Places That Hire at 16 in Tempe, AZ: Key Takeaways
- 16-year-olds in Tempe commonly find jobs in restaurants, with roles like cashier, host/hostess, and crew member.
- Fast food and fast casual chains such as McDonald’s, Burger King, Chipotle, and Panera Bread hire 16-year-olds.
- Arizona law places no restrictions on the hours 16- and 17-year-olds can work, even during school days.
Looking for work as a 16-year-old in Tempe, AZ? Plenty of entry-level job opportunities exist in the local restaurant industry, with flexible schedules.
This article explores where teens can apply and what positions are available, plus important details about work hour rules.
Employers seeking to understand and improve hiring processes can benefit greatly from guides like restaurant staff hiring, which provides essential insights for efficient recruitment.
What Types of Jobs Can a 16-Year-Old Get in the Restaurant Industry in Tempe, AZ?
Many restaurants in Tempe hire 16-year-olds for entry-level jobs that offer valuable experience and decent hourly wages, typically between $12 and $15.
Common positions include:
- Cashier – handling transactions and greeting customers.
- Host/Hostess – seating guests and managing waitlists.
- Server Assistant – supporting waitstaff by clearing tables and refilling drinks.
- Crew Member – performing various tasks such as food preparation, cleaning, and customer service.
Understanding how to hire the right team can streamline your restaurant operations. Check out our guide on how to hire a restaurant manager for tips on recruiting for leadership roles that ensure smooth staff management.
Fast-Food Places That Hire at 16 in Tempe
Fast-food chains are often the first stop for teens seeking their initial job. They offer flexible shifts and opportunities to learn customer service skills.
McDonald's
McDonald’s hires crew members who assist with food prep, customer service, and maintaining cleanliness throughout the restaurant.
Burger King
Burger King employs team members to handle cashiering, assembling food, and keeping the dining area tidy.
Wendy's
Wendy’s offers roles focusing on customer interactions, order completion, and restaurant upkeep for crew members.
Taco Bell
Taco Bell team members take orders, prepare food items, and ensure a clean and welcoming environment.
Chick-fil-A
At Chick-fil-A, team members engage in customer service, food preparation, and restaurant maintenance.
Subway
Subway hires sandwich artists who prepare orders, manage cash transactions, and keep the store clean.
Jack in the Box
Jack in the Box crew members handle food prep, customer service, and general maintenance duties.
Sonic Drive-In
Sonic hires crew members responsible for taking orders, food prep, and keeping the area tidy.
For fast-food employers looking to optimize hiring, the article on how to hire a fast food worker offers strategic advice specific to this fast-paced environment.
Fast-Casual Restaurants That Hire at 16 in Tempe
Fast-casual establishments offer a slightly upgraded experience and also welcome 16-year-olds for various roles.
Chipotle Mexican Grill
Chipotle offers crew member positions focused on food prep, customer engagement, and cleanliness.
Panda Express
Panda Express hires team members to handle cashiering, assembling food orders, and maintaining cleanliness.
Panera Bread
Panera Bread employs associates who interact with customers, fulfill orders, and uphold restaurant standards.
Restaurant owners considering consulting support to enhance their operations may find our spotlight on guide to hiring a restaurant consultant very helpful for improving business strategy and team management.
How Many Hours Can a 16-Year-Old Work in Tempe?
Unlike some states, Arizona imposes no state-specific limitations on work hours for 16- and 17-year-olds.
This means teens can work as many hours as they want, including nights, weekends, and school days.
Employers must still comply with federal child labor laws, but Arizona allows flexible scheduling to accommodate young workers’ availability.
Knowing how to create effective job postings can improve recruitment outcomes; see the spotlight on creating restaurant job descriptions for best practices.
Resources for 16-Year-Olds Looking for Jobs in Tempe
- Industrial Commission of Arizona - Youth Employment Hours Restrictions
- U.S. Department of Labor - State Child Labor Standards
- Arizona Child Labor Laws - Minimum-Wage.org
Additional resources and interview tips can assist young job seekers, such as the interview questions for hostess roles, helping prepare candidates to succeed.