Places That Hire at 16 in Ames, IA

Places That Hire at 16 in Ames, IA: Key Takeaways

16-year-olds in Ames can work in various roles like cashier, server, and cook, mostly within the restaurant industry.
Hourly wages for these positions generally range from $11 to $15, depending on the employer and role.
Iowa's updated child labor laws allow 16-year-olds to work until 9:00 p.m. during school sessions and until 11:00 p.m. in summer, with provisions for serving alcohol under specific conditions.

Discover job opportunities and legal guidelines for 16-year-olds seeking employment in Ames, IA. This guide highlights businesses hiring teens and explains work hour rules.

Whether you want to work in fast food or retail, Ames offers several suitable options for young workers.

For employers, understanding effective strategies can be crucial. Learn more about places that hire at 16 and how to attract young talent efficiently.

What Types of Jobs Can a 16-Year-Old Get in the Restaurant Industry in Ames, IA?

Many 16-year-olds find positions in restaurants that offer entry-level roles well-suited for teens. Common jobs include cashier, server, and cook. These roles help develop customer service skills and offer flexible schedules.

Some positions may involve food preparation and assistance, while others focus on customer interaction and handling payments. Many employers also provide on-the-job training to support new young workers.

Developing an effective restaurant job description is key for attracting the right candidates for these roles.

Fast-Food Places That Hire at 16 in Ames, IA

Several fast-food chains in Ames are known to hire 16-year-olds, offering varied roles and competitive pay. Below are some popular options to consider.

Freddy's of Iowa

Freddy's offers Team Member, Cashier, and Cook positions to teenagers starting at age 16. Pay ranges from $11 to $15 per hour depending on experience and job duties. This is a great environment for gaining work experience in a fast-paced setting.

Employers looking for best practices can check out our guide on how to hire a fast-food worker efficiently.

Chipotle

Chipotle hires 16-year-olds as Crew Members with hourly wages typically between $13 and $14. Crew Members assist with food preparation, customer service, and maintaining restaurant cleanliness.

Fareway Stores Inc

Although primarily a grocery chain, Fareway hires workers aged 14 and up for roles such as Grocery Clerk, which may include stocking shelves and cashier work. It offers teens good exposure to retail operations alongside food-related tasks.

Fast-Casual Restaurants That Hire at 16 in Ames, IA

In addition to fast food, some fast-casual restaurants also employ 16-year-olds, providing slightly different work environments and job responsibilities.

Noodles & Company

Noodles & Company hires teens for Cashier and Server positions. These roles involve taking orders, serving food, and helping maintain a welcoming dining area, fitting for those wanting customer service experience.

Explore career paths and interview preparation for servers to grow your restaurant team.

Kohl's

While not a restaurant, Kohl’s offers Seasonal Retail Sales Associate roles to workers aged 16 and older. These seasonal jobs can provide retail experience during busy periods, complementing restaurant work opportunities.

For a comprehensive look at retail hiring, visit how to hire a cashier, which includes strategies relevant to similar entry-level roles.

How Many Hours Can a 16-Year-Old Work in Ames, IA?

Iowa updated its child labor laws effective July 1, 2023, expanding work hour limits for 16-year-olds. During the school year, they may work until 9:00 p.m., while summer hours extend until 11:00 p.m.

The revised regulations also permit 16- and 17-year-olds to serve alcohol in restaurants with specific restrictions:

Parental permission is mandatory.
At least two employees aged 18 or older must be present during alcohol service by minors.
Employers must provide mandatory sexual harassment training.
Any harassment incidents must be reported to the Iowa Civil Rights Commission and the minor’s parents.
Employers are required to notify their dram shop liability insurance providers.

Despite the relaxed state rules, federal laws still prohibit minors from working in hazardous occupations. Employers must ensure compliance with both Iowa and federal requirements when hiring 16-year-olds.

Restaurant owners seeking tips on responsible hiring practices can refer to how to hire restaurant staff fast for valuable insights.

Resources for 16-Year-Olds looking for Jobs in Ames

For youth aiming to enter hospitality roles such as food preparation, check the career details about how to become a cook.

01. What types of jobs can a 16-year-old get in Ames, IA?

16-year-olds can find roles in restaurants, fast food chains, and retail stores, including cashier, server, cook, and grocery clerk positions.

02. What are the working hour limits for 16-year-olds in Ames?

During the school year, 16-year-olds can work until 9:00 p.m., and in the summer, they can work until 11:00 p.m.

03. Are 16-year-olds allowed to serve alcohol in Ames restaurants?

Yes, with parental permission and under strict conditions such as the presence of two employees over 18, required training, and proper notifications.

04. What kind of jobs does Kohl’s offer to 16-year-olds?

Kohl's provides Seasonal Retail Sales Associate roles, ideal for gaining retail experience during busy periods.

05. Do employers need to follow federal labor laws when hiring 16-year-olds in Ames?

Yes, employers must comply with both Iowa state laws and federal regulations, including prohibitions on hazardous work for minors.