Introduction
Starting your first job is an exciting milestone for many teenagers. If you’ve ever wondered, “Where can I work at 15?” or are looking for jobs for 14-year-olds, jobs for 15-year-olds, or part-time jobs for teens under 16, you’re not alone. Entering the workforce for the first time can feel overwhelming especially when you’re unsure where to start, which companies hire younger teens, or what kinds of opportunities are available.
The good news is that in 2025, there are thousands of teen employment opportunities available across different industries. From entry-level jobs at popular companies like McDonald’s, Chick-fil-A, Kroger, and Publix to seasonal jobs, retail positions, and food service roles, there’s no shortage of options. Whether you want to earn money, gain valuable work experience, or start building your resume, there’s a job out there for you.
But finding the right job isn’t just about knowing where to apply it’s also about understanding teen employment laws. Rules can vary by state and by age, so knowing what hours you’re allowed to work and which roles are open to 14- and 15-year-olds is essential before starting your job search.
At the same time, the rise of remote work has opened the door to online jobs for teens. More companies and platforms now offer online work for teenagers, giving you the chance to earn money from home while balancing schoolwork and personal life. Whether you’re ready in jobs for 14-year-olds online, jobs for 15-year-olds online, or even online jobs for 16-year-olds, there are opportunities in freelance writing, virtual tutoring, content creation, data entry, and more. These online jobs for minors make it possible to work flexibly, learn new skills, and start earning early.
This ultimate guide will help you:
Understand teen employment laws and restrictions
Find companies that hire 14- and 15-year-olds
Explore first job opportunities for teens across multiple industries
Discover seasonal and part-time jobs suitable for teens under 16
Learn about online jobs for teens and work-from-home opportunities
Use helpful resources to land your first job successfully
Whether you want to work at a local store, a fast-food restaurant, a community center, or choose to work online as a teenager, this guide will walk you through every step to help you start your career journey confidently and successfully.
Section 1: Why Teen Employment Matters
1.1 Building Life Skills
Getting your first job teaches responsibility, time management, and teamwork. Teens learn how to follow schedules, meet deadlines, and work effectively with others.
1.2 Preparing for the Future
Early work experience strengthens your resume and gives you a competitive edge for future opportunities, including internships, scholarships, and full-time roles.
1.4 Exploring Career Paths
Through early teen employment, you’ll gain insights into different industries, helping you identify long-term goals.
Section 2: Understanding Teen Employment Laws
Before applying for jobs for 14-year-olds or jobs for 15-year-olds, it’s important to know what’s legally allowed:
2.1 Minimum Age Requirements
14 years old: The typical minimum hiring age in the U.S.
Under 14: Limited to roles like babysitting, tutoring, or working in family businesses.
2.2 Hour Restrictions
The U.S. Department of Labor limits work hours for 14- and 15-year-olds:
School days: Up to 3 hours
Non-school days: Up to 8 hours
School weeks: Up to 18 hours
Non-school weeks: Up to 40 hours
2.3 Job Restrictions
Teens under 16 generally cannot work in:
Construction
Heavy machinery
Manufacturing plants
Hazardous roles
Section 3: Where can i work at 15
Here’s a comprehensive list of companies offering teen employment opportunities, complete with job descriptions, benefits, and hiring tips:
3.1 AMC Theatres 🎬
Roles: Ticket sales, concessions, cleaning, and ushering
Benefits: Free movie passes, employee discounts
Hiring Tip: Check individual locations, as age requirements vary by state.
3.2 Baskin Robbins 🍦
Roles: Ice cream scooper, cashier, cake decorator
Benefits: Flexible shifts, fun environment
Best For: Teens seeking part-time jobs after school.
3.3 Babysitting & Tutoring 🍼📚
Roles: Babysitter, homework helper, tutor
Benefits: Flexible hours, higher hourly pay
How to Find Work: Network with family, friends, and neighbors.
3.4 Chick-fil-A 🐔
Roles: Cashier, dining area attendant, front-of-house staff
Benefits: Paid training, employee meals
Note: Minors are restricted from using hot kitchen equipment.
3.5 Culver’s 🍔
Roles: Dining room attendant, kitchen helper, custodial support
Benefits: Flexible schedules and skill development opportunities.
3.6 Community Centers 🏫
Roles: Youth program assistant, front desk staff, tutor, lifeguard
Benefits: Great for teens who enjoy helping others.
Hiring Tip: Check local city websites for open roles.
3.7 Dairy Queen 🍨
Roles: Cashier, food prep, server
Benefits: Training provided, employee discounts
Best For: Teens looking for fast food jobs near me.
3.8 Kroger & Its Brands 🛒
Roles: Cashier, bagger, floral assistant, bakery clerk
Scope: Operates 29 brands across 42 states
Hiring Tip: Apply online through Kroger’s careers page.
3.9 McDonald’s 🍟 
Roles: Kitchen crew, cashier, maintenance team
Benefits: Tuition support via Archways to Opportunity
Best For: Teens seeking first job opportunities nationwide.
3.10 Publix 🛍️
Roles: Cashier, cart attendant, customer service clerk
Scope: Popular in Southeast states
Tip: Publix is known for promoting from within.
3.11 Safeway & Albertsons 🥗
Roles: Courtesy clerk, bagger, cashier
Best For: Teens ready in grocery store jobs near me.
3.12 Six Flags 🎢
Roles: Ride operator, concessions, ticket attendant
Scope: Available in 11 states
Best For: Teens seeking seasonal jobs for 14-year-olds.
3.13 Taco Bell 🌮
Roles: Cashier, dining area helper
Scope: Over 7,000 locations nationwide
Tip: Many locations hire 15-year-olds for customer service roles.
3.14 Wendy’s 🍔
Roles: Cashier, cleaner, kitchen crew
Benefits: Flexible hours and on-the-job training.
3.15 Giant Eagle 🛒
Roles: Cashier, bagger, stock clerk
Scope: Available in five states across the Midwest and East.
Section 4: where can i work at 15
If you want part-time jobs for teens under 16, consider these options:
Babysitting and tutoring
Dog walking and pet sitting
Ice cream shop attendant
Lifeguard (certification required)
Concession stand worker
Camp counselor assistant
Online freelance gigs (writing, video editing, content creation)
Section 5: Seasonal Jobs for 14- and 15-Year-Olds
Seasonal roles are perfect for teens seeking short-term employment:
Summer Camps – Assistant coaches, counselors, or program leaders
Theme Parks – Ride operators, ticket attendants, and food vendors
Fairs and Carnivals – Booth assistants and game operators
Retail Stores – Holiday gift wrapping and stocking shelves
Section 6: Teen Jobs at Grocery Stores 
Grocery stores are among the most reliable sources for teen employment. Common roles include:
Cashier
Cart attendant
Stock clerk
Bakery or floral assistant
Best chains hiring younger teens:
Kroger, Publix, Safeway, Giant Eagle, and Winn-Dixie
Section 7: Teen Jobs at Fast Food Restaurants
Fast food restaurants remain the top source of entry-level jobs for teens:
McDonald’s – Crew member, cashier
Chick-fil-A – Customer service
Wendy’s – Kitchen helper
Taco Bell – Dining room attendant
Dairy Queen – Ice cream specialist
These roles offer flexible hours and provide on-the-job training perfect for first-time job seekers.
Section 9: Resources for Teen Job Seekers
Get Schooled – Free interview coaching and resume templates
Snagajob – Great for part-time jobs for teens
Indeed – Search for “jobs for 14-year-olds near me”
Local City Websites – Check recreation programs and youth employment openings
Section 10: Expanded FAQs
1. What companies hire 14-year-olds near me?
AMC, Baskin Robbins, Chick-fil-A, Dairy Queen, Kroger, McDonald’s, and community centers.
2. Are there online jobs for teens?
Yes! Options include online tutoring, freelance writing, content creation, and virtual assistant work.
3. What are the best seasonal jobs for 14-year-olds?
Amusement parks, ice cream shops, fairs, and summer camps.
4. Can teens work from home?
Yes. Opportunities include tutoring, virtual customer support, and digital freelancing.
5. How do I prepare for my first job interview?
Dress neatly
Arrive early
Show enthusiasm
Highlight school achievements and extracurricular activities.
Conclusion:
Teens looking for their first job in 2025 have more opportunities than ever before. Whether you’re searching for jobs for 14-year-olds, jobs for 15-year-olds, part-time jobs for teens under 16, or seasonal teen employment, there are countless roles available in retail, food service, entertainment, community programs, and even online.
The job market is becoming increasingly teen-friendly, with many companies creating entry-level positions specifically designed for younger workers. Major employers like McDonald’s, Chick-fil-A, Kroger, Publix, and AMC Theatres actively hire 14- and 15-year-olds, offering flexible schedules and training programs that make it easier to balance school, work, and personal life.
Gain Essential Life Skills – Learning to manage schedules, interact with customers, and handle responsibilities helps you develop maturity and confidence.
Build Your Resume – Employers value early work experience, making it easier to land internships and higher-paying roles later on.
Develop Independence – A part-time job provides freedom and boosts self-reliance.
Explore Career – Exposure to different industries allows you to discover your strengths and passions early.
Additionally, seasonal jobs such as working at amusement parks, summer camps, fairs, or retail stores during holidays provide excellent opportunities to earn money without long-term commitments. For teens under 16, these roles are ideal for balancing school and work while gaining valuable experience.
However, before applying, it’s essential to understand teen employment laws in your state. Federal regulations limit work hours and the types of jobs younger teens can take, ensuring safety and fair treatment. Always check local labor guidelines to make sure you’re eligible.
The key to success is starting small, staying consistent, and making the most of every opportunity. Every job whether babysitting, scooping ice cream, or running a cash register teaches valuable lessons that prepare you for future careers. Investing
If you’re ready to begin your journey, explore companies that hire 14- and 15-year-olds, look for part-time jobs near you, and take advantage of teen-friendly job boards. Your first job can be the stepping stone to lifelong success. Financialeage
FAQs About Teen Jobs and Online Work (2025 Guide)
1. What are the best jobs for teens in 2025?
The best jobs for teens in 2025 include retail positions, fast-food roles, babysitting, tutoring, grocery store jobs, and online work for teenagers like freelance writing, content creation, and virtual tutoring. Popular companies such as McDonald’s, Chick-fil-A, Kroger, Publix, and AMC Theatres actively hire 14- and 15-year-olds for entry-level roles.
2. What is teen employment, and why is it important?
Teen employment refers to jobs designed for people aged 14–19, offering opportunities to earn money, gain experience, and develop work-related skills. Starting work early helps teenagers:
Build a strong resume
Learn time management and teamwork
- Explore different career paths
3. Where can I find jobs for 14-year-olds?
Many companies hire 14-year-olds for entry-level jobs in 2025. Some options include:
McDonald’s – kitchen crew, counter crew
Baskin Robbins – ice cream scooper
AMC Theatres – concessions and ticket sales
Kroger, Publix, Safeway – cashier, bagger, stock associate
Babysitting, tutoring, and lawn care in your neighborhood
4. What companies hire 15-year-olds?
Jobs for 15-year-olds are available at several companies, including:
Chick-fil-A – cashier and front-of-house roles
Wendy’s – crew member and food prep
Taco Bell – customer service positions
Six Flags – seasonal amusement park jobs
Community Centers – youth program assistants and lifeguards
5. Are there part-time jobs for teens under 16?
Yes! Many companies offer part-time jobs for teens under 16 with flexible schedules. Options include:
Grocery stores like Kroger and Publix
Fast-food restaurants like McDonald’s, Dairy Queen, and Culver’s
Retail chains like Safeway and Giant Eagle
Babysitting, tutoring, and pet sitting
6. What are the best first job opportunities for teens?
Good first jobs for teens include:
Babysitting or tutoring
Grocery store cashier
Fast-food crew member
Retail stock associate
Community center assistant
Online jobs for minors like content writing, surveys, or freelancing
7. Can teens work online in 2025?
Yes, there are plenty of online jobs for teens in 2025, even for those under 18. Teens can work as:
Virtual tutors
Freelance writers or graphic designers
Social media managers
YouTube or TikTok content creators
Online survey takers
8. What are the best online jobs for minors?
Some safe and reliable online jobs for minors include:
Online tutoring for younger students
Freelance writing and editing
Selling crafts on Etsy
Taking online surveys
Starting a small YouTube channel
Social media content creation
9. Are there jobs for 14-year-olds online?
Yes! While options are limited, teens can explore jobs for 14-year-olds online, such as:
Taking paid surveys
Writing short blog posts or articles
Selling handmade products on platforms like Etsy
Starting a small YouTube or TikTok channel
Assisting with basic online research for small businesses
10. What online jobs are available for 15-year-olds?
Jobs for 15-year-olds online include:
Virtual tutoring in subjects like math, science, or English
Creating social media content for small businesses
Selling products on platforms like Etsy or Redbubble
Freelance graphic design and photo editing
Taking part in legitimate online surveys
11. What are the best online jobs for 16-year-olds?
By 16, teens can access more online job opportunities, including:
Freelance web design and development
Paid transcription services
Managing social media pages
Affiliate marketing through blogs or YouTube
Virtual assistant positions
12. What is the safest way for a teenager to work online?
Safety is crucial when exploring work online as a teenager. Follow these tips:
Use reputable websites and platforms
Avoid sharing personal information
Get parental guidance for payment setups
Research the company or platform before applying
Avoid “too good to be true” offers
13. Do teens need a work permit to start a job?
In many U.S. states, 14- and 15-year-olds need a work permit to begin working. Check your state employment laws to see the requirements. Your school or local government website often provides application forms and guidelines.
14. How many hours can teens work per week?
For teens under 16, federal law limits:
Up to 3 hours per day on school days
Up to 8 hours per day on non-school days
Maximum 18 hours per week during the school year
Up to 40 hours per week during summer breaks
15. How can I balance school and a part-time job?
Choose flexible part-time jobs for teens
Prioritize homework and school commitments
Set a consistent work-study schedule
Consider online jobs for teens for better time management
16. How much do online jobs for teens pay?
Pay rates vary depending on the type of online job:
Online surveys: $5–$15/hour
Freelance writing or editing: $10–$25/hour
Virtual tutoring: $15–$30/hour
Social media management: $12–$20/hour
YouTube or TikTok monetization: income depends on traffic and sponsorships
17. What are the easiest online jobs for teenagers?
For beginners, the easiest online jobs for teens are:
Paid surveys
Virtual tutoring
Content writing for blogs
Social media content creation
Simple graphic design on Canva
18. Where can I find legitimate online jobs for teens?
Some trusted platforms for online work for teenagers include:
Fiverr (freelance gigs)
Upwork (freelance projects)
Etsy (handmade crafts and products)
YouTube and TikTok (content creation)
Swagbucks, InboxDollars, and Survey Junkie (paid surveys)
19. Are seasonal jobs good for teens under 16?
Yes! Seasonal jobs are perfect for younger teens. Options include:
Working at local fairs and carnivals
Summer camp counseling assistant roles
Holiday retail positions
Lifeguarding at community pools
Amusement park jobs
20. How do I get started with my first job search?
- Explore local job openings and online jobs for minors
Prepare a simple resume
Practice common interview questions
Apply to multiple positions to increase your chances