one of my worst jobs
So basically starting a series of all the jobs I’ve had leading up to my current career.
Starting off with my day 1: a local amusement park on the beach
I started working here because my best friend at the time did and being 18+ I was able to work the airbrush tattoo station. Don’t remember the exact requirements or reasoning but it was something to do with handling children around alcohol, paint, and adhesives.
On top of that I ran boardwalk style games, set up the tents and prizes, and I even met Bo Burnham there once 👀
*important note: The place is under new ownership and management and I’ve heard good things about it currently so this experience is definitely old and has nothing to do with how it’s currently run.
• I was getting paid $7/hr and I wasn’t allowed to keep any tips, I had to refuse taking tips at all costs and if they handed me one I had to give it back to the park
• If you were under 18, obviously you had to abide by the labor laws but the place did not close until the park was empty, some days I would work until 2am (no over time)
• the lowkey misogyny was crazy, only the guys were allowed to work in the back to stock and when the girls did I’m pretty sure it was to hook up (consensual but icky), girls mainly worked the sports games because “that’ll grab the male customer attention”
• an international program, they house all these people from different countries in one house and I’m pretty sure they got paid less
I ultimately left because I started another job and then my best friend at the time just stopped talking to me — even as a coworker. There were times when I genuinely needed help and she would turn around and walk the other direction. So that was lame… 😒
#jobstruggles #jobfail #lemon8 @Lemon8 Career #firstjob #lemon8career #jobexperiences #shore #jersey #jerseyshore #lemon8diary
Many young adults share a common experience: their first jobs often come with unexpected challenges and valuable lessons. Working in customer service, especially in lively environments like amusement parks, can teach responsibility and resilience. It’s essential to understand labor laws, especially around age restrictions, as they can greatly impact working conditions, hours, and salary. For instance, in many regions, workers under the age of 18 cannot work beyond certain hours or perform specific tasks that may involve safety risks. Additionally, workplace dynamics can be influenced by gender roles and expectations, particularly in settings where customer engagement is key. Learning to navigate these challenges not only builds character but also prepares individuals for future workplace environments. Discussions about workplace equality and fair treatment have become increasingly important, making these experiences especially relevant today. Being proactive about your rights at work can help manage difficult situations, such as refusing tips to comply with company policies or confronting inappropriate behavior in the workplace. These stories remind us of the inevitable trials we all face as we step out into the job market.
