Places That Hire at 16 in Norwalk, CA: Key Takeaways
- 16-year-olds in Norwalk, CA can work in various restaurant roles such as crew members, cashiers, and food preparers.
- The minimum wage is $16.00 per hour statewide with some fast-food places offering $20+ per hour starting pay.
- California labor laws limit work hours for 16-year-olds especially during school sessions for their safety and schooling requirements.
If you're 16 and looking for a job in Norwalk, CA, there are plenty of restaurant opportunities for teens available.
This guide covers the types of roles, where you can apply, and rules about working hours to help you start your employment journey.
What Types of Jobs Can a 16-Year-Old Get in the Restaurant Industry in Norwalk, CA?
At age 16, you can typically find employment as a crew member, cashier, or food preparer. These jobs involve taking customer orders, handling cash, preparing meals, and maintaining clean dining and kitchen areas.
Statewide minimum wage in California is $16.00 per hour, but many fast-food chains in Norwalk offer starting wages above this.
Employers looking to optimize hiring strategies may benefit from reading our restaurant staff hiring guide to attract and retain the best young talent.
Fast-Food Places That Hire at 16 in Norwalk, CA
Several popular fast-food chains hire 16-year-olds and often offer competitive wages.
McDonald's
McDonald's hires crew team members starting at 16 years old with starting wages from $20 per hour in Norwalk.
Taco Bell
Taco Bell employs crew members aged 16 and above, paying between $20 to $21 per hour.
Jack in the Box
Jack in the Box offers team member roles for 16-year-olds paying from $20 to $22 per hour.
Burger King
Burger King hires individuals aged 16 and above for various positions, typically crew member roles.
When it comes to hiring young employees, fast food restaurant owners can reference how to hire a fast food worker effectively to ensure compliance and operational excellence.
Wendy's
Wendy's offers crew member positions suitable for 16-year-olds.
Subway
Subway employs sandwich artists starting at age 16.
KFC
KFC hires team members aged 16 and above for front and kitchen positions.
Carl's Jr.
Carl's Jr. offers job opportunities to individuals aged 16 and older.
Fast Casual Restaurants That Hire at 16 in Norwalk, CA
Fast casual chains also provide employment opportunities for 16-year-olds with roles involving customer service and kitchen duties.
Panera Bread
Panera Bread hires restaurant team members starting at 16.
Restaurant owners can improve hiring efficiency by consulting this guide to hiring a restaurant consultant to streamline recruitment and training processes for young workers.
Chipotle Mexican Grill
Chipotle offers crew member positions to those 16 and older.
Panda Express
Panda Express employs service and kitchen team members aged 16 and above.
How Many Hours Can a 16-Year-Old Work in Norwalk, CA?
California child labor laws specify different work hour limits depending on whether school is in session.
When school is in session, 16-year-olds may work up to 4 hours on school days and up to 8 hours on non-school days, with a weekly limit of 48 hours.
Permitted hours on school days are 5:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., extended to 12:30 a.m. before a non-school day.
When school is not in session, 16-year-olds can work up to 8 hours daily and no more than 48 hours weekly.
Permitted working hours then extend from 7:00 a.m. to 12:30 a.m. except the day before school resumes.
For employers, understanding California overtime laws and worker rights ensures compliance when scheduling young employees.
Resources for 16-Year-Olds looking for Jobs in Norwalk
- California Department of Industrial Relations: Information on Minors and Employment
- California Child Labor Laws 2024 - FAQs at Employment Law Handbook
- Young Workers Safety Information - Safe At Work California
Young workers interested in kitchen roles can prepare by reviewing typical line cook job descriptions to understand responsibilities and requirements.