Costco is a big store that sells lots of items in bulk, and they are good to their employees. If you’re a teenager, you might be thinking about working there. You might wonder if you can get a job at Costco if you’re 17 years old. Let’s look into that!
You must be 18 years old to work at Costco in many places. They ask this because you might have to handle equipment or work in areas that are safer for adults. However, some stores might let younger teens help with simpler tasks. It’s a good idea to ask at your local Costco to see the rules.
Working at Costco can be great because they offer good pay and treat their employees well. If you’re close to turning 18, it might be worth waiting a bit so you can apply. Meanwhile, you can always look for other jobs that are happy to hire younger teenagers.
In this article:
Can I work at Costco at 17?
I’m often asked if a 17-year-old can get a job at Costco. Unfortunately, the answer is no. Costco requires employees to be at least 18 years old. This is true for both part-time and full-time positions.
Even though 17-year-olds can’t be hired for regular jobs at Costco, there might be exceptions during busy times like the holiday season. Some stores might offer temporary jobs then. It’s a good idea to ask your local Costco if they have any seasonal openings.
How Old to Work at Costco? Minimum Age Requirement
Costco doesn’t have its own rules for how young you need to be to work there. The laws of the country usually decide this. Most jobs that are not about farming say you need to be at least 16 years old. This rule comes from something called the Fair Labor Standards Act.
If you are under 18, there are extra rules about what jobs you can do and how long you can work. It’s also important to know that some places might have different rules. For example, in certain states, you might need to be older than 16 to work in stores like Costco.
Costco follows child labor laws very carefully. You must be at least 18 years old to work there. They do this because some products, like tobacco and alcohol, are sold at their stores.
If you are 16 or 17, you can’t work at Costco. The reason is that their stores are not safe for younger workers. The rules are very clear to protect everyone. Sometimes when the stores are in peak time like in seasonal time, they might hire teenagers with age of 17.
Kids who are younger than 15 are not allowed to work at Costco at all. This rule helps keep everyone safe, especially in places where there are things not suitable for kids.
So, if you’re thinking about working at Costco, you should look up the labor laws in your state to see how old you need to be. This helps make sure you know all the rules before you apply for a job.
What types of jobs are available at Costco?
Costco offers several job opportunities for those who are 18 and older. Each role at Costco involves different responsibilities.
As a cashier, you’ll handle customer purchases, manage payments, and ensure everyone receives excellent service. If you work as a stock clerk, your tasks will include unloading deliveries, stocking shelves, and keeping the warehouse tidy. You might also help customers find products they are looking for.
If you prefer working with food, you could be a food court attendant. This job involves preparing and serving food in Costco’s food court. Another option is becoming a customer service representative. In this role, you’ll answer questions, handle returns, and help customers around the store.
What are the requirements and qualifications for a job at Costco?
Work permits are crucial for minors seeking employment. You’ll usually need to get one from your local government before you start.
Here are some qualifications Costco values in its employees:
- Reliability and a strong work ethic: Being punctual, diligent in your tasks, and showing eagerness to learn are highly valued.
- Teamwork skills: Effective collaboration with colleagues is crucial in the fast-paced warehouse environment.
- Excellent communication skills: Clear interactions with customers and team members are essential for a smooth workflow.
- Positive attitude and customer service orientation: Providing a friendly and helpful experience to Costco members is a priority.
While having prior retail experience is a plus, it’s not always required. Costco often prioritizes candidates who demonstrate the above qualities and a willingness to learn.
How do I apply for a job at Costco as an 18-year-old?
The job application and hiring process at Costco is generally straightforward. Here’s what to expect:
- Visit the Costco Careers website: Check for open positions at your preferred Costco location. You can typically search by location and job type.
- Complete the online application: Fill out the online application form carefully, providing accurate information about your work experience, skills, and availability.
- Submit your application: Once you’ve completed the online form, submit it for review.
- Interview stage: If your application impresses the hiring manager, you might be called in for an interview. Be prepared to answer questions about your qualifications, work ethic, and availability.
There might be additional steps depending on your location. For instance, some Costco’s might require attending a brief orientation session after the interview stage.
What is the hiring process like for minors at Costco?
The hiring process for minors at Costco is quite similar to that for adults, but there are a few extra steps to consider. One of the first things Costco will do is verify that you have a valid work permit. This is essential before they can offer you a job.
Since you’re still in school, there are federal rules about how many hours you can work. These rules are especially strict during school hours and on school nights. During your interview, you’ll need to be clear about when you can work.
It’s important to be honest about your age and any limits on when you can work right from the start of the application process. This openness helps keep everything clear and prevents any misunderstandings later on.
Are there any restrictions or limitations for 17-year-olds working at Costco?
If you’re a teenager dreaming of working at Costco, there’s good news! Costco does hire 16 and 17-year-olds for roles like cashier or stock clerk. This is a great chance to get some retail experience and yes, enjoy a few free samples on your breaks.
However, if you’re 17, there are certain restrictions you need to be aware of, all because of federal laws designed to protect young workers. For example, if you’re under 16, you can’t work more than 3 hours on a school day or 18 hours on a school week. These hours can be extended slightly for 17-year-olds, but it’s important to know the rules specific to your state.
There are also rules about the types of jobs you can do. You might not be allowed to operate certain machinery or work in areas considered hazardous. And, working late at night is usually restricted, especially on school nights.
Costco takes these laws seriously. During your interview, they will discuss what hours you can work to make sure they follow these legal guidelines.
What to Expect Working at Costco?
Costco is known for its fast-paced work environment. Employees there are expected to work efficiently and meet the goals set for them. Despite this, Costco invests in training its employees and offers opportunities for them to advance within the company.
They also offer a competitive benefits package. This includes health insurance, dental and vision coverage, a 401(k) plan, and paid time off. Overall, Costco is a great place to work if you’re looking for a stable job with good pay and benefits. It’s also a good place to grow your career in retail.
What are the benefits of working at Costco as a teenager?
Working at Costco comes with some great benefits, even for teenagers. They offer competitive wages that are often higher than other retail places. Part-time employees might get health insurance, dental and vision plans, and even profit-sharing programs.
Costco is also a great place to work because of its positive environment. They value teamwork and make sure everyone feels appreciated. If you’re looking to learn and grow, Costco provides various training programs to help you develop skills that are useful in retail and other areas too.
They understand you’re still in school and offer flexible scheduling. This helps you balance work with your studies. These benefits make working at Costco a rewarding experience, helping you gain work experience, financial independence, and valuable professional skills.
Final words
Costco offers a great deal for its employees. They provide competitive wages, a full benefits program, and a great employee discount. If you’re 18 or older and strong, and if you can handle the ups and downs of retail with a smile, then working at Costco could be perfect for you. Just be ready to work hard and meet some interesting people. You might even get a free hot dog and soda during your break.
See related: Does Costco Hire Felons?
