Places That Hire at 16 in Mesa, AZ: Key Takeaways
- 16-year-olds in Mesa, AZ can work in various restaurant roles like cashier, crew member, and host/hostess.
- Fast food and fast casual restaurants commonly hire at 16, offering wages between $12-$14 per hour.
- There are no state restrictions on working hours or night shifts for 16-year-olds in Arizona.
Finding a job at 16 in Mesa, AZ is feasible, especially in the restaurant industry. Multiple establishments welcome young workers for entry-level positions.
Employers looking to find the best talent might be interested in strategies for restaurant staff hiring to attract and retain young employees.
This article details places hiring 16-year-olds in Mesa, AZ, typical job roles, work hour laws, and helpful resources.
What Types of Jobs Can a 16-Year-Old Get in the Restaurant Industry in Mesa, AZ?
At 16, individuals in Mesa can find entry-level roles primarily in fast food and fast casual restaurants.
Common positions include cashier duties, crew member tasks, food preparation, hosting/hostessing, and general cleaning or maintenance.
These positions provide foundational work experience and offer starting wages around $12 to $14 per hour.
Understanding how to attract and keep staff can be crucial, so see our strategies to reduce restaurant employee turnover for helpful tips.
Fast-Food Places That Hire at 16 in Mesa
Several fast-food chains in Mesa offer employment opportunities for 16-year-olds eager to gain work experience.
McDonald's
McDonald's hires crew members responsible for customer service, food prep, and keeping the restaurant clean.
Burger King
Positions at Burger King involve handling cashier tasks, assembling food orders, and routine upkeep.
Wendy's
Wendy's employs crew members who interact with customers, fulfill orders, and maintain restaurant standards.
Taco Bell
Taco Bell offers team member roles focused on cashier duties, food preparation, and cleaning the dining area.
Chick-fil-A
At Chick-fil-A, team members are involved in customer service, preparing food, and creating a welcoming environment.
Subway
Subway hires sandwich artists tasked with preparing orders, managing cash transactions, and cleaning the store.
For those interested in the cashier role at Subway or other fast food places, check out the cashier job description to better understand the role.
Jack in the Box
Jack in the Box team members perform customer service, food preparation, and general maintenance duties.
Sonic Drive-In
Sonic Drive-In crew members manage orders, deliver food to customers, and keep work areas clean.
Fast-Casual Restaurants That Hire at 16 in Mesa
Fast-casual restaurants also provide opportunities for young workers seeking a similar environment with slightly different menus and experiences.
Chipotle Mexican Grill
Chipotle hires crew members responsible for food prep, customer service, and cleanliness.
Panda Express
Panda Express team members handle cashier duties, food assembly, and upkeep tasks.
Panera Bread
Panera Bread employs associates who focus on interacting with customers, fulfilling orders, and maintaining restaurant standards.
If you're an employer interested in hiring fast-food workers, our guide to hiring fast-food workers is a useful resource.
How Many Hours Can a 16-Year-Old Work in Mesa?
Arizona law presents specific rules for minors under 16 but does not restrict the working hours of 16- and 17-year-olds.
This means 16-year-olds in Mesa can work unlimited hours per day or week and are also allowed to work night shifts without state-imposed curfews.
However, it is still important for young workers to consider their school and health while balancing work hours.
Resources for 16-Year-Olds Looking for Jobs in Mesa
- Industrial Commission of Arizona - Youth Employment Hours Restrictions
- U.S. Department of Labor - State Child Labor Standards
- Arizona Child Labor Laws - Minimum-Wage.org
Those looking to start a career in hospitality may find it helpful to review the places that hire at 16 overview on OysterLink for additional insights.
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