Finding your first job as a 14-year-old can feel like a big step towards independence and earning your own money. You might be wondering, Where Can You Work At 14? While employment laws and company policies can vary, especially across different states in the US, there are indeed opportunities available for teens your age. Many businesses recognize the value of young, enthusiastic workers and offer entry-level positions perfect for those just starting their career journey.
This guide will explore some of the top companies and job types that commonly hire 14-year-olds. Knowing where to look is the first step to landing your first job and gaining valuable work experience. Remember to always check local regulations and the specific hiring policies of each company in your area, as age requirements can differ.
Companies That Hire 14-Year-Olds: Your Potential Employers
Many well-known companies are open to hiring young teens for various roles. Here are some of the most common places you might find work at 14:
Movie Theaters
AMC Theatres: Movie theaters like AMC often hire 14 and 15-year-olds for positions such as ticket takers, concession stand workers, and ushers. These roles are great for developing customer service skills and working in a fun, fast-paced environment. Contact your local AMC to see if they are hiring teens in your state. Independent movie theaters in your area may also offer similar opportunities.
Ice Cream Shops
Baskin Robbins: If you have a sweet tooth and enjoy customer interaction, working at an ice cream shop like Baskin Robbins could be a perfect fit. They often hire team members, ice cream scoopers, and even cake decorators, which can be great entry-level jobs for 14-year-olds.
Fast Food Restaurants
Chick-fil-A: Known for its customer service and positive work environment, Chick-fil-A is another popular option. When applying, look for front-of-house (FOH) team member positions like cashier or order taker, as safety regulations usually restrict minors from operating heavy kitchen equipment. With numerous locations across the US, Chick-fil-A provides many opportunities for young workers.
Dairy Queen: Similar to ice cream shops, Dairy Queen frequently hires young teens for roles like cashiers, food preparation staff, and restaurant cleaners. These positions are ideal for learning basic food service skills and teamwork.
McDonald’s: Many McDonald’s locations are known to hire at 14. Crew member positions are divided into kitchen crew, counter crew, and maintenance crew. McDonald’s also offers the Archways to Opportunity Program, which can support employees with educational goals, making it an attractive option for young workers looking to grow.
Taco Bell: If you’re comfortable with customer interaction and handling cash, Taco Bell, with its vast number of locations, can be a good place to start. Cashier and order taking positions are commonly available and suitable for 14-year-olds.
Wendy’s: Wendy’s is another fast-food chain that may hire 14 and 15-year-olds for roles such as cashiers, restaurant cleaners, and food prep. They often offer flexible schedules, which is beneficial for students balancing work with school and extracurricular activities.
Grocery Stores
Kroger: With numerous grocery store brands under its umbrella, Kroger offers various opportunities for teens under 16. Positions can include cashier, cart attendant, online order puller, bakery assistant, and floral assistant. Grocery stores are excellent places to learn about customer service, teamwork, and responsibility.
Publix: Known for its strong customer service focus, Publix hires 14 and 15-year-olds for positions like cashier, front service clerk (bagging), and cart attendant. Working at Publix can teach valuable customer interaction and service skills.
Safeway & Albertsons: Like other grocery chains, some Safeway and Albertsons locations hire 14-year-olds for roles such as cashier, courtesy clerk, and cart attendant. These positions offer a good introduction to the retail environment.
Stop & Shop: This East Coast grocery chain hires young teens as young as 15 in departments like floral, grocery, and bakery. Working in these departments can provide experience in customer service and product handling.
Winn Dixie: If you live in the Southeastern US, Winn Dixie stores may hire 14 and 15-year-olds. Check with your local store for available positions, which typically include entry-level roles in various departments.
Giant Eagle: For those in Pennsylvania, Ohio, West Virginia, Indiana, or Maryland, Giant Eagle stores offer jobs like cashier, clerk, and checkout attendant for young teens.
Entertainment and Recreation
Six Flags: If you live near a Six Flags amusement park, seasonal positions, especially during the summer at water parks, may be available for 14-year-olds. These jobs can be exciting and offer a unique work environment.
Local Amusement/Entertainment Venues: Don’t forget to check local fairs, carnivals, and amusement parks in your area. They often hire teens, especially for seasonal work, offering a fun and engaging first job experience.
Community Centers: Your local community center or parks and recreation department can be a great resource for job opportunities. Positions might include front desk support, after-school program assistants, program coordinators, coaches, tutors, lifeguards, and more. These roles often provide a chance to give back to your community and develop valuable skills.
Other Options
Babysitting and Tutoring: Don’t underestimate the power of your own network. Ask family friends if they need babysitters or tutors for their children. These jobs offer flexibility and can be a great way to earn money while building responsibility and teaching skills.
U-Haul: Surprisingly, U-Haul offers Reservation Manager/Agent positions for 14-year-olds. If you have good phone communication and customer service skills, this could be an interesting and less physically demanding option.
Tips for Landing a Job at 14
- Check Local Laws: Before you start applying, understand the employment laws in your state regarding working at 14. Websites like the Department of Labor can provide information on age restrictions and working hour limitations.
- Prepare a Simple Resume: Even for entry-level jobs, a simple resume highlighting your skills, interests, and any relevant experiences (like volunteering or extracurricular activities) can make you stand out.
- Practice Interview Skills: Prepare for interviews by practicing common questions and thinking about how to present yourself confidently. Resources like online interview coaches can be very helpful.
- Network: Talk to family, friends, and neighbors about your job search. Personal connections can sometimes lead to job opportunities you might not find otherwise.
- Be Persistent: Finding a job might take time, so don’t get discouraged if you don’t get hired right away. Keep applying and follow up on your applications.
Start Your Job Search Today
Knowing where can you work at 14 is the first step towards gaining valuable work experience and financial independence. The companies and job types listed above offer a great starting point for your job search. Remember to be proactive, prepare well, and be persistent in your efforts. Good luck with your job hunt!
For more help with your job search and interview preparation, consider using resources like the Interview Coach. If you have more questions about finding your first job, text #Jobs to 33-55-77 to connect with a job advisor.
