SPRINGFIELD, MA (WGGB/WSHM) - Now that school is getting out, a lot of teens and young adults are looking for some summer jobs. However, lately, it’s not been easy.

Last summer, the Bureau of Labor Statistics Population Survey showed that for those employed ages 16 to 19 rose by about 800,000 from April to July, which is the lowest increase during those prime summer months since 1948.

It doesn’t appear to be any easier for those looking this year. “Hiring has slowed all across the board and, in particular, when hiring slows, one of the first groups that’s hit are your younger kind of positions,” said Kevin Lynn, director of MassHire Springfield.

MassHire works directly with teens and young adults to get connected to the workforce and said that it might be worthwhile to look for volunteer experience in order to set yourself up better for the future if you aren’t able to find a position. Lynn said even jobs like food service, landscaping, and retail aren’t hiring as many people looking for first-time employment and that you may need to get creative, like helping out those in your neighborhood or assisting the elderly with everyday tasks.

MassHire also offers more information and videos on the website under the ‘Youth’ tab.

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