How flexible are places like Texas Roadhouse, Target, etc for students, teenagers?

I was wondering just how flexible places can be with students and teenagers when it comes to their work schedules. I'm an athlete and student year round, and need to find a job that allows me to get my school work and practice done. Do these places let you work just on the weekends or on specific days when you don't have specific time commitments? Any tips or suggestions would rock my world.

Public Comments

1. It all depends on where you live and the manager of the place. As long as you are honest with them when you apply it won't be a problem once you're hired. I personally found the best school-time jobs were places that do lots of birthday parties. These types of places will need more help on days when people host parties (weekends/after school). They also understand about the commitment to school. Another option is something that will help you in school. I worked at Michael's craft store while in high school. It was great because I used my discount on supplies for classroom projects. No matter where you work, you will most likely be making minimum wage as a teenager. Restaurants like Texas Roadhouse can't have a minor as a server (alcohol) so you would only be able to be a greeter or a dishwasher (no tips).
2. Target can be pretty flexible. However, you are required to work at least 15 hours a week for your first 90 days, and you can not change your availability for 90 days, so make sure you give them a schedule that you can follow for at least 3 months. When I first started I had an understanding manager who tried to work around my new schedule, but you may get stuck with someone who won't be as easy to work with. Once you pass your 90 days you get a lot more leeway, so just make sure you can give a good schedule for them.