Places That Hire at 16 in Bellevue, WA

Places That Hire at 16 in Bellevue, WA: Key Takeaways

Common restaurant jobs for 16-year-olds in Bellevue include cashier, host/hostess, busser, and food runner.
Wage rates generally start at the Washington state minimum wage of $15.74 per hour as of 2025.
Work hour limits for 16-year-olds vary by school week status, with a max of 20 hours during school weeks and 48 hours during non-school weeks.

For young job seekers in Bellevue, WA, there are plenty of entry-level opportunities in the local restaurant industry.

This guide highlights places hiring 16-year-olds and the legal framework around their work hours and duties.

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

Sixteen-year-olds looking for work in Bellevue's restaurant scene often start in customer-facing or support roles. Common positions include:

These roles provide valuable experience in customer service, teamwork, and basic food handling. Starting wages usually align with Washington’s state minimum wage, which is $15.74 per hour as of 2025, though some employers may pay more depending on experience or specific duties.

Employers looking to hire young workers can benefit from our insights on places that hire at 16, helping them target the right candidates effectively.

Fast-Food Places That Hire at 16 in Bellevue

Many well-known fast-food chains in Bellevue have positions suitable for 16-year-olds. These eateries often provide a great starting point for teens to gain work experience in the food service industry.

McDonald's

McDonald's hires crew members and cashiers to handle food preparation, customer service, and order transactions.

Burger King

Burger King employs team members for food prep and maintaining customer service standards.

Wendy's

Wendy's seeks crew members who assist with service and cleaning duties.

Taco Bell

Taco Bell offers positions as service crew responsible for taking orders and ensuring cleanliness.

Subway

Subway hires sandwich artists who prepare food and manage customer orders.

For businesses interested in optimizing their hiring process for fast-food roles, our guide to hiring fast-food workers offers effective strategies.

Fast-Casual Restaurants That Hire at 16 in Bellevue

Bellevue also hosts several fast-casual dining spots that welcome young workers for entry-level positions.

Chipotle Mexican Grill

Chipotle hires team members to assist with food preparation and customer service.

Panera Bread

At Panera, positions include cashier and bakery-café associates, where teens can gain food handling and customer service skills.

MOD Pizza

MOD Pizza employs squad members who help with food prep and engage with customers.

For employers, understanding how to write appealing job descriptions can be critical. See our comprehensive guide to crafting restaurant job descriptions to attract great applicants.

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

Washington state regulates work hours for minors to ensure schooling and health are prioritized. For 16- and 17-year-olds specifically:

During School Weeks:

Maximum 4 hours per school day (Monday to Thursday)
Up to 8 hours on non-school days (Friday to Sunday)
Maximum 20 hours per week
Work permitted between 7 a.m. and 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday; until midnight on Friday and Saturday

During Non-School Weeks:

Up to 8 hours per day
Maximum 48 hours per week
Work allowed from 5 a.m. to midnight

Employers must also observe break requirements:

Paid 10-minute rest break for every 4 hours worked
Unpaid 30-minute meal break for shifts longer than 5 hours, taken no later than the end of the third hour

Additionally, minors cannot engage in hazardous work such as operating heavy machinery, working at heights over 10 feet, or handling toxic substances.

Employers are required to secure a minor work permit and ensure compliance with Washington labor laws when hiring individuals under 18 years old.

Hiring managers will also find value in our spotlight on how to hire a cashier, helping them navigate legal requirements and best practices.

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

01. What jobs can 16-year-olds get in Bellevue's restaurant industry?

Entry-level roles for 16-year-olds in Bellevue's restaurant industry include cashier, host/hostess, busser, and food runner.

02. What are the work hour limits for 16-year-olds in Bellevue?

During school weeks, 16-year-olds can work up to 20 hours a week, with daily limits on school days and non-school days. During non-school weeks, the limit increases to 48 hours per week.

03. What is the starting wage for 16-year-olds in Bellevue?

Starting wages for 16-year-olds typically align with Washington state minimum wage, which is $15.74 per hour as of 2025.

04. Are minors allowed to perform hazardous work in Bellevue?

No, minors are prohibited from engaging in hazardous work like operating heavy machinery or working at heights over 10 feet.

05. What permits are required for hiring 16-year-olds in Bellevue?

Employers must secure minor work permits and comply with Washington labor laws when hiring 16- and 17-year-olds.