Ever wondered what Target employees actually earn? Whether you’re eyeing a role at Target or just curious about retail wages, TargetPayandBenefits gives you insight into everything from hourly pay to full-time salaries—and the extra perks that come with the job.
As one of America’s top retailers, Target doesn’t just offer competitive pay; they back it up with strong benefits and real opportunities to grow. I’ll walk you through the full pay structure, bonus incentives, and what makes working at Target worth it. Let’s break it down.
Understanding Hourly Wages at Target
When exploring What Do Target Employees Get Paid?, hourly wages are the foundation for most roles. In 2023, Target set a minimum wage of $15 per hour across all U.S. stores, a move that positioned it ahead of many retail competitors.
Entry-level positions like cashiers, guest advocates, and stockers typically earn between $15 and $18 per hour, depending on factors like location, experience, and store type (urban vs. rural).
Here’s a closer look at hourly pay:
- Cashiers and Guest Advocates: Start at $15/hour, with potential for raises after performance reviews.
- Stockers and Fulfillment Associates: Earn $15–$17/hour, with higher pay for physically demanding roles.
- Specialized Roles: Pharmacy technicians or beauty consultants may earn $18–$22/hour due to required skills.
- Location Impact: High-cost areas like California, New York, or Washington, D.C., often pay $1–$3 more per hour to match living costs.
For example, a cashier in Los Angeles might start at $16.50/hour, while one in a small Midwest town earns $15. I once spoke with a Target cashier who shared that consistent performance led to a $1/hour raise within a year—small but motivating! Target also adjusts wages periodically to stay competitive, so checking their career site for local rates is a smart move.
Target’s hourly wages start strong at $15 and vary by role and region, offering a solid foundation for retail workers.
Salaries for Management and Corporate Roles
Beyond hourly jobs, What Do Target Employees Get Paid? in leadership or corporate positions? Management roles, such as team leads and department managers, offer annual salaries ranging from $45,000 to $80,000, depending on experience, store size, and sales performance.
Corporate roles, like marketing specialists, supply chain analysts, or IT professionals, can earn between $60,000 and $120,000 annually, with senior positions climbing above $150,000.
Here’s a detailed salary breakdown:
| Role | Salary Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Team Lead | $45,000–$60,000 | Oversees teams, eligible for bonuses |
| Department Manager | $60,000–$80,000 | Manages larger store sections |
| Store Manager | $70,000–$100,000 | Varies by store revenue and location |
| Corporate Analyst | $60,000–$90,000 | Often requires a degree, hybrid work |
| Senior Corporate Manager | $100,000–$150,000+ | Includes stock options, leadership roles |
Management roles often come with performance-based bonuses, typically 5–15% of base salary, especially during high-sales periods like the holidays.
I recall a friend who worked as a Target team lead mentioning how holiday bonuses boosted their income significantly—sometimes enough for a nice vacation! Corporate employees may also receive stock options or profit-sharing, adding to their total compensation.
If you’re aiming for management, Target promotes from within, so starting as a cashier or stocker could lead to a leadership role. Keep in mind that corporate roles often require specialized education or experience, but they offer long-term earning potential.
Benefits That Enhance Total Compensation
When asking What Do Target Employees Get Paid?, don’t overlook the value of benefits, which can make a big difference, especially for full-time workers.
Target offers a robust benefits package for employees working 30+ hours per week, including health insurance, dental, vision, and a 401(k) with a 5% company match—a standout perk in retail. Even part-time workers get some benefits, though they’re less comprehensive.
Here’s what Target’s benefits include:
- Health Insurance: Medical plans start at around $25/week for individuals, with options for family coverage.
- Paid Time Off (PTO): Full-time employees accrue vacation and sick leave; part-timers get limited PTO after a year.
- Employee Discounts: 10% off most Target purchases, plus 20% on wellness products like fresh produce or fitness gear.
- Education Support: Tuition reimbursement for eligible programs, helping employees pursue degrees or certifications.
- Wellness Programs: Access to mental health resources and fitness discounts, like gym memberships.
I’ve always thought the 20% wellness discount is a gem—imagine saving on healthy snacks or workout equipment! The 401(k) match is another big win; contributing 5% of your salary means Target matches it, effectively doubling your retirement savings. For a $15/hour employee working 40 hours/week, that’s an extra $1,500/year in retirement funds if you max out the match.
Target also offers parental leave (up to 10 weeks for full-time employees) and adoption assistance, which is rare in retail. These benefits add thousands to your total compensation, making Target’s pay package more than just a paycheck.
Factors That Shape Your Pay at Target
Curious about what do Target employees get paid when you dig into the details? Several factors influence your paycheck, including experience, location, job type, and work schedule. A seasoned team lead in a high-cost city might earn $25/hour, while a new cashier in a rural store starts at $15.
Seasonal workers, often hired for busy periods like Black Friday, typically earn the minimum wage but may not qualify for benefits.
Key factors include:
- Experience: Employees with retail experience or specialized skills (e.g., pharmacy techs) earn more.
- Location: Urban stores in high-cost areas pay more to align with living expenses.
- Shift Differentials: Overnight or weekend shifts often add $1–$2/hour.
- Performance Bonuses: Top performers can earn bonuses, especially during peak seasons.
- Union Status: In rare cases, unionized stores may negotiate slightly higher wages.
I once heard from a Target employee who worked overnight shifts during the holidays and saw their paycheck jump thanks to shift differentials. However, these shifts can be tough, so weigh the trade-offs. Seasonal roles, while flexible, often lack benefits, so they’re best for short-term earners.
For the most accurate pay details, check with your local Target or browse their career portal for job postings.
Conclusion
When you’re wondering What Do Target Employees Get Paid?, the answer is more than just a number—it’s a combination of competitive wages, starting at $15/hour, and robust benefits like health insurance, 401(k) matching, and employee discounts.
Management and corporate roles offer salaries up to $150,000+, with bonuses and stock options for top performers. Whether you’re starting as a cashier or aiming for leadership, Target provides opportunities to grow.
Ready to explore a career at Target? Visit their career page to find roles near you and take the next step!
