What Jobs Hire at 15? Best Opportunities for Teenagers to Start Working

Landing your first job at 15 can feel exciting, but also overwhelming. Many teens want to earn money, gain independence, and build early work experience. At the same time, parents want to ensure their child finds safe and legal employment.

If you’ve ever wondered “what jobs hire at 15”, you’re in the right place. This guide explains the opportunities available for 15-year-olds, labor laws that apply, and practical tips for finding jobs near you or in states like Texas.

Why Do Teens Look for Jobs at 15?

At 15, most teenagers are still in school but eager to take on responsibility. Common motivations include:

• Earning money for personal expenses, savings, or future goals.

• Learning life skills like communication, time management, and teamwork.

• Building work experience to strengthen future job or college applications.

• Gaining independence and confidence through real-world responsibilities.

Fortunately, many industries offer part-time or seasonal roles for 15-year-olds.

What Jobs Hire at 15?

Not every company hires at 15, but plenty of opportunities exist. Here are popular job categories where teens can start working:

1. Food Service Jobs

• Fast Food Chains: Restaurants like McDonald’s, Burger King, and Chick-fil-A often hire teens for entry-level roles.

• Ice Cream Shops & Cafés: Local dessert shops frequently employ young workers.

• Dishwashing or Bussing Tables: Behind-the-scenes roles that don’t require customer interaction.

2. Retail Jobs

• Some grocery stores or clothing retailers hire 15-year-olds for tasks like bagging groceries, stocking shelves, or cleaning.

3. Babysitting & Childcare

Babysitting is one of the most common jobs for teens. It’s flexible, pays well, and builds trust within the community.

4. Pet Care Jobs

• Dog Walking

• Pet Sitting

• Helping at Local Pet Shops or Groomers

5. Yard Work & Outdoor Jobs

• Lawn mowing

• Gardening help

• Snow shoveling in winter (for colder states)

6. Tutoring or Assisting Younger Students

If you excel in a subject like math or reading, you can tutor younger kids. Parents often look for affordable peer tutoring options.

What Jobs Hire at 15 Near Me?

If you’re searching “what jobs hire at 15 near me,” your best bet is to look for:

• Local businesses: Small shops, cafés, and community centers often hire neighborhood teens.

• Community organizations: YMCA, local libraries, and summer camps.

• Seasonal jobs: During holidays, businesses hire temporary help for gift wrapping, stocking, or assisting customers.

💡 Tip: Check bulletin boards at schools, libraries, and grocery stores for local job postings.

What Jobs Hire at 15 in Texas?

If you live in Texas, here’s what you should know:

• Texas child labor laws allow 14- and 15-year-olds to work in certain jobs outside school hours.

• Teens can work up to 8 hours a day and 40 hours a week when school isn’t in session.

• Common Texas jobs for 15-year-olds include:

  • Fast food restaurants (Whataburger, Dairy Queen, etc.)

  • Grocery stores (HEB, Kroger)

  • Lifeguarding (with certification)

  • Local farms and ranches for seasonal work

Texas has many opportunities for young workers, especially in food service and retail.

What Job Hires at 15 Without Experience?

Many employers don’t expect 15-year-olds to have prior work experience. Entry-level roles focus on teaching responsibility, not professional expertise. Jobs like:

• Bagging groceries

• Assisting at a summer camp

• Babysitting

• Yard work

These roles often just require reliability, enthusiasm, and a willingness to learn.

Legal Rules for 15-Year-Old Workers

Before applying, it’s important to know labor laws. Here are the basics:

• Work Hours: Most states follow federal guidelines limiting 15-year-olds to part-time hours, especially during school.

• Job Restrictions: Hazardous jobs like construction, driving, or factory work are not allowed.

• Work Permits: Some states require a work permit signed by your school and parent.

How to Find Jobs That Hire at 15

Finding your first job takes a little effort. Here’s how to start:

1. Prepare a Simple Resume – List school activities, volunteer work, and skills (communication, leadership, organization).

2. Ask Around Locally – Word of mouth works wonders. Family, teachers, and neighbors often know businesses hiring teens.

3. Check Online Job Boards – Websites like Indeed, Snagajob, or local community sites often list teen-friendly positions.

4. Walk-In Applications – Visit nearby stores or restaurants and politely ask if they’re hiring.

Skills You Can Gain from a Job at 15

Working early builds skills that last a lifetime:

• Responsibility: Showing up on time, meeting commitments.

• Teamwork: Learning to collaborate with colleagues.

• Communication: Handling customers and resolving small issues.

• Time Management: Balancing school, work, and social life.

Sample Job Chart for Teens at 15

Final Thoughts

Finding a job at 15 is more than just earning money—it’s the first step toward building independence, responsibility, and confidence. Whether you’re in Texas, searching for jobs near you, or just curious about what jobs hire at 15, the opportunities are real and rewarding.

The key is to look for entry-level positions, know your local labor laws, and show enthusiasm. With persistence, you’ll find a role that suits your skills and schedule.

FAQs

Q1: Can a 15-year-old work full time?
No. Federal law limits 15-year-olds to part-time work, especially during the school year.

Q2: Do 15-year-olds need a work permit?
It depends on your state. Some states require a signed permit from school and parents.

Q3: What’s the highest-paying job for a 15-year-old?
Babysitting, tutoring, and lifeguarding often pay more than retail or fast food jobs.

Q4: Can a 15-year-old work at Walmart or Target?
Usually, large retailers require employees to be at least 16, but smaller grocery stores may hire at 15.