Reading Time: 13 minutes Best Places That Hire At 15: We Found Which Companies Hire Teens
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Securing employment at a young age is an excellent way for teenagers to gain valuable work experience, develop responsibility, and earn their own money.
This guide sheds light on various places that hire at 15, providing a broad outlook on teen opportunities.
Many businesses are willing to hire teens. It’s just a matter of figuring out which places and states allow a 15-year-old to work. We are here to help with that.
If you or your child is a little younger, check out Best Places That Hire At 14: We Found Which Companies Hire Young Teens.
Table of Contents
Opportunities for Teens at Work
Opportunities for teens at work are diverse and plentiful. Many businesses have a minimum hiring age of 15.
These places that hire teens provide them with a chance to gain professional experience and develop skills that will benefit their future career path.
Understanding Labor Laws for 15-Year-Olds
Before starting a job search, 15-year-olds should be familiar with the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), which protects workers under 16 from oppressive labor practices.
The FLSA outlines child labor laws, ensuring a safe, legal, and beneficial work experience for young workers.
Permissible Work Types Under the FLSA
Under the FLSA, 15-year-olds are permitted to work in various non-manufacturing, non-mining, and non-hazardous jobs outside school hours.
These jobs are selected to ensure they are not oppressive or hazardous. It’s important for employers to strictly adhere to these regulations to ensure the protection and well-being of young workers.
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Work Hour Restrictions for 15-Year-Olds
Regarding the permitted work hours, the FLSA stipulates that 15-year-olds can work up to 3 hours on a school day, 18 hours in a school week, 8 hours on a non-school day, and a maximum of 40 hours in a week when school is not in session.
This scheduling is designed to maintain a balance between education and work.
Pay Scale Considerations for Young Workers
The expected pay scale for 15-year-olds varies based on the job nature, employer, and region. The federal minimum wage provides a baseline for the least amount they can be paid per hour.
As beginners in the job market, it’s important for 15-year-olds to understand their potential earnings to make informed decisions about their employment opportunities.
Business Sectors That Hire 15-Year-Olds
A variety of business sectors are open to hiring young workers, even as young as 15 years old.
These places that hire at 15 are often in industries like fast-food restaurants, grocery stores, and entertainment venues. Working at this early age increases income and helps develop essential life skills.
There are opportunities out there regardless of where you live or your background. This includes jobs at your local amusement park, local store, or grocery store chain.
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Restaurants That Hire At 15
One of the most common sectors for young people seeking their first job is the restaurant industry.
Many fast-food restaurants, including chains like Pizza Hut, Dairy Queen, and Burger King, hire teens as young as 15.
These establishments provide job opportunities that help young people gain work experience and valuable skills.
Please note that hiring policies can vary by individual franchise and state labor laws, so it’s always a good idea to check with the specific location where you’re interested in applying.
Arby’s
Arby’s hires 15-year-olds for entry-level positions such as cashiers and team members who assist in food preparation and cleaning duties.
Burger King
At Burger King, 15-year-olds can be hired for roles such as team members or cashiers. Their duties might include taking orders, prepping food, and maintaining cleanliness in the restaurant.
Baskin Robbins
Baskin Robbins often hires 15-year-olds for roles such as ice cream scoopers and cashiers. These employees are responsible for serving customers, handling cash transactions, and keeping the store clean.
My cousin Monica worked at Baskin Robbins as a teenager.
With over 3000 branches, they readily hire teens as young as 15 and offer a fun, fast-paced work environment.
It’s an excellent starting point for any teen’s job search and a sweet way to kickstart their employment journey.
Related: Easy Homemade Ice Cream Recipe. Make Ice Cream In A Bag
Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC)
At KFC, 15-year-olds may be hired for team member positions, where they would be responsible for taking orders, preparing food, and maintaining a clean environment.
Ben and Jerry’s
Ben and Jerry’s hires 15-year-olds for positions like scoop shop crew members. Responsibilities include serving customers, maintaining cleanliness in the store, and restocking supplies.
Dairy Queen
Dairy Queen hires 15-year-olds for positions like cashier and crew member. These roles involve taking customer orders, preparing food, and cleaning.
Pizza Hut
Pizza Hut hires 15-year-olds for team member positions. These employees typically work in customer service, food preparation, and cleaning roles.
Denny’s
At Denny’s, 15-year-olds may be able to find work as hosts or hostesses. Their duties include greeting customers, seating them at tables, and helping with cleaning tasks.
Related: Denny’s $2 $4 $6 $8 Menu, Including $4 All You Can Eat Pancakes (2024)
McDonald’s
McDonald’s has been known to hire 15-year-olds for crew member positions. These employees handle tasks such as taking orders, preparing food, and cleaning.
Taco Bell
Taco Bell hires 15-year-olds for roles such as team members. These employees handle tasks like taking orders, preparing food, and maintaining cleanliness in the restaurant.
Starbucks
Starbucks may hire 15-year-olds for barista positions, where they would be responsible for making drinks, taking orders, and cleaning.
Chick-Fil-A
Chick-Fil-A hires 15-year-olds for team member positions. These employees are responsible for taking orders, preparing food, and cleaning.
Subway
Subway hires 15-year-olds for sandwich artist positions. Responsibilities include making sandwiches, handling cash transactions, and maintaining a clean store.
Wendy’s
Wendy’s hires 15-year-olds for crew member positions. These employees handle tasks like taking orders, preparing food, and cleaning.
Grocery Store Jobs
Major grocery store chains are known to hire 14 and 15-year-olds, offering a variety of job duties from operating a cash register to greeting customers.
Teens can operate a cash register, bag groceries, or serve customers.
As many grocery stores have extended hours, it’s easier for teens to fit in shifts around their school schedule. Roles can range from cashier positions to grocery baggers to delivery and customer assistance.
This early exposure to the workforce allows teens to develop excellent customer service skills and familiarize themselves with the ins and outs of retail operations.
Hiring policies can vary by individual franchise and state labor laws, so it’s always a good idea to check with the specific location where you’re interested in applying.
Related: The Art of Frugal Food Shopping: How To Save On Groceries
Publix
Publix is known for hiring 15-year-olds. The typical roles for 15-year-olds at Publix include bagging groceries and assisting customers to their cars. They may also be hired as cashiers.
Wegmans
Wegmans hires 15-year-olds for various positions. These typically include roles such as customer service representatives and cart attendants.
Safeway
At Safeway, 15-year-olds can be hired for roles such as courtesy clerks. Their duties include bagging groceries, collecting carts, and assisting customers.
Giant Food
Giant Food hires 15-year-olds for positions like courtesy clerks and baggers. These employees are responsible for bagging groceries, collecting carts, and helping customers.
Hy-Vee
Hy-Vee hires 15-year-olds for roles such as courtesy clerks. These employees are responsible for bagging groceries, cleaning, and assisting customers.
Stop & Shop
At Stop & Shop, 15-year-olds can be hired for roles such as baggers or cashiers. Their duties might include grocery bagger, collecting carts, and helping customers.
H-E-B
H-E-B Grocery Company, LP is a popular American privately held supermarket chain that is based in San Antonio, Texas. It has over 380 stores throughout the U.S. state of Texas and northeast Mexico.
For 15-year-olds looking for a job, H-E-B may be a viable option. The roles available to 15-year-olds at H-E-B include bagging groceries and assisting customers to their vehicles, similar to many other grocery chains.
These employees may also be responsible for collecting carts or helping with store cleanliness.
Harveys
Harveys hires 15-year-olds for positions like courtesy clerks and baggers. These employees are responsible for bagging groceries, collecting carts, and helping customers.
Kroger
At Kroger, 15-year-olds may be hired for roles such as courtesy clerks. These employees are responsible for bagging groceries, collecting carts, and maintaining a clean store.
Winn Dixie
Winn Dixie hires 15-year-olds for positions like baggers or cashiers. These roles involve bagging groceries, collecting carts, and assisting customers.
King Soopers
King Soopers hires 15-year-olds for roles such as baggers or cashiers. These employees handle tasks like bagging groceries, collecting carts, and helping customers.
Fareway
Fareway hires 15-year-olds for positions like baggers or cashiers. These employees are responsible for bagging groceries, collecting carts, and assisting customers.
Giant Eagle
At Giant Eagle, 15-year-olds may be hired for roles such as baggers or cashiers. Their duties include bagging groceries, collecting carts, and helping customers.
Sapp Bros
Sapp Bros hires 15-year-olds for positions like cashiers. These employees are responsible for handling cash transactions, stocking inventory, and maintaining a clean store.
Trader Joe’s
Trader Joe’s has been known to hire 15-year-olds for roles such as crew members. These employees handle tasks such as stocking shelves, bagging groceries, and cleaning.
Based on my research, it seems that there may be some confusion about the hiring age at Trader Joe’s. While some sources suggest that Trader Joe’s may hire 15-year-olds, others indicate that the minimum hiring age is 16.
According to Indeed.com, a popular job search and company information site, some users have mentioned that Trader Joe’s hires individuals as young as 15.
This contradicts the information found on Job Applications and Jobzmall, which both state that the minimum age requirement for working at Trader Joe’s is 16 years old.
Moreover, the official Trader Joe’s website, it doesn’t specify a minimum hiring age.
Albertsons
Albertsons hires 15-year-olds for roles such as courtesy clerks. These employees handle tasks like bagging groceries, collecting carts, and maintaining cleanliness in the store.
Amusement Parks That Hire 15 Year Olds
One of the most fun first jobs for many teens is to work at an amusement park.
I’ve said it a bunch already, but remember, employment laws vary by state and country. So it’s always a good idea to check with the specific location where you’re interested in working for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Six Flags
Six Flags, one of the largest and most popular amusement park chains in the U.S., is known to hire 15-year-olds for various positions.
Six Flags is one of the most popular summer jobs for teen employees. Check your local Six Flags for available jobs. Most locations are hungry for high school students to fill roles.
The typical roles available for this age group mainly include lifeguard, pool technicians, and water quality & filtration mechanics. As stated on their website, the pay starts at $15 per hour.
Related: The Best Six Flags Coupons – Printable & Online
Hersheypark
Hersheypark in Hershey, Pennsylvania, hires 15-year-olds for a variety of positions. Young workers at Hersheypark may find themselves working as ride operators, food and beverage team members, or in retail roles. The pay rate varies depending on the position and level of responsibility.
Cedar Point
Cedar Point in Sandusky, Ohio, also hires 15-year-olds for various entry-level positions. These can include food and beverage associates, merchandise and games associates, and park services associates. Pay rates are competitive and depend on the role and responsibilities.
Dollywood
Dollywood in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, offers employment opportunities for 15-year-olds. Positions available typically include admissions associates, ride operators, and food service associates.
The park doesn’t disclose specific pay rates on its website, but they promise competitive wages.
Related: The 21 Most Popular Dollywood Theme Park Rides + Tips
Kings Island
Kings Island in Mason, Ohio, hires 15-year-olds for several roles including food and beverage associates, merchandise associates, and park services associates.
The pay rate is not disclosed on their website, but it’s likely to be competitive.
Silver Dollar City
Located in Branson, Missouri, Silver Dollar City provides job opportunities for 15-year-olds. They could work as ride operators, food service associates, or in guest services roles.
The exact pay rate is not specified on their website.
Related: The Best Silver Dollar City Review And Discounts From A Family Of Five!
Universal Orlando Resort
Universal Orlando Resort in Orlando, Florida, hires 15-year-olds for a variety of roles, including food service, merchandise, and park services.
Walt Disney World Resor
Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida, is known to hire young workers, including 15-year-olds, although it seems that opportunities might be more limited compared to other parks.
Roles may include food service and merchandise.
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Busch Gardens Williamsburg
Busch Gardens Williamsburg in Virginia hires 15-year-olds for various roles such as food service associates, merchandise associates, and park services associates.
Legoland
Legoland parks, located in various parts of the world, hire young workers, including 15-year-olds. Jobs can include ride operators, food service associates, and guest experience hosts.
Pay rates vary depending on location and position.
Legoland California Coupons and Review for older kids
Fantasy Island Amusement Park
Fantasy Island Amusement Park offers employment opportunities for the youth as well. The park is hiring for the upcoming season and has roles available for those under 15 as well.
The expected pay for 15-year-olds begins at $13.50 per hour, plus a $0.50 hourly bonus.
Please note that while these amusement parks do hire 15-year-olds, there are certain restrictions on the hours and types of work that young workers can do, as per the Federal Child Labor laws.
Always check directly with the specific location where you’re interested in applying for the most accurate information.
SeaWorld Parks
SeaWorld Parks, with locations in Orlando, San Antonio, and San Diego, hire 15-year-olds for roles such as food service, merchandise, and park services.
Sea World Coupons and Discounts. Cheap Tickets
Service Jobs Suitable for 15-Year-Olds
While the minimum hiring age for most businesses is 16, there are plenty of service jobs suitable for 15-year-olds.
Local businesses, in particular, are often more flexible with their hiring age, providing ample job opportunities for younger teens.
Teens can even consider starting their own service business, proving that age is not a barrier to entrepreneurship.
When I was 15 I sold cars for family members that didn’t want to deal with selling their car. I would get a commission for it! I also sold used pagers (remember those?) and helped the buyer activate them.
Opportunities in Pet Care Services
One of the many places that hire at 15 is pet care services. These services offer job opportunities for teens who love animals and are interested in a career in animal care.
These services usually involve general care for animals, such as feeding, walking, and caring for them while their owners are away. This can be a great first job for a 15-year-old passionate about animals.
Pet Sitting: A Tale of Furry Friends and Job Opportunities
Among the job opportunities in pet care services is pet sitting. The job duty includes looking after pets while their owners are away.
This could involve feeding the pet, taking them for a walk, playing with them, and making sure they are safe and comfortable.
Pet sitting is a great way to gain experience in animal care and can be a stepping stone towards a future career as a veterinarian.
Pet sitters average $16 an hour.
Dog Walking – A Walk towards Great Earnings
Dog walking is another opportunity in pet care services. This job involves taking dogs for regular walks, sometimes feeding them, and providing them with some company.
Dog walking can be a great way to earn money and is also a fun and healthy activity. This type of job opportunity is perfect for those who love dogs and enjoy spending time outdoors.
Dog walkers typically charge between $20 and $30 for a 30-minute dog walking service. If you have multiple dogs you can make more at the same time.
Lawn and Landscaping Business
Another sector that offers jobs to 15-year-olds is the lawn and landscaping business. Landscaping is an easy way to learn how to start your own business.
This can involve tasks such as lawn mowing, trimming bushes, planting flowers, and general garden maintenance.
Working in the lawn and landscaping business can help teens develop essential life skills and gain practical experience. It’s a great way to get your hands dirty and learn about nature while earning money.
Launching Your Journey as a Babysitter
Babysitting is another job opportunity for 15-year-olds. Many parents need help with caretaking and are looking for responsible teens to look after their children.
The job duties of a babysitter include planning fun and engaging activities for the kids, preparing meals, and ensuring their safety.
This job can be a great way to earn money and gain valuable childcare experience.
The average hourly rate for a babysitter nationally is $20.57 for one child and $23.25 for two kids.
Concession Stands and Your First Exploration Into Customer Service
One of the job opportunities available for 15-year-olds is that of a concession stand worker, particularly at local amusement parks.
This is a position that allows teens to dive into the realm of customer service. As a concession stand worker, your job duties would include taking orders for food and beverages, welcoming guests at the stand, and ensuring that the stand remains clean and sanitized.
An average salary for a concession stand worker in the US is about $10 per hour, making it an excellent first job for young teens looking to earn some money.
Wrap-Up!
From grocery stores to entertainment venues, there are a plethora of places that hire at 15.
The job search for a 15 year old can be as exciting as it is daunting, with first job opportunities in various sectors.
These initial roles are essential in understanding the professional world and developing excellent customer service skills.