As summer approaches, many high school students are searching for jobs to earn money, gain friendships and has. Around the Triangle, a wide range of seasonal and part-time jobs are available for teens aged 16 and older. These jobs are great opportunities for teens, as they not only provide income but also strengthen confidence, responsibility and skills that will be used beyond the summer.
Camp Counselor – Summer Day Camp
One of the highest-paying and most rewarding jobs is the camp counselor position with the Town of Chapel Hill. With a pay rate of $15.85 per hour, this role includes overseeing younger kids and participating in games, swimming, crafts and outdoor activities. This position is tailored towards teens who are willing to lead group activities, be fully engaged and help create a welcoming environment. The job also includes certification in CPR, First Aid and AED use, which are valuable skills in many places. While the job is physically demanding and requires patience, it is an excellent opportunity to showcase your leadership skills, and it stands out on resumes and applications.
Summer Day Camp Counselor – YMCA of the Triangle
Another great opportunity for students to work with kids is the Summer Day Camp Counselor position at the YMCA of the Triangle in Cary. This role focuses on building connections with campers and leading fun and educational activities. Counselors will be assigned groups with kids ranging from kindergarten through middle school, making this role great for anyone interested in teaching or childcare in the future. The job offers four locations: two on-site, one at West Cary Middle and one at Lake Crabtree Park. YMCA is seeking teens who are willing to work up to 40 hours per week. While the pay rate is lower at 11 dollars per hour, teens who have done this job before find it to be an amazing experience. Aarav Bharadwaj, a freshman at North Carolina State University, worked at the YMCA during his junior and senior year summers. He said, “If I could do it again, I would. It was lots of fun being with the kids, and I had a great time with the other counselors.”
Prestonwood Country Club – Golf Cart/Driving Range Attendants
For teens who prefer working outdoors, the Prestonwood Country Club is looking for Cart/Range Attendants. The country club offers both part-time and seasonal summer positions, with an emphasis on working 15 to 25 hours a week. Teens whose schedules are flexible on weekends and holidays and who can work between 6:00 AM and 8:00 PM on weekdays, are encouraged to apply. A valid driver’s license is required for the job, as you will be operating a vehicle for a duration of your shift. Tasks during the job include: assisting golfers with unloading, maintaining cleanliness, setting up staging and practice areas and providing friendly customer service. There is a flat rate of $12 per hour; however, food and snacks are provided, and there are limited golfing privileges.
Smoothie King Team Member Morrisville/Cary
Another popular job among many teens is working at fast-food restaurants. Smoothie King is currently hiring, offering both full and part-time positions. The job involves preparing smoothies efficiently, handling transactions, upholding cleanliness standards and providing excellent customer service in a fast-paced environment. Smoothie King is offering $10-$13 an hour, with an employee discount, paid training and a flexible schedule. Smoothie King is a great place to begin your career, as it teaches you leadership, communication and collaboration skills. Ritika Mora, a junior at NCSSM Morganton, shared her experience working at Smoothie King. “It was a pretty chill, but fun experience. It reminded me of the Papa’s Pizzeria game, so I enjoyed it.”
Lifeguard (Summer 2026) – Saint Mary’s School
If you are interested in being at the pool all summer long, being a lifeguard may be the right job for you. Saint Mary’s School is looking for lifeguards who are willing to work from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM on weekdays, and are flexible with weekends and evenings as well. This job starts on June 15, 2026, lasting for six weeks, but teens are not required to work all six weeks. Lifeguards will be asked to oversee the pool and campers, enforce pool rules and rescue when necessary. All applicants must have lifeguard certification with First Aid, CPR and AED for Professional Rescuers. If hired, expect to be paid between $13.75 – $17.75 an hour.
These summer jobs offer a variety of opportunities for students to explore different careers and learn new skills. Whether it’s working with children, assisting golfers, ensuring safety at the pool or serving customers, each position leaves employees with unique experiences that will never be forgotten. Beyond earning money, students gain independence, leadership, responsibility and develop skills that will be useful in both college and professional careers.
