Aljoya

Aljoya, a retirement community for the elderly, is a popular place for students to apply to hospitality positions. Various roles at the community include: food busser, server and food runner. However, the work can be emotionally and physically demanding and some tasks may require assisting with the personal needs of residents. “I recommend it to students if they’re fond of elderly people or [are] into health,” senior Sophia Villasin said.

Allister

A year ago, a formal American restaurant and cocktail bar, Allister, opened on the island. Allister is a popular place amongst residents of Mercer Island as a great place to grab a bite to eat or have a study session. The staff handles serving customers in a fast-paced environment.

QFC

QFC has two locations on the island, one downtown and another on the south end. Positions include clerk, retail associate and sales associate. Employees receive discounted groceries and may be eligible for union benefits, including healthcare coverage, retirement options and negotiated wages. A con, however, can be the physical demands of standing for long periods and some heavy lifting.

Starbucks

Another recognized and popular workplace is Starbucks. Working at the coffee shop provides opportunities to learn customer service, communication and time management skills in a fast-paced environment. On the other hand, work can be high-stress, especially during rush hour. Employees may also have to deal with demanding customers and inconsistent scheduling.

Sano

Sano Cafe can be a great place for students to work thanks to its part-time shifts, flexibility for school schedules and friendly atmosphere that fosters a close-knit team. According to Indeed reviews, the environment can be stressful, particularly during large rushes after school.

Stroum JCC

The JCC, like Aljoya, is a popular employer amongst students, offering a variety of part-time jobs, particularly in roles that involve working with children or providing customer service. They’re known for their welcoming and inclusive environment, as well as for providing employees with complimentary gym and pool memberships while working there. A downside is the irregular hours leading to many part-time student positions being tied to after-school and weekend programs, which can lead to inconsistent or unpredictable schedules.