Why Teens Working at Retail Store?
There are many different types of jobs for teenagers at a retail store. Some of the most common positions include: cashier, sales associate, stocker, and greeter. Most retail stores require employees to be at least 16 years old. However, some stores may hire 14- and 15-year-olds for certain positions.
Many teenagers start out working in entry-level positions such as cashier or sales associate. These jobs usually involve helping customers find what they need and ringing up purchases. As teens gain experience, they may be promoted to more responsible positions such as stocker or manager.
Retail Store Jobs and Hourly Wages
| Job Positions | Entry Level | Avg. Wages |
|---|---|---|
| Sales Associates | Yes | $11 per hour |
| Cashier | Yes | $11 per hour |
| Retail Store Assistant Manager | No | $14 per hour |
| Pharmacy Technician | No | $14 per hour |
Source: PayScale: Nov 2022
Minimum Age Working at Retail Stores
According to Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) and the child labor regulations, minimum age to work at retail store is 14, children under 14 years of age may not legally work in a retail store.
The total number of working youth has declined, and the same trend can be seen in the retail industry. In July 2019, 17 percent of employed youth worked in the retail trade industry – approximately 3,913,000 teenagers aged 16-24 worked in wholesale and retail trade.
Cons Working in Retail Industry
- Low Pay and Benefits
- Monotonous Tasks
- Inconvenient Hours
- Lack of Job Security
- Dissatisfied Customers
- Unpredictable Work Flow