Looking back at my teenage years, I’m reminded of the many jobs I took on at places that hire 15 and 14-year-old teenagers to support myself and my family.
Whether it was washing dishes at a local diner, stacking shelves in retail stores, or doing the tough work of roofing under the summer sun, every role played a big part in shaping who I am today.
It wasn’t just about earning money; it was about learning resilience, discipline, and the true value of hard work.
Balancing school, work, and personal life as a teenager wasn’t easy. But those sacrifices paid off. Each job, no matter how small, was a stepping stone to something bigger.
Roofing, for example, was physically demanding, but it made me stronger—both mentally and physically. Retail jobs taught me the importance of customer service, a skill I’ve carried into every career move since.
Unfortunately, unlike back then, working as a teenager isn’t as common or encouraged nowadays.
While I believe kids should prioritize school, they should also have the chance to experience the responsibility of having a job or explore an alternative path where they can earn money and help themselves or their families.
Contrary to popular belief, starting work early doesn’t lead to failure or being uneducated. Look at me. After working as a teenager, I earned three degrees and multiple certifications.
I paid off my student loans, bought my parents a house, and achieved many things I’m proud of. Working young isn’t a road to hardship—it’s a way to overcome it.
With the current negative attitude toward teens working, the job market for them has become limited. Even young adults are now competing for jobs that teens used to take in my day. So, if you’re still a kid, what can you do?
It doesn’t help that you’re just starting out. This will be your first step into the workforce, and the job market might feel intimidating. Legal restrictions limit what jobs you can do and how many hours you’re allowed to work.
According to the U.S. Department of Labor, teens under 16 can’t work in hazardous roles, and there are strict rules about hours during school weeks. Even so, there are plenty of opportunities to get started.
So, where are the places that hire 15 and 14-year-old teenagers to get a job aside from the common high-paying remote jobs? Well, I’ll list some of them. Get ready!
1. Fast Food Restaurants
Most fast food restaurants prefer to hire teenagers who are at least 18 years old, but there are some that are willing to hire younger teens aged 14 and 15. Popular options include Arby’s, Burger King, and KFC (Kentucky Fried Chicken).
These restaurants are among the places that hire 15 and 14-year-old teenagers, usually offering entry-level roles such as cashier, customer service, or cleaning crew.
While these jobs are a great way to earn some money and gain work experience, keep in mind that hours might be limited to evenings and weekends due to labor laws.
Pay rates are typically at or near minimum wage, but the work can teach valuable skills like teamwork, time management, and customer service.
If you’re interested in working at one of these restaurants, it’s a good idea to check with your local branch, as hiring policies and age requirements can vary by location.
2. Ice Cream Parlors
Like fast food restaurants, some ice cream parlors are happy to hire teens under 18. Popular places include Bruster’s Real Ice Cream, Rita’s Italian Ice, and Ben & Jerry’s.
These jobs often involve scooping ice cream, taking customer orders, and helping keep the store clean and organized.
Ice cream parlors are fun and welcoming places to work, making them a great first job for teens. The environment is often fast-paced, especially in summer, which can make shifts fly by.
While the pay is usually modest—similar to fast food jobs—it’s a good way to start building a resume and learning customer service skills.
Many of these places also offer perks, like employee discounts on ice cream, which can make the job even sweeter! Check local listings or visit in person to find out if they’re hiring and what the specific requirements are for younger teens.
3. Grocery Stores
Places that hire 15 and 14-year-old teenagers often include grocery stores, which offer a variety of entry-level roles like service desk clerks, cashiers, grocery baggers, cart runners, and even floral clerks in stores with flower departments.
Some well-known grocery chains that hire young workers include Publix, Safeway, and Fareway.
The pay at grocery stores can vary based on the store and location, but these jobs are a great way to develop responsibility and customer service skills.
Plus, they often provide a stable work environment and flexible hours that can fit around school schedules.
If you’re interested in applying, visit your local store or check their websites for available positions and specific age requirements.
4. Entertainment Venues
If you prefer working in a lively, outdoor environment, entertainment venues might be a great fit for you. Positions vary depending on the type of venue, but popular options include AMC Theaters, Six Flags, and Pool Management Group.
Jobs at these venues often involve ticket sales, food service, ride operation, or lifeguarding, depending on the setting. It’s one of the well-paid jobs without a degree out there.
While these roles can be exciting and fun, be prepared for physical demands—some jobs may require you to be on your feet all day, and outdoor positions can mean working in the sun for long hours.
That said, indoor assignments, like at a theater or food counter, can offer a more comfortable experience. If you’re enthusiastic and enjoy interacting with people, these jobs can be both rewarding and a great first step into the working world.
5. Recreational Parks And Venues
Aside from entertainment venues, recreational parks, and local activity centers are also great places for teens to find work.
While there may not be multinational chains to highlight, many of these opportunities are locally owned, so it’s worth exploring options in your area.
Rock climbing centers, indoor water parks, and arcades are common places that hire 15 and 14-year-old teenagers. These roles often involve assisting guests, maintaining equipment, or running activities, making them great opportunities for teens.
Chances are, if you’ve visited one of these spots, you’ve seen a “Help Wanted” sign or two.
To get started, check out recreational centers near you or ask around. These jobs can be fun, active, and a great way to meet new people while earning money.
6. Domestic Work
You might not hear the term “domestic work” often, but it essentially covers odd jobs that involve helping households. Typical roles include babysitting, lawn mowing, house cleaning, and other similar tasks.
For this kind of work, it’s best to start by asking family, friends, neighbors, or community members if they need help with anything. And it’s great that it’s often a good job if you want something with same-day pay
Unlike other jobs that come with formal contracts or regular paychecks, domestic assistance tends to be freelance. Your income will depend on your availability, the household’s needs, and how well you perform the tasks.
This is a flexible option that lets you work around your schedule while learning responsibility and building trust within your community. It can also serve as a stepping stone to more formal employment later on.
7. Apprenticeships
While places that hire 15 and 14-year-old teenagers don’t typically include formal apprenticeship programs, some local businesses may hire young teens as helpers. Industries like landscaping, plumbing, and cooking often provide these opportunities.
Although not officially apprenticeships, these roles can give you hands-on experience and a chance to learn valuable skills.
Keep in mind that wages for these positions may be lower than other jobs. However, the experience can be incredibly beneficial, especially if you’re close to turning 16.
Many of these roles could lead to formal apprenticeships later, as some employers might be willing to sponsor your training when you become eligible.
If you’re interested, ask around at local businesses or community groups to see if they’re looking for extra help. This is a great way to get a head start on a potential career path!
8. WIOA Youth Formula Program
Although formal apprenticeships aren’t an option for 14- and 15-year-olds, they may qualify for assistance through the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) Youth Program.
This program supports individuals aged 14–24, particularly those seeking places that hire 15 and 14-year-old teenagers, as well as those facing challenges in employment, education, or training.
The WIOA Youth Program offers a variety of services, including job placement assistance, skills training, and career counseling. It’s designed to provide support for young people who want to start building a career but may need additional resources or guidance to do so.
To learn more about the program and see if you qualify, visit your local American Job Center. They can provide you with all the information you need to get started and help you find opportunities in your area.
FAQs
This post has highlighted places that hire 15 and 14-year-old teenagers, but you might still have questions. Hopefully, I’ve answered some of them below.
How many hours can they work at places that hire 15 and 14-year-old individuals?
According to the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), teens aged 14 and 15 can work up to three hours a day on school days, with a maximum of 18 hours per week during a school week.
On non-school days, they can work up to eight hours a day and a total of 40 hours per week, similar to a full-time job.
Are there time restrictions for working as a 14- or 15-year-old?
Yes, there are time constraints. For most of the year, you’re only allowed to work between 7 AM and 7 PM. However, this restriction is extended during summer break—after June 1 until Labor Day (the first Monday of September)—when you can work until 9 PM.
It’s important to plan your work and school schedule carefully. Balancing both can be challenging, especially during the school year, so make sure you prioritize your education.
How much money can a 14- or 15-year-old expect to earn?
Your earnings will depend on the type of job you take. For jobs with larger companies or chains, you’ll typically earn minimum wage, which is $7.25 per hour in many states (though some states have higher minimum wages).
If you take local or freelance jobs, like babysitting or lawn mowing, your pay might be lower and less consistent.
Additionally, most entry-level positions at places that hire 15 and 14-year-old teenagers, such as cleaning or dishwashing, don’t include tips, even if they’re in restaurants or service-related roles.
Conclusion
If you’re 14 or 15 and looking for work, don’t let the challenges discourage you. The right job can teach you valuable life skills and set you up for future success. Remember, where there’s a will, there’s a way.
Starting small is just the first step in a much bigger journey—one that helps you build resilience, responsibility, and a brighter future.
Starting young isn’t just about earning extra cash; it’s about laying the foundation for your future. It teaches you responsibility, independence, and the determination to chase bigger dreams.
My own humble beginnings didn’t just shape my career—they shaped who I am today. Starting young at places that hire 15 and 14-year-old teenagers not only helps you gain experience but also teaches valuable lessons about earning and managing money.
The earlier you start learning financial tips, the better prepared you’ll be to make smart decisions about saving, spending, and investing.
Check out our articles or YouTube videos to kickstart your financial journey and build a strong foundation for your future!
