Does Publix Hire 14-Year-Olds in 2024? Everything You Need to Know

As a parent, you may be exploring first jobs for your 14-year-old. Getting hired at just 14 can be tough, but major grocery chain Publix is one retailer that actively hires 14- and 15-year-olds for entry-level roles like bagger and cashier.

I’ve guided hundreds of teens through the job search process over my 15 years as a youth career counselor. Here’s my in-depth guide on getting hired at Publix as a 14-year-old, including application tips, work rules, average pay, and more.

The Benefits of Working at 14

Before diving into Publix specifically, let‘s overview the benefits of working at 14 years old in general:

• Gain valuable work experience to boost future resumes
• Learn important job skills like punctuality, responsibility, and customer service
• Earn an income and build savings (the average 14-year-old makes $1500-2000/year)
• Prepare for more advanced jobs down the road
• Receive on-the-job training from managers
• Build confidence and independence

The earnings potential is also significant. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 1.1 million US teens ages 14-15 were employed in 2020 with an average income of $1500-$2000 per year.

Now let‘s look specifically at Publix and how your 14-year-old can get hired there.

Publix Jobs Available to 14-Year-Olds

Publix runs over 1,200 grocery stores in seven southeastern states and employs around 200,000 people total. I advise students that the main entry-level positions a 14-year-old can realistically get hired for at Publix are:

• Bagger
• Front Service Clerk
• Cashier
• Floral Clerk

Their website confirms they hire 14- and 15-year olds for these roles. Some additional customer service positions may also be open to mature teens.

The key is to have flexibility regarding which position you apply for. Focus on getting in the door rather than fixating on any one role. Then as you gain experience over months and years, you can move up at Publix.

Educational and Skills Requirements

To qualify for these Publix entry jobs at just 14 years old, you’ll need:

• Able to read, write, and do basic math confidently
• Solid customer service orientation and communication skills
• Ability to follow directions closely
• Responsible and prompt personality

I coach students that Publix also wants can-do enthusiasm and willingness to work hard in teen employees. They expect some immaturity due to the young age but look for signs of professional potential.

Beyond basic academics and attitude, no prior work experience is required. Publix provides on-the-job training. Just go in with a positive attitude!

Hour and Shift Limitations

Given federal and state labor laws protecting minor employees, 14-year-olds face strict limits on hours and shifts at Publix:

• Can only work between 7am-7pm generally
• Max 3 hours on school days/nights
• Max 8 hours on non-school days
• No more than 18 total hours per school week

So availability will be evenings and weekends mainly. This part-time schedule allows teens to focus on schoolwork as the top priority.

Pay Range for 14-Year-Old Publix Employees

Pay rates for 14-year-olds at Publix typically range from your state’s minimum wage to around $10 per hour depending on position, experience, and location.

Here are the average starting hourly wages I see for common 14-year-old Publix jobs:

• Bagger – $8-$9
• Cashier – $9-$10
• Floral Clerk – $9-$11

Assuming 10-12 hours per week, the average yearly pay works out to $7,000-11,000 annually.

That may not seem like much compared to adult wages but it adds up quickly for a 14-year-old saving for games, clothes, college, or their first car!

Getting Hired: Tips for Applying to Publix at 14

Based on my career counseling experience, here are my top tips to get hired at Publix at just 14 years old:

1. Search for openings at your nearest locations and focus on the entry-level roles above. Check online job boards or visit stores in person to inquire.

2. Prepare for basic assessments or interviews. Practice basic math and customer service scenarios. Know key details like your availability.

3. Highlight your strong work ethic, discipline, and communication abilities. Publix wants to see you have the maturity to thrive in a busy store environment.

4. Apply to multiple positions per location. Don‘t get fixated on one specific role. Apply for several to increase your chances.

5. Make a good impression on every interaction. From application to interview to onboarding, be professional.

Pro tip: If you don‘t get hired at 14, you can always reapply at 15 or 16 when more positions may open up to you!

Conclusion: How to Get Hired at Publix as a 14-Year-Old

Despite child labor law restrictions, ambitious and mature 14-year-olds absolutely can get hired at Publix in entry-level positions like bagger, cashier, and floral clerk.

The jobs offer great first work experience along with fair pay of $7,000-11,000 a year for part-time hours. By focusing on customer service skills, availability, and eagerness to work hard, your teen has an excellent shot at being hired on at Publix and starting their professional journey!

I hope this inside look at getting hired at Publix at just 14 years old helps both parents and teen job seekers. Let me know if you have any other questions!