As teens enter the workforce to become gainfully employed before college, many wonder if Target will be a viable option as a potential employer.
But before you and your parents trek to the store to find out, you might be wondering whether or not Target hires 16-year-olds. Here is what I discovered!
Does Target Hire 16-Year-Olds?
Target does hire 16-year olds for many job positions, including stockers, cashiers, and more. The minimum age requirement for legal employment in many US states is 16, which is why Target generally hires teens of that age. Individuals desiring a position at the Target Distribution Center must be 18, in accordance with child labor laws.
Keep reading below to examine what other types of factors may be involved for Target to hire a 16-year-old employee!
What Positions Can a 16-Year-Old Hold at Target?
Typically, 16-year-old teen employees at Target can work as a cashier or stock persons.
However, if teenagers are looking for work in the warehouse, they have to wait a few years, as employees must be 18 years old to work in Target distribution centers.
Additionally, 16-year-olds may also be restricted in the hours they work each week as well.
To see the minor labor laws in your area, you can reference this handy guide by each state law. Investigate state laws for requirements in your area.
What Hourly Wage Can a 16-Year-Old Earn at Target?
In recent years, Target permanently raised its starting wage to employees to $15.00 an hour (this new rate also applies to 16-year-olds).
On top of this hourly wage, Target offers excellent benefits such as medical and dental coverage, vacation and sick days, a 401 (k) plan, and 10 percent discounts.
While a teen may not be hyped about retirement plans, they can gain from other perks Target has to offer, like leadership and training development programs.
Additionally, for teenagers looking to pursue a career in retail or management, Target also provides career planning, coaching, and mentoring opportunities.
What is the Minimum Age to Work at Target?
Although Target hires high school seniors, they do not employ anyone younger than this, so 14 or 15-year-olds need not apply.
However, some exceptions can be made for workers as young as 14 to 15 years of age.
If this is the case, minors have to provide the business with a work permit. This legally binding document has to be signed by both the parents and the employers.
Does Target Hire 16-Year-Olds Full-time?
According to federal law, a 16-year-old employee cannot work over an 8-hour day (40-hour week). This makes them ineligible for overtime.
Additionally, Target employees of any age are also required to receive 12 hours of rest in the form of mandatory breaks.
This protects impressionable teens from potential abuse and leaves their minds clear for school work and study.
What are the Basic Responsibilities of a 16-Year-Old working at Target?
Alongside showing up for work on time and adhering to their schedules, a 16-year-old employee of Target must remain courteous to customers.
On top of this, teens should also show initiative by taking on their daily tasks without being asked to do so.
Such duties may involve greeting customers as well as doing janitorial chores like sweeping and mopping.
How Can a 16-Year-Old Apply for a Job at Target?
To apply online for a job at Target, log into www.target.com/careers. On the site, you’ll see a listing of available job openings and hiring locations near you.
If you experience interruptions or your computer blue screens (which happens to the best of us), don’t fret! Your application will remain in the system for 96 hours.
Additionally, 16-year-old can also visit the store for a paper application or print one at home to apply in person.
Should 16-year-olds Work at Target?
A 16-year-old high school student should seriously consider working for Target.
Not only is it a nationally recognized brand people trust, but the company also provides teens with access to a wealth of benefits and training.
There is also something to be said about working within a franchise that allows for growth and actively edges young employees toward leadership roles.
What Kind of Documents Will a 16-year-old Need to Work at Target?
Like most job hunters in the US, a 16-year-old will need a social security card as well as a valid driver’s license or state-issued ID before seeking employment at Target. The minor must also be authorized to work in the United States.
While this may require the teen to be a natural-born citizen, teens whose parents were naturalized are eligible to work at Target.
If you are looking to learn more, you can also read our related posts on Target’s dress code, Target break policy, and whether or not Target drug test.
Conclusion
Target will hire high school-aged employees, but their minimum age requirement is 16.
While they can serve a cashier or stock the shelves, school-age laborers cannot work in warehouses or distribution centers.
Because the Target corporation offers a host of educational and training benefits, Target may be among the best companies for teens to start their work-related journey.
