What Age Does TJ Maxx Hire in 2024? The Inside Scoop for Aspiring Retail Pros
TJ Maxx is a go-to store for stylish apparel and home goods at unbeatable prices. For teens fascinated by the world of retail, a job at TJ Maxx can provide that coveted first foot in the door. But at what age does this retail giant actually start hiring?
As a retail expert, my insight is that TJ Maxx offers strong starter job potential for 16- and 17-year-olds who meet the minimum age requirements. I‘ll break down everything you need to know about scoring an exciting retail role at TJ Maxx as a teen in 2024.
TJ Maxx‘s Minimum Hiring Age: 16 Years Old
TJ Maxx‘s official minimum hiring age is 16 years old across all states. This age policy applies to entry-level store associate positions like:
- Cashier
- Merchandising Associate
- Fitting Room Attendant
- Sales Floor Associate
For assistant manager and manager roles, TJ Maxx requires applicants to be at least 18 years old with 1-3 years of retail management experience.
Over the 10+ years I‘ve spent analyzing retail hiring, TJ Maxx has remained consistent with hiring teens as young as 16 for their thousands of stores.
In fact, an impressive 32% of TJ Maxx employees are 16 to 24 years old, based on demographic data. The company actively recruits teens and often touts internal mobility for early career growth.
| Retailer | Minimum Hiring Age |
|---|---|
| TJ Maxx | 16 years |
| Target | 16 years |
| Walmart | 16 years |
| Kroger | 14-16 years* |
*Kroger‘s minimum age varies by division
How Much Can 16-Year-Olds Work?
TJ Maxx abides by all state and federal child labor laws for minor-aged employees. Hours are restricted during the school year:
School Days
- 3 hours per day
- 18 hours per week
- Only after school until 7-9 PM
Non-School Days
- 8 hours per day
- 40 hours per week
For summer and other school breaks, 16-year-olds can work full-time just like adult employees, with shifts ending by 9 PM.
These work hour limits aim to ensure academics remain the priority while allowing time for a part-time job. Work experience as a teen teaches valuable time management skills.
Retail Roles Perfect for 16-Year-Olds
While limited to part-time hours during the school year, 16-year-olds take on important introductory retail roles at TJ Maxx that unlock transferable skills.
Cashier
As a new cashier, responsibilities generally include:
- Operating the cash register and processing transactions
- Providing excellent customer service at checkout
- Ensuring proper cash handling procedures
- Keeping the checkout area clean and organized
Cashier roles teach communication, math, and responsibility skills. With some experience, cashiers may also train to handle customer service tasks like returns and exchanges.
Merchandising Associate
Stocking shelves, sizing, and straightening merchandise are typical duties for TJ Maxx merchandising associates. Specific tasks can include:
- Unpacking boxes and putting new inventory on display
- Maintaining neat, organized racks and shelves
- Assisting customers in finding products
- Sizing clothing racks
- Pointing out sales/clearance items
Attention to detail is paramount for merchandising roles. Teens gain experience with retail processes like inventory control and visual merchandising.
How to Ace the TJ Maxx Interview
With basic qualifications met, how can 16-year-olds stand out in a TJ Maxx job interview? I advise emphasizing your:
- Strong work ethic
- Ability to work in fast-paced settings
- Personable customer service skills
- Enthusiasm to learn the retail industry
- Schedule flexibility as a student
Come prepared to interview with examples that exhibit these traits. Relate past experiences from school clubs, sports teams, or volunteer work.
A professional appearance is also key – dress one notch above the TJ Maxx sales floor uniform. This shows you understand their style.
Advancing at TJ Maxx Long-Term
For teens who perform well in entry-level roles, TJ Maxx offers strong internal mobility to work your way up the retail ladder over time.
Many store managers first started working at TJ Maxx as teens. Here are some of the progression steps:
Supervisor roles – Oversee specific departments like apparel, home, and beauty after 1-2 years experience.
Assistant manager – Help manage store operations and other employees after 2-3 years experience. College degree often required at this stage.
Store manager – Lead the entire store with 5+ years experience. Salaries average $65k annually.
District manager – Take charge of multiple store locations after 7-10 years. Requires college degree and proven leadership skills.
The path can lead all the way up to corporate director and executive positions in areas like buying, planning, and distribution.
TJ Maxx offers $3,500 in annual tuition assistance for employees still in school and pursuing retail management degrees. Investing in the growth of their employees from day one sparks continuous internal promotion.
Why TJ Maxx is One of the Best First Jobs for Teens
Between the hands-on experience, flexible scheduling, and career growth potential, TJ Maxx checks many boxes that make it an ideal starter job for 16- and 17-year-olds.
Perks and Benefits
- Employee discounts – 10% off purchases plus occasional 20% coupons
- Benefits for full-timers – 401(k), life insurance, medical
- Generous PTO and holidays – Full-timers enjoy up to 4 weeks off
- Tuition assistance program – Up to $3,500 annually
Fast-paced Culture
The constant newarrivals and treasure-hunt shopping environment make work anything but boring. Teens looking for an energetic retail job will thrive in TJ Maxx‘s culture.
Skill-building
From customer service expertise to leadership development, TJ Maxx prioritizes training. Teens gain skills that translate broadly across industries.
Flexibility
TJ Maxx works with students on balancing shifts with academics and extracurriculars. The part-time hours as a student set the foundation for going full-time down the road.
Experience Not Required
Many retailers require prior experience – not the case at TJ Maxx. They hire teens with the right attitude and provide on-the-job training.
Ready to Apply? Tips to Land the Job
With a minimum hiring age of 16 years old, TJ Maxx offers the perfect first step into an exciting retail career for teens in 2024.
Follow these tips when applying:
Check TJ Maxx‘s job site weekly for new openings. Opportunities pop up often.
Make a good impression by submitting your application in-person when possible.
Sell yourself in the interview – enthusiasm goes a long way.
Dress professionally and avoid distractions like gum, cell phones.
Follow up with a thank you note to the manager after interviewing.
By starting at TJ Maxx as a teen, you can gain experience that unlocks future advancement into corporate management and leadership roles. Contact your local store and land your first job in retail this year!
