Are you interested in working at Sprouts Farmers Market, but what is the minimum hiring age?
As one of the fastest-growing grocery chains in the country, Sprouts offers excellent employment opportunities.
However, you will need to know the hiring age and the kind of working experience you need to get a job there.
This article will provide all the details on Sprouts’ hiring age, working experience requirements, and tips for landing a job.
Minimum Hiring Age to Work at Sprouts
Sprouts require employees to work in their stores at least 16 years old. This is the company’s official minimum hiring age across all locations.
Some key points on Sprouts’ age policy:
- You must be at least 16 to apply for any in-store position, from cashier to stocker to deli clerk. This includes both part-time and full-time jobs.
- There are no exceptions to the 16-year-old age minimum. Younger teens cannot be hired even with parental consent.
- The minimum age applies to all Sprouts store locations across the U.S.
- Once you turn 16, you can apply online or in person for employment. Proof of age will be required during the hiring process.
So if you’re 15 and eager to start earning money, unfortunately, you’ll have to wait until your 16th birthday before applying at Sprouts.
But the good news is that turning 16 unlocks a great starter job opportunity!
Working Experience Needed for Sprouts Jobs
Sprouts do not require any prior work experience for front-end store positions like cashiers, baggers, and courtesy clerks.
The company understands that many teenagers will apply for their first job.
However, having some previous work experience can be beneficial when applying for specific roles at Sprouts:
Grocery Clerk & Stocker
- Having experience working in a grocery store, retail shop, restaurant, or other customer service job can help applicants stand out for grocery clerk and stocker roles.
- Familiarity with locating and arranging merchandise is preferred. Previous grocery, retail, or merchandising experience is a plus.
Deli Clerk
- Any experience working around food – in grocery stores, fast food, cafeterias, etc. – is recommended for deli clerk positions.
- Knowing proper food handling procedures is a major advantage.
Produce Clerk
- Produce clerk applicants with past grocery produce or farmer’s market experience are desired.
- Knowledge of different fruits, vegetables, properties, and needs is very helpful.
- Previous experience safely operating box cutters is a plus.
Vitamin & Supplement Consultant
- Experience working in a pharmacy, health food, and nutrition stores is strongly preferred for vitamin consultant roles.
- Strong knowledge of dietary supplements, vitamins, and herbs is very important.
- Any background in wellness, alternative medicine, or fitness could be beneficial.
So for most front-end and stocking roles, Sprouts is willing to train new hires without experience.
But for specialized positions like deli clerk or vitamin consultant, having directly related work experience or knowledge can boost your chances.
Tips for Applying for Jobs at Sprouts at 16
If you meet the minimum hiring age requirement, here are some top tips to improve your chances of landing your first job at Sprouts:
1. Highlight Any Work Experience You Do Have
Even informal experience like babysitting, lawn mowing or volunteering is great to include on your application.
Emphasize transferable skills like punctuality, responsibility, customer service and cash handling.
2. Apply to Multiple Locations
Don’t just apply to the Sprouts nearest you. Search for openings at all nearby stores. The more applications you submit, the better your chances.
3. Consider Part-Time Positions
Part-time roles tend to have higher turnover, so focusing your search on part-time gigs can increase your prospects. These still provide a great introductory experience.
4. Talk up Your Work Ethic
In interviews, convey your enthusiasm, motivation, and determination to work hard.
Managers want people who show up on time, follow directions and take initiative.
5. Get a Reference
Have a teacher, coach, or non-family member write you a recommendation letter highlighting your strengths. This can make you stand out.
6. Highlight Food Handling Courses
If you’ve taken high school classes in culinary skills, nutrition, food prep or ServSafe certification, put it on your application!
7. Apply at 16 years + 3 months
The closer you are to 17, the more eager managers may be to hire you with summer around the corner.
So don’t wait until your 16th birthday – start applying a few months before.
8. Be Flexible
Open availability is highly desired. So if you can work mornings, evenings, weekends – say so!
Constraints due to school hours are understandable but offer lots of flexibility if possible.
What to Expect Working at Sprouts at 16
What is it like working at Sprouts as a 16 or 17-year-old? Here’s an overview of the typical experience:
Positions
Most new hires start as cashiers, baggers, or stockers. These roles have high turnover, providing initial opportunities. With experience, you can advance to specialized roles.
Hours
As a minor, expect around 12-24 hours per week, mostly evenings and weekends. Once you turn 18, more daytime and full-time opportunities open up.
Duties
Cashiers scan items, bag groceries, and handle money. Stockers unpack boxes, stock shelves, and face products. Baggers, bag groceries, collect carts, assist cashiers.
Environment
Sprouts stores are quick-paced, busy workplaces. The culture emphasizes healthy living and customer service. Expect to be on your feet, moving around constantly.
Training
Paid training helps new hires master skills from using the register to knife safety to sanitation procedures. Close supervision is provided. Effort is recognized.
Advancement
Part-time roles allow new hires to learn the ropes. With commitment and competence, promotions to specialty and leadership roles are possible.
Wages
Pay starts around $15 per hour or higher, depending on location. Pay raises are offered for good performance. Employee discounts are provided.
Sprouts provide an excellent starting point for first-time workers to gain skills, experience, and income in a fast-paced industry.
It’s a company that rewards work ethic and offers room to advance over time.
Next Steps to Apply for a Job
Ready to submit your application? Here are the next steps:
- Visit Sprouts’ online career portal: https://careers.sprouts.com
- Search for openings at your nearest locations. Filter by part-time or full-time status.
- Click “Apply Now” on a relevant position and create an account.
- Complete the online application form fully and accurately.
- Highlight your enthusiasm and any previous work experiences.
- Update your availability if you can offer lots of flexibility.
- Double check for errors, then submit your application.
- Follow up by contacting each store’s hiring manager. Express your interest!
The key is showing your motivation to learn and grow. With the right attitude, Sprouts can provide the perfect platform to start developing your career skills as a teen.
So polish those resumes and get applying once you turn 16! Adulthood and exciting new work experiences await.
