We connect Travis County youth with meaningful summer employment opportunities that build career skills and confidence. Through partnerships with Austin Public Health, local businesses, nonprofits, and government organizations, the Summer Youth Employment Program offers paid work experience at more than 80 host sites each year—helping hundreds of young people explore future career paths and gain valuable on-the-job experience.
Eligibility
Students
Applicants must be in either Middle or High School.
Age
Applicants must be 14 – 18 years of age. (14 years old by April 1st).
Disabilities
Applicants with disabilities up to the age of 22 may still apply.
Location
Applicants must live and/or attend school in Travis County.
How to Apply
Complete the Online Application
While we haven’t officially begun accepting applications for Summer 2026, you can click the link below to join our waitlist. You’ll be notified via email as soon as the application period opens.
Submit the Required Documents
Along with your application, you will be asked to upload the following documents:
- Social Security Card
- School ID or Recent Report Card
Visit the USCIS I-9 website to review other types of documents we accept.
Attend Job Readiness Training
After your application is screened, if eligible, you will be invited to attend the mandatory Job Readiness Training. Further details will be provided at a later time.
Get Matched with a Host Site
Please note: Completing all steps of the application process does not guarantee job placement. However, if eligible and space is available, you will be connected to a host site that best matches your skills and goals.
Are you an employer interested in offering job opportunities to young Central Texans in 2026?
SYEP Across the Years
Check out photos from the Summer Youth Employment Program featuing students and employers across the county!
Testimonials
Related Resources
Learn more about the county’s Health and Human Services Department and the Summer Youth Employment Program.
