7 Summer Jobs That Fizzled Out – And 7 That Still Bring the Heat
Let’s take a nostalgic yet humor-filled stroll down memory lane with 14 iconic summer jobs that have slowly faded into the annals of history—alongside bell-bottoms and Blockbuster cards—while tipping our hats to 14 timeless gigs that still bring the heat every summer.
Whether you spent your afternoons rewinding VHS tapes at the local video store or hustling tips as a babysitter extraordinaire, these jobs weren’t just a paycheck—they were a rite of passage. Some roles, like lifeguarding at the community pool or manning the neighborhood ice cream counter, still hold their ground in the summertime job hall of fame.
Others, well… let’s just say they’ve retired with honor and a few good stories. So whether you’re reminiscing or still clocking in, get ready to celebrate the summer grind—from the quirky relics of the past to the still-sizzling classics that define the season. These are the jobs that built character—and wicked tan lines.
1. Video Store Clerk
Ah, the video store clerk! A bastion of cinematic judgment, this job was an ’80s and ’90s staple. Picture me, a young cinephile, armed with the power to recommend the perfect Friday night flick or silently critique your taste in rom-coms. My kingdom was rows of VHS tapes, each needing a gentle rewind before returning to the shelf.
Rewinding those tapes was an art form, a rewind here, a pause there, ensuring the next patron wasn’t greeted by an abrupt mid-movie spoiler. The shelves were meticulously organized, with The Goonies never lost. Each day was a cinematic adventure, sometimes dealing with the odd customer asking, “Do you have that movie with that guy?”
Alas, this job fizzled out. The rise of Netflix and streaming services rendered us obsolete faster than a rewound tape. Today, algorithms suggest movies, stripping away the personal touch and sometimes, the guilt of leaving a film unwatched. But nothing matches the tactile thrill of browsing a video store, the smell of plastic cases, and the slight hum of a VHS rewinder.
2. Lifeguard at the Public Pool with a Whistle and Zero Chill
Lifeguarding at the public pool was the epitome of summer jobs with a splash of drama. Imagine me, perched high in the lifeguard chair, red one-piece and zinc nose, wielding my whistle like a maestro of safety. The pool was my domain, every splash a call to vigilance.
With the sun beating down, I watched over a sea of colorful swim caps bobbing in chlorinated waves. The whistle was my instrument, a short toot for running kids, a sharp blast for cannonballing teens. The glory days of the lifeguard whistle and dramatic pool rescues have faded, replaced by quieter, less theatrical safety measures.
Though public pools still exist, the lifeguard’s role is less about bossing around with zero chill and more about quiet vigilance. Yet, there’s something iconic about those summers, the endless sun, and the occasional hero moment. The poolside throne may have lost some of its luster, but memories of those sun-soaked days and dramatic whistle-blowing remain unsinkable.
3. Newspaper Delivery Kid
The newspaper delivery kid was an early-morning hero in training, up before the crack of dawn, slinging papers from the seat of a trusty bike. I recall those crisp mornings, my canvas bag filled to the brim with freshly printed stories of the day, a balancing act between handlebars and headlines.
Each toss was a perfected art, aiming for the sweet spot on the porch, hoping it wouldn’t land in the bushes. This was a job that taught punctuality, responsibility, and the thrill of early morning solitude – just me, the rising sun, and the sound of newspapers hitting pavement.
Sadly, the classic paper route fizzled as digital news and mobile alerts took over. Now, news comes in a constant stream to our pockets, devoid of the charming thud of ink and paper. Still, those mornings taught invaluable lessons, not just about news delivery, but about perseverance and the joy of a job well done.
4. Parking Lot Attendant at the Mall
Once upon a time, parking lot attendants were the unsung heroes of the mall, directing traffic and managing chaos with a smile and a pocket full of change. I remember standing in that little booth, feeling like a maestro of asphalt, orchestrating a seamless symphony of vehicles.
Cash was king, and change-making was an art form. The clink of coins was music to my ears as I guided drivers to spots, ensuring order in the concrete jungle. It was a role that required patience, politeness, and a knack for dodging the occasional irate shopper after a particularly frenzied sale day.
The rise of online shopping and digital payment methods has made this job all but obsolete. Today, malls are more walking tracks for retirees than bustling shopping meccas. Yet, the nostalgia of crisp bills and shiny coins remains, long after the last car has parked. The parking lot may be quieter, but memories of youthful hustle linger on.
5. Amusement Park Ride Operator
The thrill of the amusement park ride operator gig was unparalleled, especially during those summer carnivals. Picture me, a fearless 17-year-old, commanding the Ferris wheel, my kingdom of gears and levers. With a flick of a wrist, I could send shrieks of joy skyward, and let me tell you, the power was exhilarating.
We were the gatekeepers of fun, reminding riders to keep arms and legs inside the ride at all times. Every beep of the control panel felt like a heartbeat, electrifying the air with anticipation. But the essence of these pop-up carnivals, with their rickety rides and local charm, has faded into nostalgia.
Sure, theme parks still exist, but the intimate, hometown carnival vibe is a rarity. The roar of engines, the smell of popcorn and cotton candy, and the sound of delighted screams are now echoes of a simpler time. Yet, the memories of those summer nights, filled with twinkling lights and laughter, remain a cherished rollercoaster ride in my mind.
6. Soda Jerk at the Drugstore Counter
Stepping into the shoes of a soda jerk at the local drugstore counter was like stepping back in time. With my paper hat perched perfectly, I was the bartender of bubbly beverages, serving up root beer floats with an extra scoop of nostalgia.
The counter was a stage, and I was the star performer, spinning stools and mixing sodas like a well-rehearsed routine. Each order was a chance to perfect my craft, from the satisfying hiss of carbonated drinks meeting ice cream to the joyful reactions of patrons enjoying their fizzy treats.
Though the role of soda jerk has largely fizzled out, replaced by fast food chains and modern eateries, the charm of this job endures as retro Instagram content. Those summer days taught me not just how to mix the perfect float, but how to create moments of joy, one fizzy sip at a time. The soda fountains may be silent, but the memories bubble on.
7. Caddy at the Local Golf Course
The life of a golf caddy was a mix of carrying golf bags and collecting wisdom from the greens. I remember trudging across the golf course under the hot sun, lugging clubs for seasoned players who always had a slice of advice to share between swings.
Being a caddy wasn’t just about carrying bags; it was about reading the greens, gauging the wind, and sometimes, being a confidant for a frustrated golfer’s woes. Every loop of the course was a new lesson in both golf and life, as I absorbed tales of triumphs and mishits.
While the rise of golf carts has diminished the demand for young caddies, the fond memories of those sun-drenched days endure. It was more than just a summer job; it was a journey through manicured landscapes and the wisdom of seasoned players. Though my caddy days may have ended, the lessons in patience and persistence continue to echo long after the last putt.
8. Camp Counselor
Being a camp counselor is the ultimate summer gig that blends adventure, leadership, and a dash of chaos. Picture me, whistle around the neck, guiding a troop of wide-eyed campers through the wilderness of activities. Each day was a new chapter of campfire songs, s’mores, and bug bites.
The role is a blend of babysitter, entertainer, and rule enforcer. Teaching kids to kayak, leading hikes, and organizing talent shows were just part of the job description. The real magic was in the camaraderie, the shared laughs, and the lifelong memories forged under the stars.
Even today, camp counselor positions thrive, offering a summer full of nature and nostalgia. It’s more than just a job; it’s a chance to relive childhood joys, create unforgettable experiences, and maybe, just maybe, pass on a bit of that camp magic to the next generation. The summers may come and go, but the spirit of camp endures, tying generations together around a crackling fire.
9. Ice Cream Scooper
Scooping ice cream is a job that’s as sweet as it sounds, if not a bit sticky. Imagine me, behind the counter, armed with a scoop and an arsenal of flavors, ready to serve sugary smiles to the masses. Rocky road? For the 500th time today? Absolutely, with a side of practiced charm.
The gig was a blend of customer service and dexterity, perfecting the art of the flawless scoop. Each cone was a masterpiece, crafted with care and topped with sprinkles of joy. The challenge? Surviving the onslaught of sweet-toothed patrons while maintaining a cheerful demeanor.
This classic summer job remains popular, a timeless blend of fun and flavor that never loses its charm. It’s more than just scooping – it’s about crafting moments of happiness, one cone at a time. The ice cream may melt fast, but the memories of those sugar-coated days linger long after the last scoop is served.
10. Babysitter/Nanny
Babysitting is a summer job that never goes out of style, a delightful mix of playtime and responsibility. Picture me, a teenage babysitter, engaging two rambunctious kids in an epic game of hide and seek. The living room transformed into a playground, every couch and curtain a potential hiding spot.
This job isn’t just about minding kids; it’s about sparking imagination, orchestrating activities, and sometimes, diffusing tantrums with a well-timed snack. The art of babysitting is in balancing fun with safety, ensuring every giggle is met with parental peace of mind.
From full summer gigs to occasional Friday night stints, babysitting offers decent pay and endless snack privileges. It’s a timeless role, teaching patience, creativity, and negotiation skills. The kids might grow up, but the lessons and laughter shared stay with you. Babysitting is more than just a job; it’s a rewarding dive into youthful innocence and the joys of childhood camaraderie.
11. Lawn Care/Yard Work
Lawn care is the quintessential summer hustle, a job that combines sun, sweat, and a sense of accomplishment. Imagine me, pushing a lawn mower under the blazing sun, the smell of fresh-cut grass filling the air. Each stripe on the lawn was a testament to hard work and dedication.
Beyond mowing, it was about trimming, raking, and tidying up to create a picture-perfect yard. The physical demands were balanced by the satisfaction of a job well done, and maybe even a friendly nod of approval from a neighbor.
This gateway job to entrepreneurship remains a perennial favorite for teens and young adults. It’s more than just a paycheck; it’s a chance to learn responsibility, build muscles, and maybe even start a small business. The biceps might fade, but the entrepreneurial spirit cultivated through lawn care lives on, sprouting with every trimmed hedge and tidy lawn.
12. Retail Assistant
Retail jobs are the frontlines of customer interaction, a crash course in patience and people skills. Picture me, a retail assistant, folding jeans with the precision of a denim architect, all while dodging the occasional Karen demanding a discount.
The register was a formidable foe, a puzzle to be solved without tears or errors. Each transaction was a chance to perfect my sales pitch, charm a customer, or save a folding display from toddler-induced chaos. Retail taught resilience, the art of small talk, and the value of a well-organized shelf.
Despite the rise of e-commerce, retail positions remain a staple for those seeking work experience. It’s more than just a summer job; it’s a world of opportunity within four walls, where each shift is a new story and a chance to learn. The clothes may change with the seasons, but the skills acquired as a retail assistant are timeless.
13. Restaurant Host/Busser/Server
Working in a restaurant is like entering a world of organized chaos, a bustling symphony of clinking dishes and sizzling pans. Picture me, a server, weaving through tables with a tray of orders, each step a dance on a crowded stage.
From hosting to bussing, each role was a lesson in multitasking, customer service, and staying calm under pressure. Balancing trays while smiling through the occasional spill was part of the daily routine, each shift teaching patience and adaptability.
Despite the hustle, or perhaps because of it, restaurant work remains a popular summer job. The tips were a nice bonus, turning hard work into a rewarding pursuit. The restaurant industry is ever-changing, yet the skills and stories gathered from waiting tables remain a cherished part of the journey. The clatter of dishes may subside, but the experience is a banquet of life lessons.
14. Dog Walker/Pet Sitter
Imagine getting paid to hang out with furry friends all day – that’s the life of a dog walker or pet sitter. Think of me, leash in hand, guiding a golden retriever through a sun-dappled park, both of us reveling in the simple joys of nature.
This job is more than just walks and feeding schedules; it’s about understanding each pet’s personality, ensuring their hap
This gig remains hot, both literally and figuratively, a beloved choice for animal lovers. The companionship of a wagging tail and the satisfaction of a well-walked dog make it more than just a job. The bond formed with these pets, even if fleeting, is a reminder of the pure joy animals bring into our lives, making each walk a step into happiness.