Are you a teenager or a parent interested in learning about job openings at Target? If yes, you may wonder, “How old do you have to be to work at Target?” Knowing the age standards is important when you’re applying for work, regardless of whether it’s your main job or a part-time one. Many job positions for teens and adults can be found at Target which is the largest retail chain in the United States.
It’s important to check Target’s requirements for minors, the kinds of jobs they offer and labor laws before showing your résumé at a store. Here, you can find out what age to be, what kind of work teenagers can do and what types of work permits you’ll require.
It’s time to find out if and when your age allows you to apply to Target.
Key Points:
- You have to be at least 16 years old to get a job at Target.
- For a number of occupations, workers must be at least 18 years old.
- An application for a work permit may be required for anyone who is under 18 years old.
How Old Do You Have To Be To Work At Target?
Most people who apply should be at least 16. You must be at least 14 years old to apply for cashier, cart attendant or sales floor associate roles. Employees with responsibility for equipment or safety often have to be at least 18 years of age.
Example:
If you’re 16 and still in school, you could get work as a greeter or someone who stocks the shelves. You must be at least 18 to be allowed in the backroom or to use the machinery at a store.
Comparison Table:
| Job Role | Minimum Age Required |
| Cashier | 16 years old |
| Cart Attendant | 16 years old |
| Sales Floor Associate | 16 years old |
| Warehouse Worker | 18 years old |
| Team Leader | 18 years old |
Note: It’s important to know that state laws can sometimes affect the hiring age slightly.
As Target values equal opportunities for all, they like to recruit teens and give them the space to grow in the company.
Can a minor work at Target without a work permit?
In several states, hire a teen under the age of 18 only if they have a work permit or employment certificate. Those papers ensure the employer follows the rules aimed at child labor, including controlled working hours, compulsory school attendance and safety at work.
To work at Target in California, a minor under 18 must get their school to sign a work permit. The school makes sure the job will not conflict with the student’s studies.
How are Work Permits constructed?
- The student’s name, age and their school details
- Name of employer and the job offered
- Assertion from parent or guardian
- The school or district agrees to include it
Comparison Chart:
| Age | Permit Needed? | Working Hours Restricted? |
| Under 14 | Not eligible | Not allowed to work at Target |
| 14–15 | Yes | Yes, heavily restricted |
| 16–17 | Yes (most states) | Limited hours during school |
| 18+ | No | No restrictions |
Reminder: Be sure to look at your state’s labor department website to learn the local rules for work permits before you start the process.
Which Jobs Are Available to Teenagers at Target?
At Target, entry-level positions are open to anyone 16 years of age and over. You usually don’t need experience for these jobs because you’ll learn while on the job.
Teen-Friendly Roles You Are Likely to See:
- The cashier serves customers at the checkout line and greets them as they go.
- The job of the Cart Attendant is to circle the parking lot, pick up the carts and keep the store tidy.
- Sales Floor Associate: Takes care of organizing items on the sales floor.
Working these jobs allows teens to:
- How to manage one’s time
- The experience a person has with support staff
- Working together and learning to communicate
Example:
After high school, Emma joined the team at Target as a cashier. She had a weekend job and another job after school. Six months after starting, she began working in electronics and got a little bit more pay as well.
Being a part of Target can help you get ahead in your career. Among the advantages for Target workers are flexible hours and discounted prices in the store which apply to all levels of employment.
Can Teen Workers At Target Work Every Job Position?
Restrictions have been put in place to keep teen workers safe and healthy. State rules and federal labor laws decide what restrictions are in place. They may consist of a wide range of things, like:
- Teenagers work only after school or during the weekends.
- It is forbidden to operate any hazardous equipment (such as forklifts)
- You won’t be assigned to any overnight jobs or placements that are unsafe.
A typical model of setting hour limits:
- A teenager aged 16 should keep their screen time to 3–4 hours on days they attend school.
- On those days, their workday usually lasts up to 8 hours.
The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) also guides Target in its rules for minors. All store managers are instructed to follow the rules listed above to ensure everything is legal and safe for teens.
Note: Even if you can legally work, your hours may determine whether you are hired. Teens who can spend the majority of their weekends are of more interest to managers choosing employees.
How Do You Apply For A Job At Target If You Are Old Enough?
If you’re 16 years old and prepared to work, you can usually complete the Target application on their website.
How to Fill Out:
- Go to the Target Career Website – target.com/careers.
- Enter Your Zip Code or City to Learn About Available Jobs.
- Look for a Position Marked “Store Hourly” or “Part-time.”
- Fill out all the information asked on the Application including your name, your contact information, school information, availability and experience.
- You may submit a Résumé if you choose, but it isn’t necessary unless you have a work history.
Pro Tip:
It’s a good idea to let a professional glance over your application prior to sending it in. The way your site looks at first can shape people’s opinions.
After You Submit Your Application, What Is Next?
If you get picked, you’ll get contacted by email or by phone for an interview. Have your work permit and be ready with a good attitude. Many interviews are casual and deal with finding out if you have the right schedule and if you would get along with others.
Conclusion
So, how old do you have to be to work at Target? For positions such as cashier or cart attendant, most employers accept only youths who are 16 years or older. There are extra requirements for advanced jobs or those that can be dangerous and you must be over 18. If you aren’t yet 18, finding out if you need a work permit is important because labor laws may apply based on your state.
Teenagers can get work experience, make some money, and learn useful life skills at Target. Just review the requirements, complete your paperwork, and don’t forget to keep your new job schedule in mind. Your first or part-time job at Target might be the start of your working life.
FAQ’s
1. How old do you have to be to work at Target?
You need to be 16 years of age or older to begin the application for entry-level roles at Target.
2. At what age is a person able to work at Target?
Employees at Target must be at least 16 years old.
3. At what jobs can a 16-year-old be employed by Target?
Those hired can become a cashier, cart attendant or sales floor associate, for example.
4. Must 16-year-olds have a work permit to work at Target?
Yep, it is so in a lot of states. Anyone who is not 18 may need a work permit.
5. Can it be tough for teens to be hired at Target?
Of course, as long as you’re old enough and have flexible hours, you have a great chance of getting hired.