Any summer job opportunities for high school students in Chapel Hill?

I'm looking for a summer job in Chapel Hill, NC, for 2025. Are there places that typically hire high school students for the summer months? Any tips on how to apply?

Absolutely, summer jobs are a fantastic way to gain work experience while earning some money, and there are many opportunities available in Chapel Hill.

1. Retail and Customer Service: You can look into local businesses, particularly retail stores and restaurants. These establishments often have high turnover rates and hire high schoolers, especially during the summer. For example, you could apply to work at the Streets at Southpoint or University Place, which has several stores and food service outlets.

2. Outdoor work: If you enjoy working outdoors, the Town of Chapel Hill Parks & Rec Department often hires summer staff. You could look into roles like a lifeguard or a camp counselor for their summer camps.

3. Tutors: If you excel in a particular academic area, you might consider offering tutoring services. You could either apply to work at a learning center or you could advertise your services independently.

To apply for these jobs, you'll need a resume detailing your experiences and skills. Even if you haven't had a job before, you can include other roles and activities, like babysitting, household responsibilities, or extracurricular activities. You should also have a cover letter tailored for each job to explain why you're interested and what you bring to the role.

Once you've put together a resume and cover letter, you can either apply in person (ask to speak to the manager and express your interest!) or check online job boards. Indeed, Appily, and the Town's official website can all be good resources.

Before applying, consider your schedule. Identify how many hours you're able to work each week and what times of day you're available. Be upfront about any vacation or time away you have planned.

Just remember to balance work with your other commitments and make sure you still have time to chill out a little — it is summer break, after all! Good luck with your job hunt.