New Jersey Youth Jobs: $9m Summer Programme for Ages 14–24
US hiring 2026: New Jersey is putting $9 million into its paid Summer Youth Work Experience Program and opening it to residents aged 14 to 24.
USAIn brief
- New Jersey is investing $9 million in its Summer Youth Work Experience Program (SYWEP), $1 million more than last year.
- The programme now covers residents aged 14 to 24, down from a starting age of 16.
- Participants get 160 to 200 hours of paid work with local employers, plus career-readiness training.
- Since 2019, SYWEP has served 11,779 young people at more than 500 worksites.
| Country | USA |
|---|---|
| Organization | New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development |
| Official source | WRNJ Radio – New Jersey announces $9 million for summer youth jobs program ✓ wrnjradio.com |
Teenagers and young adults looking for New Jersey youth jobs have a bigger chance next summer. The state is putting $9 million into its paid Summer Youth Work Experience Program (SYWEP) and has opened it to residents aged 14 to 24, the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development said on 5 November 2026.
What does SYWEP offer?
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Funding | $9 million (up $1 million) |
| Eligible ages | 14 to 24 (previously from 16) |
| Paid work | 160 to 200 hours with local employers |
| Extras | Career-readiness training and support services |
| Priority | Young people on SNAP or TANF benefits |
| Track record | 11,779 young people and 500+ worksites since 2019 |
Who can apply?
New Jersey residents aged 14 to 24 can take part, whether they are students or not enrolled in school. This year the state is also reaching out to young people in communities affected by violence and those involved with the justice system.
What did officials say?
Governor Mikie Sherrill described a paid summer job as a way to give young people new opportunities and strengthen communities. Acting Labor Commissioner Kevin D. Jarvis said a summer job can change what a young person believes is possible.
How does the programme work?
The state funds local workforce development boards and community groups, which then recruit participants and match them with employers. New Jersey started SYWEP as a pilot in 2019 to tackle poverty and create routes into work, and has invested more than $39 million so far.
How do I sign up?
Contact your county workforce development board or a local community organisation taking part, and check updates from the New Jersey Department of Labor. Employers and groups can also offer to host worksites.
What it means for job seekers
- Younger teens can now earn, from age 14.
- Paid experience builds a CV before college or full-time work.
- Sign up early, as local places are limited.
- Related: Kansas statewide virtual job fair on 19 November.
More openings: all USA jobs
Frequently asked questions
Who can join New Jersey's summer youth jobs program?
New Jersey residents aged 14 to 24, including students and young people who are not in school. Those receiving SNAP or TANF get priority.
How many hours do SYWEP participants work?
Between 160 and 200 hours of paid summer work with local employers.
How much funding does SYWEP have?
$9 million, including a $1 million increase in Governor Mikie Sherrill's first state budget.
How do I sign up for SYWEP?
Places are offered through local workforce development boards and partner community groups funded by the New Jersey Department of Labor.
Apply only on the official site.
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