Gas station attendant or convenience store clerk. It’s a toss-up which was my all-time favorite job (besides being editor of this magazine, of course).
I worked at a Medina gas station during college break in the summer of 1979. It paid slightly more than minimum wage — a big selling point. I pumped gas, checked oil and washed windshields.
My boss was aggressively crazy but fiercely protective of her student employees. She encouraged us to make up cash shortages by “hanging the pumps” — dangling the handle in a way that didn’t reset the pump. The next customer’s sale then started at a slightly higher amount.
Tied for best job was my summer at the Stop N Go store in Hinckley. I worked the 3-to-11 p.m. shift; Slush Puppies and popcorn were free.
Never great at math, I soon got fast at figuring out change because the cash register tallied total sales but didn’t calculate cash back. A low point was when my underage brother and his friends came in just before closing, grabbed several cases of cheap beer from the back cooler and plunked a wad of cash on the counter. I spent weeks afraid that I’d be arrested and have to delay my return to Miami University.
I’ll save my worst jobs for another column, but cooking Roman Burgers at Mr. Hero is right up there.
Jobs, careers, whatever you call them, finding the right fit has a lot to do with luck, education and a certain amount of pluckiness. An open mind helps, too. Skills acquired from a job build on each other, putting together invaluable knowledge that comes in handy in unexpected ways.
If you’re looking for a change, regardless of the reason, check out our package of stories starting with our cover couple, Debbi and Rick Sands (page 22). We also have tips on venturing into the employment pool at midlife and setting goals.
For fun, consider a visit to a quaint local inn or lodge featured on page 12. And tightwads (aren’t we all?) will appreciate our local discount roundup on page 19.
Best jobs? Worst jobs? Let us know by posting on our Northeast Ohio Boomer and Beyond Facebook page. Or go to our new website at NortheastOhioBoomer.com. It should be up and running by Feb. 8.
