Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) regarding the Youth 2 Work (Y2WK) Program

  • Can all youth apply for the City’s Y2WK summer jobs?

Only youth who reside in the City of Cincinnati between the age of 14-18 years of age can apply for the City’s Y2WK summer jobs. 

  • How do I apply for the City summer youth employment positions?

Go to the City website, www.cincinnati-oh.gov, click on the quick link tab and scroll down to Youth 2 Work Program and click

  • What form of ID is required to apply for the summer jobs?

The required forms of identification are as follows: State of Ohio Driver’s License, State ID card or a current picture ID from your school.

  • How do I know what summer youth jobs are available?

The Youth 2 Work Program webpage shows a list of the summer youth jobs that are currently available. Click here to see listings.

  • Will completing a Y2WK application guarantee summer youth employment?

No, completing a Y2WK application for any of the City’s Y2WK postings do not guarantee summer employment.  However, completing the application, showing valid documentation as noted in the application and showing up for the interview will give youth a better chance to be selected for employment.

  • Is a work permit required to work with the City’s Y2WK summer youth employment program?

Work permits are only required from youth who are 14-15 years old during the summer program.  

  • How do I obtain a work permit?

Before obtaining a work permit, an application form has to be completed.  

Click here for the application, http://www.com.ohio.gov/documents/laws_PreApp.pdf. You can also retrieve an application from the Cincinnati Public School offices, your school guidance counselors or the Ohio Department of Commerce link, https://apps.com.ohio.gov/dico/minorworkpermit/

Once you complete the work application form and sign it, then submit the form to your school office to receive a work permit.

  • What is a Physician’s Certificate?  Do I need one to work?

A Physician’s Certificate is a form needed for employers who require youth to take a physical for employment.  Click here for the Physician’s Certificate, http://com.ohio.gov/documents/Physpreapp.pdf.

  • Will youth be interviewed for summer youth employment?

Yes, youth will be interviewed for summer employment.  We understand youth who apply may be going through this process for the first time.  The interviews are set up to get to know the youth and the youth to get acquainted with the jobs that are available. 

  • What type of summer jobs are available through the program?

The majority of our Y2WK summer jobs will show a detailed description within the job posting. Other Y2WK summer jobs will show a general description in the application stage then within the interview stage youth will see a listing of job types to select.  Their interview will be based on their selected preferences.

  • Is there a waiting list if all positions are filled?

Yes, a waiting list is developed for all City Y2WK positions.  If a youth is hired and drops out of the program within the first 4 weeks of the program, youth on the waiting list will be called to replace them.