The American Teen is a vital part of the U.S. work force. The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) estimates that about 44 percent of 16- and 17-year-olds work some time during the year, either while in school or
during the summer or both. In fact, youth work in many sectors of the economy, with the largest place of employment being in the retail sector, which includes restaurants, fast food outlets, grocery stores and other retail stores. These job areas account for more than 50 percent of working
teens. Working can be fun; it provides many life experiences for the working teen. We at the U.S. DOL want your on-the-job experience to be a safe and healthy learning experience. This industry section of the U.S. DOL Youth2Work
site provides valuable information to employers, and you, the working teen, on job areas frequently worked by teens as allowed under the law. This section summarizes labor laws, worker safety, and career options. Happy exploring! |