Places That Hire at 16 in Vancouver, WA: Key Takeaways
- 16-year-olds in Vancouver can work in various positions in the restaurant industry, including cashier, server, and kitchen staff.
- The minimum wage in Washington State is $15.74 per hour, applicable to workers 16 and older.
- Work hour limits for 16-year-olds differ depending on whether school is in session, ranging from 4 to 8 hours per day and up to 48 hours per week during breaks.
Finding a job at 16 in Vancouver, WA is realistic, especially in fast food and fast casual restaurants. This guide outlines common jobs and work hour rules.
It also highlights popular local employers that hire teens and essential labor regulations to know before applying.
What Types of Jobs Can a 16-Year-Old Get in the Restaurant Industry in Vancouver, Washington?
At age 16, young job seekers in Vancouver have access to entry-level roles primarily in the restaurant sector. Typical positions include cashier, server, host/hostess, and kitchen roles like line cook or food preparer. Such jobs offer valuable experience in customer service and food handling while abiding by state labor laws.
Employers looking to hire entry-level restaurant staff can benefit from checking out best practices in restaurant staff hiring.
Fast-Food Places That Hire at 16 in Vancouver, Washington
Fast-food restaurants are common employers of 16-year-olds, offering flexible positions ideal for those balancing school and work.
McDonald's
Known for its crew member roles, McDonald's hires teens to assist with customer service, prepare food, and maintain cleanliness standards.
Burger King
Burger King employs team members tasked with cashier duties, food preparation, and general upkeep of the restaurant environment.
Wendy's
At Wendy's, crew members help with food assembly, customer interaction, and housekeeping to ensure a quality dining experience.
Taco Bell
Taco Bell hires team members responsible for cashier work, food prep, and keeping the dining area clean and orderly.
KFC
KFC offers team member positions focusing on customer service, food preparation, and maintaining a sanitary workplace.
Subway
Sandwich artist roles at Subway involve making sandwiches, handling transactions, and store cleanliness.
Jack in the Box
This chain hires team members to support customer service, food prep, and restaurant maintenance tasks.
Dairy Queen
Dairy Queen crew members manage cashier duties, help with food prep, and keep the restaurant clean and welcoming.
Fast food employers will find valuable advice in the spotlight how to hire a fast food worker to streamline their recruitment process.
Fast-Casual Restaurants That Hire at 16 in Vancouver, Washington
Besides fast food, several fast-casual establishments also offer opportunities for 16-year-old workers.
Chipotle Mexican Grill
Chipotle hires crew members to assist with food prep, customer service, and maintaining cleanliness in the restaurant.
Panera Bread
At Panera Bread, associates take on cashier roles, food preparation, and dining area upkeep duties.
Noodles & Company
Noodles & Company employs team members to help with food assembly, customer service, and cleanliness tasks.
For employers, learning how to hire reliable kitchen staff can greatly improve operational efficiency.
How Many Hours Can a 16-Year-Old Work in Vancouver, Washington?
Washington State enforces specific rules to balance work and education for minors aged 16 and 17.
When School is in Session:
- Work up to 4 hours per school day.
- Work up to 8 hours per day on weekends (Friday–Sunday).
- Maximum 20 hours per week.
- Allowed work hours: 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. on school nights, extended to midnight on Fridays and Saturdays.
When School is Not in Session:
- Up to 8 hours per day.
- Maximum 48 hours per week.
- Permitted to work between 5:00 a.m. and midnight.
These regulations protect young workers’ health and ensure their educational responsibilities are prioritized.
Washington State’s labor laws ensure that teenagers find a balance between working and schooling.
Employers looking to understand age requirements in job postings will find this resource helpful to comply with regulations.
Resources for 16-Year-Olds Looking for Jobs in Vancouver
- Washington State Department of Labor & Industries: Youth Employment
- Washington State Department of Labor & Industries: Hours of Work
- Washington State Department of Labor & Industries: How to Hire Minors
For hiring guidelines and a comprehensive overview, see how to hire a cashier and learn tips for managing young employees in restaurant settings.