Places That Hire at 16 in Dallas, TX: Key Takeaways
- Common entry-level restaurant jobs for 16-year-olds include cashier, host/hostess, server assistant, and busser.
- Typical wages range from $11 to $16 per hour depending on the role and establishment.
- Texas places no state restrictions on work hours for 16-year-olds, but local curfews and schooling must be considered.
If you're 16 and looking for jobs in Dallas, TX, there are plenty of options in the restaurant industry. Many fast-food and fast-casual chains hire young workers.
Understanding which positions are available and the applicable work hour rules can help you start earning sooner.
Employers looking for young staff will find our guide on places that hire at 16 helpful to attract the right candidates.
What Types of Jobs Can a 16-Year-Old Get in the Restaurant Industry in Dallas, TX?
Sixteen-year-olds typically qualify for entry-level roles that require minimal prior experience. These roles focus on customer service, food handling, and general upkeep.
Common positions include:
- Cashier – handling orders and payments
- Host/Hostess – greeting guests and managing seating
- Server Assistant – supporting waitstaff with tasks like refilling drinks
- Busser – clearing tables and maintaining cleanliness
- Team Member – general duties including food prep and customer service
These jobs are good for gaining work experience and developing interpersonal skills.
For employers, check out our guide to creating restaurant job descriptions to attract the best candidates.
Fast-Food Places That Hire at 16 in Dallas
Several fast-food chains in Dallas are known to hire 16-year-olds for various entry-level posts.
Raising Cane's
Raising Cane's offers roles such as Customer Service Associate for 16-year-olds. Starting pay is around $13 per hour, making it an attractive option for young job seekers.
Learn how to hire fast-food workers to build a strong team at your restaurant.
Einstein Bros. Bagels
This chain hires team members aged 16 and up, providing experience in food prep and customer service.
Panera Bread
Panera hires 16-year-olds for positions like Salad and Sandwich Maker, combining food preparation with customer interaction.
Pizza Inn Mesquite
At Pizza Inn, 16-year-olds with reliable transportation can be hired for server positions, gaining experience in food service.
Nothing Bundt Cakes
This bakery chain hires Guest Service Representatives starting at age 16, focusing on customer service and sales.
Fast-Casual Restaurants That Hire at 16 in Dallas
Fast-casual dining is another sector open to 16-year-olds seeking part-time jobs.
Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen
They offer Server Assistant and Busser roles for 16-year-olds, paying between $15 and $16 per hour.
Chili's
Chili's hires hosts who are 16+, offering flexible schedules for part-time or full-time hours.
Read our spotlight on how to hire hostesses to enhance your front-of-house staff.
Spring Creek Barbeque
This restaurant employs team members aged 16 and older, providing experience in various service roles.
How Many Hours Can a 16-Year-Old Work in Dallas?
Unlike some states, Texas places no restrictions on the number of hours 16- and 17-year-olds can work, nor on the times of day they may be employed.
Employers must ensure that work schedules do not interfere with schooling and comply with any local curfew ordinances.
This means that while longer shifts are legally permissible, prioritizing education is essential for young workers and their employers.
Resources for 16-Year-Olds Looking for Jobs in Dallas
- Texas Workforce Commission: Texas Child Labor Law
- Texas Administrative Code: Texas Child Labor Rules
- Texas Labor Code, Chapter 51: Child Labor Law
For insights on how to effectively retain staff, including young hires, explore our strategies to reduce restaurant employee turnover.