Many teenagers need to earn their own spending money, and as keyboarding skills are often taught in elementary school, teenagers can type as well as some adults, if not better. The Bureau of Labor Statistics lists the medium hourly wage of typists and word processors as $15.67, which is better pay than most retail or fast-food jobs available to teenagers.
Data Entry
Data entry workers type information into computers. Sometimes this position is referred to as data entry keyers, information process workers, work processors and typists. Teenagers in this field often assist with other office duties, like sorting mail, making copies, sending faxes and making sales calls. Some companies require a high school diploma for this job, but many hire high school students with good grammar skills, excellent spelling and the ability to have positive customer interactions. This can be a part-time or full-time job that you may be able to work around your school and activity schedule. Some companies have data entry employees who work from their home, so if you don't have reliable transportation, you may still hold a position in this field.
Typist
Private typists types school papers, meeting notes and business plans for their employer. The information is already written, but it might be handwritten or a rough draft that needs slight editing. Teenagers who have excellent grammar and writing skills can be ideal for this job. Teens should be able to type quickly with few to no errors to earn a decent wage.
Transcriber
Teenagers who can type quickly and accurately might make a successful transcriber. This position types information into a computer. The information may be taken from an audio tape, a handwritten paper or directly from someone speaking. Good focus and good listening skills are needed for this job, as are the ability to work independently and meet deadlines.
Writer
Freelance writers can be any age and most times work from home. This position requires good writing and grammar skills, the ability to meet deadlines and to work independently. Teenagers may do contract work for one or several companies, or try to sell stories to magazines, newspapers and other publishers. Freelance writers need to be organized and able to track their expenses and payments.