15 Summer Jobs in California for High School Students
Taking on a summer job during high school is one of the best ways to strengthen your resume, build your academic profile, and prepare for future career opportunities. Summer jobs in California for high school students allow them to gain hands-on experience that goes beyond classroom learning. These opportunities allow you to apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings while developing both technical and transferable skills. You will also have an opportunity to build professional connections and receive mentorship from individuals working in fields you may want to pursue. Many of these opportunities are offered at little to no cost, making them accessible to students from a variety of backgrounds. Over time, these experiences can help you stand out in your college applications and future job searches.
If you want to check out other summer programs, here’s a list of free leadership programs & here’s a list of some STEM-specific internships!
What Summer jobs are available for high school students in California?
California offers a diverse range of summer high school job opportunities across industries such as technology, healthcare, education, media, and environmental science. You can choose between in-person positions offered by universities, nonprofits, and companies, as well as virtual opportunities that help you work with organizations from around the world. Many of these jobs emphasize hands-on learning, allowing you to contribute to projects, collaborate with teams, and present your work at the end of the program.
To help you get started, we’ve put together 15 summer jobs in California for high school students.
Key takeaways
This list gathers 15 summer jobs for California high school students spanning state parks, theme parks, camps, and construction sites, with standout hosts including California State Parks, LEGOLAND, and Six Flags.
Nearly all of these are paid, with strong hourly rates ranging from around $17 to $23 depending on the role, particularly for lifeguard and hospitality positions, making this one of the more accessible categories for students looking for real paid work.
This list mixes traditional entry-level jobs, like theme park and retail roles, with more specialized options like archaeological fieldwork and construction site experience, giving students very different types of summer jobs to choose from depending on their interests.
These jobs are spread across California, with many state park and lifeguard positions located at specific parks or facilities, while Ladder remains the only fully virtual option on the list.
A few of the earliest deadlines fall in April for one construction-focused internship, while most of the seasonal park and theme park roles run on rolling admissions, so applying as early as possible helps secure a spot before positions fill.
1. Park Aide - California State Parks
Location: California State Park locations around the state
Cost/Stipend: Stipend varies by location
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective
Dates: Summer season | Exact dates vary by park
Application Deadline: Varies by location
Eligibility: Must be able to follow directions, interact with the public, and perform routine maintenance and operational tasks | Basic communication skills required
As a Park Aide with California State Parks, you will support a mix of visitor-facing and operational responsibilities in outdoor recreation areas. Your responsibilities may include staffing entrance stations, answering visitors’ questions, and helping people navigate park facilities. On a typical day, you might also assist with routine maintenance tasks such as cleaning, organizing spaces, and supporting general upkeep across the park. Depending on your assignment, you could also work with basic tools, help maintain trails or public areas, and occasionally drive light vehicles as part of your duties. The role requires you to be comfortable interacting with the public while also handling routine responsibilities independently. This is a practical, hands-on job that gives you exposure to how large public spaces are managed while building communication and responsibility in a real-world setting.
2. Ladder Internship Program
Location: Virtual
Cost/Stipend: Depends on the program | Financial aid available
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective
Dates: 8 - 12 week cohorts throughout the year for spring, summer, fall, and winter.
Application Deadline: Depends on the cohort
Eligibility: High school, undergraduate, and gap year students
The Ladder Internship Program places you on a remote startup team, where you will contribute to real-world business and technology projects. Your responsibilities may include conducting market research, supporting product development, assisting with marketing campaigns, or contributing to strategy discussions depending on the company you are matched with. You will collaborate directly with a manager or mentor, gaining insight into how early-stage companies operate and make decisions. Throughout the program, you will build practical skills in communication, problem-solving, and project execution while using tools commonly found in startup environments. You will also have the opportunity to present your work to the company at the end of the internship, which helps develop your ability to explain ideas clearly and professionally.
3. California State Parks Lifeguard I
Location: California State Parks, Marin County (Angel Island State Park)
Cost/Stipend: $20.69 - $22.97/hour as a stipend
Acceptance rate/cohort size: selective
Dates: May - September
Application Deadline: July 22
Eligibility: Must meet state lifeguard requirements, complete training, hold CPR/first aid certification (or obtain before appointment), and have a valid driver’s license | Must be able to work outdoors and perform physically demanding rescue tasks
This lifeguard role with California State Parks places you in a more dynamic environment than a typical pool-based setting. Based at Angel Island State Park, you will be involved in open-water safety, assisting with rescues, responding to medical emergencies, and helping enforce park regulations. The responsibilities also include supporting park operations by interacting with visitors, working around docks, and helping manage ferry and boating activities. Depending on your assignment, you could work as part of a crew on park vessels, assist with junior lifeguard instruction, and gain exposure to emergency response under real outdoor conditions. The position also introduces you to maritime operations, including deckhand responsibilities that can count toward future boat operator licensing. If you are interested in public safety, marine environments, or emergency services, this role offers a broader and more specialized experience than most entry-level summer jobs.
4. Youth Service Corps
Location: Various locations across California
Cost/Stipend: Minimum wage and higher | Additional support services may be provided
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective
Dates: Depends on the location and program partner
Application Deadline: Depends on the location
Eligibility: Ages 16 - 30 years | Must meet at least one criterion such as low-income status, foster care background, justice involvement, or difficulty finding employment
Through the Youth Service Corps, you will work with local governments and community organizations on projects that address public service needs such as food insecurity, education, and climate initiatives. Your role may involve supporting community programs, assisting with outreach efforts, or contributing to local service projects that create a direct impact in your area. As a participant, you will gain hands-on experience while developing transferable skills such as teamwork, communication, and problem-solving. The program also offers structured support, including career guidance, resume development, and job training to help you build long-term employability. In addition to work experience, you may earn certifications and exposure to different career pathways across a variety of public service sectors. This is a paid opportunity that combines community-focused work with training and support services.
5. Jam Camp West Co-Counselor – Living Jazz
Location: Living Jazz, Oakland, CA
Cost/Stipend: $100 as a stipend plus room and board for a week
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective
Dates: July 17 - 24 (includes mandatory training)
Application Deadline: Not specified
Eligibility: Ages 18 - 21 years | Interest in working with youth and ability to participate in outdoor, physically active camp activities required
As a Co-Counselor at Jam Camp West, you will support camp counselors in leading activities for students aged 10 - 17 years in a residential outdoor setting focused on music and creative expression. Your responsibilities will include assisting with daily programming, supervising campers, and helping create a safe and engaging environment where young musicians can learn and collaborate. You will work alongside experienced staff, gaining hands-on exposure to youth development, group management, and leadership. Throughout the week, you will build skills in communication, teamwork, and adaptability while participating in both structured activities and informal mentorship opportunities. This role is particularly well-suited for students interested in music or the arts, as you will be part of a creative environment that blends performance, collaboration, and mentorship. The position also includes training and guidance, allowing you to develop practical counseling experience in a supportive and artistic community.
6. Conejo Recreation Lifeguard
Location: Conejo Recreation and Park District, Thousand Oaks, CA
Cost/Stipend: Not specified
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective
Dates: Exact dates not specified
Application Deadline: Not specified
Eligibility: 16+ years old with a valid work permit and knowledge of lifesaving, lifeguarding, aquatic rescue, safety, and first aid procedures.
As a Lifeguard with the Conejo Recreation and Park District, you will supervise swimmers at public pools while helping maintain a safe and welcoming environment for visitors. Your responsibilities include enforcing pool rules, responding to aquatic emergencies, performing water rescues, and providing first aid or CPR when needed. Beyond safety supervision, you will assist with routine facility maintenance, help keep pool and restroom areas clean, and explain pool procedures to patrons. Depending on your assignment, you may also teach swimming, diving, lifesaving, or other aquatic recreation classes and administer deep-water swim tests to assess participants' swimming abilities. The position includes ongoing training and provides practical experience in emergency response, public safety, leadership, and customer service.
7. California State Parks Archaeological Aide
Location: California State Parks, multiple locations across CA
Cost/Stipend: Hourly wage amount varies by location
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective
Dates: Seasonal or project-based
Application Deadline: Varies by location
Eligibility: Ability to perform manual fieldwork, follow instructions, and maintain basic records; interest in archaeology or anthropology recommended
As an Archaeological Aide with California State Parks, you will take part in fieldwork at active archaeological sites under professional supervision. Your responsibilities will involve helping excavate trenches using tools such as shovels, trowels, and brushes, while carefully uncovering and documenting artifacts. You may also assist with cleaning, cataloging, and preserving materials once they are recovered, along with keeping basic records of findings during the process. This role is more specialized than most entry-level summer jobs and requires patience, attention to detail, and the ability to follow precise procedures. You will be working outdoors and performing manual tasks, but the work is closely related to research and historical preservation. If you are interested in anthropology, history, or museum work, this offers a rare opportunity to gain direct exposure to archaeological field methods in a real-world setting.
8. DPR Construction Build Up Internship
Location: Project-based locations across the country
Cost/Stipend: Hourly stipend and transportation stipend
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective
Dates: 8 weeks in the summer
Application Deadline: April 15
Eligibility: Rising high school juniors, seniors, and recent graduates, legally able to work in the U.S. with a family income below 80% of the HUD median family income for their particular county
Through the Build Up Internship with DPR Construction, you will spend your summer working alongside professionals on an active construction site. Instead of simply observing from the sidelines, you will be involved in day-to-day operations such as coordinating with subcontractors, tracking project progress, and assisting with site inspections. You may also help update schedules, review documentation, and learn how different teams contribute to large-scale building projects. A major focus of the experience is the mentorship component, as you will work closely with industry professionals while developing a better understanding of how construction projects are planned and executed. The program concludes with an 8-week capstone project, where you will reflect on your experience and present your learning. The program is designed to help you become more comfortable navigating a professional environment, asking questions, and contributing to team discussions. This role is particularly useful if you are interested in construction, engineering, or architecture, as it offers direct exposure to how projects are managed in real-world settings.
9. VIP Experience Host - LEGOLAND California Resort
Location: LEGOLAND California Resort, Carlsbad, CA
Cost/Stipend: $18.50/hour
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective
Dates: Seasonal | End date: October 31
Application Deadline: Rolling
Eligibility: Aged 18+ years | Prior customer service experience required | Strong communication and interpersonal skills expected
As a VIP Experience Host at LEGOLAND California Resort, you will guide guests through the park while delivering personalized, high-touch experiences. Rather than working at a fixed station, you will move throughout the park, escorting guests, helping them navigate attractions, and ensuring their schedules run smoothly. The role involves sharing recommendations about rides, dining, and exclusive experiences, while adjusting your approach based on each group’s preferences. You will be expected to engage with guests throughout the day, respond to requests in real time, and maintain a professional, service-focused attitude in a fast-paced environment. The work is physically active and requires spending long hours on your feet, but it also gives you direct exposure to hospitality and guest experience management. This role stands out for its focus on personalized service and real-time problem-solving in a high-energy setting.
10. Assistant/Junior Counselor - Jameson Ranch Camp
Location: Jameson Ranch Camp, Glennville, CA
Cost/Stipend: Not specified
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not specified
Dates: Varies by season
Application Deadline: Not specified
Eligibility: Interest in working with children | Ability to live and work in a residential camp setting | Willingness to take on a range of responsibilities and work as part of a team
As an Assistant or Junior Counselor at Jameson Ranch Camp, you will be involved in nearly every aspect of camp life, from supervising campers to helping run activities and supporting daily operations. You will work alongside experienced counselors, assisting with group supervision, activity setup, and special events while making sure campers stay engaged and safe throughout the day. The role also includes contributing to behind-the-scenes tasks such as camp maintenance, meal support, and general logistics, depending on what is needed. Over the course of the program, you will gradually take on greater responsibility as you become more comfortable in the role. You will be expected to model positive behavior, communicate clearly with both campers and staff, and adapt to a fast-paced, outdoor environment. The position is structured to give you hands-on experience working with children while also helping you build confidence in leadership and teamwork.
11. Lifeguard – Six Flags Water Park
Location: Six Flags Water Park, Valencia, CA
Cost/Stipend: $18.50/hour stipend | Paid lifeguard certification training provided
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not very selective
Dates: Exact dates depend on the park | Summer job
Application Deadline: Rolling
Eligibility: Aged 16+ years with the ability to meet physical and safety requirements and complete lifeguard training
Working as a lifeguard at Six Flags places you in a fast-paced, guest-focused environment where safety and attentiveness are the top priority. You will oversee attractions such as wave pools and water slides, monitor guests, and respond to emergencies using first aid, CPR, and water rescue techniques. The role begins with a formal training program, after which you will be certified and prepared to handle emergencies and enforce safety guidelines. In addition to safety responsibilities, you will also contribute to the overall operation of the park by maintaining cleanliness, assisting guests, and completing incident reports when needed. The environment is physically active and requires strong awareness, communication, and the ability to stay focused for long periods. This role stands out because it combines structured training, real responsibility, and a high-energy setting where you interact with large groups of people on a daily basis.
12. Francis Parker School Summer Lifeguard
Location: Francis Parker School, San Diego, CA
Cost/Stipend: $21 - $23/hour as a stipend
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective
Dates: June 15 - August 14
Application Deadline: Rolling
Eligibility: Must have or be willing to obtain lifeguard, CPR, and first aid certifications, aged 15/16+ years
In this seasonal lifeguard role, you will be responsible for maintaining a safe and well-managed swimming environment while supporting daily facility operations. Your work will include supervising swimmers, enforcing safety regulations, and responding to emergencies using first aid, CPR, and water rescue techniques. You will also assist with routine maintenance tasks such as monitoring pool conditions, conducting safety inspections, and documenting incidents when required. Throughout the role, you will develop practical skills in risk assessment, emergency response, and communication, especially when managing large groups of patrons. You may also gain exposure to operational aspects such as facility upkeep and complying with health and safety standards. Training in lifeguarding, CPR, and first aid may be provided, making this role accessible even if you are not yet certified.
13. Seasonal Clerk – California State Parks
Location: California State Parks, multiple locations across CA
Cost/Stipend: Hourly wage amount varies by location
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective
Dates: Depends on the park; summer roles
Application Deadline: Varies by location
Eligibility: Ability to read, write, and perform basic arithmetic; some positions may require typing skills
As a Seasonal Clerk with California State Parks, you will support administrative operations behind the scenes while parks handle high visitor traffic during the summer. Your responsibilities may include organizing records, entering data, sorting documents, and assisting with basic office tasks that keep park operations running smoothly. In some cases, you might also help respond to visitor inquiries or prepare materials used by park staff. This role offers a different perspective compared to field-based park jobs. Instead of working outdoors, you will be part of the administrative side, where attention to detail and organization are essential. The work is generally structured and task-oriented, giving you a clearer sense of how public agencies manage information and day-to-day operations. If you prefer a more desk-based role while still being connected to park systems, this is a straightforward and accessible option.
14. Six Flags Tube Rentals Attendant
Location: Six Flags Hurricane Harbor, Valencia, CA
Cost/Stipend: $17.81/hour stipend
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not very selective
Dates: Summer | Depends on park schedule
Application Deadline: Not specified
Eligibility: Must be 14+ years old | Ability to work in outdoor conditions and interact with guests required
As a Tube Rentals Attendant at Six Flags Hurricane Harbor, you will work in a guest-facing role focused on managing equipment and assisting visitors throughout the park. Your responsibilities will involve renting out inner tubes and cabanas, handling transactions at the register, and helping guests with questions about rentals and park amenities. You will also distribute life jackets to children and ensure that the equipment is organized and ready for use. The role combines customer service with operational responsibilities, and you will be required to keep your work area clean, manage inventory such as tubes and cabanas, and complete basic cashier tasks such as tracking transactions and paperwork. Since you are constantly interacting with guests, clear communication and a positive attitude are essential. This is a straightforward, entry-level role that gives you experience in customer service, cash handling, and working in a fast-paced outdoor environment.
15. Pool Lifeguard - Grover Hot Springs State Park
Location: Grover Hot Springs State Park, CA
Cost/Stipend: Hourly wage not specified
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly selective
Dates: Seasonal summer position | Exact dates are not specified
Application Deadline: Open until filled
Eligibility: Must hold a current American Red Cross Lifeguard Certification (or equivalent), CPR for the Professional Rescuer certification, and First Aid certification
As a Pool Lifeguard at Grover Hot Springs State Park, you will help oversee the daily operation of the park's public pool while ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for visitors. Your responsibilities include monitoring swimmers, enforcing pool rules, responding to water rescues and first aid emergencies, and maintaining current lifesaving skills through required certifications. In addition to lifeguarding, you will assist with housekeeping and facility maintenance by cleaning pool areas, restrooms, and surrounding buildings to keep the complex environment safe and sanitary. You will also support administrative operations by collecting entrance fees, maintaining daily accounting records, and organizing lost-and-found items.
Questions students often ask about these jobs
1. Do I need certifications like CPR or lifeguard training to apply to these summer jobs?
Not always upfront. Several of the lifeguard roles will train and certify you as part of the job, so you don't need to arrive already certified. A few positions do require having current certifications in hand, so check each listing's eligibility section closely.
2. A couple of these roles require being 18 or older. Are the rest genuinely open to high schoolers?
Yes, most of these are designed specifically for high schoolers, with minimum ages ranging from 14 to 16. Only a couple of roles set the bar at 18, so it's worth checking age requirements before applying to those.
3. Do I need prior work experience to apply to these summer jobs?
No, most of these are designed as entry-level positions and don't expect prior work history. A couple of guest-service roles do prefer some customer service background, so highlight any relevant experience you have if you're applying to those.