Be Prepared for Teenage Wages
Be warned: This teen job will likely come with teen pay. Let your potential boss know that you are comfortable with it. Feldberg says it is always best to let them bring it up first, then discuss what your research has told you about the average salary and let the person know you are willing to work within that to find something that makes you both happy.
Lifeguards make about $10 an hour, servers make closer to $9.50 an hour, bartenders make about $8.50 an hour, amusement park attendants make about $9 an hour, and landscape workers make about $12 an hour, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Of course, many teens make minimum wage. The federal minimum wage is $6.55 an hour until July 24, when it increases to $7.25 an hour.
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Despite the averages, you should investigate individual companies to find out their average pay before you apply.
Know the Laws
For the most part, employers may not ask you your age and can under no circumstances deny you employment solely because of it. According to the law, employers may ask for age on an application but it will open them to increased scrutiny if the employee ever feels the need to bring them to court.
According to the Age Discrimination Act, “It is unlawful...for an employer to discriminate in hiring or in any other way by giving preference because of age between individuals 40 and over.” That law also falls under the Workforce Investment Act of 1998. Section 188 prohibits discrimination on the grounds of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, political affiliation or belief.
People may refuse to answer if asked during an interview but in some cases revealing age may be a necessity if a company needs your full birthday for a background check. Those who feel they have been discriminated against may contact the American Civil Liberties Union, attempt to have the company criminally prosecuted under the statute or take them to civil court for damages.
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