Places That Hire at 16 in Topeka, KS: Key Takeaways
- Entry-level jobs for 16-year-olds in Topeka often include cashier, server, and team member roles in restaurants.
- Hourly wages for these jobs typically range from $10 to $16 per hour depending on the employer and position.
- Kansas has no specific restrictions on working hours for 16-year-olds; they can work any hours that do not harm their health or education.
For 16-year-olds in Topeka, KS, several local businesses, especially restaurants, provide employment opportunities that offer flexible schedules and a range of job roles.
This guide highlights key places that hire teens at 16 and explains working hour rules and helpful resources.
Employers seeking to understand where to hire 16-year-olds will find this information especially useful.
What Types of Jobs Can a 16-Year-Old Get in the Restaurant Industry in Topeka, KS?
At age 16, many youths find jobs in the restaurant sector, which offers roles suited to entry-level experience.
Common positions available to 16-year-olds include:
- Cashier
- Server
- Host/Hostess
- Cook or kitchen helper (in some fast-food establishments)
- Team member
These jobs enable teens to gain valuable skills in customer service, teamwork, and time management while earning money and maintaining flexible schedules.
Those interested in learning how to become a server or a hostess can find helpful career advice specific to these roles.
Fast-Food Places That Hire at 16 in Topeka
Fast-food chains are a popular option for 16-year-olds because they frequently hire at minimum working ages and provide training for various positions.
Burger King
Burger King hires team members aged 16 and older, offering wages from $12 to $16 per hour depending on the location and role.
McDonald's
McDonald's commonly recruits 16-year-olds as crew members—tasks include food preparation, cashier duties, and customer service.
Wendy's
Wendy's employs teens 16 and above for roles such as cashiers and cooks, providing valuable work experience in a fast-paced environment.
Employers can check out effective hiring strategies in the how to hire a fast-food worker guide to attract and retain teen employees.
Taco Bell
Team member positions at Taco Bell are accessible to 16-year-olds, who take on duties including order taking and food assembly.
KFC
KFC hires 16-year-olds mainly for cashier and kitchen helper roles, allowing young workers to learn food service operations.
Subway
Sandwich artist roles at Subway are typically available to those at least 16, assisting with customer service and food prep.
Arby's
Arby's team member jobs are open to 16-year-old applicants, involving tasks such as customer interaction and food preparation.
Sonic Drive-In
Sonic Drive-In hires 16-year-olds as carhops and cooks, positions that offer varied experience in dining service and kitchen duties.
Fast-Casual Restaurants That Hire at 16 in Topeka
Fast-casual dining offers slightly different positions but still welcomes younger employees who want to work in a less formal restaurant setting.
Chili's
Chili’s employs 16-year-olds mainly as hosts or hostesses, with wages between $10 and $14 per hour.
Noodles & Company
Noodles & Company hires teens aged 16 and up for cashier and server roles, ideal for gaining customer service skills.
Panera Bread
At Panera Bread, 16-year-olds can work as cashiers or bakery-café associates, learning food preparation and guest interaction.
Chipotle Mexican Grill
Chipotle offers crew member roles to 16-year-olds focused on kitchen work and customer service.
Five Guys
Five Guys employs 16-year-olds in various roles including cashier and cook, providing valuable fast-casual food service experience.
For young workers interested in kitchen roles, exploring how to become a cook or viewing the cook job description is insightful.
How Many Hours Can a 16-Year-Old Work in Topeka?
Unlike many states, Kansas labor laws do not place specific limits on the hours 16- and 17-year-olds can work.
This means teens can work any number of hours and at any time of day as long as it does not negatively impact their health, education, or welfare.
Employers and teens should still work together to balance work with school and rest.
Resources for 16-Year-Olds Looking for Jobs in Topeka
- Kansas State Legislature Labor Laws
- U.S. Department of Labor - State Child Labor Laws
- Kansas Department of Labor
For employers, understanding server hiring tips and restaurant staff hiring best practices can ease onboarding teen workers effectively.