I think as I recall my first job (real job) started at $1.60/hr. I was working as a "go-fer"/cleaner in a meat department in a local grocery (2 stores) in the next town over. Think I was about 16 also. Prior to that I did odd jobs around the neighborhood like mowing lawns, helped a furniture re-upholsterer pick up and deliver furniture when needed. Helped a heating and AC guy as a helper/gofer sometimes, washed cars, that sort of thing.