Despite a competitive market, finding a summer job is highly beneficial for teens

Teen Summer Employment Struggles Amid Downturn in Job Market

Despite a competitive market finding a summer - Teenagers seeking summer employment, whether as lifeguards, camp counselors, or in other entry-level roles, are encountering significant hurdles in securing positions. This trend has sparked concern among educators, parents, and employers alike, as the job market for young workers continues to tighten. According to Brad Hershbein, an economist at the W.E. Upjohn Institute for Employment Research, the situation has reached a critical point, marking one of the most challenging periods for teens in decades.

Factors Behind the Tightening Labor Market

Hershbein highlights that a combination of economic and technological shifts has contributed to the current state of the job market. Among these factors are the rise of artificial intelligence, persistent inflation, and trade-related policies such as tariffs. Even unexpected events, like the congestion of oil tankers in the Persian Gulf, have had ripple effects on employment opportunities. These dynamics have created a more competitive environment, leaving many teens struggling to find work.

"Teens face heightened competition in the job market, with a noticeable decline in available positions," Hershbein explains. "The result is that younger workers often find themselves in a difficult position due to the increased competition."

The economist also notes that the desperation of job seekers is intensifying. With many young people burdened by college loans and financial pressures, the demand for employment has surged. This has made it harder for teens to stand out, as employers prioritize candidates who can demonstrate immediate productivity. "It's almost a community service rather than an investment," Hershbein says, "since the return on that investment may take time to materialize."

Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics supports this analysis. In May 2026, the number of teens participating in the workforce dropped by 219,000 compared to the previous year. This decline reflects a long-term trend, with teen labor participation rates falling steadily since the peak of nearly 58% observed in the 1970s. Today, approximately one-third of teenagers are engaged in the labor force, either working or actively searching for summer employment.

Real-Life Impacts on Young Workers

For many teens, the struggle to find work has tangible consequences. Mariella Silva, a 19-year-old who recently secured a position as a barista at Zeke's Coffee in Washington, D.C., shares her experience. "It took a lot of effort to land this job," she admits, noting the pressure of competing with a larger pool of applicants. Despite the challenges, Silva feels the experience is shaping her growth. "Working here has made me feel more mature," she says. "I’m learning to value money and understand the effort behind every dollar I earn."

"Every time I spend something, I'm like, oh, this is like two hours of work," Silva adds. "I really feel the pinch of inflation when deciding whether to buy a meal out, especially since there’s food at home."

Her employer, Jesse Lauritsen, acknowledges the difficulties of hiring teenagers. He points out that scheduling conflicts often complicate the process, as many teens juggle school, sports, or other commitments. "If they can only work one day a month, there’s no point in really hiring them," Lauritsen says. This perspective underscores the perception that teens may not be reliable or consistent enough to justify the time and resources required to train them.

However, the consequences of this trend extend beyond individual experiences. Hershbein warns that an increasing number of 18- to 19-year-olds are neither employed nor in school, slipping into a state of disengagement. "They’re not really involved in child care, either," he notes, describing these individuals as part of a growing "idle" population. Time-use surveys suggest that such teens often spend their days on leisure activities, such as gaming or socializing, which may further distance them from the workforce.

Efforts to Bridge the Gap

Despite these challenges, some employers are working to ensure that teens remain connected to the labor market. Gayle Hurn, who manages a community pool in Ann Arbor, Michigan, is one such example. Each summer, she hires over a hundred lifeguards and swim instructors, many of whom are teenagers from the surrounding city. "We need to start viewing teens as a vital part of the workplace’s infrastructure," Hurn emphasizes, highlighting their role in maintaining community services.

Hurn admits that managing young workers can be complex, but she remains committed to their development. "It’s my job to help them not just earn a paycheck, but to build skills that will serve them in future roles," she says. To support this goal, she implements strategies such as restricting phone use during work hours and adjusting schedules to accommodate students’ academic and extracurricular needs. "I also help them navigate tough conversations, which is essential for their growth," Hurn adds.

Her efforts are paying off, as she finds that the contributions of teen employees are invaluable. "When they’re at the pool, people can see the joy they bring to their jobs," she observes. "Even with their occasional challenges, they’re learning and growing in ways that make the investment worthwhile." Hurn’s approach reflects a broader recognition that summer jobs are more than just temporary work—they are opportunities to build confidence, responsibility, and practical experience.

A Call for Continued Support

The shrinking summer job opportunities have prompted cities and school districts to take action. Local programs are being developed to connect young people with employment, aiming to counteract the growing trend of disengagement. These initiatives are crucial, as they provide a pathway for teens to transition from academic settings into real-world work environments.

While the current climate is tough, Hershbein remains cautiously optimistic. "Though the market is challenging, the long-term benefits of summer employment for teens are undeniable," he says. "It’s about more than just earning money—it’s about gaining exposure to the workforce and developing a sense of purpose." For Silva, this exposure has already made a difference. "I feel like I’m on the right track," she says, "and I’m grateful for every step."

As the summer job season unfolds, the experiences of teens like Silva and the efforts of employers like Hurn may determine how many young people can still benefit from this form of employment. With the right support and opportunities, the summer job could remain a cornerstone of youth development, even in the face of a difficult market.