that’s totally normal. Still, don’t let rejection get you down. Keep applying, keep showing up, and keep learning as you go. The first “yes” might be just around the corner.

PS: Getting hired at 17 with no experience is all about effort, attitude, and showing you’re ready to learn. Employers appreciate teens who are motivated and willing to work, and sometimes that’s all you need to stand out

Conclusion

Getting a job at 17 is far more than earning a paycheck. It’s your chance to step into adulthood, build confidence, explore what you like (and what you don’t), and start shaping your future. Whether you’re looking for a high-paying gig, an easy first job, or something flexible you can do from home, there’s an opportunity waiting for you.

Remember: flexibility, safety, and skill-building should guide your search for jobs for a 17-year-old. Don’t settle for anything that comes along; take the time to research, put in the effort, and aim for something that fits your schedule, supports your goals, and sets you up for future success.

So go ahead; apply, interview, show up, and give it your best. The world is ready for everything you have to offer.

Ezekiel Maina

Ezekiel Maina is the brains behind ContentGenics, where he pairs creativity and strategy to craft B2B and B2C content that real people love to read. He has written for brands like House Digest, iFoundries, Harmony Home Medical, Postaga, and BeamJobs, and covered topics like home improvement, real estate, freelancing, digital marketing, career growth, food & travel, automotive, durable medical equipment (DME), and Cannabis. By day, he’s crafting content, catching up with clients from his home office, lost in a good book, or occasionally chasing nature and greenery in another county. By late evening, he’s typically deep in a documentary rabbit hole on Netflix or YouTube.