Subway restaurants are a popular first employer for young people seeking experience in customer service and food preparation. Working at a quick-service restaurant is a practical step toward building a resume and earning personal income. This article provides a clear understanding of the minimum age requirements and the necessary steps to secure a position at Subway.
Minimum Age Requirements for Subway
The general minimum age requirement to work at most Subway restaurants across the United States is 16 years old. This age is often preferred because federal child labor laws allow 16-year-olds to work more flexible hours than younger teens. However, this corporate guideline is not absolute, as the final decision rests with the local franchise owner.
In some cases, local franchise owners may opt to hire applicants who are 14 or 15 years old, provided they comply with all state and federal labor regulations. This is less common because the strict limitations on hours and duties for this age group can complicate scheduling. Therefore, while a 16-year-old is the most likely candidate, a younger applicant should always inquire directly with a specific location.
Understanding State and Franchise Variations
The variation in hiring ages is a direct result of Subway’s business model, where nearly all restaurants are independently owned and operated by franchisees. This means that hiring decisions are decentralized, and a manager at one location may have a different policy than a manager at another. The local owner’s hiring needs and staffing preferences play a large role in determining the lowest age they are willing to consider.
These local decisions are constrained by two layers of labor law: the federal Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) and specific state child labor regulations. The FLSA sets the federal minimum age for employment and limits the number of hours and the types of jobs minors can perform. State laws often impose stricter rules, such as restricting work past a certain hour on school nights or requiring a work permit. The employer must follow the law that is the most protective of the minor, whether state or federal.
Typical Job Duties and Available Roles
The primary entry-level position available to young workers at Subway is the Sandwich Artist role. This position involves a variety of customer-facing and food preparation tasks, including greeting guests and assembling sandwiches according to specific instructions. Other responsibilities include operating the cash register and point-of-sale system to complete customer transactions.
Beyond direct customer service, the job includes back-of-house duties like stocking ingredients, preparing fresh items, and general cleaning of the dining area and food prep line. Federal and state child labor laws prohibit minors from operating certain types of heavy-duty equipment, such as commercial meat slicers or mixers. Late-night shifts and roles that involve driving are restricted for workers under the age of 18.
The Subway Application Process
The most common method for applying to work at Subway is through the official corporate or franchise career websites. These online portals allow applicants to search for openings in their local area and complete a standardized application form. This process ensures the application is formally recorded and routed to the correct hiring manager.
It is also effective to apply in person by visiting the specific Subway restaurant where you hope to work. This allows a potential employee to introduce themselves to the manager and make a professional impression. After the application is submitted, successful candidates are contacted for an interview.
Required Documentation for Young Workers
Once a job offer is extended, minors must complete administrative steps before they can legally begin working. The most common requirement is obtaining a school-issued employment certificate, often referred to as “working papers” or a “work permit,” which is mandatory in many states for those under 16. This document confirms that the minor’s work hours will not interfere with their education.
The employer will also require documentation to verify the applicant’s age and identity, such as a birth certificate, state-issued identification card, or a driver’s license. A written parental or guardian consent form is often a mandatory part of the hiring package for all workers under 18. This paperwork ensures the employer is compliant with child labor laws and has the necessary permissions to employ a minor.