Finding employment opportunities can be exciting, especially for young teens eager to earn their own money; What Fast Food Restaurants Hire At 14 becomes a common question, and FOODS.EDU.VN is here to provide a comprehensive guide, offering insights into restaurants with suitable employment policies. We aim to empower young individuals with knowledge about job opportunities and valuable skills to enhance their future career prospects. Delve into the landscape of teen jobs, discover flexible work options, and uncover places with the best company culture.
1. Key Insights: Top Jobs for 14-Year-Olds
Before diving into a list of over 29 companies that hire 14-year-olds and other young teenagers, let’s explore some of the best places to work:
- Most Flexible Schedule: Surveys
- Highest Earning Potential: Blogging
- Most Enjoyable Job for Teens: Dairy Queen
- Best Company to Work For: Wegmans
2. Fast Food & More: Places That Hire 14-Year-Olds & Other Teens
The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) establishes 14 as the minimum age for most jobs in the U.S. However, company policies vary, so contacting potential employers is essential to understand specific child labor laws and hiring requirements in your area. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, FLSA sets standards for minimum wage, overtime pay, recordkeeping, and child labor, affecting full-time and part-time workers in the private sector and in Federal, State, and local governments.
Let’s explore local businesses and more that hire young teens to help you find your first job:
2.1. McDonald’s
Minimum Age: 14 years old
McDonald’s restaurants nationwide frequently seek enthusiastic employees! If you are 14 years old, visit your local McDonald’s and inquire about minimum age requirements and available employment positions. McDonald’s prides itself on providing opportunities to young workers.
2.2. Chick-fil-A
Minimum Age: 14 years old
Chick-fil-A, renowned for its chicken sandwiches, boasts over 2,000 locations across America and hires teens as young as 14. A significant perk of working at Chick-fil-A is that they are closed on Sundays.
Alt: Chick-fil-A restaurant building showcasing the brand’s familiar design.
Since each Chick-fil-A is independently owned, wages and age minimums may vary by location.
2.3. Kroger
Minimum Age: 15 years old
When searching for places that hire 15-year-olds, grocery stores are an excellent option. Kroger, the largest grocery store chain with over 2,700 stores in the United States, owns other stores like Fry’s, King Soopers, and Smith’s.
It’s important to check with a store near you to understand their age requirements, as the legal age to work in a store can vary depending on your state. Perks of working at Kroger include tuition assistance and discounts.
2.4. Wegmans
Minimum Age: 15 years old
Wegmans hires younger teens for positions in their floral, grocery, or bakery departments. The minimum age requirement for store positions is 15 years old.
Alt: Wegmans grocery store entrance featuring its prominent green logo.
Additional requirements for hiring young workers may involve equipment usage or labor laws, which are discussed during the interview process. This job can last throughout high school with excellent customer service skills.
2.5. Starbucks
Minimum Age: 14 years old (15 in some states)
With over 17,000 locations in the United States, Starbucks offers employment opportunities for younger teens. Starbucks’s widespread presence ensures numerous opportunities for young individuals seeking their first job.
2.6. Baskin-Robbins
Minimum Age: 14 years old
Baskin Robbins, with its endless ice cream flavors and nearly 3,000 locations across America, hires younger workers. They offer potential employees the opportunity to earn money as ice cream scoopers, working during the school week.
Alt: A variety of ice cream flavors displayed at Baskin-Robbins.
2.7. Arby’s
Minimum Age: 14 years old
Arby’s, with over 3,400 locations across America, offers opportunities for young teens to work as cashiers or food preparers. Arby’s roast beef sandwiches are a favorite among many, and working there can be a great first job experience.
2.8. Wendy’s
Minimum Age: 14 years old
Wendy’s hires 14-year-old employees at some of their almost 6,000 locations across the U.S.A.!
Each Wendy’s is a franchise, so hiring rules may vary by location. It’s recommended to inquire about the age minimum when applying at the local restaurant.
Alt: Wendy’s restaurant front view with the company logo visible.
2.9. Boston Market
Minimum Age: 15 years old
Boston Market, known for its delicious rotisserie chicken and side dishes, hires individuals 15 years old or older, typically for positions such as servers or dishwashers.
2.10. KFC
Minimum Age: 14 years old
KFC, a popular restaurant chain with over 4,000 locations across America and over 22,000 locations worldwide, hires 14 and 15-year-olds in some areas to work as customer service providers or clean-up crew members.
Alt: Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) outlet showing the brand’s signage and storefront.
2.11. Culver’s
Minimum Age: 14 years old
Culver’s, with nearly 700 locations across America, offers jobs for individuals aged 14 and up. Culver’s is a great place to get refreshing fast food and start a career.
2.12. Taco Bell
Minimum Age: 14 years old
Taco Bell, serving 40 million customers each week with 7,600 locations in every state of the US, includes 14-year-olds on their team. Employee requirements vary by location, but flexible hours and discounts on food purchases are generally offered.
Alt: An exterior view of a Taco Bell location during the day.
2.13. Rita’s Italian Ice
Minimum Age: 14 years old
With 600 locations across the United States, Rita’s Italian Ice restaurants offer opportunities for 14-year-olds to work alongside adults, serving customers their favorite flavors. Job openings for young teens vary by restaurant.
2.14. Pizza Hut
Minimum Age: 15 years old
Pizza Hut, founded in 1958, operates over 7,000 locations across America. With parental permission, 15-year-olds can be hired to work at their local restaurant, often in cashiering or cleaning positions.
Alt: Exterior of a Pizza Hut restaurant showcasing its signage.
2.15. Six Flags
Minimum Age: 14 years old
Six Flags operates 27 amusement parks and water parks in North America. Job positions for 14-year-olds vary, mainly because these are seasonal jobs. Contact your local amusement park for information about available job opportunities.
2.16. AMC Theaters
Minimum Age: 14 years old
AMC Theaters, operating over 375 locations, hires young teens as young as 14. Many front-of-house and back-of-house positions are available, such as working the concessions stand or being an usher. Most positions at your local AMC Theater do not require prior experience.
Alt: Front entrance of an AMC Theaters movie theater.
2.17. Palace Entertainment
Minimum Age: 14 years old
Palace Entertainment, with 21 locations across the country, may hire individuals as young as 14 for available job openings.
2.18. Fareway
Minimum Age: 14 years old
Fareway operates grocery stores in 120 locations throughout six midwestern states. They hire individuals as young as 14 for checkout lanes, bakery departments, restocking shelves, and other jobs in their grocery stores, including bagging and stocking.
Alt: Exterior view of Fareway, a midwestern grocery store chain.
2.19. Bruster’s
Minimum Age: 14 years old
Bruster’s Real Ice Cream, with over 160 locations in 20 states, hires young teens. Serving ice cream can be a fun and easy way to make money, especially with the possibility of free desserts.
2.20. Publix
Minimum Age: 14 years old
Publix, with 1,305 locations across Alabama, Florida, Georgia, North & South Carolina, and Virginia, offers part-time work for young teens. Job opportunities may include cashiering, service desk clerks, bagging, or cart attendant roles.
Alt: The exterior of a Publix supermarket, a common sight in the southeastern United States.
2.21. Safeway
Minimum Age: 14 years old
Safeway, one of the largest grocery chains in America with over 900 locations across 18 states, seeks young people to work as baggers. Applicants may need to work a few hours during the school week, though some restrict working on school days.
2.22. Winn-Dixie
Minimum Age: 14 years old
Winn-Dixie offers several jobs for young teens, including baggers and cashiers at their 1,400 stores. These jobs could require working up to eight hours on non-school days and paying the federal minimum wage.
Alt: The exterior of a Winn-Dixie supermarket displaying the company’s branding.
2.23. Giant Foods
Minimum Age: 14 years old
The 150 Giant Foods locations across Delaware, Maryland, and Washington D.C., are always looking for new employees! Fourteen-year-olds could fill their needs, working a few hours during the school week and additional hours during non-school weeks.
2.24. Little Caesars
Minimum Age: 15 years old
Little Caesars is a great place to start your first job, especially if you’re interested in working with people. While most locations require employees to be at least 16 years old, some stores accept 15-year-olds who can work a few hours on a school day.
Alt: A close-up image of a Little Caesars pizza showing the toppings and crust.
2.25. Hy-Vee
Minimum Age: 14 years old
Hy-Vee, a grocery store chain with over 240 locations throughout the Midwest United States, is individually operated, so the minimum hiring age varies from store to store, but some hire younger workers, starting at 14 years old.
2.26. Dairy Queen
Minimum Age: 16 years old
Dairy Queen, with over 4,000 locations in the US, offers jobs that vary by store location and according to state labor laws. If you are a young teen who can work up to three hours per day on a school day, a Dairy Queen team member job may be the job for you!
Alt: A Dairy Queen restaurant, known for its ice cream and fast food offerings.
2.27. Runza
Minimum Age: 14 years old
Runza, a unique fast-food restaurant in the Midwest, hires young workers to work as crew members! They hire 14 and 15-year-old crew members at most of their store locations. Be sure to check whether a work permit is needed for youth workers and know how much money you’ll make.
2.28. Giant Eagle
Minimum Age: 14 years old
There are over 400 Giant Eagle grocery store chains in five U.S states: Pennsylvania, Maryland, Indiana, Ohio West Virginia. They are one place that hires younger workers as young as 14 for various grocery store positions where they can learn valuable professional skills.
Alt: An outside view of a Giant Eagle grocery store.
2.29. YMCA
Minimum Age: 14 years old
The YMCA is a worldwide organization that provides child care and sports for children. There are currently 2,400 locations across the country where you can work around your school hours. Most local YMCAs hire teens in your age group, but you need to check to see if your state requires work permits or age certifications for young teens.
3. Business Ventures Teens Can Initiate
Instead of searching for businesses that hire teens, you can create your own work! According to a study by the Small Business Administration, young entrepreneurs bring innovative ideas and a fresh perspective to the business world. Starting your own business is a great way to learn about the working world and earn money simultaneously on a school day or any day. Teens can start many business ideas, depending on their skills and interests, and potentially make more than the minimum hourly rate. Check with your parents or guardians before starting any online business; they may be able to help you get started and offer advice along the way.
3.1. Blogging
Starting a blog is a great way to start your own business and make money as a teenager. Consider starting a blog when younger to see how it could’ve grown over more time! Starting a blog is easy; the main work comes from creating content for readers.
Alt: A young woman working on her blog while traveling.
You can write about any topic that interests people and about which you could create many articles. Then, monetize your articles by selling advertising, accepting paid guest posts, or using affiliate marketing to earn commissions on products.
3.2. Freelance Writing
Starting a freelance writing business is a great way to make money as a teenager. You can work from home, set your hours, and earn a good income.
Focus on networking and finding people to hire you. You can also use social media platforms like Twitter and LinkedIn to connect with potential clients.
3.3. Online Tutoring
Starting an online tutoring business as a teen is a great idea! You could find someone younger than you who needs a bit of help, regardless of your grade level.
As a teen tutor, you don’t need to be a pro or have all the answers; you can find worksheets online to review and use to help your new students.
3.4. Dog Walking & Pet Sitting
Dog walking and pet sitting for local business people is a viable business option for teens. Dog walking can be a great way to make money and offers flexibility. You can work as much or as little as you want and get a job with clients you want to work with.
To find jobs as a dog walker or pet sitter, start by talking to friends, family members, and neighbors. They may know of someone who is looking for this type of service. When you turn 18 and want to stick with it and reach more people, consider joining Rover to connect with dog owners around town.
Alt: Making money as a kid dog walking business.
3.5. YouTube Or Twitch Streamer
Many teens, as young as 14 years old, are turning to streaming services like YouTube and Twitch to share their hobbies, skills, and interests with the world.
If you’re interested in starting as a YouTube or Twitch Streamer, find your niche. What do you love doing? What are you good at? Then, focus on creating quality content that will interest your viewers. It takes time to grow a following; all high-earning YouTubers started off slow and steady.
Alt: Teen recording content, a common activity among young YouTubers.
3.6. Social Media Management
Another great business idea for 14 or 15-year-olds is to start a virtual assistant business as a social media management business. Businesses need help creating groups and sharing posts, and some struggle to get momentum going online.
Teens are perfect for helping others do that, as they are often more tech-savvy and up-to-date on the latest social media trends than adults. If you’re interested in starting this type of business, you’ll need to be skilled at managing social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Then, you can look for inactive Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, and more accounts and offer your services.
3.7. Affiliate Marketing
You can make money by promoting other people’s products or services with affiliate marketing. You’ll need to create a website, social media, or blog and drive traffic to it to make money while you sleep. You can write, create videos, review products, show yourself using things, and more.
Alt: “Is Affiliate Marketing Worth It” displayed to showcase how it provides financial benefits.
3.8. Babysitting
Babysitting can be a great way for teenagers to make money. It can provide good money to make dinner and put kids to bed on a Friday night.
When starting a babysitting business, make sure you are comfortable caring for children and have the necessary skills, especially if you’re caring for babies and toddlers. Be sure to have a lot of references and be prepared to show them to potential clients to get a job. When starting, offering discounts to clients who hire you for after-school hours may be helpful.
3.9. Online Sales
Making money with online sales is a great option as a teenager. You can sell items you create or design on Shopify or even dropship popular items on Amazon. You can also sell handmade goods on Etsy if you’re crafty, selling anything from jewelry to home decor. Just be sure to price your items competitively and take high-quality photos.
Alt: A woman happily shopping online using a tablet and credit card.
3.10. Sell Used Stuff
Selling used stuff is a great way for teens to make money. As a flea market flipper, you can buy items at a discount and sell them for a profit.
You could sell on Facebook Marketplace to avoid fees or reach more people on eBay, but consider the costs of buying and selling to determine what items are worth your time. Don’t forget to market your items on social media sites like Facebook and Twitter. You can also post flyers in your neighborhood, local community centers, or school.
Alt: Flea Market Flip showcasing thrifting and selling used items.
3.11. House Cleaner
House cleaning is one of the businesses that will hire 14-year-olds! You could earn more by helping family and neighbors clean the house.
One of the best things about starting your own house cleaning business as a 14-year-old is that you don’t need much start-up capital. All you need is some basic supplies like vacuum cleaners, mops, and cleaning products. You can also invest in some marketing materials like flyers and business cards.
Alt: A woman cleaning a bathroom at home using spray detergent.
3.12. Lawn Service
Starting a lawn service business at 14 is a great way to earn money, gain experience in the workforce, and learn about running your own business. Tell all of your friends, family members, and neighbors that you’re starting a business and see if they know anyone who needs yard work, like mowing their lawn or trimming.
You can also put up flyers in local businesses or post an ad on Craigslist or other online classifieds websites, letting people know you do yard work.
Alt: Man mowing a lawn with standing mower.
3.13. Odd Jobs
When you’re 14 years old, finding a job can be challenging. The good news is that there are plenty of odd jobs out there that will hire at 14 years of age.
One option is to offer your services to people in your neighborhood to do odd jobs. You can mow lawns, rake leaves, shovel snow, or do other yard work. If you live in a warm climate, you could also offer to water plants or take care of pets while people are on vacation.
Alt: Symbolizing odd jobs and miscellaneous money-making activities.
You could also do odd jobs like helping clean gutters, washing windows, or power washing houses.
4. Understanding Child Labor Laws for 14-Year-Olds
It is essential to be aware of the restrictions and regulations set by the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) and state labor laws. These laws dictate the types of jobs, hours, and times that 14-year-olds can work to ensure their safety and well-being. Remember, some states may require a work permit.
Here’s a table summarizing the key aspects of child labor laws:
| Aspect | Federal Law (FLSA) | State Laws |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum Age | 14 for most non-agricultural jobs | May vary; some states have stricter age requirements |
| Hours During School Week | Limited to 3 hours on a school day and 18 hours in a school week | May be more restrictive; some states limit the number of hours even further |
| Hours During Non-School Week | Up to 8 hours in a day and 40 hours in a non-school week | May vary; some states have different limits |
| Working Times | Between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m., except during the summer (June 1 to Labor Day) when it extends to 9 p.m. | May vary; some states have different restrictions on working times, especially for night shifts |
| Prohibited Occupations | Hazardous occupations, including manufacturing, mining, and certain types of construction | May vary; states can prohibit additional occupations based on the perceived risk to young workers |
| Work Permits | Not required federally, but some states mandate them | Varies by state; a work permit often requires parental consent and verification of age and school enrollment |
| Breaks | Federal law doesn’t mandate breaks, but many states do | Varies by state; often, a 30-minute break is required for every 4-5 hours worked |
| Enforcement | U.S. Department of Labor’s Wage and Hour Division | State labor departments and agencies |
| Penalties | Fines and legal action against employers violating the FLSA | Fines, legal action, and other penalties depending on state laws |
Understanding these laws is crucial for both young workers and employers to ensure compliance and protect the rights and safety of young employees. For detailed information, consult the Department of Labor and your state’s labor laws.
5. Additional Resources and Support for Young Workers
Navigating the world of employment as a 14-year-old can be both exciting and overwhelming. Several resources are available to help young workers understand their rights, find suitable jobs, and develop essential skills:
5.1. Government Agencies
U.S. Department of Labor (DOL):
The DOL’s Wage and Hour Division provides detailed information on child labor laws, minimum wage, and workplace safety. Their website offers resources and guidelines for both young workers and employers, ensuring compliance with federal regulations.
State Labor Offices:
Each state has its own labor office that enforces state-specific labor laws, including those related to working minors. These offices can provide information on work permits, allowable hours, and prohibited occupations.
5.2. Educational Institutions
School Counselors:
School counselors can offer guidance on career planning, job search strategies, and balancing work with academic responsibilities. They can also provide information on local job opportunities and resources.
Career and Technical Education (CTE) Programs:
Many high schools and vocational schools offer CTE programs that provide hands-on training in various industries. These programs can help students develop valuable skills and gain real-world experience, enhancing their employability.
5.3. Non-Profit Organizations
YMCA:
The YMCA offers various programs for teens, including job readiness training, leadership development, and volunteer opportunities. They can also connect young people with local employers and provide support throughout the job search process.
Boys & Girls Clubs of America:
Boys & Girls Clubs provide after-school programs and resources for youth, including career exploration, job skills training, and mentoring. These clubs can help young people build confidence, develop essential skills, and achieve their educational and career goals.
5.4. Online Platforms
Job Boards (Indeed, Monster, LinkedIn):
Many job boards allow users to filter job postings by age and experience level, making it easier for young people to find entry-level positions. Some platforms also offer resume-building tools and career advice.
Career Exploration Websites (CareerOneStop, MyNextMove):
These websites provide information on various occupations, including job duties, education requirements, and salary expectations. They also offer career assessments that can help young people identify their interests and strengths.
5.5. Community Resources
Local Libraries:
Libraries offer various resources for job seekers, including computer access, resume writing workshops, and career counseling. They can also provide information on local employers and job openings.
Community Centers:
Community centers often host job fairs, career workshops, and other events that can help young people connect with employers and learn about job opportunities in their area.
By leveraging these resources, young workers can navigate the job market with confidence and make informed decisions about their careers.
6. Essential Skills for a 14-Year-Old Entering the Workforce
Entering the workforce at 14 is a significant step, and while some skills are job-specific, certain foundational skills are valuable across various positions. Here are some essential skills for a 14-year-old to develop:
6.1. Communication Skills
Verbal Communication:
Clearly and respectfully expressing thoughts and ideas is crucial. Practice active listening and speaking politely to coworkers and customers.
Written Communication:
Writing clear and concise emails or notes is important for internal communication and customer service.
6.2. Customer Service Skills
Patience:
Dealing with customers, especially in fast-paced environments, requires patience and understanding.
Empathy:
Being able to understand and share the feelings of others helps in resolving customer issues and providing excellent service.
Problem-Solving:
Quickly addressing customer complaints or concerns with effective solutions can enhance customer satisfaction.
6.3. Teamwork and Collaboration
Cooperation:
Working effectively with others to achieve common goals is essential. Be willing to help teammates and contribute to a positive work environment.
Respect:
Treating coworkers with respect, regardless of their position, fosters a collaborative and supportive workplace.
6.4. Time Management and Organization
Punctuality:
Arriving on time for shifts and meetings shows respect for the workplace and coworkers.
Prioritization:
Learning to manage tasks and prioritize responsibilities helps in meeting deadlines and achieving productivity goals.
6.5. Basic Math Skills
Cash Handling:
Accurately counting money and making change is essential in retail and fast-food environments.
Calculations:
Performing basic calculations for inventory management, order taking, and other tasks is often required.
6.6. Responsibility and Work Ethic
Initiative:
Taking initiative to complete tasks without constant supervision demonstrates reliability and a strong work ethic.
Attention to Detail:
Ensuring accuracy in tasks such as order taking, inventory management, and data entry helps in minimizing errors and improving efficiency.
6.7. Adaptability and Learning
Openness to Feedback:
Being receptive to feedback and using it to improve performance is crucial for growth.
Willingness to Learn:
Demonstrating a desire to learn new skills and adapt to changing job requirements enhances employability and career prospects.
6.8. Technical Skills
Basic Computer Skills:
Navigating computer systems, using software applications, and operating equipment such as cash registers are becoming increasingly important in the workplace.
By developing these essential skills, a 14-year-old can successfully navigate their first job experience and build a solid foundation for future career opportunities.
7. How FOODS.EDU.VN Can Help You Find the Perfect Job
At FOODS.EDU.VN, we understand the challenges of finding reliable information about job opportunities, especially for young individuals eager to start their careers. Our platform offers a wealth of resources tailored to help you discover the perfect job and develop essential skills for success.
- Comprehensive Guides: We provide detailed guides on various career paths, including opportunities in fast food, retail, and other industries that hire 14-year-olds.
- Expert Advice: Our articles offer expert advice on resume building, interview skills, and workplace etiquette, ensuring you are well-prepared for your job search.
- Skill Development: FOODS.EDU.VN features resources to help you develop crucial skills such as communication, customer service, and time management, enhancing your employability.
- Job Listings: We curate a list of companies known for hiring young teens, making it easier for you to find local opportunities and apply with confidence.
Whether you’re looking for your first job or seeking to explore various career options, foods.edu.vn is your trusted partner in navigating the world of work.
8. FAQ: Your Questions About Fast Food Jobs at 14 Answered
8.1. What fast food restaurants hire at 14?
Many fast-food chains, including McDonald’s, Chick-fil-A, and Taco Bell, hire 14-year-olds, depending on local labor laws and specific franchise policies. Availability can vary, so it’s always a good idea to check with local branches directly.
8.2. What are the typical job roles for 14-year-olds in fast food?
Common job roles include cashier, food preparation, and clean-up crew. Tasks typically involve customer service, basic cooking, and maintaining restaurant cleanliness.
8.3. Are there any restrictions on working hours for 14-year-olds?
Yes, federal and state laws often restrict working hours for 14-year-olds. Generally, they can work a limited number of hours on school days and more hours during non-school days, with specific start and end times.
8.4. Do 14-year-olds need a work permit to work in fast food?
Work permit requirements vary by state. Some states require 14-year-olds to obtain a work permit, which often involves parental consent and verification of age and school enrollment.
8.5. What skills can a 14-year-old gain from working in fast food?
Working in fast food can help develop valuable skills such as customer service, teamwork, time management, and basic math skills. These skills are transferable and beneficial for future career opportunities.
8.6. How can a 14-year-old prepare for a fast food job interview?
Preparation includes researching the company, practicing common interview questions, dressing neatly, and arriving on time. Demonstrating enthusiasm and a willingness to learn is also crucial.
8.7. What are the pros and cons of working in fast food at 14?
Pros include earning money, gaining work experience, and developing valuable skills. Cons may involve long hours, repetitive tasks, and dealing with demanding customers.
8.8. Can a 14-year-old work during school hours?
Working during school hours is generally restricted by federal and state laws. The primary focus should be on education, with work scheduled around school commitments.
