Best Places That Hire At 14: We Found Which Companies Hire Young Teens

Do you remember your very first job? I certainly do. The memories of working as a dishwasher at a local pizza place are still fresh. Those experiences were instrumental in shaping my work ethic.

Perhaps you’re a teenager eagerly looking to step into the workforce, or maybe you’re a parent seeking information for your young teen.

Either way, navigating the job market can be a tough task, especially when understanding the laws regarding employment at a young age.

That’s why I’ve taken the time to research and compile a comprehensive list of places that hire at 14, along with an overview of the state laws for hiring young teenagers.

My goal with this blog post is to provide a helpful resource for teenagers ready to take on their first job, or parents guiding their kids through this important milestone.

This guide sheds light on the best opportunities for 14-year-olds seeking employment. We will share places you can work at 14.

We also wrote about Best Places That Hire At 15: We Found Which Companies Hire Teens.

Challenges and Obstacles for Young Job Seekers

The job market for young teens aged 14 can be challenging, as they may encounter numerous obstacles and potential hurdles.

One of the primary issues is their lack of experience. For many young teens, seeking employment often signifies their first job, which can limit their access to opportunities.

Additionally, the positions available for this age group are entry-level roles with minimal pay, often adhering to the federal minimum wage.

Furthermore, the challenge for young teens extends to balancing their school week with work.

Child labor laws stipulate that during a school week, teens can work up to three hours per day, and up to eight hours on non-school days.

This regulation impacts their availability for work, which, in turn, could limit their job choices.

Despite these challenges, several places hire young teens, providing them with an opportunity to navigate the job market and gain valuable experience.

Breakdown of Companies and Places that Hire Teens

It’s important for young teens to know the variety of companies and places that hire teens.

Retail stores are a common starting point for teenage employment. These places often hire young teenagers for roles such as cashiers or customer service representatives.

Stores that hire at 14 include the grocery store chain Kroger, and Baskin Robbins, an ice cream shop well-known for hiring young workers.

Aside from retail stores, many fast-food restaurants also hire teens, offering them roles such as cashiers, dishwashers, or food prep workers.

Other roles like concession stand workers, ushers, arcades, floral clerks, or self-employment like mowing lawns also exist. But this article focuses on companies that hire at 14.

These companies provide an excellent platform for young teens to gain their first job experience.

The minimum hiring age may vary slightly by state, so it’s crucial to confirm this with the local store or restaurant.

Fast-Food Industry: What Places Hire At 14

The fast-food industry provides a wide range of opportunities for minors, particularly for those seeking their first job.

Places that hire at 14 in this sector offer roles ranging from front-of-house duties such as cashiers and servers, to back-of-house roles like food prep workers and dishwashers.

My first job was as a dishwasher for a pizza place.

Fast-food restaurants are popular among young workers due to their flexible hours and the opportunity to acquire skills in customer service and teamwork.

Local businesses also offer job opportunities for young teens. For example, a minor might find work as a dog walker, providing a service to their local community while earning some income.

The key for young teens is to explore various opportunities in their local area and find a job that suits their school schedule and interests.

The below are restaurants that hire at 14.

1. McDonald’s – A Leader in Teen Employment

McDonald’s, a renowned fast food restaurant, is a leader in teen employment. They have a longstanding history of hiring young workers, including those aged 14.

The company provides a supportive and inclusive work environment, making it an ideal place for young teens to gain their first work experience.

Roles at McDonald’s are diverse, encompassing positions in food prep, cashiering, and cleaning.

The flexibility in scheduling is another advantage for young teens, who can balance their work hours with their school day. Given these benefits, McDonald’s continues to be a popular choice for young teens seeking employment.

2. Taco Bell – Embracing Young Talent

Taco Bell is another fast-food chain that embraces young talent, offering jobs for teens aged 14 and above.

This company recognizes the value that young workers bring and provides them with opportunities to learn and grow in the fast-paced food industry.

Like McDonald’s, Taco Bell offers various roles, like food prep and cashiering, providing teens with a well-rounded experience in the fast-food sector.

The flexibility of work hours is a significant benefit for young teens, who can schedule their shifts around their school days. Taco Bell’s commitment to nurturing young talent makes it a top choice among young job seekers.

3. Burger King – Starting in Fast-Food

At the age of 14, young teens can begin their journey in the workplace at a fast-food restaurant like Burger King. With a parent’s permission, they can take on the role of a crew member.

Burger King, one of the places that hire at 14, offers an opportunity for young teens to learn the ropes of the food industry.

They get to interact with customers, learn about food preparation and safety practices. It’s a great first job for teens interested in the fast-food industry.

The pay for these positions is often at or slightly above the federal minimum wage. The real value lies in the experience gained.

It’s not just about flipping burgers; it’s about responsibility, teamwork, and customer service.

4. Baskin-Robbins – Sweetening the Deal for Young Workers

Baskin-Robbins, a well-known ice cream shop, is another great place that hires young teenagers. They often hire teens as young as 14 for positions like ice cream scoopers or cashiers.

This can be a fun and engaging first job for young teens who are eager to start working.

The pay at Baskin-Robbins typically starts at the federal minimum wage but can vary depending on the location and position.

Working at Baskin-Robbins can give young workers an introduction to the food service industry and valuable customer service skills that can benefit their future careers. Plus what teenager doesn’t like ice cream.

5. Dairy Queen – Ice Cream Parlors for Teens

Another place that hires at 14 is Dairy Queen. This popular ice cream chain is known for its friendly atmosphere and sweet treats.

Dairy Queen is a great place for young teenagers to work, especially during the summer months when the demand for ice cream is high.

They typically start as crew members, serving customers, preparing food, and maintaining cleanliness in the store.

Like Burger King, Dairy Queen pays its young workers at or near the federal minimum wage.

The opportunity to work in an ice cream shop, interact with customers and learn about business operations is invaluable and fun.

Parent’s permission is required for 14-year-olds who wish to work at Dairy Queen.

6. Rita’s Italian Ice – Sweet Opportunities for Minors

Rita’s Italian Ice, a popular ice cream shop chain with over 600 locations across the U.S., offers sweet job opportunities for 14-year-olds. Known for its friendly work environment and flexible hours, Rita’s Italian Ice is a great place for young teens to start their job journey.

Working at Rita’s allows young workers to learn about customer service, money handling, and food safety, all while serving up delicious treats.

7. Chick-fil-A – Encouraging Early Careers

Chick-fil-A, a popular fast-food restaurant, is known for its willingness to hire young teens. They often hire 14-year-olds for positions such as team members or dishwashers.

With Chick-fil-A’s commitment to employee development, young workers can gain valuable job skills and learn about the fast-food industry.

While the pay can vary by location, many Chick-fil-A locations start young workers at federal minimum wage.

In addition to earning money, teens working at Chick-fil-A can also benefit from flexible work hours that fit around their school schedule, making it an excellent choice for jobs for teens.

8. Culvers

Culver’s indeed offers employment opportunities to individuals as young as 14.

Just like all the other jobs on this list it’s important to remember that the job roles open to 14-year-olds might be somewhat limited due to labor laws and certain restrictions on their work hours and the type of machinery they are allowed to operate.

For example, Culver’s has been known to list job positions specifically targeted at 14-15-year-olds, including roles like crew members.

Even though you can apply to work at Culver’s at age 14, you might not be eligible for kitchen positions until you’re a bit older.

The minimum hiring age can differ from one location to another. While some Culver’s locations are open to hiring employees as young as 14, others might require that their employees be at least 16.

If you’re a teenager interested in pursuing a job at Culver’s, or a parent helping your child explore job opportunities, check with your local Culver’s restaurant for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Retail and Grocery Stores: What Places Hire At 14

There are other sectors outside the fast-food industry that hire young teenagers. Retail stores and grocery stores are excellent places for 14-year-olds to gain work experience.

These businesses often have positions that are suitable for young workers, such as baggers, cart attendants, and store greeters.

These roles provide teens with exposure to a professional environment, customer service experience, and an introduction to the world of work.

One of the benefits of working in these sectors as a 14-year-old is the flexibility of hours. Many stores allow young workers to work up to eight hours on non-school days and up to three hours on a school day.

This enables them to balance their school work and job responsibilities effectively. And while these jobs don’t necessarily pay a lot, the experience and skills gained are invaluable.

9. Kroger – Retail Giant’s Early Opportunities

Kroger is one of the grocery store chains that offer opportunities for 14 year olds.

As a retail giant, Kroger owns several brands and stores across the country, making it a great place for young teens to start their first job.

They can work as baggers or cart attendants, roles that come with responsibilities like customer service, cleanliness, and organization.

Working at Kroger also allows teens to learn about the retail industry from the inside.

They will gain experience in customer service, learn about inventory management, and understand the operations of a large retail store.

The pay for these positions is generally at the federal minimum wage, but the experience and skills gained are far more valuable.

10. Giant Eagle – Jobs for Young Grocery Enthusiasts

Another grocery store chain that hires 14-year-olds is Giant Eagle. Particularly popular in West Virginia, this store offers roles like baggers and cart attendants for young teens.

Working at Giant Eagle grocery stores gives young workers an opportunity to learn about the grocery industry and customer service.

The pay at Giant Eagle is usually at or slightly above the federal minimum wage.

Whether a teen is looking for a part-time job or a stepping stone to a career in the grocery or retail industry, Giant Eagle is a great place to start.

11. Safeway – Grocery Duties for Teens

For young teens eager to enter the workforce, Safeway, a well-known grocery store chain, offers a variety of positions. One of the common roles for 14-year-olds at Safeway is the cart attendant.

This role provides a great starting point for teens to learn about customer service and the logistics of a bustling grocery store.

This opportunity not only provides a steady paycheck but also helps young teens develop a strong work ethic from a young age.

Safeway is among the places that hire at 14, providing a great platform for teens to experience their first job and understand the responsibilities associated with it.

12. Publix – Expanding Opportunities in Retail

Publix, one of the largest grocery store chains in the United States, is known for hiring young teens. They often hire 14-year-olds for positions such as baggers or service desk clerks.

This makes Publix an ideal local store for young teenagers seeking their first job.

Starting salaries at Publix often meet the federal minimum wage, providing young workers with a decent pay for their age.

Working at this grocery store chain can provide teens with valuable experience in customer service and retail operations, setting a strong foundation for their future careers.

Entertainment and Service Industries: Places That Hire At 14

For 14-year-olds looking for jobs outside the grocery and retail stores, the entertainment and service industries present attractive options.

These roles not only help young teens earn their own money but also expose them to diverse work environments early on. More importantly they are fun. It’s hard to leave a fun job.

Whether it’s working behind the scenes at an amusement park or greeting movie-goers at a theater, these jobs can be a stepping stone to successful careers in the entertainment and service industries.

13. AMC Theaters – Entertainment Jobs for Young Teens

AMC Theaters, a prominent movie theater chain, is known for its adherence to fair labor standards and its willingness to hire younger teens.

The company offers roles such as service desk clerks to 14 and 15-year-olds, providing them with a great chance to learn about customer service and the entertainment industry.

From selling popcorn and tickets to helping customers find their seats, these roles at AMC Theaters provide a fun and dynamic first job experience for young teens.

This makes AMC Theaters one of the best places that hire young teens, helping them make their initial foray into the world of work.

14. Six Flags – Exciting Roles for Young Teens

Six Flags, a widely recognized amusement park, offers a variety of exciting roles for young teens.

They often hire young teens starting at the minimum age of 14, making it a great place for young individuals to gain their first job experience.

Positions typically include ride operators, food service assistants, and park cleaners, providing a dynamic work environment.

Although the pay varies depending on the position and location, many of these jobs start at the federal minimum wage.

Working at Six Flags not only provides young teens with a paycheck, but also teaches essential job skills and offers a unique and fun work experience.

Related: The Best Six Flags Coupons – Printable & Online

Additional Suggestions: Places That Welcome 14-Year-Olds

There are many places that hire at 14, offering young teenagers a chance to earn their own money. Various retail stores, local businesses, and fast-food restaurants are open to hiring young workers.

It’s important to remember that child labor laws restrict the hours that young teens can work during the school week.

Generally, during a school day, teens can work up to three hours, and up to eight hours on a non-school day. These laws are designed to ensure that work does not interfere with a young teen’s education.

We go deeper on state by state laws a little further down in this post..

Places That Do Not Hire At 14

The following popular retailers do not hire at 14.

• Aldi: The minimum hiring age is 18.
• Amazon: Minimum hiring age is 18.
• Best Buy: Minimum hiring age is 16.
• Boston Marlet: Minimum hiring age is 15. (Not 14, as some sites report)
• Chuck E Cheese: Minimum hiring age is 16. Related: The Best Chuck E Cheese Coupons and Free Tokens & Tickets
• Costco: Minimum hiring age is 18.
• Denny’s: Minimum hiring age is 16. Related: Denny’s $2 $4 $6 $8 Menu, Including $4 All You Can Eat Pancakes
• Domino’s: Minimum hiring age is 16 for in-store jobs. Delivery drivers must be at least 18.
• Gamestop: Minimum hiring age is 16.
• Gap: Minimum hiring age is 16.
• Home Depot: Minimum hiring age is 16.
• Incredible Pizza: Minimum hiring age is 16. Related: The Best Incredible Pizza Printable Coupons and Discounts
• Kohl’s: Minimum hiring age is 17.
• lululemon: Minimum hiring age is 18. Related: How To Save On Lululemon: My Lululemon Discounts And Hacks
• Main Event: Minimum hiring age is 16. Related: Main Event Coupons and Discounts
• Old Navy: Minimum hiring age is 16.
• Pizza Hut: Minimum hiring age is 16.
• Subway: Minimum hiring age is 16.
• Target: Minimum hiring age is 16.
• Trader Joe’s: Minimum hiring age is 16.
• Walmart: Minimum hiring age is 16.

Unfortunately, none of these companies hire at 14. The minimum age can vary by state and specific job position, so it’s always a good idea to check with the specific company and location you’re interested in.

Different States and the Places That Hire at 14

In most parts of the United States, 14-year-olds are allowed to take up roles in agricultural jobs outside school hours.

There are 15 states where 14 is considered an acceptable age for a minor to work, provided it doesn’t interfere with their education.

These states include Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Connecticut, Florida, Hawaii, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Missouri, New York, Ohio, South Carolina, Virginia, and Washington.

There are also states where 14-year-olds can work during school hours, such as Massachusetts (with labor certification), Nevada, New Mexico (in cases of hardship only), North Dakota, and Vermont (with labor certification).

Despite the legal age being 14 in these areas, federal laws like the FLSA have strict guidelines regarding work hours and job type for this age group.

In some states, 14-year-olds may be required to provide documents such as proof of age, an employment certificate, or parental consent before they can start working.

There are a few exceptions where states allow minors under the age of 14 to work. Georgia, for instance, has set the minimum working age at 12, but this only applies to employers not governed by the FLSA.

In the United States, the minimum hiring age varies state to state. Several retail stores and fast-food restaurants hire young teens as young as 14.

These locations offer excellent first job opportunities for young teenagers aged 14, allowing them to gain work experience and earn their own money.

While dog walking and business ideas could be a good start, many companies are willing to hire younger workers.

Here, we will explore the possibilities in Missouri, Texas, California, Georgia, and Florida.

Missouri

In Missouri, many local businesses and retail stores hire young teenagers. For instance, fast-food restaurants such as McDonald’s and Taco Bell hire teens as young as 14.

The federal minimum wage applies, and during the school week, teens can work up to three hours per day, and up to eight hours on non-school days.

Missouri also has several grocery store chains that hire young workers. Places like Kroger and Safeway offer jobs for teens, allowing them to gain experience in customer service and retail.

Missouri law allows teens to work during the school week with certain restrictions to ensure their school activities are not affected.

Texas

In Texas, the minimum age to work is 14. Many fast-food restaurants such as Chick-Fil-A and Pizza Hut hire young teens. Texas allows teens to work up to three hours on a school day and up to eight hours on a non-school day.

Teens can also work in retail stores and local businesses, offering a variety of first job opportunities.

Some of the grocery stores that hire 14-year-olds in Texas include Kroger and Safeway. Plus, ice cream shops like Dairy Queen often hire younger workers, making it a great place for teens to start their work journey.

Texas law requires employers to adhere to federal child labor laws, ensuring the safety and well-being of young workers.

California

California is another state with numerous opportunities for young teenagers. Fast food restaurants like McDonald’s, Taco Bell, and even Kentucky Fried Chicken hire young teens.

These jobs often pay the federal minimum wage and allow teens to work up to three hours on a school day and eight hours on a non-school day.

Additionally, retail stores like Zurchers and Plato’s Closet are open to hiring 14-year-olds. Grocery chains like Safeway and Kroger also offer job opportunities for teens.

California’s child labor laws dictate that teens can work during the school week, but with certain restrictions to protect their education.

Georgia

Under Georgia’s state labor laws, there are several job types approved for minors under 14. These include babysitting, newspaper delivery, yard work, shoe shining, entertainment jobs like acting, singing, or dancing, and work in a family business or farm.

In Georgia, minors under the age of 18 need an employment certificate or a work permit from their school before they can start working, but they are not required to provide proof of age.

Like many other states, Georgia also follows federal rules concerning hazardous occupations. Minors of all ages are prohibited from working in jobs that pose a risk to their health and well-being.

Florida

In Florida, the minimum hiring age is 14. Fast food restaurants like Chick-Fil-A and McDonald’s are popular choices for a first job. These restaurants often hire teens and provide them with valuable customer service experience.

During the school week, working hours are limited to three hours per day, but up to eight hours are permitted on non-school days.

Florida’s retail stores and grocery chains also employ young workers. Places like Publix and Winn-Dixie hire young teens, giving them a stepping stone into the working world.

Florida law requires employers to follow federal labor laws, ensuring that the work does not interfere with the teenager’s education.

The Reality of the Job Market for 14-Year-Olds

The job market for 14-year-olds may seem limited, but in reality, many businesses typically hire young teens.

Fast-food restaurants, for instance, have been known to hire teens as young as 14, offering roles such as cashiers, food prep workers, and even positions that involve serving rotisserie chicken.

Employees often enjoy benefits such as discounts on food, making these jobs particularly appealing to young food enthusiasts.

It should be noted that some places may only hire at 15, mainly due to regulatory constraints or business preferences.

Despite this, many 14-year-olds have successfully found their first job at fast-food chains, grocery stores, or local businesses, proving that opportunities do exist for young, eager workers.

Wrap-Up

The job market for young teens aged 14 and 15 is surprisingly vast.

The minimum age requirements differ across various companies, some of which are owned and operated independently, but many places hire youth workers at 14. The minimum age also varies by state.

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