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In the exciting journey to independence and self-sufficiency, landing that first job is a significant milestone for teenagers. It's the moment when they start earning their own money, learn valuable life skills, and gain a sense of responsibility. For 15-year-olds and young teens, the job market may seem limited due to labor laws, but there are still plenty of opportunities waiting to be explored.
According to research, nearly 37% of teens aged 16-19 had a summer job in 2021. Yet with the U.S. Department of Labor setting the legal working age to 14, teens under 16 may also be looking for ways to earn some money. Fortunately, those searching “jobs for 15-year-olds near me” won’t come up empty-handed.
In this blog post, we'll delve into some fantastic job ideas for teens, along with a list of companies that actively hire 15-year-olds.
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The Benefits of Teen Employment
Before diving into the job ideas, let's consider the advantages of teenagers entering the workforce:
1. Financial Independence: Teens can start earning their own money, which can be a valuable lesson in budgeting, saving, and responsible spending.
2. Skill Development: Employment offers an opportunity to acquire essential life skills such as time management, teamwork, and communication.
3. Building a Resume: Teen jobs can help build a foundation for future career opportunities and demonstrate a strong work ethic to potential employers.
4. Sense of Responsibility: Working teaches responsibility, punctuality, and accountability, all of which are essential life skills.
Now, let's explore some job ideas that are perfect for teens:
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Job Ideas for Teens
1. Retail Jobs:
Sales Associate: Many retail stores, such as clothing boutiques and electronics shops, hire 15-year-olds for part-time positions as sales associates. Duties may include assisting customers, organizing merchandise, and operating the cash register.
2. Food Service Jobs:
Fast Food Crew: Several fast-food chains are known to hire teenagers. They often have positions available for cashiers, food preparers, and even cooks.
Ice Cream Shops: Local ice cream parlors are a great option. Teens can scoop ice cream, take orders, and maintain the cleanliness of the store.
3. Lawn Care and Landscaping:
Teens can offer lawn mowing, leaf raking, and gardening services to neighbors and local residents. This entrepreneurial endeavor can be both profitable and a great workout.
4. Babysitting and Pet Sitting:
Teens with a love for kids or animals can provide babysitting or pet-sitting services. Building a good reputation within the community can lead to a steady stream of clients.
5. Online Jobs:
Teens can explore online opportunities, such as content creation (blogs, YouTube, or podcasts), freelance writing, or even tutoring in subjects they excel in.
Now, let's get into the exciting part—companies that are known to hire 15-year-olds:
Image credit: Pexels
Companies That Hire 15-Year-Olds
McDonald's
McDonald's is one of the world's largest and most well-known fast-food restaurant chains. Founded in 1940 in San Bernardino, California, the company has grown into a global icon of fast-food culture.
Many teens’ first jobs is at McDonald’s, and for good reason. The company offers many different roles that can best suit a teen's personality and skills while teaching them basic food service principles.
What it pays: The average hourly wage at McDonald’s ranges between $11.10 for a food attendant and $14.01 for a cook.
Baskin-Robbins
Everyone knows the Baskin-Robbins brand; the famous international chain of ice cream and frozen dessert shops. Founded in 1945, it has become famous for its wide variety of ice cream flavors and innovative frozen treats. The brand is particularly known for its "31 flavors" concept, which originally represented a different flavor for every day of the month.
Those searching “jobs for 15-year-olds-near-me” will certainly find a role at a local Baskin Robbins. From order taker to order preparation, teens who work at Baskin Robbins not only learn good customer service skills but also get to work in a very sweet environment while doing so.
What it pays: The average hourly pay at Baskin Robbins is between about $10 and $12 per hour, depending on if you’re a customer service representative or in food preparation.
Subway
Subway franchises often hire teenagers for sandwich artist positions, where they can create delicious subs. Subway restaurants, like many other fast-food chains, often hire employees who are 15 years old. However, employment policies can vary depending on the specific franchise location and local labor laws. It's essential to keep in mind that while some Subway locations may hire 15-year-olds, others may have different age requirements.
Regarding pay rates, the minimum wage for teenagers can vary by location and local laws. Federal minimum wage laws may apply, but states and cities often have their minimum wage rates that can be higher than the federal minimum. Additionally, individual Subway franchises may offer different pay rates, even if they're in the same area.
To get accurate information about Subway's age requirements and pay rates at a specific location, it's best to contact the Subway restaurant you're interested in working for directly. You can inquire about their hiring policies, available positions, and the pay rate they offer for teenagers. Additionally, you can check local labor laws to understand the minimum wage requirements in your area.
Lifeguarding
Teens who are strong swimmers can get certified as lifeguards and work at local pools or water parks. This job comes with significant responsibility but is also rewarding. The ability for 15-year-olds to work as lifeguards varies depending on the specific lifeguarding requirements and local labor laws. In many places, individuals must be at least 16 years old to work as a lifeguard due to the physical and responsibility demands of the job.
However, some areas might allow 15-year-olds to work as lifeguards if they meet certain qualifications, such as completing a lifeguard training and certification program. It's essential to check with your local government or the organization responsible for certifying lifeguards in your area to understand the specific age requirements and qualifications needed for lifeguard employment.
As for pay rates, they can vary widely depending on the location, the type of facility (e.g., public pool, private club, beach), and the lifeguard's level of certification and experience. Lifeguard wages may be set by the employing organization, local government, or state laws.
To find out about lifeguard job opportunities for 15-year-olds and the associated pay rates in your area, you should:
- Contact your local swimming pools, water parks, or beaches to inquire about their hiring policies and age requirements for lifeguards.
- Check with local government agencies or organizations responsible for lifeguard certification and regulation to learn more about age requirements and potential job opportunities.
- Reach out to nearby community centers or aquatic facilities that offer lifeguard training programs. They can provide information on certification courses and employment opportunities for teenagers.
Remember that lifeguarding can be a physically demanding and highly responsible job, so thorough training and certification are typically required, regardless of age.
Kroger
Kroger is one of the largest and most well-known supermarket chains in the United States. Founded in 1883 in Cincinnati, Ohio, it has grown into a major player in the retail grocery industry.
Working at a Kroger may be one of the best jobs for 15-year-olds. This is because the store features multiple departments, so the options of where teens can work are more abundant than if they worked in fast food. Teens who work in a department at Kroger also learn the inner workings of running a grocery business and working with team members in other areas.
What it pays: Teens who work at Kroger will likely earn between $12 and $14 per hour, depending on their role and department.
Publix
If you live in Florida or the general Southeast, the odds are pretty high that you have one if not several, Public grocery stores near you. This prominent American supermarket chain was founded in 1930. While it may not be one of the cheapest grocery stores, Publix has since grown to become one of the largest employee-owned companies in the country.
Similar to Kroger, Publix is one of the best companies that hire 15-year-olds. Here, teens have the opportunity to work in a variety of roles while learning the ins and outs of grocery store operations and working with other departments. Plus, they get instant access to various deals and coupons at Publix.
What it pays: The average hourly salary for a cashier at Publix is $12.45 per hour.
Stop & Shop
If you live in Massachusetts or the general Northeast region, you’re likely familiar with Stop & Shop. This supermarket chain was founded in 1914 in Somerville, Massachusetts, and has become one of the largest grocery store chains in the region.
Stop & Shop stores typically provide services such as deli counters, seafood departments, and pharmacies, as well as a variety of prepared foods for convenient dining options.For Northeast teens looking for a part-time or summer job, Stop & Shop is a great option.
What it pays: Teens who get a job as a cashier at Stop & Shop will earn about $14 per hour.
Winn Dixie
Those in the southeastern United States know Winn Dixie. Founded in 1925, Winn-Dixie stores typically offer a wide variety of grocery products, including fresh produce, meat, seafood, bakery items, dairy products, and household essentials.
Teens and parents in the Southeast searching “jobs for 15-year-olds near me” will likely see some job options as a cashier or customer service associate at Winn Dixie available.
What it pays: A cashier at Winn Dixie earns about $11 per hour and a customer service associate earns closer to $12 per hour.
Safeway
Like Publix and Kroger, Safeway is another prominent supermarket chain in the United States. Founded in 1915, it has grown to become one of North America's largest grocery store chains. Also like the previous grocery store chains listed, Safeway is a great company that hires 15-year-olds. If you have a Safeway near you, they should be considered for a part-time or summer job for teens to earn some extra cash.
What it pays: Safeway may offer some of the most competitive salaries, with the average hourly rate for a Safeway cashier close to $17 per hour.
Giant Food
Giant Food is a well-known supermarket chain founded in 1936. It has since become one of the largest grocery store chains and another great job option for a part-time or summer job for teens.
Teens, therefore, looking for a job that live in the Mid-Atlantic region of the U.S. will enjoy working at Giant Food.
What it pays: Teen cashiers at Giant Food will earn about $12.37 per hour.
Hy-Vee
Hy-Vee is another regional supermarket and retail chain primarily operating in the Midwestern United States. Founded in 1930, it has grown to become one of the largest employee-owned grocery store chains in the country. Hy-Vee features many different departments, including floral, deli, and seafood. This gives teens several options for roles in which they can be a good hire for.
What it pays: Hy-Vee cashiers make between $9 and $14 per hour. Other positions, like Night Stocker, may make as much as $19 per hour.
Wegmans
Wegmans is another popular Northeast supermarket chain and company that hires 15-year-olds. Founded in 1916, Wegmans has earned a reputation for providing a high-quality shopping experience and a diverse selection of products.
Teens who would like to learn more about floral, catering, or food service, or general customer service, will gain a lot from working at a Wegmans.
What it pays: A cashier at Wegman’s makes about $14.39 per hour.
AMC Theatres
AMC Theatres is one of the largest cinema chains in the United States and around the world. It operates a vast network of movie theaters, and as such, offers some of the best jobs for 15-year-olds.
AMC also operates dine-in theaters where patrons can enjoy meals and drinks while watching films. Teens searching “jobs for 15-year-olds near me” will surely find a job with AMC either as a cashier, ticket taker or in dining. Plus, working at an AMC may even earn them free movie tickets.
AMC also operates dine-in theaters where patrons can enjoy meals and drinks while watching films. Teens searching “jobs for 15-year-olds near me” will surely find a job with AMC either as a cashier, ticket taker or in dining. Plus, working at an AMC may even earn them free movie tickets.
What it pays: About $12 per hour for a standard Crew Member role.
Six Flags
Six Flags is a popular amusement park and entertainment company in the United States. It operates multiple theme parks and water parks across North America, offering a wide range of thrill rides, roller coasters, family attractions, and entertainment shows. The Six Flags brand is synonymous with high-energy and adrenaline-pumping experiences, making it a well-known destination for people seeking excitement and fun.
Teens looking for a part-time or summer job will almost certainly find something with Six Flags. From admissions to ride operators, teens can be a great hire for many roles at this massive amusement park.
What it pays: Most entry-level positions at Six Flags pay between $12 and $16 per hour.
Chick-fil-A
Anyone who loves chicken sandwiches likely loves Chick-fil-A. This well-known fast-food restaurant chain was founded in 1946 and has become renowned for its signature chicken-based menu items and distinctive customer service approach.
For teens looking to earn some of their own money, Chick-fil-A is an excellent option. Not only does this fast-food chain teach good customer and food service skills, but the company’s philosophy also imparts manners, kindness, and good servitude.
What it pays: Working at Chick-fil-A will earn you $11 as a cashier, about $12.38 as a general team member, and $15 as a front-end associate.
Dairy Queen
Dairy Queen, often abbreviated as DQ, is a well-established international chain of fast-food restaurants and ice cream parlors. Founded in 1940 in Joliet, Illinois, Dairy Queen has become famous for its soft-serve ice cream and a wide variety of frozen treats and fast-food menu items.
From order taker to food preparation, this is another great job option for teens under 16 who don’t want a traditional job like babysitting or tutoring.
What it pays: The average hourly salary for a crew member at Dairy Queen is between about $12 and $14 per hour
Pizza Hut
Pizza Hut is a restaurant name that’s as iconic as its’ diverse menu of pizzas and stuffed crust options. Founded in 1958 in Wichita, Kansas, Pizza Hut has grown to become one of the largest pizza chains in the world.
If there’s a Pizza Hut in your area, this is a great job option for those searching “jobs for 15-year-olds-near-me.” Plus, they likely give employee discounts on their menu.
What it pays: The average hourly salary for a Pizza Hut team member is $11 per hour.
While the above lists some specific companies that offer jobs for 15-year-olds, many more jobs for teens exist. From babysitting to pet sitting, tutoring, and bussing tables, here are 15 roles teens are commonly hired for:
- Host
- Tutor
- Busser
- Retail Clerk
- Dishwasher
- Landscaper
- Golf Caddie
- Photographer
- Freelance Writer
- Ice Cream Server
- Ticket Taker / Usher
- Care.com Babysitter
- Dog Walker / Pet Sitter
- Restaurant Waiter/Waitress
- Grocery Store Cashier or Bagger
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Tips for Teens on the Job Hunt:
- Prepare a Resume: Even if it's your first job, create a simple resume highlighting your skills, volunteer work, and any relevant school activities.
- Apply in Person: Visit businesses with a smile and ask if they are hiring. First impressions count!
- Dress for Success: When inquiring in person, dress neatly and appropriately.
- Highlight Your Strengths: Emphasize your willingness to learn, adapt, and work well with others during interviews.
- Leverage Personal Connections: Friends, family, and neighbors might know of job opportunities.
- Work Permits: Be aware of your state's laws regarding work permits for minors. Ensure you have the necessary documentation.
Image credit: Pexels
Child Labor Laws: FAQ
What does the U.S. Department of Labor say about teenage workers?
How much minors can work, get paid, and any safety requirements are determined by the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA.) Generally speaking, minors as young as 14 can work a limited number of hours for any company not declared hazardous or otherwise excluded by the FSLA. Roles like excavation, driving, agricultural work, and anything with power-driven equipment, for example, would be prohibited from minors.
Are there limits to how many hours a worker under age 16 can work?
According to the Department of Labor, minors may not work more than 3 hours per day on a school day. Additionally, they may not work more than 18 hours per week during school, and no more than 40 hours per week during summer break.
What are the payment and salary implications for jobs for 15-year-olds and up?
Employers may decide to pay their teen employees the youth minimum wage, which is $4.25 per hour, for the first 90 days of their employment. Once 90 days have been reached or the employee turns 20, the employer must pay the full minimum wage.
Landing that first job is a significant step toward adulthood, and with determination and the right approach, teens can find fulfilling and rewarding employment opportunities that set them on the path to success. So, go ahead and explore these job ideas and companies that hire 15-year-olds – the world of work is waiting for you!
BONUS: Check out these work from home opportunities currently available while you are here and make some extra cash!
