Finding a first job at 17 is a significant step toward financial independence and professional growth. Employment at this age requires navigating specific legal requirements while identifying employers who value entry-level enthusiasm. Understanding the available positions and preparing effectively for the hiring process is key. This guide details the types of companies that frequently hire young workers and provides practical strategies for securing a position.
Understanding Labor Laws for 17-Year-Old Workers
Working at age 17 is governed by federal and state child labor laws designed to protect education and safety. The federal Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) permits 16- and 17-year-olds to work unlimited hours in non-agricultural jobs. Federally, there are no restrictions on the number of hours or the time of day a 17-year-old can work during non-school weeks.
Most states impose their own restrictions, particularly when school is in session, which often supersede federal rules. For example, some states limit school week hours to around 28 and restrict work hours on school nights to end before midnight. These state mandates ensure employment does not interfere with academic performance.
Seventeen-year-olds are prohibited from performing any of the 17 Hazardous Occupations (HOs) defined by the FLSA. These prohibitions include operating certain power-driven machinery, such as meat slicers, and working in roofing or excavation. A restriction for this age group is the prohibition on driving delivery vehicles as part of a job, which often prevents hiring as delivery drivers. Many states also require minors to obtain a work permit or employment certificate before starting a job, typically issued by a school official or the state’s department of labor.
Major Employer Categories That Hire 17-Year-Olds
Retail and Grocery Chains
Large national retail and grocery chains frequently hire 17-year-olds for entry-level positions due to consistent staffing needs. General merchandise stores like Target and Walmart hire young workers for roles such as Guest Advocate or General Merchandise Associate. These positions involve customer service, cashiering, stocking shelves, and organizing displays.
Grocery stores such as Kroger and Publix are also major employers. Common roles include Cashier, Bagger, or Cart Attendant, which require minimal prior experience. These environments provide early exposure to inventory management and direct customer interaction.
Restaurants and Fast Food Establishments
The food service industry is a major employer of young people, offering flexible scheduling that aligns with a high school student’s availability. National chains like Chick-fil-A, Chipotle, and McDonald’s seek counter service staff, food preparers, and bussers. These roles teach speed, efficiency, and the ability to manage high-pressure situations during busy meal rushes.
Sit-down restaurants, including chains like Applebee’s, may hire 17-year-olds for positions like Host/Hostess or Busser. Minors are restricted from operating certain kitchen equipment but can often work as a Prep Cook performing tasks that do not involve hazardous machinery. These environments provide experience in team-based service and professional communication.
Entertainment and Recreational Venues
Employment opportunities extend beyond traditional retail and food service into leisure venues. Movie theaters, such as AMC, frequently hire minors to work at concession stands or take tickets, especially during evening and weekend shifts. Local amusement parks, bowling alleys, and water parks provide seasonal employment that peaks during the summer.
Community centers and local parks and recreation departments also employ 17-year-olds in roles like camp counselors, front desk staff, or coaching youth sports. Lifeguarding is another option, provided the applicant obtains the necessary certifications, and is often in high demand during the summer season.
Local and Specialized Businesses
Smaller, independent businesses often present opportunities for young workers who seek them out proactively. Local coffee shops, dry cleaners, or specialized retail stores may have less structured hiring policies and value community ties. A direct inquiry can often lead to a job, even if these businesses do not advertise broadly.
Tutoring centers or specialized instruction businesses are also potential employers for students with strong academic records. These roles allow a 17-year-old to leverage their knowledge and develop instructional skills while providing a service to younger students.
Strategies for Securing Your First Job
Securing a first job requires translating school achievements and extracurricular activities into professional assets on a basic resume. List volunteer work, academic awards, or leadership roles in school clubs, as these demonstrate responsibility and teamwork. Focus on transferable skills, such as time management developed through balancing homework with sports or clubs, to show readiness for a structured work environment.
Preparation for the interview involves practicing responses to common questions about availability, reliability, and handling challenging situations. When discussing availability, be precise about your school schedule and emphasize your willingness to work evenings, weekends, and holidays. A professional presentation, including arriving punctually and maintaining polite eye contact, signals seriousness and respect for the opportunity.
Following up with a brief, polite email after the interview reinforces interest and demonstrates organizational skills. Emphasizing a positive attitude and coachability is persuasive to employers, as they prioritize a strong work ethic over a young worker’s lack of experience.
The Value of Early Work Experience
Starting work at 17 provides an early advantage in developing soft skills valued in any future career path. Consistent employment teaches practical time management by balancing work shifts with academic obligations. Customer-facing roles, whether in retail or food service, build interpersonal skills, teaching clear communication and how to handle difficult situations with composure.
Early employment is a practical introduction to financial literacy, offering opportunities to practice saving and budgeting with a regular paycheck. Learning to allocate earnings establishes habits that contribute to long-term financial stability. Every job also provides the opportunity to build a professional network and secure references from supervisors who can vouch for reliability and work ethic on future applications.