Finding a job at 14 might seem impossible, but there are plenty of companies that actually hire young teens!

While you won’t be operating heavy machinery or managing a team of 50 people (yet), there are legit opportunities that can help you gain experience, make some cash, and build your resume.

I’ve put together the ultimate guide on what jobs are available, where to apply, and what to expect as a 14-year-old entering the workforce.

Jobs That Hire 14-Year-Olds (That Actually Pay)

Let’s be real – most teens want jobs for one simple reason: money. Whether you’re saving for a car, the latest tech, or just want some spending cash that doesn’t come from your parents, working at 14 is totally doable.

But before you start filling out applications, there’s something important you need to understand…

The Legal Stuff (Don’t Skip This Part)

The government has strict rules about when and where 14-year-olds can work. These aren’t suggestions – they’re federal laws designed to keep you safe and make sure work doesn’t mess with your education.

Here’s what you need to know:

• You can only work 3 hours max on school days (18 hours total per school week)
• During summer and holidays, you can work 8 hours per day (40 hours per week)
• Your shifts must be between 7am and 7pm during the school year (extends to 9pm in summer)
• You cannot work during school hours unless you have a special exemption
• Many states require a work permit that you get from your school

The rules vary by state too. For example, in Georgia, the hour restrictions are even tighter than federal law, so check your specific state’s rules before applying anywhere.

Where You Can Actually Get Hired at 14

1. Grocery Stores & Retail

Grocery stores are basically the teenage employment headquarters. Many chains specifically hire young teens because the hours and tasks fit perfectly within legal restrictions.

Some grocery chains that hire at 14:

• Fareway – Popular in the Midwest for hiring baggers and stockers as young as 14
• Publix – Known for hiring young teens as baggers and cart attendants
• Giant Eagle – Offers various entry-level positions for 14-year-olds
• Kroger – Many locations hire teens for bagging groceries or helping in the bakery

The work is straightforward – bagging groceries, collecting carts from the parking lot, or stocking shelves. According to a recent survey, grocery stores remain one of the top employers of teens under 16.

2. Fast Food & Ice Cream Shops

Who doesn’t want their first job to involve ice cream? These places are teen-friendly employers:

• Baskin Robbins – Many locations hire at 14, and you get to scoop ice cream all day
• Dairy Queen – Some locations hire 14-year-olds for food prep and register work
• Bruster’s Ice Cream – Known for being teen-friendly with flexible scheduling

Working at ice cream shops means dealing with happy customers (who doesn’t smile when getting ice cream?), which makes these jobs more fun than most. Plus, the potential for free or discounted treats is a major bonus.

One teen I interviewed said: “Working at Baskin Robbins was perfect for me at 14. The managers understood I was in school, and the shifts were short enough that I could still do homework and sports.”

3. Movie Theaters & Entertainment Venues

If you love movies, this could be your dream first job:

• AMC Theaters – Many locations hire 14-year-olds as ushers or concession workers
• Local movie theaters – Often more flexible with hiring younger teens than big chains

The perks? Free movies, flexible evening and weekend hours, and the chance to work in air conditioning (important for summer jobs!). Research shows that entertainment venues often provide great first-job experiences for teens.

4. Summer Camps & Recreation Centers

If you’re looking specifically for summer work, check out:

• Day camps – Often hire 14-year-olds as junior counselors
• Community pools – May hire teens for concession stands (not lifeguarding)
• Recreation centers – Need help with summer programs for younger kids

These jobs are perfect for summer since they typically end when school starts back up. They’re also great for building leadership skills that look impressive on college applications later.

DIY Jobs When Companies Won’t Hire You

Can’t find a company that will hire you? Create your own job! These opportunities have no age restrictions:

• Lawn mowing – A classic teen job that can pay surprisingly well
• Pet sitting – Perfect if you love animals
• Babysitting – Take a Red Cross course to make yourself more hireable
• Car washing – Low startup costs, high profit potential
• Tech help for neighbors – If you’re good with computers, many adults will pay for your help

One enterprising 14-year-old I know made over $2,000 in a summer just by mowing lawns in his neighborhood. That’s more than many teens make at “real” jobs!

How Much Can You Actually Make?

Let’s talk money – the whole reason you’re looking for a job in the first place!

Most 14-year-old workers earn between $13-$18 per hour depending on:

• Where you live (minimum wage varies by state)
• The type of job
• The company’s policies

Remember that with hour restrictions, your weekly earnings will be limited. At most, during the school year, working the maximum 18 hours at $15/hour would give you about $270 per week before taxes.

During summer, working full-time could bump that up to $600 weekly – not bad for a 14-year-old!

Tips for Getting Hired (When Everyone Says You’re Too Young)

Finding a job at 14 can be frustrating. Here’s how to increase your chances:

• Apply early – Summer jobs often get filled by March or April
• Create a simple resume – Include school achievements, volunteering, and any relevant skills
• Dress professionally for interviews (even at fast food places)
• Bring your school schedule to show potential employers when you’re available
• Follow up after applying – Shows you’re serious and mature

One hiring manager told me: “What impresses me most about young applicants isn’t their experience – they don’t have any! It’s their attitude, reliability, and willingness to learn.”

The Hidden Benefits (Besides Money)

While cash is king, working at 14 teaches you things you’ll never learn in a classroom:

• Time management – Balancing school, work, and life
• Communication skills – Talking to customers and coworkers of all ages
• Financial literacy – Understanding paychecks, taxes, and budgeting
• Problem-solving – Handling real-world situations on your own
• Work ethic – Showing up on time and being responsible

According to research, teens who work moderate hours (less than 20 hours weekly) often perform better academically and develop stronger organizational skills than those who don’t work at all.

The skills you learn at your first job will help you land better opportunities down the road. Every successful adult I know started with a humble first job that taught them valuable lessons.

Don’t Make These Rookie Mistakes

Avoid these common first-job blunders:

• Forgetting to get a work permit (if your state requires one)
• Applying only online – In-person applications often work better for teen jobs
• Being unavailable weekends – That’s when businesses need you most
• Having unrealistic expectations about the work or pay
• Quitting without notice – Burns bridges in your community

Remember, your reputation starts now. Even at 14, how you handle your first job will follow you – especially in smaller communities where everyone knows everyone.

Working at 14 isn’t always easy, but it’s definitely worth it. Beyond the money, you’ll gain confidence, skills, and experiences that will benefit you for years to come.

So update that resume, practice your interview skills, and go get that job!