Most stores and restaurants in America have a “Now Hiring” sign in the window. The worker shortage in Louisville and beyond is a frightening epidemic that seems to be getting worse over time. For example, there are many local businesses in our city that have been forced to shut down or downsize because of a lack of help in the kitchen or behind the counter at restaurants and stores. Most teens wish they had a job or rave about how beneficial having a job during the school year is for them.
For many teens finding a job that suits their interests and schedules is challenging, especially during the school year. Jobs often do not advertise that they will be flexible and understanding with students’ homework and extracurriculars. This can lead students to not apply to those jobs even though they advertise that they need workers.
In need of a job this school year? RedEye has you covered. We have researched and reached out to nine different local jobs that are currently in need of help. Dupont Manual students who are currently or previously employed at these establishments have confirmed their understanding of student schedules and promise flexibility.
Kicks Soccer Academy
The Kicks Soccer Academy is a recreational soccer coaching job across JCPS elementary schools that only requires basic soccer knowledge and skills to try out. This business pays $20 an hour and has flexible scheduling during every season. There are sessions eight weeks in Winter, eight weeks in Fall, and eight weeks in Spring. These sessions are an hour per week and take place at various JCPS Elementary Schools. If interested, call Coach Gionatan at (502)-759-1185.
Lakeside Swim Club
Lakeside is a swim club in the highlands neighborhood and they are currently hiring lifeguards for the winter season in Lakeside’s winter bubble. You must complete a lifeguard certification and Lakeside-specific training in order to begin working. Lakeside pays their lifeguards $16 an hour. No matter the season, Winter or Summer there are positions at Lakeside. Lakeside prides itself on flexible scheduling and a free lakeside membership to use on your off days! Visit Lakeside’s website to fill out an application if interested.
Kumon Learning and Tutoring Center
Kumon is a tutoring center to help middle and elementary school students with English and math classes and homework. The only requirements are strong proficiency in high school Math and/or English and strong communication skills. Kumon is willing to negotiate pay depending on your job and hours. They are looking for tutors anytime during the school year and their scheduling is extremely flexible and can work around school requirements. You can apply by Sending your resume to [email protected] with the subject line Resume and include your contact details.
Breakout Louisville
Breakout Louisville is a fun job where you get to control breakout rooms and help players with clues to breakout. You will be taken through breakout room training and must have a passion and love for puzzles, riddles, and/or escape rooms. The starting pay is around $12-13 with small raises every so often. This location is located at Breakout Games Louisville in Middletown. Flexible schedules are available and they can work out problems as needed. Apply at the breakouts website to become a game master!
The Blind Squirrel Restaurant
Become a host or a hostess at the Blind Squirrel restaurant in Middletown. This is an easy job that requires good communication skills, problem-solving skills, and working well with others. As well as being able to stand for long periods of time. The starting rate is $12 an hour plus tips which can range from $30-200 a night. The address of this location is 592 N English Station Rd, Louisville, KY 40223. Scheduling is flexible and you can apply online.
Boudreaux’s SnoBalls
Boudreeaux’s is a snow cone and ice cream store. You need to be able to handle ice, handle money, and complete the required training. The starting pay is $10.50 but increases eventually. Located in the Middletown Area at 11816 Shelbyville-D Rd #1415, Louisville, KY 40243. Apply in-store at that address.
Wildwood Country Club
Wildwood is a country club that is currently hiring golf cart staff. You must be friendly and hold nice conversations with members. The age requirement is 16 or older. The pay is $8 an hour plus cash tips every day. You can apply by sending an email and request to set up an interview!
Kroger
There are various jobs available at the Holiday Manor Kroger including checking out people, stockers, and more! Having good communication skills and understanding the basics of customer service. The pay is $16.50 an hour for all positions. They have flexible scheduling and a friendly team. Apply on their website to be a part of that team.
Mark’s Feed Store
Mark’s is hiring waitresses/waiters, bussers, and hostesses. Must have good communication skills, understand the basics of customer service, and carry up to 20 lbs. The pay depends on the position but you can ask about this at your interview. They have flexible scheduling and you can apply online on their website.
For Dupont Manual students Emma Banic (11, YPAS) and Amelia Wade (12, HSU), the importance of having a job during the school year is nothing short of a must.
“Teens can have more flexible schedules and teens can work one without scheduling conflicts,” Banic said. Banic also emphasized how important having a job has been for her personal growth and time management.
“Having a job has helped me have proper time and money management skills and learning it at a young age is important,” Banic explained. Wade also had similar feelings about having a job in high school.
“I personally have a job and I really like it because it teaches me to balance all of my responsibilities and have my own money so I do not have to take money from my parents,” Wade said. These are just two people at Manual who praise the idea of having a job and most of the student body would agree.
If you’re in need of a job consider applying to these amazing businesses! Be sure to share these with your friends and family as well if you know someone who is struggling to find a job they enjoy.
