Ahhhh, summer. What can I say, the sun is shining. school’s out, you’re holding on to an iced coffee that’s sweating faster than you are. That is……until you open your bank account and see you’re broke as sh!t. And now you’re the one breaking a sweat.
So, what’s the answer? A Summer job, high pay (if you play your cards right) and maybe a little freedom to have a kick-butt summer. Sound good?
Let’s begin breaking down the absolute best summer jobs with high pay – and even the worst ones you should probably avoid, unless you’ve got a thirst for emotional damage that is!
Yeah. Didn’t think so. Alright then. How ‘bout them cards?
Let’s go find you a summer job with high pay!
The Best Summer Jobs (High Pay to Low Pay)
1. Lifeguard
Think ‘Baywatch’, Except with More Sweat and Less Slow-Mo!
If you are:
- A good, strong swimmer
- Cool with yelling at reckless children
………lifeguarding is for you! Lucky you! 😬 LOL, just kidding, it’s really not that bad.
Not at all. In fact, it pays especially well (think private pools & fancy resorts), and you get to feel powerful with your whistle. What a rush!
What You Do:
- Watch swimmers like your life (and theirs) depends on it
- Rescue anyone in trouble
- Enforce pool rules
- Bake in the sun like a seasoned rotisserie chicken
What You Need:
- Lifeguard certification
- CPR + First Aid
Why It Slaps:
Let’s be real — being a lifeguard sounds kinda iconic. You’re out in the sun, wearing shades, twirling your whistle like you’re in Baywatch: Broke Edition.
The pay? Pretty darn decent — especially if you work at a fancy beach, a private pool, or a bougie waterpark where Karen tips you to “keep an eye on Brayden.”
Plus, you might walk away with a tan… or a really weird sunburn in the shape of your fanny pack.
Best part? You get power.
Like, actual shout-across-the-pool-and-kids-listen kind of power. Telling people to “WALK” without being questioned? That’s the kind of respect some of us have been craving since 6th grade.
Reality Check:
Sounds chill — sure. I mean, until you’re 3 hours deep into your shift that is; sitting in a plastic chair that feels like a frying pan, slowly dehydrating while a toddler throws pool noodles at your foot.
You’re reapplying sunscreen every 45 minutes like your life depends on it (because it literally does), and still somehow leaving work looking like a rotisserie chicken.
People think lifeguards just “sit there” — but between scanning every corner of the pool, keeping a mental note of who’s a strong swimmer, and being ready to dive in at a second’s notice? You can’t blink for too long without panicking you missed something.
Also, the tan? Yeah… it’s more like random patches of red and white stripes. You’ll be rocking the “zebra chic” look until October.
2. Camp Counselor
It’s like being a Chaos Coordinator with Glitter in your hair!
You thought being a camp counselor would be all kumbaya and s’mores. Surprise! You’re now the unofficial referee of dodgeball death matches and the emotional support adult for 30 kids who think glue is a snack. But you’re outside and you can to act like a kid all day. It’s FUN nonetheless!
What You Do:
- Plan activities, entertain campers, stop meltdowns
- Say “Where are your shoes?!” hourly
- Scrape glitter off your arms for eight weeks
What you Need:
- Energy
- CPR/First Aid
- The patience of a saint
Why It Slaps:
If you’ve got the energy of a golden retriever and a soft spot for chaos, this might be your moment to shine.
Being a camp counselor comes with some sweet perks: free lunch (yay!), fun memories (mostly), and the kind of resume buzzwords that scream “I’m responsible and know how to handle literal children.”
You’ll walk away with experience in leadership, conflict resolution, and how to get gum out of hair without Googling it.
Plus, you’ll get to be the “cool counselor” who teaches friendship bracelets one minute and runs dodgeball tournaments the next. Bonus points if the kids bother to remember your name by the end of the week (it’s rare, but iconic when it happens). Lol.
Reality Check:
Let’s talk about that “free lunch” real quick. It’s a soggy turkey sandwich, a questionable juice box, and a granola bar that expired sometime around the pandemic.
The chaos? Nonstop.
You’re not just “guiding young minds” — you’re breaking up glitter fights, chasing kids who forgot their shoes (again), and using your outside voice more than a sports announcer.
You will find glitter in your bra, your socks, and somehow… your car vents. Forever. And by Day 3, you’ll be googling “Is it legal to fake your own disappearance from day camp?”
But hey — at least it builds character (and the immune system).
3. Tour Guide
Think of yourself like a Walking Wikipedia with Sass! With bragging rights of course 😉
Love history, storytelling, and hearing your own voice? Welcome to tour guiding. Whether it’s museums, historic sites, or scenic hikes — you’re the one dropping facts and fake enthusiasm.
What You Do:
- Lead tours, talk a lot, answer weird questions
- Memorize trivia like your life depends on it
What You Need:
- Good memory
- Public speaking skills
Why It Slaps:
If you love to talk (and maybe love being the center of attention), this one’s for you.
Tour guides get paid to tell cool stories about interesting places — kind of like being a human podcast with sneakers. You walk a group of people around, share fun facts, and throw in a few jokes to keep things fun.
And if you’re good at it? The tips can be really nice. People love a good storyteller, especially when you say things like, “This building is over 100 years old!” in your most dramatic voice. Not to mention you’ll sound super smart.
Reality Check:
People will ask if the place is haunted. A lot. Like… every tour. Even if it’s a bakery. Just smile and say something spooky.
You also need to remember a lot of facts. Like dates, names, weird events — all of it. If you get something wrong, there’s always that one person who looked it up on their phone and can’t wait to call you out.
And yep — your feet will be tired. Your throat will feel dry. And by the second week, you might start dreaming about being chased by tourists holding giant cameras and yelling, “Where’s the bathroom?!”
But hey — at least you’re not flipping burgers in a greasy kitchen. So, we’re calling that a win.
4. Bartender
Become an off-the-record therapist, who just so happens to serve tequila as well.
If you’re 18+ (21+ in some areas), have charm, speed, and a tolerance for drunk people telling you their life story — bartending pays big, especially with tips.
What You Do:
- Mix drinks
- Check IDs
- Give unsolicited life advice
What You Need:
- Bartending license (maybe)
- Good memory + fast hands
Why It Slaps:
If you like talking to people and moving fast, bartending might be the perfect summer job for you. You’ll be making drinks, chatting with customers, and vibing to the music — all while making pretty great tips.
Now technically, I ranked this job as #4 on my list based on base pay alone. But if I counted tips? Honestly, it might be sitting pretty at #1. For now, though, we’re sticking to regular wages. But just know — bartending is a sneaky little money-maker if you’ve got the right vibe.
If you think you fit the bit, this is probably one of the best summer jobs for you! Some nights, you’ll feel like a star behind the bar, pouring drinks like a pro and making everyone feel special.
And the stories? Omg. You’ll see everything — couples breaking up, friends making up, and wild birthday parties where someone always yells, “This is the best night ever!” Plus, you get to wear fun outfits (just maybe not white… spills happen).
So, if you don’t mind the hustle and bustle of being fast on your feet, I think you’ll really love the high pay of this summer job.
The tips are craaaaazy good and it’s an all-around fun summer job to have!
Reality Check:
However, it’s not always fun and fruity cocktails. Sometimes customers cry, tell you all about their crazy ex and ask for impossible drinks they saw made on TikTok (that never lives up to their expectations either way).
You’ll clean up spills, deal with rude people, and yes — sometimes clean up gross stuff like vomit. Yeah. Grosse. Don’t I know it.
By the end of the night, your feet will hurt, your shirt might smell like tequila, and your brain will be fried from too much noise.
Still… with all the tips, funny stories, and cool moments? Yeah, it can still be totally worth it.
5. Swim Instructor
If you can yell “kick!” for an hour straight while trying not to get splashed in the face by a 5-year-old doing cannonballs, becoming a swim instructor is on the horizon.
You teach people how not to drown and get paid well for it. Swim instructors work with kids (and adults!) and usually earn more per hour than lifeguards.
What You Do:
- Teach swimming lessons
- Show safety techniques
- Boost confidence, one kickboard at a time
What You Need:
- Swim skills
- CPR, First Aid, Lifeguard Certs
Why It Slaps:
Being a swim instructor is actually kind of awesome. You’re in the water, helping people learn how to swim, float, and not panic when their face gets wet.
You might teach little kids, nervous adults, or even some teens who somehow missed swim lessons the first time around. The hours are usually super flexible, the pay is great, and bonus — you don’t have to sit in a hot office all day.
You’re basically a water coach and part-time cheerleader.
Reality Check:
Some kids? They scream underwater. Like, loud. You’ll be trying to teach them to float, and suddenly you’re dodging a full-on splash storm. It takes patience, quick moves, and a good sense of humor. Also, you’ll get wet. All. The. Time. But hey, at least you don’t have to deal with deep fryer grease or folding 100 t-shirts.
Still a win though.
Summer Jobs with High Pay — But at What Cost?
Sure, the following summer jobs might build character… but they mostly build rage. Lol. You will hate going to work and then leave hating it just as much. Just not worth your sanity. Trust me.
1. Fast Food: Deep Fryer of Broken Dreams
You think, “This’ll be easy money! Free fries! Air-conditioned kitchen!”
LOL. No.
You clock in and it’s already 1,000 degrees. The fryer’s popping, the headset’s crackling, and someone’s yelling that their Diet Coke had ice in it (yes… ice).
You’re doing math in your head while flipping burgers, dodging oil, and trying not to cry when the manager says “Let’s pick up the pace.”
Why it Feels Like a Trap:
- You smell like grease 24/7
- Your shoes? Crunchy.
- The headset lives in your nightmares
2. Retail: Where Hope (and Shirts) Go to Die
Welcome to your new life: folding the same shirt 47 times while someone pulls one from the bottom and ruins your entire pile. You ask people to sign up for the store card and they look at you like you asked for their blood type.
The Real Drama:
- The fitting room is a war zone
- You will find a mystery sock. Every shift.
- Your playlist will haunt your dreams
3. Golf Caddy: Therapy, but Make It Manual Labor
You carry bags for men named Chad who think the stock market is a personality. They tip with advice like “Invest early!” while you sweat through your soul.
Physical Labour in Khakis:
- Long walks, rich talk
- If you survive, your back won’t
- Tips hit different in rich zip codes
Summer Jobs High Pay: How to Avoid the Duds (and the Drama)
Start Early — Like, Now Early
You snooze, you fold towels at a gas station in the middle of nowhere. That’s just how it goes. The best jobs? They get scooped up fast — like before school’s even out.
Want to be a lifeguard at the cool pool? Or a camp counselor that doesn’t get stuck with “glue duty”? Then you need to start applying in May (or earlier). June? That’s late. July? You might as well start prepping your “Welcome to Taco Town” name tag.
Maya’s Quick Tip: Set a reminder in your phone to check job boards every weekend in April and May. That’s prime time to grab the good gigs.
Search Smart — Don’t Wait for Mom to Text You Leads
Don’t just sit around hoping someone randomly offers you a summer job with high pay and free snacks.
You gotta hustle, even if it’s just a little.
Here’s where to look:
- Indeed.com – tons of listings, updated daily
- CoolWorks.com – seasonal jobs at national parks, resorts, and more
- Local Facebook groups – people always posting odd jobs
- Walking into places – yes, face-to-face still works!
- Friends and family – ask around, you never know who knows someone
And if you see a “Help Wanted” sign, don’t just keep walking. Pop in, smile, and ask if they’re still hiring. Confidence = cash.
Be Flexible — The Best Jobs Aren’t Always the Flashiest
Look, not every summer job high pay gig is going to be glamorous. That I can tell you for sure. But some of the highest-paying jobs are the ones you’d never think to try — like working security at festivals, walking dogs for rich people on vacation, or being a tour guide at a museum.
They might not come with neon signs and milkshake machines, but you know what they do come with? A paycheck.
Your bank account doesn’t care if you’re wearing a cute uniform or if your job title sounds cool on Instagram. It just wants deposits.
Ask yourself, “Would I rather look cool or afford fries and a drink this summer?” That usually clears it up.
Take It Seriously — Even If It’s Just “Summer”
Yes, it’s a seasonal job. Yes, it ends in August. But that doesn’t mean it doesn’t matter. Your summer boss could turn into a reference for a full-time job later. Or they might hire you again next year. Or they might know someone hiring for your dream job and give you a hookup.
So show up on time. Smile. Work hard. Even if you’re secretly dreaming about quitting and opening your own food truck.
And who knows? Maybe you’ll turn that summer gig into something way bigger. In fact, it often does (if that’s what you want!)
Treat every job like it’s part of your glow-up. Even if it includes mopping up glitter or listening to Chad’s golf stories for 8 hours.
Tips from Someone Who’s Been There (Hi, It’s Me)
- Have a resume ready — even if it’s just one page with your babysitting experience and that one time you volunteered at a car wash.
- Practice your “why I want this job” speech — because they will ask.
- Don’t ghost interviews — you’d be shocked how many people do. Showing up already makes you top-tier.
- Bring water and snacks to every shift. You are not yourself when you’re hungry and dehydrated.
- Follow up after applying — a quick “Hey just checking in!” email can go a long way.
Finding summer jobs high pay style doesn’t have to be impossible — you just need to be smart about it. Start early, hustle a little, and keep an open mind.
Because let’s be honest: folding shirts in retail while a kid screams in the dressing room next to you? Not the vibe. But snagging a high-paying summer gig that funds your iced coffee habit and your hot girl summer dreams? Yes, please.
So, get out there. Check those listings. Apply like a boss. And maybe, just maybe, you’ll avoid
Want More Summer Money Hacks?
If your idea of summer work includes air conditioning and working in pajamas — same!
Check out my blog post on Remote Night Jobs You can do in Your Pajamas
And yes, you can do it while binge-watching your favorite show and eating grapes. Which reminds me of another blog post I have about how to get paid to watch Netflix.
I mean isn’t that just the ultimate dream? Haha.
Final Thoughts
Look, not all summer jobs are awful. Some of them pay great, give you legit experience, and leave you with stories you’ll be telling for years. Others? Well, they give you trauma and glitter in your eyebrows.
If you’re looking for a summer jobs high pay list, just focus on the ones that pay hourly with tips, certifications, or special skills (like swimming or bartending). But say no to soul-sucking gigs unless you’re desperate and/or curious.
You’ve got options. You’ve got potential. And you’ve got sunscreen (hopefully).
