Just graduated from high school? Starting college soon? In that post-CAPE, pre-career limbo, figuring things out? Wherever you are on your journey, you likely need experience to go further. The job market is tight, and employers seek more than just subject matter expertise and potential. They want to see that you’ve already started learning how to show up, solve problems, and work with others.
How do you set yourself apart? Get a side hustle, a part-time gig, or volunteer work. These roles help you earn a pocket money and build your confidence, skills, and résumé.
Here are nine job ideas for young Jamaicans to level up their CV and their future.
Design, edit, create content
Put those assignment presentations and social media scrolls to use. If you create good visuals or edit videos, you may be on to something. Young creatives can design flyers, edit reels, or manage content for small businesses, churches, schools, or community events. Tools like Canva and CapCut are helpful. Build your own Instagram page to show your work, or offer your services on WhatsApp and Fiverr. With time and practice, your hobby can turn into a paying gig, and your portfolio will speak for itself.
Tutor Younger Students
Got strong passes in Math, English, or Science? Turn your knowledge into cash by helping younger students. Many parents need affordable tutors who can break down lessons in a relatable way. Offer one-on-one sessions for students preparing for PEP, CSEC, or even first-year college courses. Get started by reaching out to your former schools, youth groups, or churches. Let teachers, guidance counselors, or pastors know you're available. They often know families who need help and can recommend you directly.
Manage Social Media for Small Businesses
Most small businesses in Jamaica are on social media, but few do it well. If you can write captions, schedule posts, or create eye-catching content, this could be your lane. Offer to help a family member’s business or pitch your skills to your local barber, hairdresser, or food spots. Managing a business page teaches you consistency, branding, and how to market to real people.
Volunteer for Community Projects
Volunteering might not come with a pay cheque, but it pays off handsomely in the end. Read at a youth center, help in a blood drive, or join a beach cleanup, for experiences that show you care about your community. Volunteer work also introduces you to professionals, community leaders, and potential mentors who can guide your next career steps.
Work in a Supermarket
Supermarket jobs build many practical skills you’ll need in your future. From packing bags and helping customers to managing stock or working as a cashier, these roles teach you how to be punctual, respectful, and focused under pressure. You’ll learn how to deal with different personalities, handle cash, and keep things organized, skills that translate well into any future job.
Call Center
Call centers are a great entry for young people to gain solid work experience with flexible hours. Most Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) companies start hiring at 18, making this a great option right after high school. CSEC passes, especially in English, is a big plus. But many companies are more focused on your communication skills, attitude, and willingness to learn. The work teaches you how to manage time, solve problems, and maintain professionalism in tough situations.
Local Brand Merchandiser
When you see someone tidying up products on a supermarket shelf, that’s a merchandiser at work. It’s a hands-on job that involves arranging displays, restocking products, ensuring shelves look appealing, and interacting with store staff or customers. Most companies prefer merchandisers who are at least 18, especially if the role requires working independently, handling stock or cash, or traveling to multiple store locations. Generally, companies ask for passes in Math and English, good communication skills, a professional appearance, and a customer-friendly attitude. Companies like Wisynco, Lasco, Seprod, Select Brands, and even local supermarkets and event promoters often hire young merchandisers.
Start a Mini Side Hustle
Have a creative streak or a business idea? Start small and build. Bake and sell cupcakes, resell fashion online, or make handmade candles, bracelets, or crochet tops. Promote your hustle on WhatsApp and Instagram. You’ll get a taste of what it means to run a business, from managing money to handling customer service. That experience is gold.
Bonus Tip:
No matter what path you take, document it! Save designs, photos from volunteer events, and get testimonials from people you’ve helped. Store in Google Drive or create a simple PDF or digital portfolio. These things help when you're applying for scholarships, internships, or your first full-time job. Every job, project, or hustle teaches you something valuable. And in today’s competitive world, the earlier you start gaining real-life experiences, the more confident and ready you’ll be when bigger opportunities come.
Already building your portfolio? Tag us @pripsjamaica—we’d love to highlight your hustle