Where Can I Get a Job if I'm Only 15?

So you're 15 and you want to work. Rather than lecture you about cherishing your carefree youth and doing an awesome karaoke version of "Forever Young," I'll skip it. Your mind is made up and you want your first job. Seriously, who could blame you? A job means freedom, no more begging your parents for allowance, and probably saving for a car.

So have at it. But wait - who will hire you if you're 15?

Can you apply on Snagajob if you're 15?

Nope, sorry. Because Snagajob posts jobs for employers all over the country (and in Puerto Rico), it's important that website policy is compliant with all state laws. In order to do this, the minimum age requirement for all applicants is 16 years old.

But my birthday is in a week. Can I apply early?

Let us be the first to say: "HAPPY BIRTHDAY!" Now that that's settled, back to your question. The answer is still no, sorry. Our system is designed to reject any applications from anyone under 16. If you're dead set on applying online, you can spend your birthday juiced up on cake filling out applications until your head explodes.

Have at it, but not until your birthday.

So you're saying Snagajob is no good to me if I'm 15.

Hold your horses. We didn't say that. You might need to be 16 to apply, but there's no harm in window shopping. Signing up for Job Alerts is a great place to start (then the jobs will come to you). Once you find the perfect job, read some application and resume pointers, interview tips, job advice for when you land your first job, or whatever will be useful to you. Read up about the company you're thinking about applying for. There's a lot of helpful information on Snagajob - don't write it all off just because you can't apply online.

What do I do if I find my dream job on Snagajob?

Excellent question. You might be young, but you sure are smart. First, check the employer's age requirement (usually listed in the job description). If no minimum age is stated, it doesn't hurt to call and ask. If they hire 15-year-olds or almost-16-year-olds, you can apply to the job in person. When you're talking directly to the hiring manager, you can tell him or her, "I turn 16 in a week." Be honest about your age, and be sure to list all your relevant experience (because this is probably your first job). School and volunteer activities are a great place to start.

Now that we've established the ground rules, you should feel free to start searching. Your dream job is only a click away!