Places That Hire at 16 in Columbia, MO

Places That Hire at 16 in Columbia, MO: Key Takeaways

• 16-year-olds in Columbia, MO, can work in entry-level restaurant positions such as cashier, server, and kitchen staff.
• Average hourly wages for these roles range from $12 to $15, varying by employer and position.
• Missouri law restricts work during school hours but places no limits on work hours for 16-year-olds otherwise.

Young workers aged 16 in Columbia, MO, have several job opportunities, especially in the restaurant industry.

This article outlines common job types available and details on local regulations affecting teen employment.

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

At 16, teens can start working in various entry-level restaurant roles that provide valuable experience and flexible hours.

Popular positions include:

• Cashier
• Server
• Host/hostess
• Kitchen staff, such as food prep or dishwasher

Wages for these roles typically range from $12 to $15 per hour, influenced by the employer’s pay scale and tip opportunities.

Employers looking to hire young talent should consult our guide to places that hire at 16 for best hiring practices and compliance tips.

Fast-Food Places That Hire at 16 in Columbia, MO

Many fast-food chains in Columbia welcome 16-year-olds, offering competitive wages and entry-level roles to gain work experience. Here are some key employers:

Chipotle Mexican Grill

Chipotle hires crew members starting around $14.50 to $15.50 per hour, providing opportunities for teens to learn food preparation and customer service skills.

Pizza Hut

Pizza Hut employs team members 16 and older, with compensation varying by location. Roles typically include cashiering and food prep. For companies wanting to ensure their hiring process is smooth, see our spotlight on how to hire a cashier.

Slim Chickens

Slim Chickens offers hourly wages ranging from $12 to $15 plus potential tips, ideal for teens interested in fast-paced food service.

Smoothie King

Smoothie King hires workers aged 16+, although wage details are provided during application. Positions involve beverage preparation and customer interaction.

McDonald's

McDonald's frequently hires 16-year-olds for various front- and back-of-house roles, with pay generally starting near Missouri’s minimum wage but increasing with experience.

Wendy's

Wendy's employs crew members 16+, offering competitive wages that can vary by franchise and location.

Burger King

Burger King hires 16-year-olds for cashier and cook roles, with hourly rates depending on the individual franchise.

Taco Bell

Taco Bell welcomes team members aged 16 and above, with pay rates disclosed during hiring interviews.

For further employer insights, check out the restaurant staff hiring spotlight which offers strategies to attract young workers.

Fast-Casual Restaurants That Hire at 16 in Columbia, MO

Beyond fast food, several fast-casual chains also hire 16-year-olds, offering slightly higher wages and varied experiences.

Panera Bread

Panera Bread employs 16-year-olds as cashiers and bakery-café associates, typically starting wages around $12 per hour.

Noodles & Company

Noodles & Company offers team member positions for 16-year-olds, with wages and duties dependent on location and role.

Qdoba Mexican Eats

Qdoba hires 16-year-olds for various positions, providing competitive wages based on experience and specific job responsibilities.

Employers can explore tips on how to hire a restaurant manager to successfully manage teen workers at these fast-casual spots.

How Many Hours Can a 16-Year-Old Work in Columbia, MO?

Missouri does not specifically limit daily or weekly work hours for 16-year-olds, unlike some other states.

However, state law forbids scheduling minors to work during times they must attend school, ensuring education remains a priority.

Employers should be aware and comply with these regulations to avoid penalties and protect young workers.

Those managing young employees might also benefit from the insights in our restaurant management styles spotlight for effective supervision.

Resources for 16-Year-Olds Looking for Jobs in Columbia, MO

• Missouri Department of Labor and Industrial Relations: Youth Employment & Work Hours
• Missouri Child Labor Laws Overview
• Youth Employment Guidelines – Missouri Department of Labor

For teens interested in starting a career in restaurant service, reviewing the career guide to becoming a server can provide helpful steps and expectations.