The new federal stimulus package includes $1.2 billion to create up to one million summer jobs for youth. But even with that boost, there may not be enough jobs.

Andrew Sum of Northeastern University in Boston predicts teenage employment will dip to about 30% this summer, down from 32.5% last summer.  Sum’s report, “Out With the Young and In With the Old: U.S. Labor Markets 2000-2008 and the Case for an Immediate Jobs Creation Program for Teens and Young Adults” is based on the Current Population Survey, a national household survey conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau.

So what advice can you give the teenager in your life?  One job site designed by teenagers to help other teenagers is Myfirstpaycheck.com. It includes resources such as an interactive resume builder and these tips for job seekers:

• Visit your high school guidance office. Counselors can help complete job applications and obtain references.
• Look locally. Watch for help-wanted signs or ask if a company intends to hire summer help. Remember to check with summer camps, amusement parks, and other seasonal businesses.
• Visit online sites. Go toMyfirstpaycheck.com and search other teen job sites to see what’s available.
• Make your job search known. Tell everyone–family, friends, coaches, teachers–that you’re looking for a job and what your interests are. Sometimes the best connections are right next door. Many adults credit their networks for finding out about job openings and getting that first interview.
• Create a resume. If you’ve never had a “real” job, don’t hesitate to include babysitting, pet care, lawn mowing and other paid activities, along with volunteering and school activities. Prospective employers are likely to be impressed with your professional approach to a job search.