For Youth Ages 16-24

Gain valuable experience and get paid to work at local businesses.

Already participating in a Paid Work Experience? Access your resources here!

Your Path to Opportunity

Short-Term Paid Work Experiences

Work experiences through PDX Youth@Work and SummerWorks are designed to help you explore different jobs in a safe, supportive, and low-risk environment. Activities include:

  • Getting real-world experience in dynamic work settings.
  • Building practical skills to boost your resume.
  • Growing personally and professionally through hands-on learning.

Short-term work experiences are limited to 160 hours or 12 weeks of work. The pay is $17/hour.

Eligibility: To participate, you must be between the ages of 16 – 24 and live in Washington or Multnomah County.

Get Started

Fill out the interest form. Due to high demand, spots may be limited — but we encourage you to express your interest so we can follow up as soon as an opportunity opens up. Applications for PDXYouth@Work (October-June) open in September. Applications for SummerWorks (July-September) open in May.

A career coach from one of our program providers will contact you to guide you through the enrollment process. Check your voice messages and emails daily so you don’t miss out!

Explore the Community Job Board for opportunities you are interested in. Your career coach will also help guide you to opportunities that are a good fit for you.

Once you’re matched with a work opportunity, your career coach will help you complete the next steps. Then it’s time to work and get paid!

Long-Term Career Coaching

Through NextGen, youth ages 16 – 24 receive personalized career coaching, career exploration, skills training, and support. If you are navigating housing insecurity, prior justice involvement, a bad experience at school, or you’re just not sure how to move beyond your current situation, NextGen can help you overcome barriers and focus on moving forward. Activities include:

  • Earning your HS Diploma or GED
  • Exploring a variety of careers & building a career plan
  • Finding employment that works for you
  • Starting college or learning a trade
  • Gaining on-the-job experience through a paid work experience
  • Developing skills valued in the workplace
  • Earning a credential valued by employers in a variety of fields
  • Working with a Career Coach to plan for your next step

Eligibility: To participate in NextGen, you must be between the ages of 16 – 24 and live in Washington or Multnomah County. NextGen prioritizes low-income youth who are not currently in school.

If you are 22 or older, and currently enrolled in a training program or school, visit the WorkSource Portland Metro website to explore resources for you.

Get Started

Choose a Program – Explore available programs and contact a provider to learn about their application and enrollment process. Some programs specialize in specific career fields like construction or IT.

Get Matched with a Career Coach – Once enrolled, you’ll be paired with a Career Coach who will guide you in setting and achieving your career goals at your own pace.

Achieve Your Goals – By the end of your NextGen journey, you may earn an industry-recognized credential, secure a new or better job, or continue your education and training. Your path is unique to you!

What is a career coach?

A career coach is someone who helps you figure out your goals, find training or job opportunities, and build a plan for your future. Career coaches can also connect you to foundational and support services—like transportation, housing, or mental health resources—so you have what you need to succeed. Think of them as your personal guide to getting where you want to go.