New York Offers 100,000 Summer Jobs for Young People

New York activated 100,000 summer jobs for young people ages 14 to 24 through the Summer Youth Employment Program, known as SYEP. The program offers 6 weeks of paid work between July and August, and remains the nation’s largest youth employment initiative.

For many Latino families in New York, this program is more than temporary employment. It also functions as a first gateway to the job market, with salary, experience and basic training for young people who often face greater barriers.

The 2026 application period closed in March, so it no longer accepts new applications this summer. Still, the process matters now because it defines who can review their status, correct data and prepare for the next cycle.

How Does SYEP Work?

The program places participants in thousands of work centers throughout the city. There they can work in community organizations, small businesses, hospitals, cultural institutions and public agencies.

The city presents SYEP as an entry-level employment experience. It also includes soft skills training, financial education and mentorship connections. This approach makes it a development tool, not just a summer job.

City Hall, headed by Zohran Mamdani, describes it as a step toward young people’s future employment. Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services Helen Arteaga emphasized that the program provides useful experience for the long term.

Who Can Participate?

To be eligible, a person must permanently live in New York City. They must also be between 14 and 24 years old and have legal authorization to work in the United States.

The program is not limited to any applicant. The city prioritizes young people facing greater employment barriers, including NYCHA residents, homeless youth, young people with disabilities and those involved with the justice system. It also includes those under state guardianship or at higher risk of gun violence.

This selection explains why SYEP has been valued as a social prevention policy. A 2021 study cited by the city showed that participation reduced arrest probability by 17% and felony arrests by 23%. Additionally, other studies found less incarceration and improved employment trajectories.

What Benefits Does It Provide?

SYEP pays wages for actual work experience. Additionally, it exposes young people to basic standards of punctuality, responsibility and workplace communication. This early contact typically proves decisive