When you’re in high school, summer in New York City can feel full of possibility. The school year slows down, but the city doesn’t, and that’s where summer jobs in New York City for high school students come in, offering a chance to gain your first real work experience. A summer job in NYC isn’t just about earning money; it helps you build responsibility, independence, and an understanding of how work fits into everyday life in one of the world’s most dynamic cities.

These opportunities place you right in the middle of a fast-paced, diverse environment. Imagine commuting through bustling subway stations, working alongside people from every background, and spending your breaks in neighbourhoods filled with energy and opportunity. From local businesses and cultural institutions to community programmes and city-run initiatives, NYC offers countless ways to get involved.

Even if you already live in the city, a summer job can change how you experience it. You begin to see familiar streets through a professional lens, learning how organisations operate, how teams collaborate, and how effort turns into real results.

What types of summer jobs in New York City for high school students are available?

We know that some jobs offer little more than basic tasks or limited growth. That’s why thoughtful research matters. The most valuable summer jobs provide structure, mentorship, and opportunities to build transferable skills that will serve you well in college and beyond.

Across New York City, students can find summer jobs in fields like retail, hospitality, technology, education, public service, arts and media, and nonprofit work. Whether you’re gaining your first paycheck or exploring future career interests, these roles help you develop communication skills, time management, and confidence in professional settings.

You’ll need to show up, work hard, and adapt quickly. But to help you get started, we’ve devised a list of 15 Summer Jobs in New York City for High School Students. They’ve been selected for their learning value, accessibility, and potential to make your summer both productive and memorable.

15 Summer Jobs in New York City for High School Students

1. SYEP (Summer Youth Employment Program) – NYC Department of Youth & Community Development

Location: New York City (across the five boroughs)
Cost/Stipend: Paid work (participants earn an hourly wage; younger youth may get a stipend up to $700); no program fee to apply.
Dates: Summer (typically 6 weeks in July – August; exact dates vary by year); No specific date has been mentioned
Application Deadline: March 14th
Eligibility: NYC residents ages 14-24, legally allowed to work in the U.S.; specific requirements vary by age group

The Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP), run by New York City’s Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD), is one of the most established summer jobs in New York City for high school students. Open to NYC residents aged 14–24, SYEP offers paid roles across government agencies, nonprofits, small businesses, and community organisations, giving students an early introduction to real workplace environments.

You’ll gain hands-on work experience while building essential skills such as communication, teamwork, and time management. Beyond earning a paycheck, you’ll also take part in career readiness workshops that focus on resume building and workplace professionalism. Overall, SYEP provides a structured, supportive introduction to the professional world while encouraging early career exploration and independence.

Why it stands out: It connects you to meaningful paid summer work across NYC, helping you build professional skills and workplace experience early.

2. Immerse Education’s Career Insights Summer School

Location: Barnard College, Columbia University, New York
Cost/Stipend: Varies; summer school scholarship available through their bursary programme
Dates: 2 weeks during the summer
Application Deadline: Multiple summer cohorts with rolling admissions
Eligibility: High school students worldwide aged 15-18 

The Career Insights Program allows high school students to explore future careers in some of the world’s most influential industry hubs. In New York, the programme places you at the centre of a global business and cultural capital, with industry exposure across finance, media, technology, fashion, and the arts. You’ll take part in project-based learning with established organisations, attend interactive workshops led by industry professionals, and visit key sites such as Wall Street, the New York Stock Exchange, and leading creative and media spaces across Manhattan.

Students are based at Barnard College, part of Columbia University, offering an authentic Ivy League residential experience. Weekly in-person 1:1 career coaching sessions provide personalised feedback on your CV, professional profile, and career goals, culminating in a final presentation of your project to industry experts.

Why it stands out: It combines real-world industry exposure, personalised career coaching, and immersive learning in New York City, helping you understand how academic interests translate into professional pathways beyond the classroom.

3. NYC Ladders for Leaders

Location: New York City – internships take place with employers across the five boroughs (some remote options possible)
Cost/Stipend: interns are paid at least the minimum wage (e.g., ~$16/hr), and there is no program fee to apply or participate
Dates: June – August; exact dates vary by placement
Application Deadline: January 9th
Eligibility: High school or college student (typically ages 16–24); Resident of one of NYC’s five boroughs; Prior work (paid or volunteer) experience; Legally allowed to work in the U.S.

NYC Ladders for Leaders is a nationally recognized program that connects high school and college students with paid professional summer internships at leading corporations, non-profit organizations, and government agencies across New York City. It offers a competitive application process and includes up to 30 hours of pre-employment training to help you develop essential workplace skills and prepare for professional success.

As part of the city’s Summer Youth Employment Program, this initiative helps you gain real-world experience while exploring career interests and building your networks. Applicants must successfully complete the training and be eligible for placement with employers.

Why it stands out: It offers placements with leading employers, providing mentorship and career exposure that strengthen college and job readiness.

4. The Met High School Internship Program – The Metropolitan Museum of Art

Location: New York City (The Metropolitan Museum of Art)
Cost/Stipend: Paid; interns receive a $1,100 stipend upon completion
Dates: No specific dates available
Application Deadline: No specific dates available
Eligibility: High school students in grades 10-11 who reside in or attend school/homeschool in New York, New Jersey, or Connecticut, have working papers & SSN/ITIN, haven’t completed another Met internship, are available for all sessions, and have parental consent

The Metropolitan Museum of Art offers a paid Summer Internship Program for high school students currently in grades 10 or 11 who reside in or attend school in New York, New Jersey, or Connecticut. This exciting opportunity allows you to gain real-world experience by working closely with museum professionals across departments such as curatorial, design, education, and social media, while developing valuable professional skills.

No prior art history experience is required, only a strong interest in learning about museum careers and creative fields. Eligible applicants must complete an application with short essays and a recommendation letter. Selected interns receive a stipend upon completing the program and are immersed in a collaborative environment that nurtures curiosity and career exploration.

Why it stands out: It gives you museum and arts operations experience, helping you understand how major cultural institutions function behind the scenes.

5. Apollo Theater Academy Paid Internship Program

Location: Apollo Theater, 253 W 125th Street, New York, NY 10027 (New York City)
Cost/Stipend: Paid internship at $16.50 per hour
Dates: March 10th – May 21st
Application Deadline: January 30th
Eligibility: Must be a current 12th grader; NYC resident (five boroughs); Available for full program schedule; Parent/guardian participation at orientation required

The Apollo Theater Arts Administration Internship offers high school students an exceptional opportunity to explore the inner workings of a world-renowned performing arts institution. You’ll engage in hands-on experiences across departments such as marketing, development, education, and operations, gaining practical skills in arts management.

Through workshops, mentorship, and collaborative projects, you’ll learn about event planning, community engagement, and organizational leadership in a real-world setting. Living in New York City, you’ll also connect with professionals and peers who share their passion for the arts. This immersive program not only strengthens resumes but also provides insight into potential careers in arts administration.

Why it stands out: It places you in a world-famous performance venue, helping you see how arts, management, and community engagement come together professionally.

6. New York Historical Society Student Historian Internship

Location: New‑York Historical Society, Manhattan, New York City (in person)
Cost/Stipend: Free to participate; interns receive a $700 stipend upon successful completion
Dates: July 8th - August 14th
Application Deadline: March 30th
Eligibility: High school students entering grades 10-12 living/attending school in the NYC metro area; valid working papers may be required

The Student Historian Internship Program at the New-York Historical Society offers high school students a hands-on introduction to historical research, public history, and civic engagement. Through this program, you’ll work closely with museum educators and historians to analyze primary sources, conduct research, and develop your own historical interpretations.

You’ll engage in seminars, collaborative projects, and discussions that explore how history connects to present-day social issues. The program also emphasizes critical thinking, writing, and presentation skills, helping you communicate complex ideas clearly. By contributing to real museum initiatives, you gain insight into careers in history, education, and the humanities.

Why it stands out: It lets you work with historical collections and public history projects, helping you build archival research and museum interpretation skills.

7. Morgan Stanley JumpStart Program (NYC)

Location: Virtual / Online program
Cost/Stipend: Free to participate (no cost); no specific stipend amount listed
Dates: November through April (five‑month timeline with bi‑weekly sessions)
Application Deadline: No specific information available
Eligibility: Targeted at high‑school seniors worldwide (ambitious/competitive students)

The Morgan Stanley JumpStart Scholars in Finance program is a five-month, virtual, immersive learning experience designed to introduce ambitious high-school seniors to the world of finance. Featuring bi-weekly sessions taught by Morgan Stanley professionals, the curriculum covers essential topics such as financial literacy, entrepreneurship, wealth building, emotional intelligence, leadership, and career development.

You’ll gain valuable insight into the finance industry and build critical skills to prepare for future opportunities. The program begins each November and culminates in a capstone competition where you’ll apply what you’ve learned to a real-world case study. Applications typically open in early fall, offering motivated students a transformative educational opportunity.

Why it stands out: It combines leadership development with academic support, helping you strengthen preparedness for high school completion and future opportunities.

8. Rockefeller University Summer Science Research Program (SSRP – NYC Track)

Location: The Rockefeller University, New York City, NY, USA
Cost/Stipend: No specific cost or stipend information is available
Dates: June 22nd – August 6th
Application Deadline: January 2nd
Eligibility: Current high school juniors or seniors worldwide; must be ≥16 years old by program start; full‑time participation required.

The Rockefeller University Summer Science Research Program (SSRP) gives motivated high school students the chance to step into real, cutting-edge biomedical research. Over the course of seven weeks, you’ll work in a Rockefeller laboratory under the mentorship of world-class scientists, contributing to authentic experiments rather than classroom simulations.

Beyond lab work, you’ll attend faculty lectures, participate in professional development workshops, and connect with fellow students who share your passion for science. The program is fully funded, making advanced research opportunities accessible to all selected students. If you’re eager to explore scientific inquiry in a rigorous, university-level environment, SSRP offers a transformative summer experience.

Why it stands out: It focuses on independent research, mentorship from eminent researchers, and a final poster presentation, providing you with valuable experience for STEM applications.

9. Bank of America Student Leaders Program – New York City

Location: Across the United States at local nonprofit partners; includes a national leadership summit in Washington, D.C
Cost/Stipend: Paid internship (internship pay varies by market); all summit travel, lodging, and meals are covered by the program.
Dates: 8‑week summer internship; July 21-26
Application Deadline: January 15th
Eligibility: Must be a high school junior or senior, legally authorized to work in the U.S., able to complete the internship and summit, in good academic standing, and resident in an eligible area; no prior selection in the program

The Bank of America Student Leaders initiative is one of the most prestigious Summer Jobs in New York City for High School Students, combining paid nonprofit internships with leadership training and national exposure to public service and civic impact. Each year, the program selects hundreds of students to participate in an internship with local nonprofit organizations, where they gain valuable work experience and contribute to community impact.

You’ll also attend a national leadership summit in Washington, D.C., where you build skills, network with peers, and learn how government, business, and nonprofits collaborate to address societal challenges. Through this experience, you’ll gain practical skills, confidence, and a deeper commitment to community service.

Why it stands out: You’ll engage in leadership training, community service, and corporate mentorship, helping you build civic awareness and early professional experience within a major financial institution.

10. NYC Urban Fellows (High School Component / Youth Track)

Location: New York City (placements across City agencies)
Cost/Stipend: $36,184 stipend + health insurance (no housing/relocation coverage)
Dates: September 8th to May 14th
Application Deadline: January 12th
Eligibility: Recent BA/BS graduates worldwide (degree earned Spring 2024 – Spring 2026) who can commit full-time; work authorization required; master’s status does not affect eligibility

The NYC Urban Fellows Program is a prestigious nine-month fellowship that gives recent graduates the opportunity to work at the heart of New York City’s government. Through full-time placements in agencies such as the Mayor’s Office, City Council, and key departments, you’ll gain firsthand experience in policy, operations, and public service leadership.

Beyond their day-to-day roles, you’ll participate in seminars, professional development workshops, and networking events that deepen their understanding of urban challenges. The program blends academic learning with practical problem-solving, allowing fellows to contribute meaningfully to civic projects. If you’re driven to explore public service and urban innovation, this fellowship offers an impactful start to your career.

Why it stands out: It places you in a competitive civic leadership internship, helping you work directly on city policy, governance, and public-sector projects while building professional networks.

11. NYC Parks & Recreation Summer Internship Program

Location: New York City (City government agencies across NYC)
Cost/Stipend: Paid – interns earn weekly pay; undergrad approx. $577.50–$665/week, grad approx. $610.03–$917.97/week
Dates: Summer positions typically run May–early September
Application Deadline: No specific information available
Eligibility: Open to undergraduate and graduate students all over the world, currently enrolled or recent graduates (within 1 year); not for high school students specifically, unless stated in individual postings

The NYC DCAS Summer Internship Program offers high school and college students a chance to immerse themselves in public service while gaining hands-on experience across New York City agencies. As an intern, you work on real projects, participate in professional development workshops, and learn directly from city leaders who shape daily life in NYC.

The program blends skill-building with meaningful civic engagement, helping you understand how government systems operate and how policies turn into impact. You also join networking events and cohort activities that expose you to diverse career paths in public service. For students eager to explore government, develop practical skills, and contribute to their city, this program offers a strong foundation.

Why it stands out: It introduces you to municipal government work, helping you build insight into civil service operations and public administration.

12. MoMA Teen Programs: Paid Summer Internships

Location: The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), 11 West 53rd Street, Manhattan, NYC
Cost/Stipend: Free
Dates: No specific program dates listed
Application Deadline: No specific deadline
Eligibility: NYC high school students in grades 10-12

The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York offers Teen Programs designed to inspire creativity and artistic exploration for young people in the city. These programs provide free, hands-on studio art experiences where you can connect with contemporary art, learn new techniques, and engage with professional artists and peers. You can drop in to explore different creative practices or join behind-the-scenes, internship-like opportunities that deepen their understanding of art and museum culture.

Supported by foundations and the Annual Education Fund, the Teen Programs aim to foster artistic growth, equity, and community among youth. Through these engaging offerings, MoMA encourages you to express yourself and develop confidence in your creative voices.

Why it stands out: It engages you with modern art and creative community projects, helping you develop cultural literacy and creative thinking in a major contemporary arts setting.

13. Teen Center Ambassadors- The New York Public Library

Location: Assigned NYPL branch in Bronx, Manhattan, or Staten Island (must be able to commute there)
Cost/Stipend: Paid – $17/hour
Dates: January 20th – June 5th
Application Deadline: No specific date for the deadline
Eligibility: Must be enrolled in 10th, 11th, or 12th grade at an NYC high school for the 2025-26 school year; must have a required employment certificate for minors

The NYPL Teen Center Ambassadors Program offers high school students a meaningful way to develop leadership, communication, and community-building skills while engaging with one of New York City’s most vibrant public institutions. As an ambassador, you’ll collaborate with librarians, help plan teen-focused events, and contribute to creating a supportive space for your peers.

The program goes beyond volunteering by giving you opportunities to share your voice, shape programming, and explore career paths in education, public service, and community engagement. Through hands-on projects and teamwork, you’ll build confidence and learn how public libraries support local communities. It’s a valuable experience if you’re excited to lead, learn, and make an impact.

Why it stands out: It provides leadership and public service experience, helping you contribute to library programs and youth outreach initiatives.

14. Summer Internship Program- New York City Comptroller 

Location: David Dinkins Municipal Building, 1 Centre St, Manhattan (in-person).
Cost/Stipend: Paid; undergraduate interns $17–$18/hr, graduate/law interns $19–$21/hr
Dates: Program runs June 2nd – July 31st
Application Deadline: No specific date mentioned
Eligibility: Domestic students enrolled in an accredited undergraduate or graduate degree program

The NYC Comptroller’s Summer Internship Program offers high school and college students a valuable opportunity to explore public service while gaining hands-on experience in city government. As an intern, you work alongside professionals across divisions like audit, policy, law, and communications, allowing you to build practical skills and learn how New York City’s financial systems operate.

The program combines meaningful project work with workshops, speaker events, and networking sessions that help you understand real-world career pathways. You’ll also contribute to initiatives that support fiscal accountability and public transparency. If you’re looking for an educational, mission-driven summer experience, this internship provides a strong foundation for future civic or public-sector careers.

Why it stands out: It places you in governmental finance and auditing work, helping you understand how public budgets and fiscal management operate.

15. Harlem Children’s Zone (HCZ) Summer Internship Program

Location: Harlem Children’s Zone (New York City) — virtual engagement components; exact site locations not specified on page
Cost/Stipend: No specific information for the cost or the stipend
Dates: July 6th – August 21st
Application Deadline: No specific date mentioned
Eligibility: Open to enrolled Promise Academy & Zone students (e.g., K-12, with separate tracks); specific eligibility criteria not clearly detailed.

The HCZ Summer Program offers high school students an engaging opportunity to explore academics, arts, and personal growth during the summer months. You can immerse yourself in hands-on projects, workshops, and collaborative activities designed to strengthen skills in areas like STEM, humanities, and creative expression. Beyond academics, the program emphasizes leadership, teamwork, and community engagement, helping students build confidence and a sense of responsibility.

You’ll also get a glimpse of real-world applications through mentorship and experiential learning, making the experience both educational and enriching. With a supportive environment and expert guidance, the HCZ Summer Program encourages curiosity, creativity, and meaningful connections with peers.

Why it stands out: It offers youth enrichment and support opportunities, helping you build community connections and personal growth through structured summer engagement.

Find Your First NYC Role

New York teaches fast lessons. Showing up on time, taking responsibility, and adapting quickly all become part of your daily routine.

The various summer jobs in New York City for high school students listed here place you inside real workplaces, where effort turns into experience and confidence grows through action.

Each role helps you understand how teams function, how organisations operate, and how your interests align with real career paths.

Turn early work experience into informed career choices by exploring our Career Exploration blogs today, where you’ll find practical advice, real-world insights, and guidance to help you plan your next steps with clarity and confidence.