Jobs for teenagers in the UK by age

Many teenagers want to start earning their own money. That might be because they’re saving up for something special, gaining independence, or building work experience for the future. But if you’re a teenager in the UK, the jobs you can do will depend on your age, as there are rules around hours and types of work.

This guide breaks down the best jobs for teenagers in the UK, showing you what’s available at ages 13 to 15, 16+, and 18 and over.

Jobs for 13 to 15 Year Olds in the UK

If you’re aged 13 to 15, you can only do “light work” and your hours are restricted – usually just weekends or school holidays, with a work permit from your local council. While this limits your choices, there are still some great part-time jobs for young teenagers.

Examples of jobs for 13 to 15 year olds include:

• Paper rounds: A classic first job, delivering newspapers or leaflets in your local area. Remember to look at local area magazines as well as newspapers, they often look for delivery people and may only need someone once every couple of months – ideal if you’re busy with school work.
• Shop assistant (light duties): Helping with tidying shelves, restocking, or working in small shops. Whilst I’ve researched and found out that this is something teenagers can do, I’ve been into loads of shops in my local area and they’ve all told me you have to be 16.
• Café or restaurant helper: Clearing tables, serving drinks, or washing up. I do know a couple of people who have managed to find this sort of work at age 14 or 15.
• Office junior: Simple admin tasks such as filing, photocopying, or sorting mail. Most offices will need someone aged 16 or over but if you have a family member or friend with an office-based business, it’s worth asking if they’ll consider hiring you.

These early roles are a brilliant way to learn responsibility, get into a routine, and enjoy your first pay packet.

Jobs for 16+ Teenagers in the UK

At 16, your job options open up significantly. You’re able to work longer hours and apply for roles with more responsibility. Many employers are also keen to hire 16-year-olds, especially once GCSEs are finished.

Popular jobs for 16 year olds and above include:

• Retail jobs: Working in supermarkets, fashion stores, or local shops, handling tills and customer service.
• Hospitality jobs: Waiting tables, working in fast-food outlets, or being a barista.
• Lifeguard: With a National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ), you can work at swimming pools and leisure centres. To further extend the amount you can earn, it’s worth considering training to be a swimming teacher, which is another role you can do at the age of 16.
• Cinema or entertainment work: Selling tickets, serving snacks, or helping customers find seats.
• Catering assistant: Helping with food prep and keeping kitchens running smoothly.

At this age, you can also apply for apprenticeships. This is a brilliant way to earn money while gaining qualifications and workplace experience, especially if you’re not keen on staying at school!

Jobs for 18+ Teenagers in the UK

Turning 18 lifts nearly all employment restrictions, and you’re now eligible for the same jobs as adults. You can take on full-time work, night shifts, or roles that involve more responsibility.

Examples of jobs for 18 year olds and over include:

• Bar work: Serving drinks in pubs, clubs, or restaurants (you must be 18 to serve alcohol).
• Delivery driving: With a full driving licence, you can work as a courier or food delivery driver.
• Security roles: Event or nightclub security (with the required licence).
• Warehouse or factory work: Often involving machinery or night shifts.
• Care assistant: Working in healthcare settings such as care homes.

At 18, a much wider range of full-time jobs and apprenticeships become available, giving you the chance to properly start your career.

Other ideas

If you’re finding it difficult to get a job because everybody wants you to already have experience, consider taking on some voluntary roles. This will allow you to build up an impressive CV so that employers can see you’re a hard worker and you’re capable of following instructions. Check out my post about voluntary jobs for teenagers. I’ve also written about how teenagers can make money in other ways without getting a proper job.