Finding part-time employment at age 14 represents a significant opportunity to gain financial independence and develop responsibility. Securing a first job teaches time management and professional communication. Success requires navigating specific age-based regulations and finding employers who offer positions that align with a school schedule. Understanding the legal framework and the types of available work is important before starting the job search.
Legal Working Restrictions for 14-Year-Olds
The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) sets federal guidelines that govern employment for 14-year-olds in non-agricultural jobs. These rules strictly limit the number of hours worked to ensure that employment does not interfere with education. During any week when school is in session, a minor may work a maximum of three hours on a school day and no more than 18 hours total for the week.
When school is not in session, such as during summer breaks, the permissible hours increase to eight hours per day and up to 40 hours for the entire week. Time-of-day restrictions apply throughout the year, prohibiting work before 7:00 a.m. or after 7:00 p.m. This evening limit is extended to 9:00 p.m. during the summer period, specifically from June 1 through Labor Day.
Federal law also prohibits 14-year-olds from working in occupations deemed hazardous. Prohibited work includes manufacturing, mining, most construction jobs, and operating power-driven machinery, such as meat slicers or lawnmowers. Employment in any workroom or workplace where goods are processed or manufactured is also generally restricted. If a state or local law has stricter child labor standards than the FLSA, the stricter law always takes precedence.
Specific Industries That Hire 14-Year-Olds
Businesses with low-risk environments and flexible scheduling are the most common employers for this age group. They offer roles that comply with the hour and occupational restrictions while providing practical work experience.
Retail and Grocery Stores
Retail establishments frequently hire 14-year-olds for support roles that do not involve operating heavy equipment or working late hours. Permissible jobs often include bagging groceries, retrieving shopping carts from the parking lot, and performing light stocking duties. Other tasks involve price tagging merchandise or assisting with general cleaning and organizing shelves.
Restaurants and Food Service
Many quick-service and casual dining restaurants offer entry-level positions focused on customer service and cleaning. A 14-year-old may be hired as a host or hostess, busing tables, or washing dishes. Operating power-driven food preparation equipment, such as food processors or meat slicers, or performing any baking operations is strictly prohibited.
Entertainment and Recreation
Recreational facilities often seek young workers for seasonal or after-school work in environments like community centers or movie theaters. Roles may include working as an attendant at a concession stand or serving as a camp counselor aide during the summer months. Other opportunities include working as a caddy at a golf course or assisting with light maintenance in a local park.
Office and Clerical Work
Some businesses hire minors for simple office tasks that do not require specialized skills or heavy lifting. These positions involve clerical work such as filing documents, performing general cleanup of office spaces, or running errands within the business premises. Using basic office machines like computers and copiers is allowed under federal law.
Alternative Ways to Earn Money
Beyond formal employment with a business, many 14-year-olds find success with self-directed methods of earning income. These activities are not subject to the same strict FLSA regulations regarding hours and permits, offering greater flexibility. These options often rely on providing neighborhood services and leveraging personal skills.
Neighborhood services represent a common path, including dog walking, pet sitting, or caring for younger children as a babysitter. Yard work is another option, such as raking leaves or weeding gardens, though operating any power-driven equipment like a lawnmower is prohibited. Small entrepreneurial efforts allow for direct income generation, such as tutoring younger students or selling handmade crafts and goods online or at local markets. These independent opportunities require direct communication with clients and strong organizational skills to manage scheduling and payments.
Steps for Finding and Applying for Your First Job
The job search begins by creating a basic resume that focuses on relevant experience, such as volunteer activities, school clubs, and academic achievements. Since formal work history is limited, this document should highlight skills like responsibility, punctuality, and teamwork demonstrated through non-work experiences. Many local businesses prefer to hire in person, so approaching the manager directly with a physical application can be an effective strategy.
Once a job offer is extended, obtaining a work permit or employment certificate is a necessary step before beginning work in most states. The process requires the minor, a parent or guardian, and the employer to complete and sign specific sections of an application. This form is usually submitted to the local school district or the state labor department for final approval.
Parental involvement is important in the initial stages, helping to review the job offer and ensuring all paperwork is correctly completed. Preparing for the interview involves practicing common questions and having a clear understanding of the legal hours you are able to work.