For many teenagers, landing a job at 16 is an exciting step toward independence and financial freedom. Whether you’re saving for college, looking for extra spending money, or simply want to build valuable work experience, plenty of companies in the U.S. legally hire at 16.
In this guide, we’ll cover what jobs hire at 16, the industries most open to teen workers, examples of companies currently hiring, and what you need to know before applying.
Can You Legally Work at 16 in the U.S.?
Yes, 16-year-olds can legally work in the U.S. under federal and state labor laws. The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) allows teens who are 16 or older to work unlimited hours in non-hazardous jobs. However, some states have specific restrictions regarding late-night shifts or certain industries (like construction or heavy machinery).
This means most retail, food service, and entry-level roles are open to teens.
Popular Jobs That Hire at 16
1. Fast Food Restaurants
Fast food is one of the largest employers of teens. Roles often include cashier, cook, or team member. The work environment is fast-paced, but it builds strong customer service and time-management skills.
2. Grocery Stores
Teens often find jobs as baggers, stock clerks, or cashiers. These roles are great for learning responsibility and teamwork.
3. Retail Stores
Many retailers hire teens for sales associate roles, customer service, or stockroom positions. These jobs build communication and organizational skills.
4. Movie Theaters
From selling tickets to running concessions, movie theaters are popular employers for teens who enjoy entertainment-focused work.
5. Amusement Parks & Recreation
Theme parks, water parks, and community pools often hire lifeguards, ride operators, and concession workers in the summer.
6. Babysitting & Pet Sitting
Though not tied to one company, babysitting and pet sitting are flexible jobs that teens can start locally, often with strong word-of-mouth opportunities.
Companies That Commonly Hire at 16
McDonald’s
McDonald’s is one of the most common employers for teens. Positions include cashier, cook, and drive-thru attendant. Employees highlight flexible schedules, free meals, and team-oriented work environments, making it ideal for high school students balancing school and work.
Chick-fil-A
Chick-fil-A hires at 16 for cashier and kitchen staff roles. The company is known for structured training, supportive management, and scholarship opportunities, making it one of the best fast-food jobs for young workers.
Kroger
Kroger grocery stores hire 16-year-olds for bagging, stocking, and cashiering. Employees value flexible scheduling, discounts, and the opportunity to grow into higher-level retail roles.
Target
Target hires teens for cashier and sales associate positions. Employees enjoy discounts, team-oriented environments, and the chance to gain retail experience in a well-known national brand.
AMC Theatres
AMC hires at 16 for concession, usher, and ticketing roles. Teens love the free movie perks, fun work environment, and flexible hours, especially after school and weekends.
Six Flags
Teens can apply at Six Flags for seasonal jobs such as ride operator, food service worker, or lifeguard. It’s a fun and dynamic workplace, especially during summer months, with free park admission as a major perk.
Safeway
Safeway hires teens for cashier, bagger, and stock associate positions. The grocery chain is praised for steady hours, employee discounts, and entry-level training programs.
Baskin-Robbins
Baskin-Robbins hires at 16 for cashier and ice cream scooper roles. Teens enjoy a fun, customer-facing job environment and often highlight flexible hours that work around school schedules.
Publix
Publix grocery stores hire 16-year-olds for cashier, stock, and bagger roles. Publix is often recognized as a great place to work due to its employee ownership structure, making it a good option for long-term part-time work.
Subway
Subway hires at 16 for sandwich artist roles. Teens gain hands-on experience in food prep and customer service, with flexible shifts that suit students well.
Why Do These Companies Hire Teens?
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High turnover roles: Fast food, retail, and grocery stores constantly need new workers.
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Flexible hours: Teens are perfect for evening and weekend shifts.
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Training opportunities: Companies know many 16-year-olds are new to the workforce, so they provide structured entry-level training.
What is the Federal & State Minimum Wage?
In the U.S., teens aged 16 and older can work unlimited hours in non-hazardous jobs under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). The federal minimum wage is $7.25/hr, but many states have higher rates. Some state minimum wages expected in 2025 include:
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California: $16.50/hr (up to $20/hr in fast food sectors)
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Connecticut: $16.35/hr
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Arizona: $14.70/hr
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Massachusetts & Maryland: $15.00/hr
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These higher minimums significantly benefit teen workers in respective states.
Average Pay for Teen Jobs (16–19)
Data shows that teens can earn well above minimum wage in entry-level and supervisory roles:
| Job Role | Average Hourly Pay |
|---|---|
| Retail Supervisor | ~$25.00/hr |
| Food Service Manager | ~$31.40/hr |
| Carpenter/Trade Apprentice | ~$28.50/hr |
| Auto Service Tech | ~$23.90/hr |
| Office Clerk | ~$21.00/hr |
| Customer Service Rep | ~$20.60/hr |
| Landscaper | ~$19.10/hr |
| Nursing Assistant | ~$19.00/hr |
| Stocker / Packer | ~$18.10/hr |
| Parents |
These opportunities are typically available to older teens who gain early experience or vocational training.
Teen-Friendly Industries & Companies Hiring at 16
Here are common industries, companies, and expected pay ranges for 16-year-old workers:
Fast Food Restaurants
Roles: Cashier, Cook, Team Member
Salary: $8–$12/hr, often at or slightly above state minimum wage
Employers Hiring at 16: McDonald’s, Chick-fil-A
AP NewsParents
Grocery & Retail Stores
Roles: Bagger, Stock Clerks, Cashier
Salary: $8–$13/hr
Employers: Kroger, Safeway, Publix, Target
Parents
Entertainment & Hospitality
Roles: Concessions, Ushers, Ride Operators
Salary: $8–$15/hr depending on location and state
Employers: AMC Theatres, Six Flags
Parents
Service Work & Gig Economy
Roles: Babysitting, Pet Sitting, Freelance Tasks
Salary: Varies—often $10–$20/hr depending on skill and location
Why These Employers Hire at 16
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High-turnover roles benefit from flexible teen availability
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Limited hours preferred by schools during academic year
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Structured training programs simplify onboarding teens
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Customer discounts and learning opportunities enrich teen experiences
Important Considerations for Teen Workers
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Work permits may be required depending on state and age.
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Shift restrictions apply—e.g., no late-night work or long shifts during school terms.
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Non-hazardous roles only—FLSA restricts teens from dangerous jobs.
Things to Consider Before Applying
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Work permits: Some states require a work permit for teens under 18.
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Shift restrictions: Depending on your state, you may not be able to work late nights or long shifts during the school year.
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First job learning curve: Many of these roles require patience, multitasking, and customer service skills—but they are great stepping stones for your career.
Final Thoughts
If you’re asking “what jobs hire at 16?”, the good news is that opportunities are abundant in industries like food service, retail, and entertainment. Companies like McDonald’s, Chick-fil-A, Target, and AMC Theatres offer flexible schedules, structured training, and even perks like discounts and scholarships.
For more insights into employers and honest reviews, you can explore WiseWorq, a career directory that helps job seekers make better decisions about where to work.
