Easy and flexible online jobs for teens

You’re a student, you’ve got a computer and you want to earn some cash in your spare time – perhaps you’re wondering what sorts of online jobs for teens are out there. Read on, as there may be more opportunities than you think.

Getting a job as a teenager is good for more than just your bank balance. A casual, online job also gives you a sense of independence and confidence, and helps you build on your employability skills. Depending on the type of job, working also helps develop your soft skills and encourages you to get more technical knowledge as well. 

The best online jobs for teens give you the flexibility to work and still have time for study, sports and a social life. Want to work but don’t have any skills? Don’t worry – there are plenty of remote jobs for teens that require little to no experience. Some may even provide on-the-job training, so you can learn new skills while you’re earning money. 

Whether you’re a teenager yourself or helping a teen find an online job in New Zealand, this guide will give you some ideas for casual work suitable for different skills and interests. Get tips for finding online jobs and advice on how to choose the right position for you, plus a list of the best online jobs for teens. 

How to choose the right online jobs for teens 

There are so many different types of online jobs that it can be hard to know which one is right for you. You want to be sure that the line of work you choose matches your skills and interests, so you feel motivated and fulfilled. Even a casual online role should give you a sense of job satisfaction and ideally give you skills you can use later in your career. 

Identify your personal interests

We’re all productive and happier at work when we’re doing something we enjoy. This is why it’s important to look at what you're interested in or passionate about when you’re searching for online jobs. 

For example, if you’re active on social media and like to create your own digital content, you may enjoy a casual online job in social media marketing. If you’re well-organised and a good all-rounder, you might enjoy being a virtual assistant. It’s essential that you reflect on your abilities, and apply for jobs where you can use and develop them. 

Map your skills for online jobs

Even though you may be still be a few years away from a full-time job, it doesn’t hurt to start developing your skills early. Before you know it, you’ll be mapping out a career plan, so it helps to find a casual job that fits well into the grand scheme of things. 

Most online jobs for teens won’t have very selective criteria, but there are a few basic things you should be able to do to apply. Here are some essential skills you’ll need:

• Computer literacy
• Software proficiency (email and word-processing programs at a minimum)
• Communication skills (to collaborate with others or provide client/customer service)

Depending on the type of online job you want to do, you may need Adobe Creative Suite skills, typing skills, or knowledge of cloud-based content management systems. If you know the type of jobs you’re interested in, look at the skills required and if you don’t quite have them, consider learning them through online courses or video tutorials. 

20 online jobs in New Zealand that are suitable for teens

There are many different types of online part-time jobs to suit teens. Most require no previous work experience or qualifications and many don’t require any high-level knowledge. Most of the jobs on this list can be done with self-taught skills.

1. Virtual assistance

Virtual assistant roles are a great option when it comes to online jobs for teens with no work experience. This job would suit someone who is organised and has technical knowledge of general office software. In a typical virtual assistant role you would be answering emails, making calls, scheduling meetings and appointments, and handling administrative tasks for your client/s.

You can search for virtual assistant roles that are only a few hours a week, to fit around your study schedule. It’s a great job for learning office and administrative skills that are transferable across other roles and industries.

Required skills:

• Strong organisational skills
• Proficiency with email software and other administrative software
• Good communication skills

2. Social media management

Social media management is a fun online job for teens who have thorough knowledge of platform trends. If you already have experience managing your own social media, creating content and using scheduling tools, this type of role would let you use and develop your existing skill set. Many small businesses only need a social media manager for a few hours a week, to create posts, engage followers and help with creating content calendars – perfect for someone with study commitments.

Required skills:

• Active on social media
• Scheduling platforms
• In-app video editing
• Creativity
• Good communication skills

3. Online tutoring

If you’re particularly good in a subject, online tutoring younger students is a great way to earn some money. One big benefit to tutoring is that there should be no scheduling conflicts if you and your students are both still at school. Another great thing about tutoring a school student is that you’ve likely just completed their curriculum yourself. Enquire at your school about online tutoring opportunities, search for online tutoring companies online, or look for online part-time jobs on job platforms.

Required skills:

• Subject matter knowledge (maths, English, physics, etc.)
• Excellent communication 
• Video conferencing software like Zoom or Google Meet

4. Content creation

You may already have experience in content creation, whether that’s for social media or a personal blog or video channel. If so, a casual job creating content may be a way to further develop your skills while getting paid and adding formal work experience to your resumé. Content creation covers a wide range of outputs, like blog posts, videos, music and channel-specific content, so there are plenty of options to explore. 

Required skills:

• Video- and/or music-editing skills
• Creativity
• Good communication skills
• Some writing skills

5. Graphic design

If you study graphic design at school or even if you’re self-taught, a casual graphic design job might be for you. As a graphic designer, you could be creating illustrations for websites, social media, print, or digital marketing. As a freelancer, you can work with different clients on different jobs or even try to get a retainer with one business, so you have a set amount of hours and income in every month.  

Required skills:

• Proficiency in graphic design software
• Creativity
• Good communication skills 

6. Data entry

Data entry is one of the best online part-time jobs for teens with no skills or experience. This type of job involves inputting information into a spreadsheet or content management system. Even though you don’t need any particular skills or experience, you do need a high level of attention to detail, typing accuracy and typing speed. It’s perfect if you want a no-stress online job that won’t use up too much mental energy.

Required skills:

• Accuracy and speed in typing
• Basic computer skills
• Attention to detail

7. Freelance writing

If you have a passion for writing, freelance writing is a good way to make some money and build your portfolio. Freelance writing jobs can include:  SEO articles, blog posts, digital marketing, web copy, press releases, news articles, newsletter and more. There are agencies who take on freelance writers and find them a set number of jobs per week, or you can use your network to find people who need one-off writing jobs, to build up your skills and experience. Is there a particular lifestyle or tech website you like? Pitch ideas to the editor for articles or ask them if you can write news or reviews.

Required skills:

• Strong writing skills
• Good communication skills
• Time management

8. Online surveys and reviews

Online surveys and reviews are a great option for teens looking for income without a time commitment. By signing up to online survey or review websites, you can get paid for sharing your opinion or by reviewing products. The downsides of this type of ‘job’ are that it won’t give you any formal work experience and won't provide a substantial income. You may get some insight into market research, which could come in handy if you’re interested in marketing or advertising in the future.

Required skills:

• Basic English

9. E-Commerce assistant

If you know the basics of website development and management, you might consider being an e-commerce assistant in your spare time. Many online businesses outsource administrative jobs to do with maintaining their website, such as uploading, removing or updating products and even monitoring inventory. It’s a good role if you want to learn more about e-commerce operations or if you’re thinking of opening an online store yourself in the future.

Required skills:

• Basic understanding of e-commerce platforms
• Good communication
• Good writing skills 
• Attention to detail

10. Affiliate marketing

Affiliate marketing could be an option for you if you have a reasonably large online following. As an ‘influencer’ you would be promoting products for businesses through your channels and earning a commission each time you make a sale. If you’ve already got an online presence, it’s a good way for you to make money and potentially enjoy perks like free products and services. While it teaches you marketing and promotional skills, it can be an unreliable income source if you are looking for regular pay.

Required skills:

• Understanding of online marketing
• Social media marketing
• Knowledge of advertising and promotions
• Creativity

11. Remote customer support

Customer support roles in retail or hospitality are another suitable online job for teens. Remote customer support involves answering live chat enquiries, emails or phone calls and problem solving issues for customers. It’s a good job for extroverts or people who like helping others, though it does require a high degree of patience, empathy and resilience. 

Required skills:

• Strong communication skills
• Patience
• Good computer skills
• Empathy
• Resilience

12. Video editing

You might already have some skills in video editing using your phone, but if you also have access to video-editing software, you might be able to use your abilities as a freelancer. A freelance video editor takes raw footage from a client and edits it together according to a brief. You’d be in charge of making sure the audio, video and any effects all work together to achieve your clients’ desired outcome. It’s a creatively and technically demanding role, but if being a video editor or director is your career aspiration, it can give you valuable experience. 

Required skills:

• Proficiency in video-editing software
• Creativity
• Good communication

13. App or website testing

If you have an interest in web development or UX design, you might enjoy being a website tester – even if you don’t have any technical skills yet. Agencies and businesses sometimes look for app and website testers to give them feedback on the user experience as part of the testing stage before their new site or app is released or goes live. 

To do this job you need access to the specific operating system or device the app or software is being tested on. Testing will also require detailed note taking in order to provide accurate and useful feedback to the developer.  

Required skills:

• Attention to detail
• Computer or phone proficiency
• Communication skills

14. Online language tutoring

If you have foreign-language proficiency, online language tutoring might be a good option for you. There are agencies that can connect students to tutors, or you might consider advertising your tutoring services online or at schools and universities. Schools sometimes set up online language tutoring between international students, which could be a good place to start if you’re interested in tutoring. If you don’t have foreign-language skills, there are also online tutoring opportunities teaching English as a second language. You may need to get TEFL (for teaching children) or CELTA (for teaching adults) certification first. 

Required skills:

• Proficiency in the language being taught
• Teaching skills
• Communication
• Patience

15. Digital marketing assistant

Digital marketing skills are in high demand, and getting an online part-time job as a digital marketing assistant can help you hone those skills. If you already have some knowledge of social media marketing, that may be enough to get started as a casual marketing assistant. Expect to be taking on administrative and coordination tasks like emailing, content management and project management. At the same time, you’ll learn online advertising skills and campaign strategy that you can add to your resumé.

Required skills:

• Basic understanding of digital marketing
• Creativity
• Good communication
• Good computer skills

16. Stock photography

Are you a budding photographer? If you’re interested in developing your photography skills and earning a passive income at the same time, you might consider uploading your work to stock photography sites. Stock photography websites provide a platform for people to download high-quality content from photographers, for a fee. How much you can make depends on the quality of your images or video and if your subject matter is aligned with demand. While it’s not a steady income stream, it can be an additional source of pocket money. 

Required skills:

• Photography skills
• Understanding of stock photo market trends

17. Remote internships

A remote internship is similar to a regular internship – the difference being that it’s with a fully remote company. As a remote intern, the skills you develop and duties you’ll undertake will depend on the company. For a digital agency you might be writing or uploading content, project managing or editing photos. 

An internship typically lasts a few months and many are unpaid, however they can provide you with helpful work experience and a professional network to build from. If you aren’t able to find ads for remote interns online, it’s worth reaching out to remote companies you like and offering to work for them on an internship basis.  

Required skills:

• Basic computer literacy
• Depends on the internship 

18. Podcast editing

If you have an interest in podcasts, music production, radio or audio editing, this could be an interesting online job for you. You’ll need proficiency in audio-editing software, like Pro Tools, to be able to mix audio to a professional level, and you’ll have to know how to market yourself. If you’re using online freelance sites, you’ll need to have a portfolio of work to show clients your level of competency. It can be worth running paid ads on social media to advertise your skills until you have a decent client base. 

Required skills:

• Proficiency in audio-editing software
• Attention to detail
• Creativity
• Communication skills

19. Virtual fitness coaching

Virtual fitness coaching is a potential online job for teens who are 18 or 19 and have a personal training qualification. Online fitness coaches and virtual personal trainers work with people who want to exercise and follow a personalised fitness program at home. Online fitness coaches and personal trainers may have regular private clients or teach online classes through a fitness centre.  

Required skills:

• A personal training or related qualification
• Communication skills
• Coaching skills

20. Online art or craft selling

One suitable online job for teens who are more introverted is selling arts or crafts through an e-commerce site like Etsy or through social media channels. There’s a wide range of products you can sell across the spectrum of arts and crafts: original paintings or drawings, crochet, embroidery, digital art, clothing, accessories, home décor and more. Depending on your skill level, you may be able to do commission work and increase your prices. Setting up an online store and marketing yourself is a great way to learn entrepreneurial skills that can help you in your career down the track. 

Required skills:

• Creativity
• Technical skills in chosen art/craft
• Understanding of online selling platforms
• Marketing 

How to balance an online job with study commitments

One of the biggest perks of online jobs is that they can be done remotely and are therefore easier to fit around academic commitments. The best online part-time jobs for teens should allow time for study, family and social events. 

Create a realistic schedule

The key to balancing an online job with your school commitments is creating a realistic schedule that you can stick to. If you’re starting your first job, you might need some guidance in balancing everything so you don’t burn out. Start by writing a list of things you need to include in your schedule:  

• school, 
• extracurricular activities, 
• travel time, 
• seeing friends, 
• homework, 
• study
• family time, and
• getting approximately 10 hours of sleep. 

To be successful with an online job, you have to develop good time-management skills, so you can meet all your deadlines. Working as a teenager is good in that it can teach you self-discipline and responsibility, but it’s also important that you still have time to focus on studies and do things with friends.

The legal considerations of working as a teen

In New Zealand there is no minimum age for working, but there are limits to when you can work and the type of roles you can do if you're 16 and under. If you’re looking for your first job, ensure you know how many hours you can legally work; if you're school aged you will not be allowed to work during school hours. 

How to make a portfolio when applying for jobs online

If you’re wanting to work in the creative industries, a portfolio is an essential tool for showcasing your skills, even if you’ve never had a job before. An online portfolio platform or your social media channels are two places you can showcase your talents. You could also develop your own website or use cloud-based storage to host your samples and make them easy for potential clients to access.

Create an online portfolio

You can create an online portfolio by making your own website (through WordPress or another host) or by using a site like Clippings.me. You can launch a blog to provide examples of your writing or to showcase your designs or videos. Most blog sites offer basic templates for free – all you have to do is personalise them with your own content and details. When you reach out to potential clients, include a link to your online portfolio. 

Use social media

Another way to find opportunities and demonstrate your skills is through social media. Social media platforms are a great way of sharing your portfolio and marketing your services, as well as building a network of potential clients. Businesses also use social media to advertise for casual or part-time online roles, helping you find vacancies not advertised on bigger jobs platforms.

Getting a job as a teen is an exciting milestone. It can teach you responsibility and self-sufficiency and hone important skills, while giving you work experience and an income stream. When you’re considering online jobs, make sure you’re realistic about the time you can commit, so you can balance work with school and still have some downtime. 

FAQs

How to find jobs for 13–18 year olds? 

To find a job as a teenager, look for local entry-level jobs that don’t require experience and are flexible, to fit around study schedules. Use resources like SEEK, social media and official websites, and even visit brick-and-mortar shops to start looking for work when you have minimal experience. 

How to find online remote jobs with no experience? 

It’s possible to find online remote jobs with no experience, such as entry-level jobs that provide training. Jobs like data entry, doing surveys, and virtual assistance require little to no experience. You can also work as an online tutor with no formal experience. 

How to build an attractive online portfolio? 

To build an attractive online portfolio, start by researching websites that provide hosting and pre-made templates. Choose a template that matches the type of work you do and showcases past projects in an easy-to-navigate way. Include information about jobs you have completed and make it easy for people to contact you, whether through a form or a direct email address. 

Where to find online jobs in New Zealand? 

Search career websites (like SEEK.co.nz) and browse social media to get leads for online jobs in New Zealand. Visit official websites of tech companies or fully-remote organisations and see if they have any freelance opportunities. Be proactive about finding an online job by reaching out to companies directly and offering to work for them on a freelance basis.