Getting my first job.

The U.S. Department of Labor has a wealth of information you should check out -- http://www.dol.gov/elaws/esa/flsa/cl/default.htm

As a minor, you won't be allowed to serve alcohol or do certain other jobs which the government's deemed too risky/dangerous for minors to perform.

As for how much money Uncle Sam will take out of your paycheck, that depends on how much money you earn annually, whether or not your parents claim you as a dependent on their Federal Income Taxes (I'm not an accountant or tax lawyer but I'm pretty sure they have to claim you if you're a minor dependent living with them), and also whether or not your state also has an income tax. You can change this somewhat by adjusting your tax withholding to maximize your income per month, but be advised this means you're less apt to receive any form of Federal Income Tax refund -- a tax refund is really just the government paying back a taxpayer for an interest-free loan the taxpayer's given their government... it's not "free" money even though many people treat it that way.

My first job became my only job. I was hired in 1970 by Southwestern Bell Telephone Company (now known as AT&T). I saw it all, heard it all and did my fair share of grousing. I saw divestiture in 1984 then watched as AT&T picked up the various pieces of Pac Bell, Ameritech and finally Bell South. I was there during technological transitioning from paper to microfilm to computer records.

I cut my "computer teeth" while serving on the help desk for a UNIX 3B15 system supporting 300 people. Eventually PC's rolled in and the UNIX system disappeared. I cherish the knowledge I gained during the UNIX days.

In 2008 I celebrated 38 years of service. You won't find that demographic amongst many of the Fortune 500. IMHO long term service numbers like mine will disappear.

In April 2009 I retired and even though I had doubts I can now say that I am happier being retired than being out in the rat race.

My first job was at a pizza joint during the summer, putting toppings on frozen pizza dough. I got fired because I was going to college in the fall, which the owner considered a waste of training.

Pool and Patio Shop in Rockville Maryland in 1979. Had 0 work experience and was glad to have it!

Pocket presser. Yep, my first job was pressing back pockets for sewing onto jeans. Assembly line stuff; catchup night work cos the seamstresses in the bordertown sweat shop were always ahead of the regular day pocket presser. Believe it or don't. Bought my first car (a 1953 Chevy) out of that job.

I believe it's way more important to get that first job than worry about it being perfect. Likely it won't be your last job.

Focus on what job is most accessible to you - travel, time, sleep patterns, personal discipline.

Something that lines up with those will come much easier, be more fun, and likely to actually be workable.

Also, once you're employed other jobs become easier to get.