Working as a Minor in Oregon: What Jobs Are Allowed and Who Needs an Employment Certificate?

Oregon has specific labor laws regulating the employment of minors to ensure their safety and well-being. These laws determine the minimum age for employment, the type of work minors can perform, and whether they require a permit to work. Understanding these regulations is crucial for both employers and young workers.

Minimum Working Age in Oregon

In Oregon, the minimum age to work is 14 years old. However, minors under 14 can work in certain limited circumstances, such as family businesses, agriculture, entertainment, or casual domestic work like babysitting. Federal and state laws ensure that younger workers are protected from exploitation and hazardous working conditions.

Work Permits for Minors

Unlike some states that require minors to obtain a work permit before employment, Oregon does not issue work permits to individual workers. Instead, employers must obtain an Employment Certificate from the Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries (BOLI) before hiring minors. This certificate ensures that the employer is aware of and complies with child labor laws.

Employers must list the duties that the minor will perform and confirm that the work meets state and federal legal requirements. Without this certificate, hiring a minor is illegal in Oregon.

Job Restrictions for Minors in Oregon

To protect young workers, Oregon law restricts the types of jobs minors can perform based on their age. These restrictions are in place to prevent injuries and overexertion, ensuring that minors can balance work with their education and well-being.

Jobs Minors Under 14 Can Perform

Minors under 14 have very limited employment options. They can typically work in:

• Entertainment industries (acting, modeling, etc.)
• Family-owned businesses (as long as the work is non-hazardous)
• Agricultural work (with parental consent and restrictions on hours)
• Casual work such as babysitting, yard work, or newspaper delivery

Jobs Minors Aged 14 and 15 Can Perform

Minors aged 14 and 15 can work in a wider variety of jobs but still face significant restrictions. Acceptable jobs include:

• Retail positions (cashiering, stocking, bagging)
• Food service (hosting, bussing tables, dishwashing, food prep without hazardous equipment)
• Office and clerical work
• Amusement parks and theaters (ushering, ticket-taking)

Prohibited Jobs for 14 and 15-Year-Olds

While 14- and 15-year-olds can work, they cannot perform hazardous jobs such as:

• Operating heavy machinery or power tools
• Working in manufacturing, construction, or warehousing
• Cooking over open flames or using deep fryers
• Handling or selling alcohol

Additionally, their work hours are restricted. They cannot work during school hours, more than three hours on a school day, or more than 18 hours per week during the school year. During summer or holidays, they may work up to 40 hours per week.

Jobs Minors Aged 16 and 17 Can Perform

At 16 and 17, minors can work in more industries but are still prohibited from hazardous occupations. Acceptable jobs include:

• Most retail and hospitality positions
• Restaurant work, including some kitchen duties
• Office jobs, customer service, and sales
• Construction site clean-up (but not operating power tools or heavy equipment)

Prohibited Jobs for 16 and 17-Year-Olds

Even though 16- and 17-year-olds have more employment options, they are still barred from:

• Operating heavy machinery or vehicles
• Logging, mining, and sawmill work
• Exposure to toxic chemicals or radiation
• Roofing and demolition work

However, they do not have as strict work-hour limitations as younger teens, though working overnight shifts is generally discouraged.

Special Exceptions and Industry-Specific Rules

Some industries have additional rules governing minor employment. For example:

• Agriculture: Minors under 16 may work in agriculture but are prohibited from using hazardous equipment.
• Entertainment Industry: Special permits may be required for minors working in film, theater, or modeling.
• Apprenticeships and Internships: Some 16- and 17-year-olds can work in skilled trades under strict supervision.

Employer Responsibilities

Employers hiring minors must comply with state and federal child labor laws, which include:

• Obtaining the necessary Employment Certificate from BOLI
• Adhering to hour and job restrictions
• Maintaining records of minor employees and their work schedules
• Providing a safe and non-hazardous work environment

Failure to comply with these laws can result in fines, legal penalties, and loss of the ability to hire minors in the future.

Conclusion

Oregon’s child labor laws are designed to protect young workers while allowing them to gain experience and earn money. Minors who wish to work must find jobs that comply with age restrictions, while employers must ensure they follow all legal requirements. By understanding these regulations, young workers and businesses can create a safe and lawful work environment.

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