Places That Hire at 16 in East Orange, NJ: Key Takeaways
- 16-year-olds in East Orange can find jobs in cashiers, servers, hosts/hostesses, and kitchen assistant roles
- Fast-food chains like McDonald's, Burger King, Wendy's, and KFC hire 16-year-old workers
- Work hours are regulated: max 50 hours/week and 10 hours/day during summer break; limited to non-school hours during the school year
Looking for a job at 16 in East Orange, NJ? There are various entry-level opportunities available, especially in the restaurant sector.
Entry-level roles like cashier have specific considerations; learn more about how to hire a cashier for your business needs.
This article explores where 16-year-olds can work, the types of jobs offered, and important legal work hour limits.
What Types of Jobs Can a 16-Year-Old Get in the Restaurant Industry in East Orange, NJ?
Many eateries in East Orange welcome workers aged 16 and over. Common roles at this age include cashier positions, hosting or hostess responsibilities, serving customers, and assisting in kitchen duties. Hourly wages typically range from $12 to $15 depending on the employer and exact job tasks.
These positions provide valuable work experience in customer service and food handling and are a great way to build skills for future employment.
If you're considering the server role, explore our server career guide to better understand the path ahead.
Fast-Food Places That Hire at 16 in East Orange
Several popular fast-food restaurants in East Orange have openings for 16-year-olds. These establishments often offer flexible hours and entry-level training.
McDonald's
McDonald’s is well-known for hiring teens aged 16 and up, providing opportunities in customer service and kitchen prep roles. If interested in the cook position at McDonald's, check out how to become a cook.
Burger King
Burger King hires young workers for roles such as cashier, cook, and front counter staff, often welcoming first-time employees.
Wendy’s
Wendy’s offers part-time jobs for 16-year-olds, focusing on food service and maintaining a clean dining environment.
KFC
KFC hires teens for kitchen and counter service jobs, emphasizing teamwork and customer interaction.
Taco Bell
Taco Bell offers positions suitable for young workers, such as food preparation and order taking.
For employers, learn effective strategies in our guide to hiring restaurant staff quickly.
Popeyes
Popeyes provides opportunities for 16-year-olds in both front and back of house tasks.
Subway
Subway often hires young workers for sandwich making and cashier positions.
Dunkin'
Dunkin' has openings for teens to work as cashiers and in food prep roles.
Fast-Casual Restaurants That Hire at 16 in East Orange
Along with fast-food chains, some fast-casual dining spots also hire 16-year-old employees in East Orange.
Chipotle
Chipotle employs teens for roles like food prep, cashiering, and customer service.
Panera Bread
Panera Bread offers cashier and bakery helper positions for 16-year-olds looking to gain food service experience.
Employers looking to improve restaurant hiring can benefit from reading our guide to hiring a restaurant consultant.
Five Guys
Five Guys hires young workers mainly for kitchen duties and front counter assistance.
Shake Shack
Shake Shack provides opportunities for teens to work as cashiers, cooks, and general service staff.
How Many Hours Can a 16-Year-Old Work in East Orange?
New Jersey labor laws regulate work hours for minors to protect their health and education. Between the last day of the school year and Labor Day, 16- and 17-year-olds may work up to 50 hours per week and up to 10 hours per day.
During the school year, minors cannot work during school hours and are typically limited to working outside of class schedules.
Additionally, 16-year-olds must be allowed a 30-minute meal break after six consecutive hours and cannot work more than six days in a row. These regulations ensure balanced work and study time.
For a broader perspective on labor limits and tips for employers, see our spotlight on age requirements in job postings.
Resources for 16-Year-Olds Looking for Jobs in East Orange
- New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development: Youth Employment
- New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development: Child Labor Laws and Regulations
For those interested in hostess roles accessible at a young age, see the hostess job description and find helpful interview tips in hostess interview questions.