Gap-year jobs for high school graduates
A gap-year job is one of the most practical ways to spend a year between high school and college: you earn money, build real-world skills, and figure out what you actually enjoy before committing to a major.
The listings below are posted by vetted U.S. organizations and reviewed by our team before going live. Filter by location or pay, and apply for free — your information stays private until you choose to apply.
Key takeaways
- Gap-year jobs on LaunchYear are paid roles, typically $16–$25/hour, that you can start right after high school.
- Most listings require no college degree and no prior experience — organizations train on the job.
- Roles run from a few months to a full year, so you can earn money and build experience before college.
- Every employer is admin-reviewed before a listing goes live, and your details stay private until you apply.
- Both in-person and remote jobs are available across the United States.
4 opportunities
Browse all typesMarketing Assistant
Help run social campaigns and events for a growing local brand. No degree required — we'll train you on the job.
Trail Crew Member
Join a paid outdoor trail crew maintaining hiking routes across the Colorado Rockies for a season.
Clinic Outreach Assistant
A paid front-desk and community-outreach role at a Denver health clinic — great for pre-health gap-year students.
Youth Sports Coach Assistant
Help coach after-school youth sports leagues in Chicago — a paid, active role for sports-minded gap-year students.
Frequently asked questions
What gap-year jobs pay the most?
Skilled and full-time roles — clinic assistants, trail crews, and marketing or operations roles — typically pay the most, often $18–$25 per hour. Pay is listed on every job so you can compare before applying.
Do I need a college degree for a gap-year job?
No. The large majority of gap-year jobs on LaunchYear require no degree and no prior experience. Employers expect to train you on the job.
Can I work a gap-year job remotely?
Yes. You can filter for remote roles. Many marketing, design, and operations positions are fully remote, while hands-on roles like trail crews are in person.
How long do gap-year jobs last?
Most run between three months and a full year. Seasonal roles are shorter; year-long roles are common for students starting college the following fall.