A 16-year-old working at Target, typically considered a high school student employee, can expect to earn an average base salary of $22 per hour. The total estimated pay, which includes both base salary and additional compensation, ranges from $17 to $30 per hour.
Target is known for offering competitive wages, and roles available to 16-year-olds often include positions like General Merchandise Expert, Front of Store Attendant, or Style Consultant. These roles are essential to the daily operations of the store.
Understanding the Pay Structure
The compensation for a high school student at Target is typically broken down into a base hourly wage, with opportunities for additional pay that can increase the overall hourly rate.
Here's a quick overview:
| Pay Component | Rate/Range (Per Hour) | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Average Base Salary | $22 | The standard hourly wage before extra pay. |
| Estimated Total Pay Range | $17 – $30 | Includes base salary plus any additional compensation. |
This "additional pay" can come from various factors, such as working specific shifts (e.g., overnight shifts in some roles), performance incentives, or holiday pay, although these might be less common for entry-level high school student positions.
Factors Influencing a 16-Year-Old's Earnings at Target
While the average is $22 per hour, a 16-year-old's specific earnings can vary due to several factors:
- Location: Pay rates can differ based on the cost of living and local market demand in the store's geographic area. For instance, stores in major metropolitan areas might offer higher wages than those in rural locations.
- Specific Role/Department: While many roles are available to high school students, certain specialized roles, if accessible, might have slightly different pay scales.
- Experience Level: Although 16-year-olds are typically new to the workforce, any prior retail or customer service experience, even if informal, could be a slight factor in initial negotiation or advancement potential.
- Hours Worked: The total amount earned weekly or bi-weekly will, of course, depend on the number of hours scheduled. Most 16-year-olds are subject to state and federal labor laws limiting their working hours, especially during school weeks.
- Performance and Tenure: As with any job, consistent strong performance and longevity with the company can potentially lead to raises or opportunities for increased earnings over time.
Working at Target as a 16-year-old not only provides income but also offers valuable work experience, skill development in retail operations, customer service, and teamwork.
