Places That Hire at 15 in Berkeley, CA: Key Takeaways
- 15-year-olds in Berkeley can work in entry-level restaurant roles like cashier, host/hostess, and busser earning the state minimum wage of $15.50/hour as of 2023.
- Fast food chains such as McDonald's, Burger King, Subway, Taco Bell, and Wendy's commonly hire 15-year-olds for crew member and customer service roles.
- California labor laws limit 15-year-olds to working up to 3 hours on school days and 18 hours weekly during school session, with broader limits during breaks.
Berkeley offers various job opportunities for 15-year-olds, especially within the restaurant industry, where teens can gain valuable work experience.
This guide highlights typical entry-level jobs, employers that hire young workers, work hour rules, and helpful permits and resources.
What Types of Jobs Can a 15-Year-Old Get in the Restaurant Industry in Berkeley, CA?
At 15, most job opportunities in Berkeley restaurants are focused on entry-level positions that build foundational skills.
Common roles include cashier, host/hostess, and busser, offering a mix of customer service, food handling, and cleaning duties.
These jobs help teenagers develop communication and responsibility while adapting to workplace safety standards.
Positions require no prior experience but do require a work permit and adherence to state labor laws.
Employers looking to hire young workers may benefit from strategies shared in our restaurant staff hiring spotlight.
Fast-Food Places That Hire at 15 in Berkeley, CA
Many well-known fast-food restaurants in Berkeley employ 15-year-olds for crew member and cash handling positions that emphasize teamwork and speed.
McDonald's
McDonald's hires 15-year-olds as crew members performing tasks such as food preparation, customer service, and maintaining cleanliness.
Burger King
Burger King offers team member roles where 15-year-olds can develop skills in order taking and food assembly.
Subway
Subway often employs younger workers as sandwich artists, helping with food prep and customer orders in a fast-paced environment.
Taco Bell
Taco Bell hires 15-year-olds for entry-level tasks like cashiering and food prep focused on efficient service.
Wendy's
Wendy's crew member positions for 15-year-olds involve cashiering, front counter duties, and supporting kitchen staff.
For parents and employers alike, understanding the best hiring practices for fast-food workers can make the process smoother.
Fast-Casual Restaurants That Hire at 15 in Berkeley, CA
Some fast-casual dining establishments in Berkeley also hire 15-year-olds, offering valuable customer service experience.
Chipotle Mexican Grill
Chipotle may employ 15-year-olds as crew members to help with food preparation and order assembly.
Panda Express
Panda Express hires younger employees for counter help and dining area assistance roles.
Panera Bread
At Panera Bread, 15-year-olds can work as cashiers or dining room attendants, providing customer service and maintaining the dining space.
Restaurant owners interested in improving their hiring process can check our guide to hiring a restaurant manager for practical tips.
How Many Hours Can a 15-Year-Old Work in Berkeley, CA?
California state law imposes specific limits to balance work with education and rest for 14 and 15-year-olds.
When school is in session, 15-year-olds may work up to 3 hours per day on school days, up to 8 hours on non-school days, and a maximum of 18 hours weekly.
Work hours during school are restricted to between 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. from Labor Day through May 31.
When school is not in session, work hours extend to 8 hours per day, up to 40 hours weekly, with permissible hours from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. between June 1 and Labor Day.
Additionally, 15-year-olds are prohibited from hazardous jobs such as operating power-driven machinery or working with open flames.
All work must comply with child labor laws ensuring safety and education priorities are maintained.
Employers should review the latest hiring cost insights for better budget planning while hiring young employees.
Resources for 15-Year-Olds looking for Jobs in Berkeley, CA
- California Department of Industrial Relations: Information on Minors and Employment
- Young Workers' Rights: Teen Workers - youngworkers.org
- California Child Labor Laws | 14 & 15 Year Old CA Workers
For teens aspiring to build hospitality careers, our best summer jobs for teens guide offers additional options and opportunities.