Best Summer Jobs in Senior Care for Students
Looking for a flexible summer job that pays you, builds real-world skills, and even can help you earn high school credit? Working in senior care might be the perfect fit!
Whether you’re thinking about a future in healthcare or just looking for a meaningful first job, long-term care offers fun, rewarding, and resume-boosting experiences — all while making a difference in someone’s life.
Get Paid, Build Skills & Earn Credit This Summer
In Minnesota, high school students can now earn elective credits while working in caregiving roles thanks to the High School Credit for Caring Careers program. That means:
- Get real-life job experience in a variety of careers – from culinary to business to nursing – the opportunities are endless.
- Earn one elective credit for every 350 hours worked – including hours worked during the summer!
- Fulfill graduation requirements while building your resume.
- Make your summer count!
If you’re passionate about a career in healthcare, consider joining your schools Health Occupation Students of America (HOSA) – Future Health Professionals club in the fall to keep the momentum going!
Dive Deeper with Scrubs Camp
Want to explore healthcare careers in a hands-on, fun environment? Scrubs Camp is a summer program in Minnesota designed for students entering grades 9-12. Camps are held at various colleges across the state. Participants engage in interactive activities and learn about different healthcare professions. Scholarships are available for students with financial need.
College Students: Flexible Work During Breaks
Senior care jobs aren’t just for high schoolers — they’re a great fit for college students too! Whether you’re home for the summer or looking for work over winter break, many senior care organizations offer flexible, short-term roles that work around your school schedule.
These positions are perfect for nursing, pre-med, social work, or business students looking to gain hands-on experience — or for anyone who wants to earn money while doing something meaningful. You’ll build your resume, make professional connections, and get a feel for real-world healthcare environments.
Volunteer in Senior Care This Summer
If you’re not ready for a paid position, volunteering is a fantastic way to gain experience and make a difference. From one hour a month to weekly visits—any time you can share with residents is meaningful. Many aging services organizations welcome high school volunteers, especially during the summer. Opportunities include:
- Assisting with recreational activities — from gardening, to bingo, to fishing trip outings and more.
- Providing companionship to residents — a simple conversation can go a long way.
- Helping with administrative tasks
- So much more!
To find volunteer opportunities near you, use our Employer Match tool and send a message to local employers and ask about their volunteer roles.
A Smart Start to a Healthcare Career
Working in senior care isn’t just a job — it’s an experience that looks great on college and scholarship applications, helps you explore over 45 unique careers, and gives you a meaningful way to spend your summer.
Whether you want to earn a paycheck, explore your interests, or make connections for the future, senior care has a place for you.
Find Summer Jobs Near You
Nursing homes, assisted living communities, and other aging services employers across Minnesota are hiring students right now. With flexible hours, supportive teams, and training included, this could be the start of something great. Start your career today by connecting with senior care employers near you.
Make your summer count. Make a difference. Explore senior care jobs today.