Last Updated: April 8, 2026
Hobby Lobby Application Guide : How to Apply Online
How to Apply at Hobby Lobby
Hobby Lobby accepts both online applications and in-store applications. The in-store method — walking into a store and asking to speak with a manager — is particularly effective at Hobby Lobby, as store managers make most hiring decisions locally. Online applications are submitted through the Hobby Lobby careers portal. The hiring process typically takes 1–2 weeks from application to first day for store-level positions.
Step 1: Apply Online or In-Store
Online: Go to hobbyhobby.com/content/careers, click “Apply Now,” and search for positions by state and city. In-store: Visit your local Hobby Lobby store and ask to fill out a paper application or speak directly with the store manager. In-store applications are highly effective — managers often interview walk-in applicants on the spot or within a few days, especially for part-time openings.
Step 2: Complete the Application
The application asks for standard work history, education, and availability. Note that Hobby Lobby is closed every Sunday — you will not be scheduled on Sundays. Be specific about your weekday and Saturday availability. Hobby Lobby stores also operate reduced hours compared to many retailers (typically 9am–8pm Mon–Sat), so scheduling is generally more manageable than at 7-day-a-week stores.
Step 3: Complete the Assessment
Hobby Lobby applications include a short behavioral and situational assessment covering customer service, teamwork, and workplace values. The assessment reflects Hobby Lobby’s company culture — a privately held, faith-based business with specific workplace values. Answer authentically and consistently.
Step 4: In-Store Interview
Qualified applicants are contacted for an in-store interview with the store manager or department manager. Interviews are typically 20–30 minutes and focus on customer service experience, availability, and your interest in arts, crafts, or home décor. Knowledge of Hobby Lobby’s product categories — fabric, floral, art supplies, seasonal, framing — is a strong differentiator.
Step 5: Background Check and Onboarding
A background check is conducted after a conditional offer. Onboarding covers store layout, point-of-sale systems, product knowledge, and Hobby Lobby’s customer service standards. New associates typically spend their first few shifts training with an experienced team member before working independently.
Hobby Lobby Job Positions & Pay Rates
Hobby Lobby is one of the few large retailers that advertises its minimum wage prominently — $18.50/hr for part-time and $19.25/hr for full-time is well above the retail industry average. This pay floor applies to all store associate positions across all states. Pay is consistent nationwide and does not vary significantly by location, unlike most retailers that adjust for market cost of living.
| Position | Starting Pay | Experienced Pay | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sales Associate (PT) | $18.50/hr | $18.50–$20/hr | Part-time |
| Sales Associate / Stock (FT) | $19.25/hr | $19.25–$21/hr | Full-time |
| Department Manager | $21–$25/hr | $25–$30/hr | Full-time |
| Co-Manager | $45,000–$55,000/yr | $55,000–$65,000/yr | Salaried |
| Store Manager | $65,000–$80,000/yr | $80,000–$100,000+/yr | Salaried + profit sharing |
Hobby Lobby Application Requirements
Hobby Lobby’s requirements are relatively accessible for entry-level applicants. The company’s religious orientation and faith-based business practices are part of its identity and publicly known — applicants should be aware of this cultural context before applying.
- Minimum age: 16 for most store associate positions, including part-time cashier, sales associate, and stockroom roles. Some states may require parental consent for minors under 18. Managers and supervisors must be 18+.
- Sunday availability: Hobby Lobby is closed every Sunday. This is not a requirement on the associate side — it is a company policy. You will not work Sundays, which some applicants find attractive and others find limiting for scheduling purposes.
- Holiday hours: Hobby Lobby is also closed on major religious holidays (Christmas, Easter, Thanksgiving). This schedule is consistent and predictable, which many associates cite as a benefit.
- Physical requirements: Lifting up to 50 lbs (stocking merchandise, freight unloading), standing for extended periods, and using ladders to stock high shelving. Large stores require significant walking throughout shifts.
- Product interest: While not a formal requirement, genuine interest in arts, crafts, home décor, or fabric is helpful and noted positively by hiring managers. The store serves a passionate customer base and customer conversations often require product knowledge.
Hobby Lobby Interview Process
Hobby Lobby interviews are straightforward and culture-focused. The company values reliability, customer service, and alignment with its work environment. Interviews are less intensive than corporate retail chains but managers pay close attention to availability, stability, and authentic interest in the store’s product categories.
What to Expect
- Walk-in or scheduled interview: Many Hobby Lobby hires start with a walk-in — bring a résumé, dress presentably, and ask for the store manager. Online applicants are typically contacted within a week.
- In-store interview: 20–30 minutes with a store or department manager. Questions focus on customer service, your interest in arts/crafts, availability, and why you want to work at Hobby Lobby.
- Offer and start date: Offers are often made during or immediately after the interview for high-need positions. Background check follows conditional offer.
Common Hobby Lobby Interview Questions
- “What interests you about working at Hobby Lobby?”
- “Do you have any experience with arts, crafts, sewing, or home décor?”
- “Tell me about a time you helped a customer find what they were looking for.”
- “What days and hours are you available to work?”
- “How do you handle working quickly during busy periods?”
Interview Tips
Hobby Lobby hiring managers respond well to applicants who genuinely know or enjoy the store’s product categories. If you do any crafting, sewing, painting, or home decorating, mention it — it signals that you can help customers authentically. Dress in clean business casual. Research the store layout and departments before your interview — being able to reference specific sections (floral, fabric, seasonal, framing) shows preparation. Be clear and specific about your availability, keeping in mind that Sundays are always off. For walk-in applications, the best time to find a store manager available is typically a weekday morning, avoiding opening rush and late-afternoon peak periods.
Hobby Lobby Employee Benefits
Hobby Lobby offers strong benefits for a privately-held retailer. The combination of above-market base wages and full benefits eligibility for full-time employees makes Hobby Lobby particularly attractive for craft retail associates seeking long-term employment. The company’s consistent Sunday/holiday closures also provide a more predictable work-life balance than most retail jobs.
| Benefit | Part-Time | Full-Time | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Employee Discount | Yes | Yes | 15% off merchandise in-store |
| Health Insurance | No | Yes | Medical, dental, vision for full-time employees |
| 401(k) with Match | After eligibility | Yes | Company match for qualifying full-time employees |
| Paid Time Off | No (standard) | Yes | Paid vacation and sick leave for full-time employees |
| Profit Sharing | No | Yes | Annual profit sharing for qualifying long-term employees |
| Predictable Schedule | Yes | Yes | No Sunday or major holiday scheduling — closed company-wide |
| Life Insurance | No | Yes | Basic life coverage for full-time employees |
Hobby Lobby Career Development
Hobby Lobby promotes from within at the department manager, co-manager, and store manager levels. The path from Sales Associate to Department Manager is achievable within 1–2 years for reliable, high-performing associates. Store Manager compensation — including base salary, profit sharing, and bonuses — can exceed $100,000/yr at high-volume locations, making it one of the more financially rewarding retail management tracks in the craft/specialty segment. The company’s consistent growth (100+ new stores opened in recent years) creates ongoing demand for promoted managers to staff new locations.
| Role | Avg. Time to Reach | Pay Range |
|---|---|---|
| Sales / Stock Associate | Day 1 | $18.50–$21/hr |
| Department Manager | 1–2 years | $21–$30/hr |
| Co-Manager | 2–4 years | $45,000–$65,000/yr |
| Store Manager | 4–7 years | $65,000–$100,000+/yr |
Frequently Asked Questions
How old do you have to be to work at Hobby Lobby?
The minimum age to work at Hobby Lobby is 16 for part-time sales associate and stock positions. Applicants who are 16 or 17 may need to provide proof of age and, in some states, obtain a work permit or parental consent. Management and department manager roles require employees to be at least 18. Check with your local store for state-specific requirements.
What is the starting pay at Hobby Lobby?
Hobby Lobby starts part-time employees at $18.50/hr and full-time employees at $19.25/hr across all U.S. stores. This pay floor is consistent nationwide and is significantly above the retail industry average of approximately $14–$16/hr for entry-level positions. Hobby Lobby publicizes these rates as a recruiting advantage and has maintained above-market wages as a company policy for many years.
Is Hobby Lobby closed on Sundays?
Yes. Hobby Lobby is closed every Sunday and on major religious holidays including Christmas, Easter, and Thanksgiving. This is a company-wide policy reflecting the Green family’s (founders’) Christian faith. Associates are never scheduled on these days. Hobby Lobby is also typically closed or operates reduced hours on other major holidays. Many associates cite this predictable schedule as one of the benefits of working there.
Does Hobby Lobby drug test employees?
Hobby Lobby conducts background checks on all new hires. Pre-employment drug testing is not standard practice for most store associate positions, though this can vary by state and location. Management positions may be subject to different screening requirements. If drug testing is a relevant concern, contact the specific store or Hobby Lobby HR during the application process for clarification.
Does Hobby Lobby offer health insurance to part-time employees?
Hobby Lobby does not typically offer health insurance to part-time associates. Health insurance, 401(k) with match, and paid time off are available to full-time employees. Part-time employees do receive the higher starting wage ($18.50/hr), the 15% merchandise discount, and access to the company’s 401(k) plan after meeting eligibility requirements. The absence of part-time benefits is the primary trade-off of the part-time role despite the strong hourly rate.
How many stores does Hobby Lobby have?
Hobby Lobby operates approximately 990+ stores across 47 U.S. states. The company is privately owned by the Green family and has expanded steadily since its founding in 1972 in Oklahoma City. Hobby Lobby does not franchise — all stores are company-owned and operated, meaning pay, benefits, and hiring practices are consistent nationwide. The company continues to open new locations each year, creating ongoing opportunities for management advancement.