Guide to Employment: For Teens By Teens

Looking for a first job? Don’t stress! No one is alone in this process.

From applications to interviews to balancing school and work, there’s a lot of responsibility that comes with entering the workforce. James Campbell High School seniors like Francis Fuerte and Dielo Villanueva found their way last summer and shared their tips for others who are getting started.

Finding the Right Job

The first step is deciding where to apply. Fuerte said the hardest part was waiting to hear back after submitting applications. Villanueva, meanwhile, focused on finding a job that was both interesting and offered good pay.

Places Actively Hiring Teens Right Now (Ewa/Kapolei)

Retail:

• Lovisa
• Kay Jewelers
• Sunglass Hut
• Hollister
• H&M
• Old Navy
• Sephora
• American Eagle
• Walmart

 Food Services:

• Shabuya Shabu Shabu
• Kapolei Cafe
• Raising Cane’s
• McDonald’s
• Zippy’s
• Foodland
• Jamba Juice

Preparing for the Interview

Preparation makes a big difference. Fuerte gathered all her documents, updated her résumé, and obtained a worker’s permit. Villanueva practiced mock interviews and made sure to dress professionally.

Pro Tips:

• Identify strengths and experiences (sports, clubs, volunteer work, babysitting, etc.)
• Research the company to ask thoughtful questions
• Practice answers to common interview questions with friends
• Pick a business-casual outfit and plan transportation in advance

The Perks of Working

Landing a first job brings benefits beyond a paycheck. Fuerte enjoys building friendships with coworkers, while Villanueva appreciates both the money earned and the fun of sharing shifts with friends. Having the right people around makes work feel enjoyable.

Balancing Work and Life

Starting a job can be exciting, but balance is key. Fuerte recommends thinking about how a job will fit around extracurriculars, while Villanueva emphasizes keeping school and sleep as priorities.

Tips for Students:

• Begin with only a few shifts, then add more gradually
• Use a planner to track shifts, homework, and activities
• Finish assignments during breaks to avoid falling behind
• Learn to say no to extra shifts when needed

Worker’s Permits in Hawaiʻi

• • Ages 14–15: Apply with a CL-1 form from the Hawaiʻi Department of Labor (online). Maximum: 3 hours on school days (18 per week), 8 hours on non-school days (40 per week).
    • Ages 16–17: Complete the online eCL-3 application and provide the certificate with proof of age to the employer.

Quick Résumé Tips

• Keep it to one page
• Include contact info, education, skills, and experience
• Highlight soft skills: teamwork, communication, time management, leadership

The Takeaway

Getting a first job is a big step. It offers independence, real world experience, and lessons that can’t always be learned in class. Balance matters most. A good job should fit into a student’s life, not take it over.

With preparation, confidence, and the right mindset, students can land a job that pays, builds skills, and even makes life a little more fun.