Summer Job Search for High School Students in Portland, Oregon

I'm a high school junior looking for a summer job in Portland, Oregon. Any tips on where to look or places known to hire teens for the summer months?

If you are looking for a summer job in Portland, you have many options! Here's a breakdown of some places and key strategies to help you widen your search.

1. Retail and Food Service: Many retailers and restaurants often hire teens for summer employment. Check out local malls or shopping centers. You might find places such as Powell's Books, Voodoo Doughnut, or local coffee shops to be good starting points. Since they cater to tourists during the summer months, they often have job openings.

2. Outdoor or Recreational Jobs: Given Portland's love for outdoor activities, there are also several recreational jobs. This could be at public parks, pools, or camps. Explore your local parks and recreation department website or consider organizations like the YMCA.

3. Tutoring or Childcare: If you have a strong academic record or a knack for childcare, then consider tutoring or babysitting. You can advertise on local community boards or use online platforms for this purpose.

4. Arts, Entertainment, and Hospitality: Portland is well known for its creative culture and thriving tourism industry. Consider applying to local music venues, theaters, museums, or even hotels.

5. Local Job Boards and Resources: Check out the local job boards in Portland like the Portland Mercury or Craigslist. There are also resources specifically for youth such as Multnomah County's "SummerWorks" program or the Oregon Summer Jobs website.

6. Networking: Lastly, don't forget the good old-fashioned strategy of networking. Let friends, teachers, and family know you're looking for a job. Someone in your circle may know about an opening that's just right for you.

Remember to have your resume and references prepared before applying. Good luck with your job search!