Entering into the teenage years often brings an itch for independence, and earning one’s own money is a significant part of it. If you are 14 and eager to start earning, you may wonder, “What jobs can you get at 14?” Well, the opportunities are more abundant than you might think! In this comprehensive guide, we aim to provide you with a detailed overview of the jobs you can get at 14, including where most 14-year-olds work, and how to make money at 14.
Why Seek Employment at 14
Before we dive into the specifics of where you can work at 14, let’s address an often-asked question: Is 14 too early for a job? The answer is subjective and largely depends on the individual. However, many benefits come from early employment:
- Learning responsibility: Having a job at a young age teaches responsibility, dedication, and accountability.
- Gaining work experience: Early work experience can provide a competitive edge later in life when applying for more significant roles or internships.
- Developing interpersonal skills: Working at a young age often involves dealing with customers or colleagues, helping teens develop essential interpersonal and communication skills.
- Earning money: Having a job allows teens to earn their own money, teaching them about financial responsibility and money management.
Understanding the Legalities
Before we discuss the various jobs you can get at 14, it’s essential to understand the legalities. The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) permits 14 as the minimum age for working in non-agricultural jobs in the United States. However, there are certain restrictions:
- You can work up to 3 hours on a school day and 18 hours total during a school week.
- On non-school days, you can work up to 8 hours, and up to 40 hours per week during a non-school week.
- Work hours must fall between 7 AM and 7 PM, but this extends to 9 PM from June 1 through Labor Day.
- Certain hazardous jobs are off-limits for 14 and 15-year-olds.
With the legal background clarified, let’s delve into the various job opportunities available for 14-year-olds.
Jobs at Retail Stores
1. Grocery Store Positions
Grocery stores often provide excellent job opportunities for 14-year-olds. Positions usually include baggers, stockers, and cart attendants.
A. Kroger
Kroger, one of the largest grocery store chains in the United States, hires 14-year-olds for positions such as cashier, cart attendant, and order pullers.
B. Safeway
Safeway grocery stores offer positions like baggers, courtesy clerks, and cart attendants to 14-year-olds possessing a work permit.
C. Publix
Publix, a popular grocery chain, hires 14-year-olds for positions such as cashier, front service clerk, and cart attendant.
2. Retail Store Positions
A. Target
You might be wondering, “How old do you have to be to work at Target?” The minimum age to work at Target is 16 years. So, if you are 14 and looking for a job, you might have to wait a couple of years to apply here.
Jobs at Food Service Establishments
3. Fast Food Chains
A. McDonald’s
McDonald’s, the world’s largest restaurant chain, hires 14-year-olds for positions like kitchen crew, counter crew, and maintenance crew.
B. Chick-fil-A
Chick-fil-A, a renowned fast-food chain, hires 14-year-olds for positions like cashier or drive-thru operator.
C. Taco Bell
Taco Bell hires 14-year-olds as team members, primarily for cashier and customer service roles.
4. Coffee Shops
Local coffee shops often hire younger teens for positions like barista, cashier, and cleaner. This can be a great opportunity to learn customer service skills while earning money.
5. Ice Cream Shops
A. Baskin Robbins
Baskin Robbins, a popular ice cream chain, hires 14-year-olds for positions like team member, ice cream scooper, and cake decorator.
B. Dairy Queen
Dairy Queen, a favorite spot for both ice cream and fast food, hires 14-year-olds for positions like cashier, cleaner, and food prep worker.
Jobs at Entertainment Venues
6. Movie Theaters
A. AMC
AMC is a major movie theater chain that hires 14 and 15-year-olds for positions such as ticket sellers, concession stand workers, and theater maintenance roles.
7. Amusement Parks
A. Six Flags
Six Flags, a popular theme park chain, hires 14-year-olds for positions like park services, cashier, and parking attendant.
8. Local Entertainment Venues
Local entertainment venues like bowling alleys, arcades, and water parks often hire young teens for seasonal jobs.
Online Jobs for 14-Year-Olds
In today’s digital age, there are also opportunities for 14-year-olds to earn money online. Here are some options:
9. Online Tutoring
If you excel in a particular subject, you can offer your services as an online tutor to younger students. Various online platforms connect tutors with students, making it easy to find work.
10. Blogging
If you have a knack for writing, you can start a blog on a topic you’re passionate about. Once your blog gains popularity, you can monetize it through advertising, sponsored posts, or affiliate marketing.
11. U-Haul
U-Haul, a moving and storage company, hires 14-year-olds for online customer service roles. This job involves talking on the phone with customers and providing excellent customer service.
Traditional Jobs for 14-Year-Olds
12. Babysitting
Babysitting is a classic job for young teens. Reach out to family, friends, and neighbors to let them know you’re available for babysitting.
13. Dog Walking
If you love animals, dog walking can be a fun and rewarding job. Websites like Rover.com can connect you with pet owners in your area.
14. Lawn Care
Providing lawn care services like mowing, raking leaves, or shoveling snow is another viable option for 14-year-olds.
How Can a Kid Make Money?
Aside from the above jobs, there are numerous other ways a 14-year-old can earn money. Here are a few ideas:
- Selling handmade crafts: If you’re crafty, consider making and selling your own handmade items online through platforms like Etsy.
- Taking online surveys: Several websites will pay you to take online surveys or watch ads.
- Freelancing: Websites like Fiverr and Upwork connect freelancers with clients in need of various services, from graphic design to writing.
- Starting a YouTube channel: If you have a unique hobby or talent, consider starting a YouTube channel. You can earn money through ad revenue once your channel becomes popular.
Final Thoughts
Entering the world of work at 14 can be an exciting and rewarding experience. Not only does it provide the opportunity to earn money, but it also imparts valuable skills and experiences that can be beneficial later in life. Whether you’re interested in customer service, food service, retail, or online jobs, there are numerous jobs you can get at 14. Remember, the key to landing a job at this age is to be persistent, professional, and flexible in your job search. Good luck!
