More Opportunities
Community-Based Opportunities:
Mayor Michelle Wu and the City of Boston Office of Youth Employment & Opportunity are thrilled to announce the launch of the Summer Youth Employment Program! Each year, the City of Boston collaborates with numerous community-based and nonprofit organizations to offer meaningful job opportunities to thousands of Boston youth ages 14 to 18. Opportunities span a diverse range of fields, including the arts, government & advocacy, STEM, sports & recreation, childcare, education, and more!
To apply for a position with SuccessLink, youth must meet the following criteria:
- Be a full-time resident of the City of Boston
- Be between 14 and 18 years old
- Be legally authorized to work in the United States
Career Explorations: Ready to build a successful future for yourself? Start here.
Who Qualifies?: Youth aged 18 to 24 who meet income eligibility requirements, are no longer in high school or college, and are not working full-time.
Start Your Journey: Earn a paycheck, gain career training, and advance your future with Career Explorations. This program is designed to help you find, prepare for, and enter the career you desire. It includes a paid internship, workshops, occupational training/certification, and college courses. You’ll also benefit from workshops, field trips, and networking opportunities with professionals in your chosen field. Additionally, you’ll receive personalized job counseling, resume writing assistance, job search support, and interview preparation.
The program focuses on high-demand fields such as:
- Home Health Aide
- Early Childhood Education
- Culinary Arts
- Human Services
- IT
- Building Trades
Level Up:
Who Qualifies: Income-eligible Boston youth aged 18 to 24 who are not currently enrolled in high school or college and are not working full-time.
Level Up Your Career – And Your Life: Level Up is designed to help you discover, prepare for, and enter your desired career. You’ll enroll in a local college to pursue a certificate-level degree, with ABCD offering tuition assistance, a paid internship, and childcare support while you complete your studies. Additional support such as T passes, funds for IDs, and food is also available.
The program includes workshops, field trips, and opportunities to network with industry professionals. You will receive personalized job counseling, resume writing assistance, job search support, and interview preparation.
The focus areas of the program are high-demand fields such as:
- Health
- Early Childhood Education
- Human Services
Bonus: Participants who maintain at least an 80% attendance rate are guaranteed a paid SummerWorks job for the summer.
SummerWorks:
The Basics: ABCD offers positions at various worksites throughout Boston to help you build skills and explore different career paths. Participants aged 14 to 18 will earn $15 per hour, while those aged 19 to 24 will earn $20 per hour. A limited number of positions are available at $16.25 per hour.
Who Qualifies: ABCD encourages Boston residents aged 14 to 24 to apply. Applications open on March 1st each year. Note that some positions may require income eligibility. All youth must submit the required documents. To qualify, you must be between 14 and 24 years old as of June 17, 2024.
Get Skills, Get Motivated, Get Paid: Develop valuable skills that will benefit you now and in the future, including:
- Collaboration
- Leadership
- Financial Education
- Workplace Etiquette
- Resume Writing
SummerWorks includes mentoring and career skills development, helping you explore various career paths such as healthcare, youth services, early childhood education, government, and business.
Securing a job on your own can be challenging. By participating in ABCD SummerWorks, you can transition to adulthood with confidence, set yourself up for success in high school and college, and enhance your future earning potential.
University School:
Who Qualifies: Boston students aged 16 to 22 who are at least repeating 10th grade and have fallen behind by at least one grade level in traditional high school settings, or have left high school without completing their diploma requirements.
If you’ve faced significant barriers to success in school, enroll at University High School, where they embrace Resilience, Integrity, Scholarship, and Empowerment. At UHS, you can earn your high school diploma while developing an educational plan, gaining knowledge and skills, and receiving the support needed to achieve your goals in education, career, and civic participation.
Students participate in hybrid learning models tailored to their needs, accessing the curriculum through engaging and relevant content, experiential education, community service, work-study opportunities, and project-based and capstone assessments.
ABCD collaborates with Boston Public Schools and focus on core requirements and MCAS test preparation through project-based assignments, contributing to a portfolio that reflects your knowledge. Their customized learning plans and scheduling support your high school goals and beyond. They also offer opportunities outside the classroom to promote lifelong learning. Their dedicated faculty and staff assist you in exploring higher education options and potential careers, and connect you with resources to support your educational and career interests.
William J. Ostiguy High School:
A Second Chance for Students in Recovery: At Ostiguy High, we offer academic, clinical, and supportive services designed to support your recovery from substance abuse while working toward earning your high school diploma. Our goal is to help you take the next step – whether that’s college, vocational training, or employment.
Who Qualifies: We welcome students in recovery, aged 14 to 21, primarily from Greater Boston, but also accept referrals from across eastern Massachusetts. Referrals can come from schools, parents, courts, state agencies, drug and alcohol treatment organizations, community youth programs, and residential programs.
Recovery and Discovery: Founded in 2006, Ostiguy High is the first high school in the nation accredited by the Association of Recovery Schools. We serve 75 students each year, offering small class sizes with certified teachers skilled in both their subjects and working with youth in recovery. Our program includes afterschool and summer tutoring opportunities, credit recovery, and standardized test preparation tailored to your needs.
Under the guidance of the Gavin Foundation, a nonprofit focused on community-based substance abuse treatment, education, and prevention, you and your guardians will create and regularly update a personalized recovery plan. Our licensed counselors will provide one-on-one and group counseling to help you develop and apply the behavioral, emotional, academic, and social skills essential for advancing in both recovery and academics.
WorkSMART: They’ll provide academic and social support to help you thrive in school while exploring career opportunities through a paid internship.
Who Qualifies: If you’re a Boston student in grades 7 through 12, aged 14 to 21, we encourage you to apply.
Put Your Energy and Ideas to Work: We collaborate with public schools, local employers, community organizations, and others to support your high school graduation, further education, or job placement.
WorkSMART helps you balance school and work while developing the skills and confidence needed to excel at both. During an 8-week internship, you’ll work 10 hours a week with a schedule that fits around your school hours. We’ll work with you to create a personal and career development plan and provide two hours of tutoring and counseling each week.
You’ll also have opportunities to enroll in college courses, certificate training, and/or mentoring, with ongoing professional support throughout the academic year.
We will make every effort to find a job that aligns with your interests. Participants are guaranteed a spot that aligns with your interests. Participants are guaranteed a spot in the ABCD SummerWorks program and a yearly WorkSMART placement until you graduate high school.
Youth Engaged in Action (YEA!): This innovative program prepares young teens for the future by connecting them with people, resources, and impactful experiences that build knowledge, confidence, and determination.
Who Qualifies: YEA! is a free summer program for 13-year-olds living in the Greater Boston area whose families meet income eligibility requirements.
ABCD’s YEA! Program (Youth Engaged in Action) focuses on developing young leaders through awareness, advocacy, and action. Participants will explore how government functions take positive steps to address community challenges and understand the importance of financial wellness for themselves and their communities.
YEA! includes workshops and expert sessions on budgeting, saving for the future, and presenting oneself with good judgment in the digital world. Participants also acquire essential job readiness skills and receive priority admission to the ABCD SummerWorks paid internship and job readiness program.
To Learn More About These Programs, Click Here.
Environmental Opportunities:
The Youth Leadership Program offers a unique blend of nature connection, environmental education, career exploration, and workforce development for Boston residents aged 15-18. The program requires a commitment of 7.5-10 hours per week.
Participants will engage in a range of activities, including learning about climate change, watersheds, creating nature journals, facilitating presentations, observing bird language, and more. Discover the wonders of nature with the Emerald Necklace Conservancy’s Youth Leadership Program.
Ages 15 – 18
Position Overview: A paid opportunity for youth aged 15-18 to join a team of Stewards working with Park Rangers at either the Frederick Law Olmsted National Historic Site or the John Fitzgerald Kennedy National Historic Site.
Stewards will be assigned to one of these sites, where they will collaboratively research, develop, and present talks to visitors. The program is designed to be in-person, subject to health and safety guidelines.
Participants will split their time between visitor services at their assigned site and team-based project development and professional growth at the Frederick Law Olmsted National Historic Site. Responsibilities include staffing the visitor center, assisting with special park events, and leading projects that engage youth visitors. Throughout the summer, Stewards will enhance their communication skills, network with professionals, and gain valuable experiences.
Duties & Responsibilities:
- Develop and execute a team project to engage youth at National Park Sites, including concept creation, program development, marketing, and public delivery
- Professionally interact with diverse National Park Service visitors both in person and on the phone
- Support existing programs such as family days, open houses, and public outreach
- Staff the visitor center, including managing the cash register and maintaining the sales area
- Provide basic information about the site
- Operate digital equipment, including cameras, tablets, and computers
- Assist with social media efforts
- Perform other assigned duties at needed
Ages 14 – 17
The Food Project’s acclaimed leadership development program integrates architecture, enterprise, and community service to provide a comprehensive and hands-on experience. Through participation in Seed Crew (summer), Dirt Crew (academic season), and Root Crew (year-round), young people develop the skills and knowledge necessary to lead within their communities.
Each year, 140 teenagers from Greater Boston and the North Shore of Eastern Massachusetts engage in cultivating urban and suburban land managed by the Food Project. They take part in workshops, volunteer at local hunger relief organizations, guide volunteers on the farms, construct raised bed gardens, and collaborate with the community to explore innovative methods of enhancing food access.
At the Food Project, youth serve as dedicated and influential change-makers. We unite a diverse group of young people, spanning racial, socio-economic, gender identity, and geographic backgrounds, to work alongside adults in creating a more equitable food system for all.
STEM Opportunities:
Grades 10th and 11th
The STEM Teaching Internship is a paid opportunity that operates during the school year. Applications generally open in late summer or early fall.
Interns are assigned to out-of-school programs where they teach STEM curricula to elementary school students.
Interns Will:
- Receive comprehensive training in classroom management, lesson planning, professionalism, and STEM subjects aligned with the LEAH curriculum.
- Support afterschool programs while serving as role models for young students.
- Connect with high school peers from across Boston and build a supportive network.
- Explore STEM careers and academic fields.
- Get assistance with the college application process.
Dive into the world of Canon DSLR photography and master the art of creating striking, professional portraits that will last a lifetime. Capture and narrate unique stories about the people and environment around you while exploring the essence of filmmaking. Gain the skills to organize and promote public events that draw others in and foster support. This unique opportunity allows you to view the world through your camera lens and showcase your perspective.
Program Highlights:
- Learn to use a Canon DSLR camera for photography and videography
- Develop and script your own creative ideas for shooting
- Edit and enhance your photos using Adobe Photoshop, including techniques like dodging and burning
- Use Final Cut Pro to import, edit, and add effects and transitions to your videos, creating a polished film
- Collaborate with peers to organize and execute community-friendly events such as movie nights, film festivals, and end-of-cycle presentations
Interns receive a learning stipend upon successful completion of the program
Ages 14 – 19
The Square Tech Training Program is a paid and volunteer internship designed for high school students aged 14 to 19. This program offers technology and business-focused workshops that lay a strong foundation for skill development. Hosted in CSTO’s facilities, participants gain essential technology skills while forming lasting connections with peers and mentors.
Interns Will:
- Develop technical and business skills through a series of workshops
- Acquire new technical knowledge and competencies
- Participate in hands-on training that introduces fundamental concepts of entry-level IT jobs
- Build valuable workforce skills and gain practical technology experience
- Select 3 to 4 workshops based on their interests and availability
Interns will receive a learning stipend upon successful completion of the program
Media & Arts Opportunities:
Ages 14 – 18
We’re excited to offer an AMAZING opportunity for Boston teens aged 14 – 18 to join one of our seven creative studios this fall. Whether you’re interested in 3D Design, Animation, Creative Tech, Graphic Design, Painting, Photography, or Video, we invite you to apply.
In this program, you’ll work in a dynamic studio environment, exploring various fine art and design mediums. You’ll collaborate with professional artists and designers, develop new skills, and provide creative services with AFH’s clients. While prior artistic experience isn’t required, a strong passion for creativity and a willingness to learn and earn on the job are essential.
To qualify for a position at AFH, you must:
- Be a high school student or at least 14 years old
- Be enrolled in and regularly attending a Boston Public School or be a Boston resident (including those in night, day, homeschool, or GED programs)
- Be available to work during the program’s regular hours: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm during the school year; Monday – Thursday from 11:00 am – 6:00 pm during the summer
- Complete an unpaid, 36-hour apprenticeship in our Foundation Studio to learn the basics of fine art and digital media, which will build your resume and count as community service hours towards high school graduation, before becoming a paid employee
Unpaid Enrichment Opportunities:
10th – 12th Grade BPS Students
Seeking students who are enthusiastic about design, technology, and engineering, and who are eager to drive change both in Boston and beyond.
Digital Ready students will have the opportunity to become future architects, engineers, computer scientists, roboticists, virtual reality designers, game developers, AI specialists, construction technologists, and more!
Grades 9th – 12th
Amphibious Achievement is a mentorship program in the greater Boston area that combines athletic training with academic support for high school students. By integrating coaching in rowing and swimming with a strong emphasis on college-prep academics, we aim to broaden higher education opportunities for our students. Known as Achievers, these students learn to apply the discipline, resilience, and confidence developed through athletics to their academic pursuits. They receive guidance and skills to help them graduate from high school and succeed in their future endeavors. The program is entirely managed by MIT undergraduates and is offered at no cost to participants.
9th – 12th Grade
A distinctive college preparation program designed for high school students passionate about art and eager to pursue an education in art and design.
Artward Bound is a complimentary four-year college prep program tailored for Boston high school students with a focus on art and design education. Participants engage in art classes, career workshops, academic tutoring, and visits to museums and artist studios. Every summer, Artward Bound students spend six weeks immersed in both artmaking and academic activities on the MassArt campus.
April Break Intensive: Special Focus: Special Focus is a four-day intensive workshop during Boston Public Schools’ April Break. This program is designed for teens interested in learning photography skills and mastering the use of a DSLR camera. Throughout these four days, participants will delve into portrait photography, discovering how to create compelling portraits, use studio lighting effectively, and apply techniques to capture the true essence of their subjects.
The program covers the fundamentals of portraiture and equipment usage, culminating in a final event known as “ICA Picture Day.”
Teens participating in AMP have the opportunity to earn up to $360 upon completing the 20-hour program.
Teen Arts Council: The Teen Arts Council (TAC) is a group of paid teens from the Boston area dedicated to amplifying youth voices and contemporary art through the creation of events and resources for their peers. TAC focuses on addressing social issues while connecting teens with contemporary art, the ICA, and one another. They view art as both a form of expression and a tool for activism.
Throughout the year, TAC organizes various events to engage with teens. These include teen nights, which feature art-making, performances, and entertainment, as well as The Current, which addresses socio-political issues impacting teens in Boston. The group also collaborates with exhibiting artists and develops resources about art and artists for their peers.
Applications are now open for the School Year 2024 – 2025 programs.
Teen Exhibitions Program: The Teen Exhibitions Program (TEP) is a paid opportunity for Boston-area teens to collaboratively plan, curate, and install artwork in the Teen Galleries at the ICA’s Seaport Studio.
As a TEP member, you’ll organize two exhibitions annually to showcase and celebrate teen art, inviting peers from Boston and beyond to interact with the displays. You’ll collaborate with other teens to envision and shape the exhibition space, and work alongside ICA staff to design, install artwork, and create events that engage the community.
Applications are now open for the School Year 2024 – 2025 programs.
AMP: Music Production February Break Intensive: AMP is a paid program for Boston-area teens interested in beat making and music production. This four-day intensive takes place during Boston Public Schools’ February Break. Participants will learn to use industry-standard software and equipment to create, remix, or record music. By the end of the program, AMP members will gain confidence in their skills and have the opportunity to showcase their projects at a special event.
Teens in AMP can earn up to $360 upon completing the 20-hour program.
Details about the February 2025 program will be available starting in the fall of 2024.
Teen Digital Cooperative: The Teen Digital Cooperative (TDC) is a paid opportunity for Boston-area teens to creatively share, celebrate, and amplify impactful stories from their communities.
To qualify, applicants must be in 9th, 10th, 11th, or 12th grade during the 2024-2025 school year.
Photography Collective: The Photography Collective is a paid program designed to develop your skills in photography, editing, design, and storytelling. You’ll learn the fundamentals of photography to produce unique, well-composed images and gain expertise in analyzing, discussing, and critiquing art, photographic works, and media. You’ll also become proficient with industry-standard equipment and editing software, and create compelling stories through the images you capture in your neighborhoods. The program includes both independent and collaborative projects, exploring history, community, and photography.
Photography Collective meets on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 4 – 7 PM each school year.
Fast Forward: Fast Forward is a paid program that provides teens with essential skills in video production and storytelling. You’ll use your individual interests and experiences to craft engaging stories through art. The program covers creating both short films and documentary-style videos. You’ll work with industry-standard equipment and software, and have the opportunity to connect with professional filmmakers, artists, and community leaders.
Fast Forward meets on Wednesdays and Fridays from 4 – 7 PM each school year.
Any questions or inquiries about these programs, email teens@icaboston.org or call or text them at (339)236-3039.
BPS Graduate Opportunity
Courses/Programs – Trade Industry:
STRIVE Boston is a Workforce Readiness and Development program that offers job training, coaching, and employment services. We strive to create a world where everyone has the chance to achieve economic self-sufficiency, dignity, and a bright future. Our program supports individuals facing employment barriers in reaching their potential, securing sustainable jobs, and fostering personal growth. Most of our services are now available virtually, and all services are free of charge. In-person appointments can be made at our JRI Health Office, located at 555 Amory Street, Suite 2 in Jamaica Plain.
STRIVE START Program: Designed for adults and young adults aged 18 and older, is a five-week virtual training course. Participants engage in a small online class for 1.5 hours daily, covering topics such as professional development, attitudes and perceptions, resume and thank-you note writing, interviewing techniques, job search strategies, coping with rejection, professional attire, and financial literacy.
Upon completing the online course, graduates join Jobs Club and collaborate with an employment specialist to secure a job. STRIVE partners with employers in Healthcare, Human Services, and Customer Service. Support services include case management, job placement, and follow-up. Participants can earn up to $500 in stipends and incentives for their involvement. Enrollment is ongoing.
The New England Laborer’s Training Fund offers courses in all different areas of the trades. For courses that requires licensing, New England Laborers’ Training Academy (NELTA) also offers testing and certification on site.
Course List: HOISTING AND RIGGING; LEAD ABATEMENT SUPERVISOR REFRESHER; LEAD ABATEMENT WORKER; LEAD ABATEMENT WORKER REFRESHER; LEAD AND SILICA IN BRDIGES; LEAD AWARENESS; LINE AND GRADE: HIGHWAY GRADE CHECKING; MASON TENDING, PRACTICES AND PROCEDURES; METRIC MEASUREEMENT IN CONSTRUCTION; MICROBIAL REMEDIATION; NUCLEAR POWER PLANT WORKER; OSHA 10 hour; OSHA 30 hour; PIPE LAYING PROGRAM (New Format); PIPELINE OPERATOR QUALIFICATION PREPARATION; PIPELINE SAFETY; PLASMA ARC CUTTING; PROCESS SAFETY MANAGEMENT OF HIGHLY HAZARDOUS CHEMICALS; RADIOLOGICAL WORKER II; REFRESHER RESPIRATORY PROTECTION; SAFETY AND HEALTH PROGRAMS FOR SMALL BUSINESSES; SCAFFOLD BUILDER; SCAFFOLD USER; SILICA AWARENESS; SUPERVISOR TRAINING AND EDUCATION PROGRAM (New Format); UNDERGROUND STORAGE TANK REMOVAL; WELDING; ABOVE GROUND DRILLING WORKER; ANTHRAX REMEDIATION; ASBESTOS ABATEMENT SUPERVISOR; ASBESTOS ABATEMENT SUPERVISOR REFRESHER; ASBESTOS ABATEMENT WORKER; ASBESTOS ABATEMENT WORKER REFRESHER; ASPHALT WORKER; BLUEPRINT READING; BRDIGE CONSTRUCTION, RENOVATION, AND DEMOLITION; CONCRETE PRACTICES AND PROCEDURES; CONFINED SPACE – PERMIT REQUIRED (OSHA); CONFINED SPACE AWARENESS; CONSTRUCTION MATH; CONSTRUCTION SAFETY & HEALTH; CRAFT ORIENTATION; DEMOLITION; FIREWATCH; FOREMAN PREP; GENERAL CONSTRUCTION; GREEN CONSTRUCTION AWARENESS; HAZARD COMMUNICATION; HAZARDOUS WASTE SUPERVISOR; HAZARDOUS WASTE SUPERVISOR REFRESHER; HAZARDOUS WASTE WORKER; HAZARDOUS WASTE WORKER REFRESHER; HEARING PROTECTION; HIGHWAY WORK ZONE SAFETY SUPERVISOR; HIGHWAY WORK ZONE SAFETY TECHNICIAN
New England Laborers’ Training Trust Fund Apprenticeship:
What is an Apprenticeship?
An apprenticeship is the first step toward a rewarding career, providing a solid job that offers stability, competitive pay, health benefits, retirement plans, and growth opportunities. LIUNA’s registered apprenticeship program is your gateway to all these advantages and more.
No prior construction experience is required – just a strong willingness to learn and work hard. As a LIUNA Construction Craft Laborer apprentice, you will “earn while you learn” and receive comprehensive training. Apprentices begin by earning a percentage of the journey worker wage, with regular pay increases as you achieve predetermined milestones. A journey worker is someone who has fulfilled the required hours and completed all necessary classroom training.
LIUNA apprentices start earning wages immediately while gaining hands-on experience and classroom education. As you develop your skills and knowledge, your pay rate will increase accordingly.
As a LIUNA member, you will also have access to ongoing career development and skill enhancement at advanced training centers across North America.
Opportunities in commercial construction include working on building, bridges, roads, tunnels, environmental protection through hazardous material removal, pipeline construction, and green technology. LIUNA’s Construction Craft Laborer Apprenticeship Program prepares you for a successful career in the construction industry.