The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) sets 14 years old as the minimum age for employment. Minors are identified as individuals under the age of 18, and the FLSA also sets wages and safety requirements for them. The rules vary depending on the minor’s age, job requirements, and state they live in.
There are a few jobs where age is not a crucial factor. Youth and pre-teens can deliver newspapers, and perform on radio, in movies, on television, or in theatrical productions.
The restaurant industry offers minors part-time or summer jobs. One such restaurant chain is IHOP. But “How old do you have to be to work at IHOP?”
Well, let’s take a closer look and find out!
Contents
IHOP
IHOP is a restaurant franchise that specializes in American breakfast foods. Even though it’s a multinational pancake house restaurant chain, it also serves delicious lunch and dinner. Fun facts: IHOP is an acronym for International House of Pancakes, and the franchise’s most popular dish is its Original Buttermilk Pancakes.
With over 1,800 locations, the minimum age to work at IHOP is 16 years old.
Most locations are open 24/7! A few open between 7:00 am and 10:00 am. These are the chain’s minimum operating hours. So, which jobs can 16-year-olds apply for at IHOP, and what are the working conditions like? Let’s find out…
Read more: IHOP Holiday Hours
How Old Do You Have to Be to Work at IHOP? – Working at IHOP
According to Statista, this well-known casual dining chain recently generated approximately 3.12 billion US dollars in sales from its restaurants. Since most of them operate 24 /7, 16-year-olds are an asset. Usually, at an entry-level position, teenagers have a fair share of available jobs. These include…
Servers
As a server, you will be responsible for several tasks. You’ll greet customers and make suggestions regarding food, drinks, and service. You’ll serve meals while checking on your customers from time to time. You will relay orders to the kitchen or bar section using a point-of-sale computerized register system as a server.
If you’re a social and active person, this position will suit you. With the amount of energy exuded, you should wear a comfortable pair of unisex-child grand court tennis shoes. These’ll help you stay on your feet as they are 100% synthetic and they come in a wide range of colors to choose from.
Delivery Driver
Let’s face it; some people love to eat from home. Around 60% of U.S consumers order take out or delivery once or twice per week. IHOP hires delivery drivers, and a driving license is the second requirement, along with the age requirement. If you still haven’t got your license, prepare for the test using a DMV Test Practice Driving Questions Guide with questions that pertain to national driving standards and are not specific to any U.S state.
As a driver, the job should be done efficiently, and you should have a good personality. Maintaining a professional demeanor will help you score points as a top IHOP employer. Plus, you can customize your work vehicle keys with a Marvel Comics Avengers Thor’s Hammer Pewter Keychain. The high-quality molded key chain has a clip closure.
Dishwasher
Also known as a busser, the wages are around $9 per hour. With the advanced use of dishwashing machines, we bet you didn’t expect this job to land on this list!
However, a dishwashing machine won’t load itself, so a busser is responsible for loading the machine. You would also be responsible for the general cleanliness of the restaurant. Additional responsibilities include taking out the trash, mopping the floor, and cleaning the restaurant.
When cleaning floors, why not wear a pair of durable and disposable shoe cover booties? They are made of environmentally friendly and healthy non-woven fabrics, perfect for saving you from a few falls.
Cook
A passion for cooking can land you a job at IHOP once you turn 16. You are required to complete assigned prep work and to set up your cook station. Responsibilities might include maintaining product presentation, cook time standards, and product quality. There’s a good chance there will be a senior chef, and you’ll serve as a cook and chef’s assistant.
You’ll prepare menu items according to IHOP’s recipes and specials. You’ll also clean and sanitize the area before and after your shift. For better cooking practice, a 15-piece set of non-stick cookware will do the job and includes pots, pans, and utensils.
Host/ Hostess
While IHOP is well-known for its breakfast meals, its service is just as highly regarded. The host or hostess is responsible for welcoming customers. That’s not all! You pay attention to the needs customers might have. These include being inclusive of individuals with disabilities and providing high chairs. The minimum wage is around $10 per hour.
During popular holidays when the restaurant is full, you manage the Wait List. Using a high-quality deodorant roll-on will give you the confidence to approach and interact with customers. This 48-hour antiperspirant will keep you feeling fresh because of its ocean extracts. If you’re organized and enjoy being social, being a host at IHOP would be ideal.
Now that we’ve highlighted the main jobs that teenagers can go for, do you want to learn about the application process? Well, let me show you how…
Applying at IHOP
So, how can teenagers apply for a job at IHOP? First, visit their career page. Not only can you browse for jobs, but you can create and edit your profile. You can apply online, view your application forms, and submit your resume.
You can also check for jobs using the IHOP locations page. This is because some restaurants operate under independent owners. You can walk in at your nearest IHOP and make a face-to-face inquiry. While you can monitor your applications online, calling or checking in person is better. Making an effort to follow up will show your genuine interest in a job vacancy.
Job Interviews at IHOP
The jobs all have different set wages per hour, and this may differ from state to state. The good news is that no experience is required at this point. Enthusiasm and passion are your strengths when applying and interviewing at IHOP. Here are a few important pointers to remember when you get an interview.
Dressing Up
The franchise is known for its casual and laid back approach that makes customers feel at home. For your interview, you should be well dressed. A smart casual look is ideal, and avoid wearing clothes with any visible printed messages.
Adequate Interview Preparations
Do your research on the job you’re applying for and review potential questions that could be asked. Practice makes perfect. There are different resources available at the tip of your fingers. A sensible guide for a restaurant worker is the Restaurant Worker RED-HOT Career Guide which contains 2,540 actual interview questions.
Looking for More Information about Working at IHOP?
Then check out our in-depth look at the IHOP Application, the most common IHOP Interview Questions, and find out Does IHOP Hire Felons in 2023?
Or, if you want to show your love for IHOP to the whole world, get yourself an IHOP International House of Pancakes Aged Lood Food T Shirt, an IHOP Unisex Baseball Cap, or the Ihop Forever Coffee Mug.
And, if you want to perfect your pancakes, then it’s well worth checking out Pancakes Make People Happy: Over 75 Recipes, Pancakes, Waffles, Crêpes & French Toast: Irresistible recipes from the griddle, Easy Pancake Cookbook: 50 Delicious Pancake Recipes, or The Big Pancake Cookbook: Creative Pancakes That Are Perfect for Every Day.
How Old Do You Have to Be to Work at IHOP? – Final Thoughts
IHOP employees must be at least 16 years old, and entry-level jobs are given based on demonstrating enthusiasm rather than experience or qualifications. The company puts effort into caring for the environment, and really values employees, making it a good start for a teenager’s career.
With company values based on integrity, inclusion, and community, having your application form on standby is a good move.
The very best of luck with finding a job at IHOP!