Pima County Summer Youth Employment 2026: Enrollment Opens February 2 – Earn $16.54/Hour

Pima County has officially announced the opening of enrollment for its 2026 Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP), beginning February 2, 2026, at 7:00 AM (local time). Designed for youth aged 14 to 21 residing in Pima County, Arizona, the program provides paid summer employment opportunities at a minimum wage of $16.54 per hour, along with hands-on work experience across public, nonprofit, and private-sector worksites.

About the Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP)

The Summer Youth Employment Program is a flagship workforce initiative by Pima County that connects young residents with meaningful, paid work experiences during the summer months. Beyond earning income, participants gain professional skills, workplace exposure, and early career direction—often through their very first job.

For many students, SYEP serves as a bridge between education and employment, helping them build confidence, responsibility, and practical skills valued by future employers.

Key Dates and Application Timeline

Enrollment for SYEP is time-sensitive and competitive. Applicants should note the following important dates:

• Application Opens: February 2, 2026, at 7:00 AM

• Application Closes: February 27, 2026, at 5:00 PM

Program Sessions:

• Session 1: June 1 – June 26, 2026

• Session 2: July 6 – July 31, 2026

Applicants must be available to commit to one complete session.

What’s New in SYEP 2026

Following strong demand in 2025, where more than 600 youth participated, Pima County has expanded the program for 2026. This year, the county plans to place up to 850 participants across 200+ approved worksites.

Available roles span a wide range of career interests, including automotive services, marketing and communications, public libraries, parks and recreation, clerical support, and community-based organizations.

Earn While You Learn: High School Credit Option

In addition to paid internships, SYEP 2026 includes a special academic pathway allowing up to 200 students to earn core high school credits required for graduation. Participants enrolled in this option receive structured instruction, supervised work experience, and a stipend—combining academic progress with income generation.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet all of the following requirements:

• Age: Between 14 and 21 years old

• Residency: Must live in Pima County, Arizona

• Availability: Able to participate fully in one summer session

How to Apply

Applicants are encouraged to prepare in advance due to limited availability.

1. Apply Online: Visit the official Pima County Community and Workforce Development website when applications open.

2. Apply Early: Applications are processed on a rolling basis. Logging in exactly at 7:00 AM is strongly advised.

3. Paper Applications: Limited paper forms may be available through select high schools and community centers.

4. For Employers: Businesses and organizations interested in hosting youth interns may apply as worksites until March 31, 2026.

Official Tip for Applicants

“This is often the first job experience for many young people,” said Daphanie Conner, Youth Program Manager for Pima County. “Applicants should carefully review their contact details to ensure they don’t miss important notifications regarding placement or acceptance.”

Why This Program Matters

With competitive wages, real-world experience, and academic benefits, the Pima County Summer Youth Employment Program remains one of Arizona’s most impactful youth workforce initiatives. For students seeking income, skills, and direction, SYEP 2026 offers a rare opportunity to earn while building a foundation for the future.

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