Places That Hire at 14 in Tacoma, WA

Places That Hire at 14 in Tacoma, WA: Key Takeaways

14-year-olds in Tacoma, WA can work in entry-level restaurant jobs like cashier, dining room attendant, and host/hostess.
Fast food and fast casual restaurants often hire 14-year-olds, with wages starting at 85% of Washington’s minimum wage for under-16 workers.
State law limits work hours for 14-year-olds to 3 hours on school days and 16 hours per week during the school year, extending hours and limits during school vacations.

Young teens in Tacoma have opportunities to gain work experience in the food service industry, balancing work with education and legal work hour limits.

This article highlights common job types, popular employers in Tacoma, hourly restrictions, and helpful resources to get started.

What Types of Jobs Can a 14-Year-Old Get in the Restaurant Industry in Tacoma, WA?

At age 14, teens can typically find entry-level positions within Tacoma restaurants that provide foundational work experience.

Common roles include cashier, dining room attendant, and host or hostess.

These jobs involve greeting customers, taking orders, serving food, cleaning, and basic food preparation—all within restrictions placed by Washington law to ensure safety.

Wages for under-16 employees usually begin at 85% of the state's minimum wage to comply with labor regulations.

Fast-Food Places That Hire at 14 in Tacoma, WA

Several fast-food chains in Tacoma commonly hire workers at age 14, offering flexible schedules and entry-level responsibilities suitable for young teens.

McDonald's

McDonald's frequently hires 14-year-olds for crew member roles involving cashier duties, order assembly, and maintaining cleanliness to ensure customer satisfaction.

Burger King

Burger King hires teens aged 14 for cashier and service positions, where workers assist with taking orders and supporting kitchen staff under supervision.

Wendy's

Wendy's employs younger teens in roles such as front counter workers who take orders, prepare simple menu items, and help keep the dining area tidy.

Taco Bell

Taco Bell offers entry-level roles for 14-year-olds that focus on customer service and food assembly, often as part of a team environment.

For employers looking to fill roles with young workers, our guide on how to hire a fast-food worker can provide useful tips and compliance information.

Fast-Casual Restaurants That Hire at 14 in Tacoma, WA

Fast-casual establishments also welcome young workers to gain experience in food service, often with an emphasis on customer interaction and clean workspace standards.

Panera Bread

Panera Bread hires 14-year-olds to assist as cashiers or dining room attendants, helping with orders and maintaining a pleasant customer experience.

Chipotle

Chipotle may employ younger teens in support roles focused on ingredient prep and customer service under close supervision.

Chick-fil-A

Chick-fil-A offers roles suitable for 14-year-olds such as front counter attendants assisting with orders and dining area upkeep.

Employers hiring for these roles can benefit from the insights in our spotlight on how to hire server or waiter to attract and retain reliable service staff.

How Many Hours Can a 14-Year-Old Work in Tacoma, WA?

Washington state enforces strict rules on teen work hours to protect their schooling and health.

For 14- and 15-year-olds during the school year, work hours are limited to 3 hours per day on school days and up to 16 hours per week.

They can work between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. on school days, extended to 9 p.m. from June 1 through Labor Day.

On non-school days and during school vacations, they may work up to 8 hours per day and a maximum of 40 hours per week, with work hours allowed between 7 a.m. and 9 p.m.

These rules help ensure teens balance work responsibilities with education and rest.

Employers must also comply with other labor laws, including obtaining a Minor Work Permit endorsement and limiting hazardous duties.

To understand employer responsibilities better, see our spotlight on restaurant staff hiring for tips on compliant recruitment practices.

Resources for 14-Year-Olds looking for Jobs in Tacoma, WA

Many young workers may begin their journey in hospitality with roles such as hostess, which familiarizes them with customer service and restaurant operations.

01. What jobs can 14-year-olds do in Tacoma restaurants?

14-year-olds can work as cashiers, dining room attendants, and hosts or hostesses in Tacoma restaurants.

02. Which fast-food places hire 14-year-olds in Tacoma?

McDonald's, Burger King, Wendy's, and Taco Bell commonly hire workers aged 14 in Tacoma.

03. How many hours can a 14-year-old work during the school year in Washington?

During the school year, 14-year-olds in Washington can work up to 3 hours on school days and 16 hours per week.

04. Are there special permits required for minors working at 14?

Yes, employers must obtain a Minor Work Permit endorsement for 14-year-old workers.

05. What protections are there for hazardous duties for 14-year-olds?

Washington state law prohibits minors under 16 from performing hazardous jobs, ensuring their safety at work.