So you want to work at Target? Here’s the minimum age (and everything else you need to know).

Let me guess – you’re looking for your first job, and Target with its bright red shirts and decent pay is looking pretty good right about now. But can you even apply yet? Let’s break down the age requirements and everything else you need to know about landing a job at the bullseye.

How old do you need to be to work at Target?

The short answer: You need to be at least 16 years old to work in Target stores in the United States.

Want to work in a distribution center instead? Those warehouse-style jobs require you to be at least 18 years old – no exceptions.

Why the age difference? Simple – distribution centers have more physical demands and safety concerns. You’ll be operating heavy machinery and lifting merchandise that would make your gym teacher proud.

(Side note: If you’re in Australia, some sources say Target might hire at 15 years old there, but we’re focusing on U.S. stores here.)

What jobs can you actually get as a teenager at Target?

If you’re 16 or 17, you can apply for in-store retail positions like:

• Cashier (beep beep all day)
• Stocker (get those biceps ready)
• Guest service (helping confused shoppers find the paper towels)

Just know that Target wants people who can work flexible schedules – including nights, weekends, and yes, holidays. So if you’re hoping to have every Friday night free for hangouts, this might not be your jam.

For the 18+ crowd, distribution center roles open up:

• Fulfillment Expert (fancy name for picking and packing online orders)
• Inbound Expert (receiving shipments and stocking the back)

These jobs might pay better, but they’re more physically demanding. You’ll need to be able to lift up to 44 pounds by yourself or team-lift items up to 100 pounds.

What’s the hiring process like?

Target’s hiring process is pretty straightforward, but there are a few things to keep in mind:

1. You’ll need documentation: Social Security Number, valid ID, and proof you can legally work in the US.

2. Background checks: Yep, they’ll check. And depending on the position, you might need to pass a drug test too.

3. Interviews matter: Target wants people with positive attitudes who actually like helping customers. I know, shocking right?

4. Training is provided: Don’t worry if you’ve never worked retail before. They’ll train you both in-person and online.

The biggest thing Target looks for is availability. The more open your schedule is, the more likely you are to get hired. This is especially true during holiday seasons when they need all hands on deck.

What are the perks of working at Target?

Target actually offers some decent benefits, even for part-time workers:

• Health insurance options: Including dental and vision for qualified team members
• 401(k) with company match: Start saving for retirement early (your future self will thank you)
• Employee discounts: 10% off merchandise and an additional 20% off wellness products
• Tuition reimbursement: If you’re planning on college, this could help

The starting pay is pretty competitive too – averaging around $14 per hour nationally, though it varies by location.

Pro tips for applying (especially for first-timers)

1. Dress appropriately for your interview – business casual is best. Once hired, you’ll wear that iconic red shirt with jeans or khakis.

2. Emphasize customer service skills – even if it’s just from school projects or helping neighbors.

3. Show flexibility with your hours – the more available you are, the more attractive you are as a candidate.

4. Research Target’s values before your interview. They love talking about their community involvement and “expect more, pay less” philosophy.

5. Be ready for physical work – even cashiering involves standing for long periods. No job at Target involves sitting around scrolling TikTok (sorry).

Bottom line

If you’re 16+, Target can be a great first job with decent pay and some surprising benefits. The 18+ crowd gets more options with distribution center roles.

Either way, expect to work varying schedules, deal with the holiday rush, and wear a lot of red. But hey, there are worse first jobs than one where you get a discount on pretty much everything you already buy!

Just make sure you’ve got your ID ready, a flexible schedule, and the ability to lift packages and stand for hours. Do that, and you might soon be part of the Target team.

Hourly wage information shows Target pays above industry average, making it attractive for first-time job seekers.

Target’s career site provides complete details on available positions and requirements.

Department of Labor youth employment guidelines outline legal protections for teenage workers you should know.