Teen workforce shows decline ahead of summer job season

LANSING, Mich. (WILX) – TThe demand for jobs is strong, and businesses are looking to fill positions.

As the school year nears its end, students will look to pad their pockets with summer cash. Several businesses and organizations will be opening their doors to the teen workforce.

In the coming months, many Michigan teens will be entering the workforce. While there is a demand for workers data shows that there is a steady decline in the pool of teens looking for jobs.

According to Michigan’s Department of Technology, Management, and Budget, in 2023, the teen workforce had about 230,000 teens aged 16 to 19 forecasted to seek summer jobs. This year, that workforce is projected to have around 178,000. But if you are under 18, Sean Eagan of Michigan Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) says you’re going to need a work permit before you can start clocking those hours.

“The easiest thing to do to get started is to make sure they’re out there looking for work but to request now, a work permit form from their school district if they’re not enrolled in school or they’re homeschooled you still get that from the school district where you live,” said Egan.

Egans says summer jobs can range from fast food and retail to recreational jobs like golf courses. LEO partners with agencies like Michigan Works and has a Pathfinder website to help with their job search. Soon, several hiring signs will be posted across the city.

Subscribe to our News 10 newsletter and YouTube page to receive the latest local news and weather. Looking to hire people, or grow your business through advertising? Gray Digital Media is your one-stop marketing solution. Learn more.

Copyright 2024 WILX. All rights reserved.