Thinking about working at Menards as a teen? Maybe you’re wondering if you’re old enough to start earning some cash at this popular home improvement store. Well, I’ve got good news and not-so-good news.
The good news: you can work at Menards as young as 16 years old! The not-so-good news? Your job options are pretty limited until you hit 18.
Let’s break down exactly what jobs you can get based on your age, what to expect, and how to get your foot in the door at this retail giant.
Menards Age Requirements: Can You Work There as a Teen?
If you’re 16 or 17, your options at Menards are basically limited to one role: the carry-out/courtesy patrol position. This is the person helping customers load their purchases and collecting shopping carts from the parking lot. Think of it as the retail equivalent of a first-level video game character – you’re just starting out.
For pretty much every other position (cashier, sales floor, stocking, driving forklifts, management), you’ll need to be at least 18 years old and typically have a high school diploma or GED.
What Can You Do at Different Ages?
At 16-17 Years Old:
- Carry-out/courtesy patrol – This is your main option
- Help customers load purchases into vehicles
- Collect shopping carts from the parking lot
- In some locations, you might be eligible for evening downstocking roles (but this varies)
The limitations exist because of federal and state labor laws that restrict what kinds of work minors can do. Makes sense – they don’t want 16-year-olds operating heavy machinery or handling complex transactions.
At 18+ Years Old:
Once you hit 18, the whole store opens up to you! You can apply for:
- Cashier positions
- Sales floor associate
- Department manager roles
- Forklift operator
- Warehouse worker
- Management trainee positions
Most of these roles require a high school diploma or equivalent, and some (like forklift operation) might need special certifications.
Why Apply to Menards? The Benefits Are Actually Pretty Good
Even for younger workers starting in the carry-out position, Menards offers some decent perks:
- Competitive pay that increases with experience
- Employee discounts on merchandise (hello, home improvement projects!)
- Flexible scheduling – great for students
- Opportunity for advancement – many managers started as cart pushers!
For full-time employees 18 and up, benefits get even better with:
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- 401(k) retirement plans
- Paid vacation and holidays
- Tuition reimbursement programs for continuing education
How to Apply When You’re 16
If you’re 16 and ready to start your Menards journey:
- Check openings at your local store – courtesy patrol positions often have high turnover
- Apply online through the Menards career website or in person
- Prepare for a basic interview focusing on your reliability and willingness to work outdoors
- Have your documentation ready (ID, work permit if your state requires it)
The hiring process typically takes 1-2 weeks, and they’re often looking for reliable people who can handle physical work and customer interactions.
What Working at Menards is Actually Like
From talking to current and former employees, here’s what you can expect as a young Menards worker:
- Physical work – be ready to be on your feet and occasionally lift heavy items (with proper training, of course!)
- Weather exposure – cart duty means being outside in various conditions
- Customer interaction – you’ll be the last face customers see, so a positive attitude helps
- Team environment – you’ll work closely with other employees across departments
According to Glassdoor reviews, many employees appreciate the friendly atmosphere and opportunities to learn about home improvement products.
Moving Up: The Menards Career Path
One cool thing about Menards is their “promote-from-within” culture. Many people who started as courtesy patrol at 16 have worked their way up to department managers, assistant managers, and even store managers!
Once you turn 18, the opportunities for advancement increase dramatically. The company offers management training programs specifically designed to help entry-level employees move up.
Quick Summary of Menards Age Requirements
| Age | Available Positions | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| 16-17 | Courtesy Patrol/Cart Attendant | Must be physically able to work outdoors |
| 18+ | Cashiers, Sales Floor, Management, Warehouse | High school diploma typically required |
Is Starting at Menards Worth It?
If you’re 16 and looking for your first job, the carry-out position at Menards is actually a pretty good gig. Yes, your options are limited, but:
- You’ll gain valuable customer service experience
- You’ll learn about the retail environment
- You’ll have a foot in the door for better positions when you turn 18
- The pay is competitive compared to other entry-level jobs
Many current Menards management staff started exactly where you would – pushing carts in the parking lot. Everyone starts somewhere!
While the age restrictions might seem limiting, they’re there for safety and legal reasons. And honestly, the carry-out position gives you a perfect introduction to retail without overwhelming you with too much responsibility right away.
So if you’re 16 and eager to start making some money, Menards could be a great place to launch your working life. Just be prepared for some cart-pushing and weather-braving until you hit that magical age of 18!
