Boston opens summer youth job applications, with April 18 hiring fair in Roxbury
Boston says paid summer youth job applications are open now for ages 14 to 24, with rolling spots and a free April 18 jobs and resource fair in Roxbury.
Boston, MA, students and young adults looking for summer work can apply now through futureBOS, the City of Boston’s main hub for youth employment. City officials say paid summer 2026 opportunities are open for Boston residents ages 14 to 24, with positions offered through city agencies and partner organizations.
The practical takeaway for families is simple: apply early. The city says applications are being accepted on a rolling basis, which means waiting could limit options as programs fill. Boston is also offering more hands-on help this month for teens, parents, and guardians who want help navigating the process.
April 18 fair offers optional in-person help
The city’s 2026 FutureBOS Youth Jobs and Resource Fair is scheduled for Saturday, April 18, at the Reggie Lewis Track and Athletic Center in Roxbury. According to Boston.gov, the free event will connect young people with more than 200 organizations offering jobs, training, and career resources.
This year’s fair uses two timed entry waves: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. Youth must register for one slot in advance. The city says both waves will offer the same resources, including employer access, application assistance, youth-support services, free food, and prize raffles. Parents and guardians can attend too.
For applicants who want help before the fair, the Office of Youth Employment and Opportunity says it is offering in-person assistance at 1483 Tremont Street in Roxbury, with dedicated onboarding hours Monday through Friday from noon to 5 p.m. Help is also available by phone at 617-635-4202 and by email at futurebos@boston.gov.
The city has also posted a step-by-step application guide through futureBOS. That matters for families trying to sort out eligibility, documents, and next steps before school lets out. The summer program is scheduled to run from June 23 through August 29, according to the city.
One important caution: applying does not mean every applicant is guaranteed a job. Boston says futureBOS includes openings across multiple programs and partners. The city does separately say its Youth Jobs Guarantee applies to eligible Boston Public Schools students, but officials are still urging everyone to register and apply as soon as possible.
For context, the city said more than 10,500 young people were hired last summer through the Office of Youth Employment and Opportunity or outside partners. For Boston families planning summer schedules now, the most useful move is to start the application early and, if needed, reserve a spot at the April 18 Roxbury fair.
