20 Places That Hire at 14: Where Teens Can Start Earning Early

Looking for a job at 14? Whether you want to earn extra money, save for a big goal, or gain early work experience, finding employment at this age can feel challenging—but it’s definitely possible. While child labor laws vary by state, many companies are open to hiring 14-year-olds with the right paperwork and attitude.

This guide walks you through 20 businesses and job types that typically hire 14-year-olds, plus tips on how to land your first job as a teen.

Understanding the Basics: Can You Work at 14?

Yes, in the U.S., federal law allows teens as young as 14 to work, but with limitations. According to the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), 14- and 15-year-olds can:

• Work outside school hours
• Work up to 3 hours on school days and 8 hours on non-school days
• Not work past 7 p.m. during the school year (9 p.m. in summer)

However, state laws vary, and you may need a work permit signed by your school or parent. Always check local requirements before applying.

20 Places That Commonly Hire at 14

1. McDonald’s (Select Locations)

Some McDonald’s restaurants hire crew members starting at 14. You might start with tasks like cleaning, prepping food, or cashiering. Always ask the store manager about age policies, as they vary by franchise.

2. Chick-fil-A

In certain locations, Chick-fil-A hires 14-year-olds for front-of-house roles like greeting customers or refilling drinks. The company’s values focus on courtesy and training, making it a great place to learn.

3. Baskin-Robbins

Scooping ice cream is a classic first job—and many Baskin-Robbins stores hire at 14. Tasks include serving customers, cleaning, and managing toppings and cones.

4. Dairy Queen

Some Dairy Queen locations allow 14-year-olds to work behind the counter, especially during summer months. You’ll learn customer service and food safety basics.

5. Kroger (and Affiliates)

Kroger-owned grocery chains (like Fred Meyer, King Soopers, and Fry’s) sometimes hire 14-year-olds for bagging, cart returns, and stocking. Check your state’s age rules.

6. Publix

This popular grocery chain hires 14-year-olds for roles like bagger, floral clerk, or cart attendant. Publix is known for great training and promotion opportunities.

7. Giant Food

Giant and its parent companies occasionally hire 14-year-olds for entry-level store roles like bagging or stocking shelves in states that allow it.

8. Six Flags (Seasonal)

If there’s a Six Flags theme park near you, they may offer seasonal jobs to 14-year-olds, especially in food service or park cleanup. Great for summer work!

9. AMC Theatres

While not all locations do, some AMC theaters hire 14- and 15-year-olds for concessions or ushering. Movie perks are a plus.

10. Local Ice Cream Shops

Small, locally owned shops often need summer help and may be more flexible with age if you have a work permit and a great attitude.

11. Local Restaurants

Family-owned diners or pizza joints may offer entry-level jobs like busing tables, dishwashing, or food prep to teens under 16.

12. Golf Courses

Many golf courses hire young teens for caddying, retrieving balls at driving ranges, or light maintenance. It’s a great outdoor job with tipping potential.

13. Amusement Parks or Waterparks

Smaller or local parks may hire teens for food stands, ticketing, or cleaning. These are especially popular during summer breaks.

14. Community Pools

Not old enough to be a lifeguard? Some pools still hire 14-year-olds for snack bar service, cleaning, or gate check-ins.

15. Local Libraries

Some libraries offer teen volunteer positions or paid internships, especially in youth departments. These often turn into part-time jobs.

16. Camp Counselor-in-Training

Many summer camps accept 14-year-olds as junior counselors or assistants. While sometimes unpaid, these roles often come with perks (free camp, meals, experience).

17. Pet Sitting & Dog Walking

If you’re responsible and love animals, pet sitting or walking neighborhood dogs can become a small business of your own. Ask neighbors or join local Facebook groups with a parent’s help.

18. Babysitting

With proper training (like Red Cross babysitter courses), you can start babysitting at 14. It’s a flexible, well-paying job you can manage around school.

19. Yard Work & Gardening

Offer to mow lawns, rake leaves, or water plants in your neighborhood. It’s seasonal work but great for earning cash independently.

20. Tutoring Younger Kids

If you excel in school subjects, tutoring elementary or middle school students can be rewarding—and parents are often eager to hire affordable peer help.

Tips for Getting Hired at 14

• Get a work permit: Many states require one for anyone under 16. Ask your school or state labor office.
• Create a simple resume: List school achievements, volunteer work, and any babysitting or yard work you’ve done.
• Dress appropriately when applying: Look neat, be polite, and ask for the manager if you visit in person.
• Start with people you know: Ask family, neighbors, or teachers if they know someone hiring.
• Be consistent: Follow up on applications and express genuine interest. Enthusiasm goes a long way at 14.

Final Thoughts

Starting work at 14 helps build confidence, life skills, and even savings for the future. While your options may be limited, plenty of places welcome young workers who are reliable, curious, and willing to learn. Whether you’re scooping ice cream, bagging groceries, or walking dogs—every job teaches something valuable.

So take the first step. With the right mindset and a bit of hustle, you can start earning (and learning) earlier than most.