Jobs For 14 Year Olds [Ultimate Guide]
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Are you looking for the best jobs for 14-year-olds? If so, you’re in luck! In this post, we will discuss 42 jobs that are perfect for young people just starting their careers, including online jobs, places that hire teens, and small business ideas for teen entrepreneurs.
We’ll also cover how to increase your chances of getting hired by going over how to find places that are hiring, and interviewing tips!
It can be tough to know what jobs you can get at 14, especially if you haven’t worked before. Don’t worry; you’ve come to the right place!
Take a look at our list of job ideas for 14-year-olds below. Then, follow our tips on how to get a job at 14, and you’ll be well on your way to landing your first job in no time!
Things to know about jobs for 14-year-olds
Getting a job at 14 can be great for learning a work ethic that will last you for a lifetime, earning some extra cash, and for adding to your resume before high school and college.
However, there are some important things to keep in mind when looking for employment at 14 or 15.
To prevent child labor exploitation in the US, child labor laws have been set up to protect young teens looking to enter the workforce.
14-year-old employees can’t work more than:
- Three hours on any school day, including Fridays
- 18 hours per week during the school year
- Eight hours per day if school is not in session (i.e. Saturdays and Sundays)
- 40 hours per week when school isn’t in session (i.e. during the summer or during winter break)
If you are 14 you aren’t allowed to work before 7 AM or after 7 PM on any day of the week EXCEPT between June 1 through Labor Day. During this timeframe, young employees can work up to 9 PM instead of 7 PM.
On top of these rules, some states have their own specific restrictions you may need to keep in mind.
For instance, many states require you to get a work permit if you want to be employed. To do this:
- Talk to your school’s guidance office
- Contact your state’s Department of Labor
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The best jobs for 14-year-olds
Not sure where to start? Turns out, there are lots of jobs you can get at 14 that offer excellent work experience, good pay, and decent benefits. Let’s break down some of the best jobs you can get at 14 in detail.
Lifeguard
If you’re looking for a job that’s both fun and responsible, consider becoming a lifeguard.
Lifeguards are responsible for ensuring the safety of swimmers at pools, beaches, and other aquatic facilities. To become a lifeguard, you will need to be at least 14 years old (15 in some states) and have completed a certified training program.
Once you’re certified, you can start applying for lifeguard positions at local pools and beaches.
In addition to being a great way to earn some extra money, being a lifeguard is also a great way to stay in shape and meet new people.
Babysitter
At 14, you may not be ready to get a full-time job, but there are still plenty of opportunities to earn some extra cash.
One option is babysitting. To be a successful babysitter, you need to be responsible, patient, and good with kids. You should also be comfortable handling basic childcare tasks like changing diapers, preparing meals, and putting kids to bed.
If you’re interested in babysitting, start by talking to your parents and other adults you know. They may be able to give you some good leads on families who are looking for sitters.
Once you’ve built up a few clients, you can start charging for your services. The going rate for babysitting is around $10-15 per hour.
Pet Sitter
Another job that you can get at 14 is pet sitting.
This job involves taking care of people’s pets while they are away from home. Job duties may include feeding, walking, and exercising all types of pets.
You will also need to clean up after them, so it’s important to be comfortable with animal poop!
If you’re interested in becoming a pet sitter, start by talking to your neighbors and other people you know who have pets. They may be able to give you some business.
The going rate for pet sitting is between $10-15 per hour.
House Sitter
When most people think of house sitting, they imagine an adult taking care of someone else’s home while they’re away on vacation.
However, there are plenty of ways for 14-year-olds to get involved in this type of work as well.
For instance, many families are looking for responsible teenagers to check the mail, take out the trash, and water the plants while they’re away. This can be a great way for 14-year-olds to earn some extra money and gain some valuable responsibility.
In addition, house sitting may also involve caring for pets. This can be a great option for animal lovers who are looking for a way to earn some extra money.
Landscaping/Mowing
Lawn mowing is one of the most popular jobs for 14-year-olds.
It’s a great way to get outside, get some exercise, and earn some money.
There are a few things you need to know before you start mowing lawns. First, make sure you have the right equipment. You’ll need a lawnmower, a rake, and a bag for collecting the grass clippings.
Second, be sure to know your customer’s preferences. Some people like their lawns short, while others prefer longer grass. Be sure to ask before you start mowing.
Finally, take your time and do a good job. Lawn mowing is not a race! Be sure to trim around edges and walkways, and make sure the lawn is free of debris before you leave.
Movie Theater
When my son was younger, his dream job was to work at a movie theater.
Unfortunately, he was just 12 years old at the time, which meant he was too young to get hired at our local theater, but, if you’re 14 or older, you might have better luck.
Working at a movie theater can be a fun and exciting job, but it also comes with a lot of responsibility.
You’ll need to be able to handle money, sell tickets, and work the concessions stand.
You’ll also need to be able to deal with customers, some of whom may be unhappy with their experience.
If you’re interested in working at a movie theater, start by talking to the managers of movie theaters close to your home.
Referee
If you’re interested in sports and have a good knowledge of the rules, you might want to consider becoming a referee.
Refereeing can be a great way to earn some extra money, especially if you’re able to work multiple games each week.
In addition to being a great way to earn some extra money, refereeing is also a great way to stay active and meet new people.
Check with your local youth city sports leagues for job openings.
Not quite 14? No worries, check out our Ultimate Guide to Jobs for 13-Year-Olds!
Dishwasher
Working in a restaurant can be a great way to earn some extra money, but it’s not always the most glamorous job.
One job that is often available for 14-year-olds is dishwashing.
As a dishwasher, you will be responsible for cleaning and sanitizing all of the dishes used by the customers and staff.
This job can be physically demanding, as you will be standing for long periods of time and lifting heavy pots and pans.
You will also need to be able to work quickly and efficiently in a fast-paced environment.
Dog Walker
Do you love spending time with animals? If so, dog walking might be the perfect job for you!
As a dog walker, you will be responsible for taking other people’s pets for walks during the day while they are away from home.
You’ll make the most money if you are able to walk multiple dogs at once, so try to build up a list of clients who live in the same neighborhood if you can.
Camp Staff
If you love working with kids and being outdoors, consider becoming a summer camp staff member.
Summer camp staff members are responsible for leading activities and supervising children at summer camps.
Many camps hire 14-year-olds to work as camp counselors, so this is a great job for you if you’re looking for something responsible.
To become a summer camp staff member, start by searching for local camps that are hiring.
You can also contact your local YMCA or recreation department to inquire about job openings.
Bus Person
Another job that is often available for 14-year-olds is busing tables at a restaurant.
As a busboy/girl, you will be responsible for cleaning and resetting tables after customers have finished their meals.
You will also need to empty garbage cans and sweep the floors.
This job can be physically demanding, as you will be on your feet for long periods of time.
You will also need to be able to work quickly and efficiently in a fast-paced environment.
If you’re interested in working as a busboy/girl, check with local restaurants and ask if they are hiring.
Farmhand
If you’re interested in working with animals and getting some experience on a farm, consider becoming a farmhand.
Farmhands are responsible for feeding and caring for the animals on a farm.
They may also be responsible for cleaning stalls, gathering eggs, or doing other chores around the farm.
If your family has a farm, you can help with the harvest or you can help with the harvest at other families’ farms around the area. This is tough work, but you could get paid a good wage by the end of the season.
You can also search for farmhand job postings online.
Cashier
If you’re looking for a job that involves working with the public, consider becoming a cashier.
As a cashier, you will be responsible for ringing up customers’ purchases and handling money.
You will also need to be able to deal with customers, some of whom may be unhappy with their experience, so good customer skills are a must.
Pool Cleaner
If you’re interested in working outdoors and staying active, consider becoming a pool cleaner.
Pool cleaners are responsible for cleaning and maintaining swimming pools.
Pool cleaner responsibilities include vacuuming the pool, emptying the skimmer baskets, and brushing the walls and floor of the pool.
In some cases, you may also be responsible for adding chemicals to the pool.
Car Wash/Detail
If you don’t mind physical labor, working at a car wash or as a car detailer will give you plenty of cleaning experience and the potential to earn some lucrative tips.
If you’re interested in working with cars, consider becoming a car washer or detailer.
As a car washer, you will be responsible for cleaning the exterior of vehicles. Car detailing involves cleaning the inside of cars and trucks.
Tutor
If you love working with kids and have a strong knowledge of a particular subject, consider becoming a tutor.
Tutors help students with their homework, help them get caught up on difficult subjects, or help them prepare for tests.
To become a tutor, start by talking to your parents and teachers to see if they know of any families who are looking for someone to help out.
You can also search for tutoring job postings online.
Newspaper Delivery
If you’re an early bird, be a newspaper delivery person by delivering newspapers to the doors of houses around your neighborhood for a decent salary.
Family Business
Some 14-year-olds are lucky enough to find employment at family businesses, where they work as cashiers, janitors, or in other positions. They often earn decent salaries and may gain enough experience to eventually take over their family businesses.
Modeling/Acting
Some 14-year-olds can get into the acting game early by performing as models or actors in local productions, especially stage performances. The money can range from decent to not great.
Caddy
You can find employment at golf courses by working as a caddy, who collects the golf clubs and other supplies for golfers and transports them around the course.
If you love playing golf and are looking for a job that involves being outdoors, consider becoming a caddy.
This job is perfect for you if you already know how to play golf and can suggest which clubs to use, or can give helpful advice on golf shots.
To become a caddy, start by talking to your local golf course. They may have a junior caddy program that you can participate in.
12 Jobs that hire at 14 near me
While there are lots of under-the-table jobs for 14-year-olds, there are also lots of local businesses that are always looking to hire younger teens.
In fact, if you’re willing to learn how to operate a cash register, you can find work in grocery stores, food service, or as a sales associate in a big box store.
Let’s break down 10 places that hire 14-year-olds near you.
Ross
Ross is a clothing and home accessory store that sells a lot, ranging from jewelry to handbags to bedroom furniture and more. You can work across as a cashier, stocker, or customer service assistant for minimum wage or even more depending on your age and what your job responsibilities are.
Enter your zip code in the box below to find Ross stores near you.
Chick-fil-A
Chick-Fil-A is a well-known fast-food restaurant that hires 14-year-olds as cashiers, fry cooks, and other staff in many states. One of the big benefits of this job is that you’ll get a free meal every shift plus get to enjoy tasty chicken whatever you like.
Enter your zip code in the box below to find Chick-fil-A restaurants near you.
Publix
Publix is a fast-growing supermarket chain centered in Florida and nearby states. Here, you’ll find employment as a bagger, cashier, customer service assistant, or stocker (in which case you’ll have to get up early or stay up late).
Enter your zip code in the box below to find Publix supermarkets near you.
Culver’s
Culver is another popular fast food restaurant chain primarily found in the Midwestern US, though it’s also available in big cities like Denver. This family-friendly restaurant focuses on burgers and frozen custard, so work here if you like their food or want to work as a fry cook, cashier, or similar job.
Enter your zip code in the box below to find a Culver’s restaurant near you.
Six Flags
Six Flags is a popular teenager employer across the country. Here, you’ll work as a ticket counter, a fast food server, a janitor, and every job in between. More importantly, you’ll get lots of perks ranging from seasonal ticket passes to discounts on Six Flags items and more.
Enter your zip code in the box below to find a Six Flags theme park near you.
Dairy Queen
Dairy Queen serves delicious ice cream and lunch food items around the country. You can work here as a cashier, fry cook, drive-through order taker, and more.
Enter your zip code into the box below to find Dairy Queen restaurants near you.
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Arby’s
Arby’s hires 14-year-olds and other teenagers to work as cashiers, cooks, janitors, and other positions. Like other fast-food restaurants, the pay isn’t great, but you oftentimes get a free meal with every shift.
Enter your zip code into the box below to find Arby’s restaurants near you.
IHOP
You may also find employment as a 14-year-old if you work at IHOP or the International House of Pancakes. This restaurant chain is mostly busy from the morning to the afternoon, and you can work as a janitor, waiter or waitress, dishwasher, or cook.
Enter your address into the box below to find IHOP restaurants near you.
Kroger
Kroger is a popular grocery store and supermarket chain throughout the country. Like other stores, they hire 14-year-olds as baggers, cashiers, and stocking specialists.
Enter your zip code in the box below to see if there are any Kroger supermarkets near you.
Giant Food
Giant Food is one more supermarket chain that also hires 14-year-olds regularly. As before, you can get employed as a cashier, bagger, customer service assistant, or someone similar.
Use the locator below to see if there are any Giant Food stores near you.
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McDonald’s
One of the most popular job options for 14-year-olds is working at McDonald’s.
At McDonald’s, you will be responsible for taking orders, handling money, and preparing food.
The McDonald’s corporation is known for supporting its young workers by offering scholarships and tuition assistance to their employees.
Find out where the closest McDonald’s is (if you don’t already know) below.
Starbucks
If you live in the state of Montana, you can get a job at Starbucks when you’re 14. You’ll have to be 16 to get a job at Starbucks everywhere else. (Sorry).
Online jobs for 14-year-olds
There are also a number of online jobs that are perfect for 14-year-olds. These include things like taking surveys, creating logos, or even becoming a virtual assistant.
However, it’s important to remember that you should always be careful when working online. There are a number of scams out there, so you need to be sure that you’re careful and always get your parents’ permission before signing up for any online gigs.
Swagbucks
Swagbucks is a website that offers rewards for completing different tasks. These tasks can include things like taking surveys, watching videos, or shopping online. You can then redeem your rewards for gift cards or other prizes. Swagbucks is a great option for 14-year-olds because it’s easy to use and there are a variety of tasks available.
Mistplay
Mistplay is an app for mobile gamers that allows users to earn rewards for trying new games. You earn ‘units’ based on how often you play.
You can then cash these units in for Visa gift cards, PayPal money, or Amazon gift cards.
Sweatcoin
Sweatco.in is a great way for teens to earn easy money while staying fit.
While Sweatcoin payouts are in the form of product discounts, you can convert the coins you earn into cash by selling them on online groups like Reddit, Discord, and Snapchat.
Survey Junkie
Survey Junkie is a website that allows users to take surveys in exchange for cash.
You literally just answer questions, get points, and convert those points to Paypal cash.
Survey Club
Survey Club is an online survey site that allows users (ages 13 and up) to participate in surveys in exchange for Amazon gift cards.
I personally use Survey Junkie, so I can verify that it is a legit way to earn extra money.
Harris Poll Online
Teens ages 13 and up can sign up with Harris Poll and be paid in rewards for their opinions.
Slicethepie
Slicethepie is a site that pays for reviews of products/services. To get started, just sign up, leave feedback and reviews, and get paid in cash.
Sell designs on CafePress
Harris Poll pays out in gift cards, which you can then use for merchandise or sell for cash.
Sell crafts on Etsy
If you’re a creative person, you can open an Etsy shop and sell your crafts. Hot things to sell on Etsy include personalized items, jewelry, and handmade clothes.
Become a VA
A virtual assistant is someone who is paid to help businesses respond to emails, post on social media, create graphics, and more.
You can get a job as a VA by joining Facebook groups where bloggers hang out and offer your services to them.
Create and sell logos on Fivver
Logos are easy and fast to create (you can use a free design program like Canva). Then, sign up for a Fivver account to land clients.
Pros and cons of getting a job when you are young
Although lots of 14-year-olds get jobs these days, many don’t think it’s worthwhile, especially since they have to focus on school. If you’re not sure whether you should get a job when you are young, check out these pros and cons.
Pros of getting a job when you’re 14
- Earn money before graduating from high school. Then, you don’t have to rely on your parents or friends to buy things
- Learn customer service skills that will help you deal with difficult people later
- Save up for future expenses like a car or college.
- Get valuable work experience. If you work as a 14-year-old, you’ll be much more prepared for the modern workforce than your peers and competitors
- Boost your resume. Your resume is important when acquiring employment in adulthood or getting into the college of your dreams. An early work history shows dedication and
Cons of getting a job at 14
- Less time for friends and fun. Since your school week will be taken up by school and work, you won’t have a lot of time to spend with your friends
- Less time for homework. By the same token, you’ll have to focus on your homework in your free time, which is less than fun for most
- Added responsibilities. Even if you are mature for a 14-year-old, you’ll be saddled with basic duties until you are older
Ultimately, it’s up to you whether you should get a job when you are 14, 15, or 16. The benefits generally outweigh the downsides, although, working at 14 will require you to make sacrifices.
Tips for how to get a job at 14
The best place to start looking for places that are hiring is to ask your family and friends if they know of any openings in businesses or organizations they work for.
Now that you have some job ideas in mind, it’s time to start your job search!
Once you’ve found a few job openings that interest you, it’s time to start preparing for your interviews.
If you don’t have any luck there, the next step is to start searching online and in your local newspaper.
Finally, check with your local Chamber of Commerce or job center for more job leads.
How to prepare for job interviews
Ask a friend or family member to help you role-play an interview so that you can get more comfortable with the process.
This will help you practice your answers to common interview questions ahead of time, so you are less nervous during interviews.
Finally, when it comes time for your job interview, there are a few things you can do to make a great impression on your potential employer.
- First, be sure to dress appropriately and arrive on time.
- Second, be prepared to answer questions about your qualifications and why you’re interested in the job.
- And lastly, don’t forget to ask questions of your own! This will show that you’re truly interested in the position and company.
State Requirements for Working at 14
As noted above, different states have different legal requirements for hiring young workers.
14 is still the federal minimum age for work. In general, you can’t work at age 13 or below with a few rare exceptions.
Therefore, you need to make sure you have certain paperwork (if you don’t have a state ID) in order if you want to secure a job at 14 depending on your state.
Work permit requirements by state
| State | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Alabama | Work permit completed by a school official |
| Alaska | All young workers require work permits signed by either both parents or their primary guardians |
| Arizona | Minors (i.e. 14 and up) don’t require work permits in Arizona |
| Arkansas | Anyone under 16 needs a work permit signed by both parents or legal guardian |
| California | Anyone under 16 needs to work permit signed by both parents and filed with the school |
| Colorado | Minors don’t require work permits |
| Connecticut | Must have signed and filled out “working papers”, which can be acquired from one’s school |
| Delaware | Need a work permit signed by an employer plus the parent or guardian. It must be filed with a school and/or local Affirmative of Labor office |
| District of Columbia | Need a work permit signed by the parent or guardian, school, and prospective employer |
| Florida | Minors don’t need work permits |
| Georgia | Fill out a work permit online. The permit must be authorized by the worker’s principal or superintendent |
| Hawaii | All young workers need a work permit signed by their parent or guardian |
| Idaho | Minors don’t need work permits |
| Illinois | All young workers need a work permit. The permit must be completed by the issuing officer or school superintendent |
| Indiana | Teens 14-17 need a work permit issued by an accredited school |
| Iowa | All employees aged 14 and 15 need a work permit signed by parents and employers |
| Kansas | All 14 or 15-year-old workers need a permit if they aren’t enrolled in a secondary school |
| Kentucky | No permits are necessary. Employers must have proof of a worker’s age, though |
| Louisiana | Workers must have an employment certificate application filled out by a parent or guardian as well as the issuing authority |
| Maine | All young workers need a work permit signed by both a parent or guardian and the school |
| Maryland | All workers must have work permits filled out by the minor, parent or legal guardian, and employer |
| Massachusetts | Workers must have an employment permit approved by the superintendent, plus a doctor’s approval |
| Michigan | All minor workers need a completed work permit signed by a parent or guardian, school official, and employer |
| Minnesota | Work permits are not required for minors, but proof of age is needed |
| Mississippi | Work permits are required for young workers in canneries, workshops, mills, or factories |
| Missouri | Must have a work certificate issued by the principal or superintendent, which includes a statement of intent by the employer and parental consent |
| Montana | No work permit is required |
| Nebraska | An employment certificate must be signed and filed by school superintendents |
| Nevada | A work permit is not necessary for workers aged 14 |
| New Hampshire | Must complete a youth implement certificate. Employers issue the certificates and workers file them with their schools |
| New Jersey | All workers under the age of 18 require an employment certificate. The certificate is filled out by a parent or legal guardian and the school |
| New Mexico | Proof of age and work permit signed by a school principal/superintendent or another school official are required |
| New York | All minor workers need an application for working papers. The application must be signed by a parent or guardian and filed with the school |
| North Carolina | Work certificate must be completed by minor, parent or guardian, and employer |
| Ohio | Work permit required and signed by parent or guardian and employer |
| Oklahoma | A work form must be signed by the employer, parent or guardian, school principal, and minor |
| Oregon | No work permits are necessary |
| Pennsylvania | Work form must be completed by parent or guardian, employer, and minor |
| Rhode Island | The minor plus parent or guardian must complete a special limited permit to work application |
| South Carolina | Work permit required |
| South Dakota | Work permit required |
| Tennessee | Work permits are not required |
| Texas | Work permit required |
| Utah | Work permit required |
| Vermont | Must complete child labor certificate with written approval from the Commissioner of Education |
| Virginia | Must complete an employment certificate application signed by the employer, teen, and parents |
| Washington | A work form must be completed by the minor, parent, or guardian, and the school |
| West Virginia | Must complete a form with signatures from employer, principal, county superintendent, and a parent or legal guardian |
| Wisconsin | Minor must visit school office with proof of age, social security card, and letter from employer. Written parental consent plus a $10 permit fee are also required |
| Wyoming | Work permits are not required |
Best jobs for 14-year-olds: FAQ
What’s the minimum age to get a job in the US?
Generally, the minimum age to get a job is 14 years old for any non-agricultural job.
There are occasional exceptions for young workers at family-owned businesses or for agricultural jobs, like helping a family farm collect the harvest.
How many hours can a 14-year-old work?
According to the Fair Labor Standards Act, 14-year-olds can work only three hours a day on school days and no more than 18 hours a week while school is in session.
On non-school days, 14-year-olds can work 8 hours per day, for a total of no more than 40 hours per week.
How much do 14-year-olds get paid?
For the first 90-days of employment, employers may pay minors (under 20 years old) the youth minimum wage of $4.25 an hour.
After this initial time period, 14-year-olds must be paid at least the federal minimum wage, which is $7.25 an hour.
What’s the latest a 14-year-old can work?
14-year-old workers can’t work later than 7 PM (or 9 PM between June 1 and Labor Day). There are no other exceptions to this rule.
What are some good job ideas for a shy 14-year-old?
Shy 14-year-olds may benefit from jobs where they can work alone or with minimal customer interaction. Online jobs are also a good idea.
Jobs for 14-year-olds, final thoughts
Getting a job at 14 doesn’t have to be difficult. By doing your research and preparing for interviews, you’ll be well on your way to landing the job of your dreams. So what are you waiting for? Start your job search today!
