Target generally starts hiring at 16 years old for most in-store entry-level jobs like cashier or sales floor team member.

Quick Scoop: What age does Target hire?

  • Most store positions: minimum 16 years old in many locations.
  • Team leader / some higher-responsibility roles: usually 18+ and often require a high school diploma or GED.
  • Distribution centers and certain departments (like deli, bakery, equipment-heavy areas): commonly 18+ because of safety and labor regulations.
  • Local variation: individual stores or states can set slightly different minimum ages (some feedback mentions 17 or preference for 18+), so you should always check the specific job posting for your area.

How this works in practice

  • If you’re 16:
    • You can typically apply for team member roles (cashier, front of store, basic stocking) as long as local law allows it.
* Your hours and tasks may be limited by youth labor laws while you’re still in school.
  • If you’re 18 or older:
    • You qualify for all standard in-store roles, may be eligible for team lead positions, and can usually work in distribution centers or equipment-heavy areas.

A simple way to check your exact situation is to go to Target’s careers site, search your nearest store, and look at the “minimum age” or requirements line in each job posting.

Meta description (SEO):
Wondering what age Target hires? Learn the typical minimum hiring age at Target, how it varies by role and location, and what teens and young adults should know before applying.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.