Minor: Is it possible to do temporary work?

What are the conditions for working temporarily when you are under 18?

1. Parental authorization: Minors must generally obtain written authorization from their parents or legal guardians to be able to work.
2. Age restrictions: Temporary work assignments are often accessible to young people aged 16 and over. Minors under 16 are subject to stricter restrictions and can only work in certain exceptional cases.
3. Specific conditions: Some assignments may be reserved for adults or require specific safety conditions, thus limiting access for minors.

Temporary work for minors: what does the law say?

Breaks for minors in temporary work

• Mandatory 30-minute break: If working time exceeds 4 and a half hours, a break of at least 30 consecutive minutes must be granted. This allows young people to rest and remain attentive during their assignments.
• Maximum daily and weekly working time: Minors cannot work more than 8 hours per day and 35 hours per week, even in temporary work. These limits aim to avoid excessive fatigue and preserve the balance between work and rest.

Are there any jobs prohibited for minors in temporary work?

• Work at height: Any activity requiring the use of ladders, scaffolding, or involving risks of falling is prohibited for minors.
• Handling of dangerous substances: Jobs involving chemical products, solvents, or toxic materials are prohibited to protect the health of young workers.
• Use of dangerous machinery: Minors are not authorized to operate risky machinery, such as those used in industrial sectors (mechanical saws, industrial presses, etc.).
• Exposure to extreme temperatures: Jobs exposing young people to very high or very low temperatures, particularly in metallurgy or industrial refrigeration, are prohibited.
• Work requiring respiratory protective equipment: Exposure to harmful dust, toxic fumes, or dangerous gases.
• Work exposing to intense vibrations: Handling certain machinery that produces vibrations harmful to health.
• Work in confined atmospheres: Closed environments where there are risks of lack of oxygen or the presence of toxic gases (e.g., silos, tanks).
• Work with electrical risk: Any intervention on live installations or presenting a risk of electrocution.
• Work requiring the carrying of heavy loads: Handling weights beyond the legal limits for minors.
• Work in contact with dangerous biological agents: Exposure to microorganisms, viruses, or other agents likely to cause diseases.
• Work in extreme temperature conditions: Exposure to very high or low temperatures, such as in foundries or industrial refrigerators.
• Night work: Work between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m., except for very strictly regulated exceptions (e.g., bakery).

The salary of minors in temporary work

• Reduction of the SMIC for those under 18: In France, minors benefit from a specific minimum wage, often calculated at 80% of the gross SMIC for young people aged 16 to 17, unless they have at least 6 months of experience in the sector of activity concerned. From the age of 18, they receive the full SMIC.
• End-of-mission bonus and paid leave: As with adults, temporary workers under 18 are entitled to an end-of-mission bonus at the end of their assignment (often 10% of the gross remuneration) as well as a compensatory allowance for paid leave.
• Increase for special hours: In the event of exceptional work during off-peak hours or weekends, increases may be applied, provided that these hours comply with the legal conditions for minors.

I want to employ a minor, what are the formalities?

• Obtain parental authorization: Every minor must have written authorization from their parents or legal guardians to be able to work. This authorization is generally required by temporary work agencies and employers.
• Complete a declaration with the labor inspectorate: For minors under 18, the employer must often make a declaration to the labor inspectorate, specifying the details of the assignment and the safety measures put in place.
• Provide a medical examination: Before taking up a position, the minor must undergo a medical examination. This consultation verifies that the tasks to be performed are suitable for their age and state of health.
• Regulate working hours and breaks: It is crucial to respect the hourly restrictions provided by law for minors, including specific breaks and limits on daily and weekly working hours.

The steps to find a temporary work assignment as a minor

• Preparation of an adapted CV: Even as a minor, it is important to prepare a clear and concise CV, highlighting the skills, internships, or volunteer experiences that demonstrate your motivation and abilities.
• Obtain parental authorization: Before applying, it is essential to have written authorization from your parents or legal guardian. This authorization will often be requested by the temporary work agency to validate your file.
• Contact a specialized temporary work agency: Some agencies, like Staffmatch, are used to supporting minors in their first work experiences. They can guide you towards suitable assignments and provide you with information on the applicable conditions and restrictions.
• Preparation for the interview: During the interview, showing your motivation and seriousness is essential to convince recruiters. Clearly express your interest in the assignment and your willingness to respect safety rules and company instructions.

Conclusion Temporary work for minors is an excellent opportunity for young people to discover the world of work while respecting a legal and safe framework. By knowing their rights, respecting the procedures, and avoiding certain errors, minors can benefit from an enriching first professional experience. For more information on available assignments and for assistance with your procedures, do not hesitate to contact Staffmatch. Our teams are ready to guide you towards suitable and safe assignments.