Whether you're looking for your first job, a summer position, or part-time work during the school year, the resources below can help you prepare, search, and succeed. Working while in high school can help you build valuable skills, earn money, explore career interests, and strengthen your resume.

Local Employment Opportunities

Many local businesses hire high school students throughout the year. Check with:

• Restaurants and cafés

• Grocery stores

• Retail stores

• Recreation departments

• Camps and childcare programs

• Landscaping companies

• Farms and garden centers

• Municipal offices

• Libraries

• Local businesses

Be sure to check our Job Board for announcements about local job openings throughout the year.

Online Job Search Resources

Explore these trusted websites to search for part-time, seasonal, and entry-level positions:

• NJ Career Connections – www.careerconnections.nj.gov

• Indeed – www.indeed.com

• Snagajob – www.snagajob.com

• SimplyHired – www.simplyhired.com

• LinkedIn Jobs – www.linkedin.com/jobs

Build Your Resume

Even if you've never had a job, you can include:

• Volunteer experience

• School clubs and activities

• Athletics

• Leadership positions

• Community service

• Academic achievements

• Skills and certifications

Helpful websites:

• indeed.com: How To Make Your Resume Comprehensive (With Examples)

• Examples of skills employers are looking for

• Transferrable Skills

• https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/resumes-cover-letters/action-verbs-to-make-your-resume-stand-out

Practice Interviewing

Prepare by practicing common interview questions such as:

• Tell me about yourself.

• Why do you want to work here?

• What are your strengths?

• Describe a time you worked as part of a team.

• How would you handle a difficult customer?

Working Papers (New Jersey)

If you're under 18 and planning to work in New Jersey, you'll generally need to complete the state's online Working Papers process before beginning employment.

Delaware Valley Regional High School has created a step-by-step guide to help students and employers complete the process.

Get Started: DVRHS Working Papers Information

The page includes:

• Information about New Jersey's online Working Papers system

• Instructions for students and parents

• Employer responsibilities

• Frequently asked questions

• Links to the state's online Working Papers portal

Starting the process before your first day of work can help ensure you're ready to begin employment without delays.

• Be reliable and show up on time.

• Communicate professionally with your employer.

• Balance work, school, activities, and personal time.

• Ask questions when you're unsure.

• Maintain a positive attitude and be willing to learn.

• Keep track of your work schedule and responsibilities.

Dress for Success and Impress

The way you present yourself can have a big impact on an employer's first impression. Dressing appropriately and demonstrating professional behavior shows that you are responsible, prepared, and excited about the opportunity.

Look the Part

Choose clothing that is clean, neat, and appropriate for the position you're seeking.

Recommended attire:

• Clean, wrinkle-free clothing

• Khakis, dress pants, or neat jeans without holes, rips, or frayed edges (if appropriate for the workplace)

• A collared shirt, polo, blouse, or modest sweater

• Closed-toe shoes or clean, well-maintained footwear

• Minimal jewelry and accessories

• Neat hair and good personal hygiene

Avoid wearing:

• Clothing with holes, tears, or excessive distressing

• Dirty, stained, or wrinkled clothing

• Graphic T-shirts with inappropriate language or images

• Pajama pants, slippers, or flip-flops

• Hats or hoods (unless worn for religious or medical reasons)

• Clothing that is overly revealing

When in doubt, it's better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed.

Make a Great First Impression

Employers begin evaluating candidates before the interview even starts. These simple habits can help you stand out:

• Arrive 10–15 minutes early. Being on time shows reliability and respect for the employer's schedule.

• Greet everyone politely. Be courteous to receptionists, managers, and other employees—you never know who may be asked for their impression of you.

• Offer a firm handshake (when appropriate) and introduce yourself confidently.

• Make eye contact and smile. It shows confidence, attentiveness, and enthusiasm.

• Put your phone away. Silence it and keep it out of sight during your visit.

• Speak clearly and professionally. Avoid slang and use respectful language such as "please" and "thank you."

• Listen carefully and answer questions thoughtfully. It's okay to take a moment before responding.

• Show enthusiasm. Let the employer know why you're interested in the job and eager to learn.

• Bring what you need. Have copies of your resume, a list of references (if requested), a note pad and a pen.

• Thank the interviewer before you leave and express your appreciation for their time.

Remember, employers are looking for more than experience—they want dependable, respectful, and positive employees. A professional appearance, good manners, and a confident attitude can set you apart from other applicants and help you make a lasting impression.

If you're not ready for a paid job, consider gaining experience through:

• Volunteering

• Job shadowing

• Internships

• Senior Practicum

• School clubs and leadership opportunities

• Community service projects

These experiences help develop valuable workplace skills and strengthen future job and college applications.