Jobs for 14-Year-Olds in Queens, New York: What's Legally Allowed?

New York State has strict child labor laws that limit employment for minors under 16. However, 14-year-olds in Queens (and statewide) can legally work in a few specific roles, provided they obtain a work permit from the NYS Department of Labor and adhere to hour restrictions.

Permitted Occupations for 14-Year-Olds in NY

• Agricultural Work: Limited outdoor tasks in farming, horticulture, or aquaculture (non-hazardous only).
• Newspaper Delivery: Delivering papers to homes or businesses.
• Door-to-Door Sales: Selling products like candy, magazines, or fundraiser items (with supervision).
• Entertainment Industry: Acting, modeling, or performing with a Child Performer Permit and parental consent.
• Non-Hazardous Clerical/Office Work: Filing, data entry, or answering phones in an office setting.
• Restaurant Roles (Limited): Busing tables, hosting, or light kitchen prep—no cooking, baking, or operating machinery.
• Golf Caddy: Carrying clubs at country clubs or golf courses.

Key Restrictions

• Hours: Max 3 hours on school days, 8 hours on non-school days; 18 hours/week during school, 40 hours/week during breaks.
• Times: No work before 7 AM or after 7 PM (9 PM from June 1 to Labor Day).
• Permit: Must be obtained through the school or NYS DOL before starting.

For the most current rules and application forms, visit the New York State Department of Labor or consult a youth employment counselor.