Places That Hire at 16 in Atlanta

If you’re 16 and looking for a part-time job in Atlanta to earn extra cash or gain experience, the restaurant industry offers an excellent starting point. Whether you’re interested in becoming a Cashier, Busser, Host/Hostess, Dishwasher or Food Runner, there are plenty of opportunities that require little to no prior experience.

Below is a list of restaurants and hospitality establishments in Atlanta that hire at 16, complete with addresses and additional resources.

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

The restaurant industry is diverse, offering numerous entry-level roles that help young workers develop important skills like customer service, teamwork and responsibility.

Here are a few roles you can apply for at 16:

• Cashier – Handle transactions, take orders and assist customers. Great for developing interpersonal skills.
• Busser – Clear and set tables while assisting Servers. Ideal for gaining experience in restaurant operations.
• Host/Hostess – Greet and seat guests. A fantastic opportunity to improve communication and organizational skills.
• Dishwasher – Ensure all dishes and utensils are clean and ready for use. This role teaches efficiency and teamwork.
• Fast Food Worker – Assist with food preparation and order assembly. A fast-paced job that enhances multitasking skills.
• Food Runner – Deliver food from the kitchen to tables quickly and accurately.

Now let’s explore where you can find these jobs in Atlanta.

Fast-Food Places That Hire at 16 in Atlanta

Below are some fast-food establishments that offer job opportunities for teens.

1. McDonald’s

McDonald’s is one of the largest and most recognizable fast-food chains globally, making it a top employer for teens looking for their first job. As a 16-year-old, you can apply for roles like Cashier, Food Prep Worker or Drive-Thru Attendant.

Employees at McDonald’s benefit from flexible scheduling, employee discounts, and the chance to be promoted into higher roles like Shift Manager. McDonald’s also offers a variety of scholarship opportunities and professional development programs for employees interested in furthering their careers.

See more at McDonald’s Careers Page.

2. Chick-fil-A

Chick-fil-A is known for its exceptional customer service and positive work environment. They hire 16-year-olds for roles such as Front Counter Attendant, Kitchen Team Member, and Drive-Thru Operator. Chick-fil-A is unique in that all locations are closed on Sundays, allowing employees a guaranteed day off.

Employees often mention the supportive work culture and potential for advancement, with many Store Managers and Operators starting as entry-level team members. Additional perks include employee meal discounts and competitive wages.

See more at Chick-fil-A Careers Page.

3. Burger King

Burger King offers 16-year-olds opportunities to work as Cashiers, Kitchen Crew Members and Dining Room Attendants. This global chain focuses on teamwork and efficiency, creating a great environment to develop valuable skills.

Employees often benefit from meal discounts, flexible shifts and performance-based raises. Burger King is also known for its quick promotion system, allowing dedicated employees to move up to Shift Leader or Assistant Manager roles relatively quickly.

See more at Burger King Careers Page.

4. Taco Bell

Taco Bell hires 16-year-olds for entry-level positions such as Team Member and Food Prep Worker. Employees handle tasks including taking orders, preparing food and maintaining cleanliness. Taco Bell is a fast-paced environment that helps teens develop multitasking and customer service skills.

One of the notable benefits is their scholarship program for employees pursuing higher education, as well as opportunities to climb the ladder into management roles.

See more at Taco Bell Careers Page.

5. Arby’s

Arby’s, known for its roast beef sandwiches and curly fries, provides entry-level opportunities for 16-year-olds in roles such as Cashier and Crew Member.

Employees at Arby’s enjoy meal discounts, flexible hours and a friendly work environment. Arby’s also focuses on internal promotions, providing leadership training programs to employees looking to take on managerial responsibilities. This makes it an excellent place for career growth in the hospitality industry.

See more at Arby’s Careers Page.

Fast-Casual Restaurants That Hire at 16 in Atlanta

A step-up from fast food restaurants, the establishments below offer career opportunities for teens in Atlanta.

1. Chipotle Mexican Grill

Chipotle offers 16-year-olds the chance to work as Crew Members, handling everything from customer orders to kitchen prep. Employees at Chipotle benefit from free meals during shifts, competitive hourly wages and the opportunity to receive tuition assistance.

Chipotle values career advancement, and many team members progress to managerial roles within their first year. The fast-paced nature of the restaurant helps teens develop valuable customer service and culinary skills.

See more at Chipotle Careers Page.

2. Panera Bread

Panera Bread frequently hires 16-year-olds for positions such as Cashier and Dining Room Associate. Employees enjoy a calm, friendly atmosphere with regular daytime shifts, making it ideal for students balancing school and work.

Panera also offers free meals during shifts and opportunities to move up to higher roles, such as Shift Supervisor. They prioritize work-life balance, making this a great place for teens seeking flexible part-time work.

See more at Panera Bread Careers Page.

3. Noodles & Company

Noodles & Company hires 16-year-olds for entry-level roles like Cashier and Kitchen Assistant. The company promotes a fun, inclusive environment and encourages personal development through leadership training programs.

Employees often highlight the free meals and team-oriented atmosphere as major perks of the job. Noodles & Company also allows flexible scheduling, which is perfect for high school students.

See more at Noodles & Company Careers Page.

How Many Hours Can a 16-Year-Old Work in Atlanta?

In Georgia, the number of hours a 16-year-old can work is governed by federal and state labor laws.

• School Days – Up to 4 hours per day and 20 hours per week.
• Non-School Days – Up to 8 hours per day and 40 hours per week.
• Evening Hours – No work past 9:00 p.m. during the school year, but extended to 11:00 p.m. during the summer.