Finding a suitable job is a challenge for teenagers. In addition to age, they should consider their own interests and preferences. Not least, the desired occupation usually requires a certain school qualification. In any case, it is possible to take on a part-time or holiday job. The extent of this mainly depends on the teenager's age.
Regulations under the Youth Protection Act
An employer is guided by the Youth Protection Act when assigning jobs. It prohibits any form of work for children under 13. By contrast, teenagers from the age of 13 may perform light duties, provided the following conditions are met:
- The teenager's parents consent to the job.
- The work does not pose a moral danger and does not give the teenager unsupervised access to alcohol or cigarettes.
- The job neither endangers the teenager's health nor their school performance.
- Working hours are limited to a maximum of two hours per day.
Allowed jobs for teenagers include delivering newspapers, babysitting, or tutoring.
For young people between the ages of 15 and 18 there is the possibility of working up to eight hours daily and 40 hours weekly. However, this right applies exclusively to those who are no longer subject to compulsory schooling. The latter ends after ten school years. Teenagers who are still subject to compulsory schooling are allowed to work for a maximum of four weeks per year. This regulation plays an important role when choosing an appropriate holiday job. Employers are subject to strict requirements under the Youth Protection Act.
According to the law, teenagers between 15 and 18 may be employed daily between 6 a.m. and 8 p.m. An exception applies to persons aged 16 or over who help out in restaurants; in that case work is permitted until 10 p.m. or 11 p.m. On Sundays and public holidays, work is generally prohibited for young people.
School leavers have the option of vocational training from the age of 15. School leavers are teenagers who finished school after ten years or who hold a school leaving certificate. When choosing the right training, personal inclinations play a central role. In addition, applicants consider current job offers. By submitting an application the teenager expresses their interest. Some vocational schools conduct a selection process with an entrance test or an interview.
A dual vocational training programme consists of theoretical and practical units. In this case the Youth Protection Act allows the work, provided it does not morally or physically endanger the trainee. The employer documents all obligations within the framework of a training contract. The legal guardian of the teenager signs this contract. The prospective employer also signs the agreement. They undertake to provide the trainee with all training materials free of charge.
Teenagers who do not have German nationality may, under certain circumstances, require a work permit. This is issued by the immigration authority. If the job seeker holds citizenship of an EU country, they do not need a work permit. The same applies to holders of a permanent residence permit. The Employment Agency advises teenagers when choosing an appropriate job.
Vocational training occupations for teenagers
Anyone looking for a suitable apprenticeship uses the services of "Chance: Azubi". The association provides helpful information about the apprenticeship offerings of various companies. This includes the company Hero Glas. It has around 300 employees and manufactures various glass products. Teenagers have the opportunity there to complete an apprenticeship as a flat glass mechanic, industrial clerk, glazier, mechatronics technician, professional driver, IT specialist, or product designer. In addition, Hero Glas offers several dual-study programs.
