Getting Ready for Your First Job: A Guide for Teens

At Orange Easel, we believe learning doesn’t stop at the art table. As educators, we’re just as invested in helping our teens grow as individuals as we are in helping them grow as artists. That’s why we created our Junior Staff Program--a volunteer opportunity designed to give teens real-world experience, mentorship, and a supportive environment where they can build confidence and responsibility.

For many teens, Junior Staff is the first step toward eventually applying for a paid job—either with us or somewhere else. It's a low-pressure way to learn the basics of showing up on time, working with a team, and supporting young students. While you're volunteering, it's also the perfect time to start laying the groundwork for future employment.

Here’s a checklist of things you can do now to get yourself ready to apply for your first job when the time comes:

Getting Job-Ready: A Teen Checklist

• Set up a personal email address you check regularly
• Create a simple resume or list of experience (volunteering counts!)
• Know your availability so you’re ready to answer scheduling questions
• Practice answering common interview questions
• Record a professional voicemail greeting on your phone and check messages regularly
• Understand work permit requirements (if you're under 18 in your state)
• Get familiar with professional etiquette like being on time, dressing appropriately, and speaking respectfully
• Ask a trusted adult to be a reference
• Start reviewing job listings to understand what roles and qualifications are out there
• Set up a way to receive direct deposit 
• Gather the documents needed to complete an I-9 form (like a passport or combination of driver’s license and Social Security card)

​Volunteering as Junior Staff is a great way to build many of these habits. You’ll gain experience, meet mentors, and learn what it means to be part of a creative workplace—all before you even get your first paycheck.

If you're ready to take that first step, learn more about our Junior Staff Program here. We’d love to have you on our team.