As the school year comes to an end, summer job opportunities become available for high school students.

The age minimum to work in Colorado is sixteen. Per Colorado law, minors can only work up to forty hours during non-school weeks, and no more than 18 hours during a school week.

Fast food restaurants are beginner friendly jobs to apply for, especially if you have no prior work experience. They are fast paced environments and are based upon customer service. Positions available include: crew members, cashiers, cooks, and managers (those are typically geared to adults with longer service). According to Indeed, the average pay for fast food workers in Colorado is $14.48 per hour. Pay rates vary by positions.

Retail jobs are also available during the summer. They consist of grocery stores, clothing stores, department stores, etc. Working in retail improves social skills and is a great option if you do not want to work in a kitchen. The environment is more laid back compared to fast food jobs. Positions include: sales associates, cashiers, customer service representatives, visual merchandisers, and store managers. According to Indeed, the average pay for retail workers in Colorado is $16.30 per hour. Pay rates vary by positions.

Movie theaters are a popular hangout spot, making it another fast paced work environment. If retail or kitchen jobs are not for you, consider working at a theater. It is more demanding than the other options listed above. Theaters gather more crowds and require more customer service. Positions include: film projectionist, usher, ticket seller or cashier, concession counter attendant, and movie theater manager. According to Indeed, the average par for theater workers is $15.98 per hour. Pay rates may vary by positions.

Working comes with more benefits than just earning money. It teaches teenagers how to be more responsible budgeting their money and managing their time around their schedule. Working prepares them for their adult life.