Best Jobs for 14 Year Old
If you’re 14 and looking for a job, you might assume that most employers require you to be 16. While some companies have strict age policies, there are still plenty of ways to earn money before turning 16.
This article explores the Best Jobs for 14 Year Old and 15-year-olds. If you have free time outside of school and social activities, consider working to gain experience and financial independence.
A part-time job not only provides valuable life skills but also allows you to start saving early. Earnings can be placed in a Roth IRA, which offers tax-free growth—an excellent option for young workers with little to no tax burden.
What You Should Know About Starting at Fifteen
Working before age 16 is legal, but there are some important factors to consider.
- The U.S. has a minimum work of 14-Year-Olds for most jobs, except for tasks like babysitting and delivering newspapers.
- Some companies prefer to hire older workers.
- Minors face job limitations, such as:
- A maximum of 3 work hours on school days and 8 hours on non-school days.
- A weekly limit of 18 hours during school weeks and 40 hours during school breaks.
- Restrictions on work hours—before 7 a.m. and after 7 p.m. (9 p.m. in the summer).
- Federal law allows employers to pay workers under 16 a lower wage ($4.25/hour for the first 90 days), though some states set higher minimum wages.
- Best Jobs for 14 Year Old
Top Best Jobs for 14 Year Old
Job opportunities for 14- and 15-year-olds vary by location. Here are some of the best national companies that hire at this age.
1. Dairy Queen
Basics: A popular fast-food chain with locations across the country. Young employees typically prepare ice cream, take orders, and operate a cash register.
Pros: Some franchisees hire 14- and 15-year-olds.
Cons: Some locations require a minimum age of 16.
Franchise owners set hiring policies, so check with your local Dairy Queen to see if they hire younger workers.
2. Baskin-Robbins
Basics: Ice cream shop hiring as young as 14 years old.
Pros: Available nationwide, providing job opportunities for young workers.
Cons: Teens in competitive job markets may face stiff competition from older applicants.
Baskin-Robbins has around 2,500 U.S. locations, making it a great place for teens to find employment.
3. Chick-fil-A
Basics: Known for treating employees well, though hiring policies vary by franchise.
Pros: Positive employee reputation.
Cons: Not all locations hire 15-year-olds, and locations outside the South are limited.
Franchise owners decide hiring policies, so check with your local Chick-fil-A for opportunities.
4. McDonald’s
Basics: A globally recognized fast-food chain with thousands of locations.
Pros: Many job openings available.
Cons: Corporate stores only hire 16 and older, but franchise locations may hire younger employees.
McDonald’s locations often have flexible hiring policies, so it’s worth inquiring at your nearest restaurant.
5. Kroger
Basics: A major Midwest-based grocery chain that also operates Fry’s, Smith’s, and other regional brands.
Pros: Many locations mean more job opportunities.
Cons: While customers are loyal, employee satisfaction ratings are mixed.
Check with your local Kroger to see if they hire workers under 16.
6. Publix
Basics: A popular Southeastern grocery chain known for treating employees well.
Pros: Hires workers as young as 14 and provides career growth opportunities.
Cons: Only operates in the Southeast.
Grocery stores like Publix are a great place for teens to gain work experience, often starting as baggers.
7. Winn-Dixie
Basics: A Southeastern grocery chain hiring at 14 years old.
Pros: Open to young workers.
Cons: Locations are limited to the Southeast, and employee satisfaction is mixed.
Teens typically work as cashiers or baggers at Winn-Dixie.
8. Six Flags
Basics: A theme park chain offering exciting summer jobs.
Pros: Fun work environment with employee perks.
Cons: Limited locations (only 25 parks in North America), and the job can be physically demanding.
If you live near a Six Flags, it could be a great summer job option.
9. AMC Theaters
Basics: A major movie theater chain hiring workers as young as 14.
Pros: Free movie tickets for employees.
Cons: Work availability may be limited during the school year.
AMC is one of the few national employers with a clear policy of hiring 14- and 15-year-olds.
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Consider Locally Owned Businesses
While many large companies hire teens, small businesses may offer more opportunities. Look into:
- Bowling alleys, laser tag centers, and arcades – These businesses often need young employees.
- Local family-owned shops – Owners may be more flexible in hiring younger workers, especially if they know your family.
Start Your Own Business
Starting a small business may sound difficult, but in today’s gig economy, it’s easier than ever. Entrepreneurship can teach valuable business skills at a young age.
Some of the easiest businesses for teens include:
- Lawn mowing
- Dog walking
- Babysitting
Ask neighbors and family friends if they need help with these services. Building a good reputation can lead to more clients.
Best Jobs for 14 Year Old
Start Earning Early
If you’re 15 and have free time after school, getting a job can help you develop work skills and earn money. These are just a few of the best job opportunities for teens looking to get started in the workforce.
Best Jobs for 14 Year Old
