Jobs That Hire at 15: Companies Hiring Teens Right Now 

For many teenagers, getting a job at 15 is more than just a way to earn money—it’s a valuable opportunity to gain work experience, learn responsibility, and build confidence. Although jobs for 15-year-olds are more limited due to labor laws, there are several national chains and local businesses that are willing to give young teens a shot. Whether it’s scooping ice cream, bagging groceries, or lifeguarding at the local pool, the right job can provide real-world lessons that lay the groundwork for future employment.

TLDR: Jobs for 15-Year-Olds

If you’re 15 and looking for work, you’re not out of luck. Several well-known companies hire teens as young as 15 for entry-level roles, often in food service, retail, or recreation. Common positions include cashier, crew member, and lifeguard. While federal law limits your work hours, many companies offer flexible shifts suited for school-aged employees.

Understanding the Legal Basics

Before diving into job opportunities, it’s essential to understand the legal requirements. Under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), 14 is the minimum age for most non-agricultural work. However, 15-year-olds face limitations on how many hours they can work, especially during the school year. Here’s a quick overview:

• On school days: Up to 3 hours
• On non-school days: Up to 8 hours
• Weekly cap: 18 hours when school is in session, 40 hours during breaks
• Permissible work hours: Between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. (extended to 9 p.m. in summer)

Because of these constraints, most employers hiring at 15 offer part-time roles that match what is legally allowed.

Companies That Hire at 15

While many companies prefer employees to be at least 16, there are still several big names that provide opportunities for 15-year-olds. These positions usually involve customer service, food preparation, or basic maintenance tasks.

1. McDonald’s

McDonald’s is one of the largest employers of young workers in the country. Some franchise locations will hire 14- and 15-year-olds, typically for roles such as cashier, lobby attendant, or kitchen crew member.

Why it’s good for teens: Flexible schedules, employee meal discounts, and opportunities for advancement through programs like Archways to Opportunity.

2. Chick-fil-A

Certain Chick-fil-A locations hire 15-year-olds for entry-level front-of-house positions like hosting, greeting, or food delivery within the restaurant. Not all locations do, so eligibility depends on local franchise and state law.

Pros: Clean, professional atmosphere and a strong focus on customer service training make it a popular first job for teens.

3. Kroger & Subsidiaries

Kroger and its subsidiaries—including Fry’s, King Soopers, Smith’s, and Fred Meyer—sometimes hire 15-year-olds, depending on location and labor shortage. Common roles include courtesy clerk and bagger.

Tip: Apply in person and speak with a manager, as many corporate applications filter based on age eligibility.

4. Publix

A well-known grocery store in the Southeastern U.S., Publix hires 14- and 15-year-olds for roles like front service clerk, bagger, or cart attendant.

Why teens like it: The store has a reputation for treating employees well, and many managers started as teen associates themselves.

5. Six Flags

If you live near a Six Flags amusement park, they offer seasonal jobs to 15-year-olds in roles such as ride operator assistant, food service team member, or park greeter. These jobs tend to open up in the spring and ramp up in the summer.

Benefits: Free park entry, flexible hours, and an exciting work environment.

6. Local Pools and Recreation Centers

Lifeguarding is one of the most common jobs for responsible teens. Though certification through the Red Cross or another accredited organization is required, many community pools and recreation centers will hire trained 15-year-olds during the swim season.

Skills Gained: Emergency response training, responsibility, and communication with both adults and children.

7. YMCA

Many YMCA locations hire teenagers ages 15 and up for summer camp staff, lifeguard, or childcare assistant roles. These community-focused positions are often year-round and offer room for growth.

How to Increase Your Chances of Getting Hired

While some roles are readily available, landing a job at 15 still takes preparation. Employers want teens who are mature, punctual, and willing to learn.

Here are several tips to improve your chances:

• Create a Pre-Resume: Even without much job history, you can document school clubs, volunteer work, or leadership activities.
• Dress neatly: Present yourself professionally when asking about job opportunities.
• Get working papers: Some states require minors to obtain a work permit or parental permission before employment.
• Learn interview basics: Practice making eye contact, offering a firm handshake, and answering questions confidently.

What to Expect on the Job

Jobs at 15 are meant to expose teens to the discipline of employment. Most positions come with entry-level wages near the federal or state minimum wage—but the experience can be invaluable. Here are some common expectations:

• Customer Service: You may be required to interact with customers, give directions, or answer simple questions.
• Cleaning: Sweeping, wiping surfaces, and restocking supplies are important tasks in most entry-level roles.
• Teamwork: You’ll likely need to cooperate with coworkers and report to a supervisor.
• Time Management: Balancing school, work, and personal commitments becomes essential.

Jobs to Avoid at 15

Some industries are strictly off-limits to workers under 16 due to safety regulations. These include:

• Construction and demolition
• Operating heavy machinery
• Mining or logging
• Serving alcohol

Always verify job duties before accepting any position to ensure compliance with child labor laws.

Advantages of Working as a Teen

Beyond the paycheck, a part-time job can offer numerous advantages to 15-year-olds:

• Independence: Learning to earn and budget instills a sense of responsibility.
• Work ethic: Showing up on time and fulfilling tasks builds desirable work habits.
• College applications: Employment can stand out as a sign of responsibility and initiative.
• Networking: Early mentors or managers can provide future references or guidance.

Final Thoughts

Though job opportunities for 15-year-olds are somewhat limited, they are far from nonexistent. Many major retail and food chains—as well as local pools, churches, and community centers—are open to hiring younger teens for entry-level roles. With the right approach and mindset, landing a job at 15 can be a rewarding and educational experience that sets the stage for future success.

Parents and teens alike should work together to ensure that any job aligns with educational goals, family commitments, and legal guidelines. Whether it’s bagging groceries or helping at a summer camp, every job opportunity is a chance to grow.