Finding jobs for 14 year olds or jobs for 15 year olds can be an exciting step toward gaining work experience, earning money, and building responsibility.
However, due to federal and state labor laws, the options for places that hire at 14 or places that hire at 15 are limited, and restrictions apply to hours and types of work.
This comprehensive guide explores what jobs hire at 14, what jobs hire at 15, and where can you work at 14 or 15, including specific companies, job types, and tips to land your first job.
Whether you’re wondering where can I work at 14 or seeking jobs you can get at 14, this article covers it all to help you start your career journey.
Understanding Labor Laws for Jobs That Hire at 14 and 15
Before diving into jobs that hire at 14 or jobs that hire at 15, it’s crucial to understand the regulations governing teen employment in the United States.
The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) sets the minimum age for non-agricultural work at 14 and outlines restrictions for young workers:
- 14- and 15-year-olds can only work outside school hours.
- Maximum hours:
- 3 hours per school day (including Fridays).
- 18 hours per week during the school year.
- 8 hours per day and 40 hours per week when school is not in session.
- Work hours: Between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. (or until 9 p.m. from June 1 to Labor Day).
- Prohibited tasks: No hazardous work, such as operating power-driven machinery, working in freezers, or handling explosives.
State laws may impose additional requirements, such as work permits or parental consent.
Check your state’s labor department website to confirm rules for what places hire at 14 or what places hire at 15 in your area.
Top Companies Offering Jobs for 14 Year Olds and 15 Year Olds
Here’s a curated list of well-known companies and industries that are places that hire at 14 or places that hire at 15.
Note that hiring policies vary by location, so contact local branches to confirm age requirements and openings.
1. Grocery Stores: Reliable Jobs You Can Get at 14
Grocery chains are among the most consistent places that hire at 14 and 15, offering roles like baggers, cart attendants, and stockers.
- Publix
- Minimum Age: 14
- Jobs: Cashier, bagger, cart attendant, floral clerk
- Locations: Over 1,390 stores in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia
- Why Work Here: Employee-owned, flexible schedules, and opportunities for advancement.
- How to Apply: Visit the Publix careers page or apply in-store.
- Kroger
- Minimum Age: 14 (varies by brand and location)
- Jobs: Cashier, cart attendant, bakery assistant, order puller for online orders
- Locations: Operates 29 brands across 35 states, including Fred Meyer, Fry’s, and City Market
- Why Work Here: Large network with diverse roles and part-time flexibility.
- How to Apply: Check the Kroger careers portal or inquire locally.
- Safeway
- Minimum Age: 14
- Jobs: Courtesy clerk (bagging, greeting customers), cart runner
- Locations: Over 920 stores in 18 states
- Why Work Here: Offers entry-level roles ideal for teens with no prior experience.
- How to Apply: Visit the Safeway careers page or contact your local store.
- Giant Eagle
- Minimum Age: 14
- Jobs: Bagger, stocker, bakery clerk, cart attendant
- Locations: Over 470 stores in Pennsylvania, Ohio, West Virginia, Maryland, and Indiana
- Why Work Here: Known for teen-friendly roles and supportive work environments.
- How to Apply: Apply online via the Giant Eagle careers site.
- Winn-Dixie
- Minimum Age: 14 (select locations)
- Jobs: Bagger, stocker
- Locations: Stores in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, and Mississippi
- Why Work Here: Flexible hours and opportunities in the Southeast.
- How to Apply: Contact your local Winn-Dixie or apply online.
2. Fast Food and Restaurants: Popular Jobs That Hire at 14
Fast food chains are go-to places that hire at 15 and sometimes 14, offering roles like cashier, cleaner, or food prep assistant.
- McDonald’s
- Minimum Age: 14 (varies by location)
- Jobs: Kitchen crew, counter crew, maintenance crew
- Locations: Thousands of locations nationwide
- Why Work Here: Offers the Archways to Opportunity program for educational support and flexible schedules.
- How to Apply: Apply online or visit your local McDonald’s to speak with a manager.
- Chick-fil-A
- Minimum Age: 14 (varies by location)
- Jobs: Front-of-house team member, cashier, cleaner
- Locations: Over 3,100 locations in 48 states
- Why Work Here: Closed on Sundays, providing a predictable day off.
- How to Apply: Check with your local Chick-fil-A, as many are independently owned.
- Taco Bell
- Minimum Age: 14 (select locations)
- Jobs: Cashier, food prep, cleaner
- Locations: Over 7,600 locations nationwide
- Why Work Here: Flexible hours and employee discounts on food.
- How to Apply: Apply online or contact your local Taco Bell.
- Dairy Queen
- Minimum Age: 14 (varies by franchise)
- Jobs: Cashier, food prep, cleaner
- Locations: Over 4,000 locations in the U.S.
- Why Work Here: Fun environment and opportunities to work with peers.
- How to Apply: Call or visit your local Dairy Queen to confirm hiring age.
- Baskin-Robbins
- Minimum Age: 14
- Jobs: Ice cream scooper, team member, cake decorator
- Locations: Over 2,200 locations nationwide
- Why Work Here: Sweet perks like working with ice cream and a fun atmosphere.
- How to Apply: Apply online or inquire at your local store.
- Culver’s
- Minimum Age: 14 (select locations)
- Jobs: Cashier, cleaner, customer service
- Locations: Nearly 700 locations across the U.S.
- Why Work Here: Known for a positive work culture and teen-friendly roles.
- How to Apply: Visit the Culver’s careers page or contact a local restaurant.
3. Entertainment and Recreation: Fun Jobs for 14 Year Olds
Amusement parks, theaters, and recreational facilities are great places that hire at 14 or 15, especially for seasonal or part-time work.
- AMC Theatres
- Minimum Age: 14
- Jobs: Usher, concession stand worker, cleaner
- Locations: Over 375 locations nationwide
- Why Work Here: Free or discounted movie tickets and a fun work environment.
- How to Apply: Apply online via the AMC careers portal or visit a local theater.
- Six Flags
- Minimum Age: 14 (varies by park)
- Jobs: Ride attendant, concessions, park services
- Locations: 27 amusement and water parks in North America
- Why Work Here: Seasonal jobs with a lively atmosphere, ideal for summer work.
- How to Apply: Check the Six Flags careers page for your local park.
- Hersheypark
- Minimum Age: 14
- Jobs: Ride operator, concessions, guest services
- Locations: Hershey, Pennsylvania
- Why Work Here: Unique perks like park access and a dedicated teen hiring program.
- How to Apply: Visit the Hersheypark careers website.
4. Other Retail and Service Industries
Some retail and service businesses are places that hire at 15 or 14, offering roles that don’t require heavy machinery or hazardous tasks.
- Rita’s Italian Ice
- Minimum Age: 14
- Jobs: Cashier, server, cleaner
- Locations: Over 600 locations across the U.S.
- Why Work Here: Fun, seasonal work with a focus on customer service.
- How to Apply: Contact your local Rita’s or apply online.
- Fareway
- Minimum Age: 14
- Jobs: Grocery clerk, cashier, stocker
- Locations: 130+ stores in Iowa, Illinois, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, and South Dakota
- Why Work Here: Midwest-based with a reputation for teen-friendly jobs.
- How to Apply: Visit the Fareway careers page or apply in-store.
Alternative Jobs You Can Get at 14: Self-Employment and Freelance Opportunities
If traditional jobs that hire at 14 are hard to find in your area, consider self-directed or freelance work.
These options allow flexibility and can be great for building skills.
- Babysitting
- Description: Watch young children for parents or caregivers.
- Pay: $10–$18 per hour (varies by location and experience).
- Why Choose This: Set your own schedule and rates. Certification in CPR or first aid can boost credibility.
- How to Start: Advertise through family, friends, or platforms like Nextdoor.
- Dog Walking/Pet Sitting
- Description: Care for pets while owners are away.
- Pay: $10–$20 per hour.
- Why Choose This: Ideal for animal lovers with flexible hours.
- How to Start: Promote services in your neighborhood or on community boards.
- Tutoring
- Description: Help younger students with homework or specific subjects.
- Pay: $10–$25 per hour.
- Why Choose This: Leverages your academic skills and builds leadership.
- How to Start: Connect with parents through school networks or local libraries.
- Lawn Care or Snow Removal
- Description: Mow lawns, rake leaves, or shovel snow for neighbors.
- Pay: $15–$30 per job.
- Why Choose This: Seasonal work with high demand in certain regions.
- How to Start: Create flyers or post in local Facebook groups.
- Errand Runner
- Description: Run small errands like picking up groceries or delivering mail.
- Pay: $15–$45 per hour, depending on tasks.
- Why Choose This: Flexible and community-focused.
- How to Start: Offer services to neighbors or local businesses.
Tips for Landing Jobs That Hire at 14 or 15
Securing jobs for 14 year olds or jobs for 15 year olds requires preparation and persistence.
Here are actionable tips to stand out:
- Get a Work Permit
- Many states require a work permit for teens under 16. Visit your school’s guidance office or state labor department website to obtain one.
- Create a Simple Resume
- Highlight extracurricular activities, volunteer work, or skills like teamwork and time management. Even without formal experience, a resume shows professionalism.
- Apply In-Person
- Visiting businesses in person demonstrates initiative. Dress neatly, bring your resume, and ask to speak with a manager about jobs that hire at 14 or 15.
- Network Through Family and Friends
- Ask family friends or neighbors if they know of places that hire at 14 or need help with tasks like babysitting or yard work.
- Prepare for Interviews
- Practice answering questions about your availability, why you want to work, and how you’ll balance school. Be honest about your age and enthusiasm to learn.
- Check Local Businesses
- Small, family-owned businesses (e.g., local diners, ice cream shops) may be more flexible with hiring teens than large chains.
- Use Online Job Boards
- Websites like Snagajob, Indeed, or HireTeen list jobs you can get at 14 or 15. Filter by age and location to find opportunities.
Benefits of Working at 14 or 15
Starting work early offers numerous advantages beyond earning money:
- Financial Responsibility: Learn to budget and save for goals like a car or college.
- Work Ethic: Develop time management and teamwork skills that impress future employers.
- Confidence: Gain independence and real-world experience.
- Resume Building: Early jobs or volunteer work enhance college and job applications.
However, balance is key.
Research suggests that working too many hours can impact grades, so prioritize school and limit work to the allowed hours.
Frequently Asked Questions About Jobs for 14 Year Olds
1. Where can I work at 14?
You can work at grocery stores (e.g., Publix, Kroger), fast food chains (e.g., McDonald’s, Chick-fil-A), amusement parks (e.g., Six Flags), or theaters (e.g., AMC). Self-employment options like babysitting or lawn care are also viable.
2. What jobs hire at 14?
Common roles include cashier, bagger, cart attendant, cleaner, usher, or food prep assistant.
Freelance jobs like tutoring or dog walking are also popular.
3. What places hire at 15?
Most places that hire at 14 also hire at 15, including Safeway, Taco Bell, and Baskin-Robbins.
Some companies, like Wegmans or Boston Market, may start at 15.
4. Do I need a work permit for jobs that hire at 14?
In many states, yes.
Check with your school or state labor department for requirements.
5. How much can I earn at 14 or 15?
Most jobs pay at least the federal minimum wage ($7.25/hour), though some states have higher rates (e.g., $15/hour in California).
Freelance work can pay $10–$45/hour based on the task.
Start Your Job Search Today!
Finding jobs for 14 year olds or jobs for 15 year olds is entirely possible with the right approach.
From places that hire at 14 like Publix and McDonald’s to places that hire at 15 like Chick-fil-A and Six Flags, opportunities abound in grocery stores, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
If traditional jobs are scarce, consider self-employment options like babysitting or tutoring to gain experience and earn money.
To succeed, verify local labor laws, obtain a work permit if needed, and apply with confidence.
By targeting jobs that hire at 14 or 15 and showcasing your enthusiasm, you’ll be on your way to landing your first job.
Start exploring where can you work at 14 today, and take the first step toward financial independence and career growth!
For more resources, visit your state’s labor department website or job boards like Snagajob and HireTeen.
If you need personalized guidance, text #Jobs to 33-55-77 to connect with a Jobs Text Advisor from Get Schooled.
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