Places That Hire at 16 in Orlando, FL

Places That Hire at 16 in Orlando, FL: Key Takeaways

Common entry-level jobs for 16-year-olds in Orlando’s restaurant scene include cashier, host/hostess, server assistant, and kitchen staff.
Fast food and fast casual chains such as McDonald’s, Chipotle, and Panera Bread regularly hire 16-year-olds for various positions.
Recent Florida labor law changes allow 16-year-olds increased flexibility in work hours during the school year with proper waivers.

If you're 16 in Orlando, FL, numerous restaurant jobs are available offering flexible hours and entry-level positions. Opportunities range from fast food to fast casual dining.

This article explores the types of roles available, popular employers, and updated labor laws affecting teen workers.

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

At 16, job options in Orlando’s restaurant sector are generally entry-level and customer-facing or support roles. Common positions include:

Cashier – handling customer payments and orders.
Host/Hostess – greeting guests and managing seating.
Server Assistant – supporting servers by clearing tables or refilling drinks.
Kitchen Staff – supporting food prep, cooking basics, and dishwashing.

These roles typically pay hourly wages from $10 to $12, varying by location and duties.

Fast-Food Places That Hire at 16 in Orlando

Many popular fast-food chains in Orlando hire 16-year-olds for team member and cashier roles, offering a great way to gain work experience.

McDonald's

Positions include crew member and cashier, ideal for teenagers starting their work journey.

Burger King

Employs 16-year-olds as team members and cooks, giving insight into both front and back of house operations.

Wendy's

Offers roles such as crew members and cashiers with flexible scheduling.

Taco Bell

Hires youth for team member and food service worker positions.

Chick-fil-A

Provides team member and kitchen staff roles suitable for young workers.

KFC

Allows 16-year-olds to work as team members and cooks.

Subway

Offers sandwich artist and cashier jobs for teenagers.

Dairy Queen

Hires crew members and cashiers, often with flexible hours.

Employers looking to fill positions can benefit from the restaurant staff hiring strategies spotlight to effectively attract and retain young workers.

Fast-Casual Restaurants That Hire at 16 in Orlando

Fast-casual dining spots also welcome 16-year-olds, providing slightly elevated dining environments and roles.

Panera Bread

Hiring for associate and cashier roles, perfect for gaining customer service experience.

Chipotle Mexican Grill

Employs crew members and kitchen staff, offering insights into food prep and customer interaction.

Five Guys

Offers crew member and cashier roles with hands-on fast-casual experience.

Noodles & Company

Hires 16-year-olds as team members and cashiers.

Moe's Southwest Grill

Offers jobs for crew members and food service workers suitable for teens.

For teens interested in kitchen roles, the guide to hiring reliable kitchen staff can provide restaurants with helpful templates and tips.

How Many Hours Can a 16-Year-Old Work in Orlando?

Florida’s child labor laws updated on July 1, 2024, provide more leniency for 16- and 17-year-olds’ working hours with important details:

Weekly Hours: Over 30 hours per week allowed during school session if a parent, guardian, or school superintendent provides a waiver.
Daily Hours: Teens may work more than 8 hours on holidays and Sundays during the school year.
Consecutive Workdays: No more restriction on working more than 6 consecutive days.
Break Periods: Required only if working more than 4 hours continuously without a break and more than 8 hours in a day.
School Hours: Teens in home education or approved virtual instruction programs are exempt from work hour limits during school hours.

These changes enable 16-year-olds in Orlando to take on more flexible schedules that can accommodate both school and work demands.

Employers should familiarize themselves with restaurant HR policies to ensure compliance with labor laws and create suitable work environments for teen employees.

Resources for 16-Year-Olds looking for Jobs in Orlando

For more career insights, teens can explore fast food worker interview questions to prepare effectively for job opportunities in this sector.

01. What are common jobs for 16-year-olds in Orlando’s restaurant industry?

Common roles include cashier, host/hostess, server assistant, and kitchen staff positions, all typically entry-level.

02. Which fast food chains hire 16-year-olds in Orlando?

Popular chains like McDonald’s, Burger King, Taco Bell, Chick-fil-A, and Wendy’s hire teens for team member and cashier roles.

03. How have Florida labor laws changed for teen workers in 2024?

Recent changes allow 16- and 17-year-olds to work more hours during the school year with waivers and relax restrictions on consecutive workdays and breaks.

04. What are typical wages for 16-year-olds working in Orlando restaurants?

Hourly wages typically range from $10 to $12 depending on the role and location.

05. Where can 16-year-olds find resources on Florida child labor laws?

Useful resources include the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation, Florida Statutes Chapter 450, and the Employment Law Handbook.