Fast Food Worker in Albuquerque, NM
Fast Food Workers in Albuquerque, NM, in 2025, earn approximately $15.73 per hour, which translates to about $629.20 per week, $2,726.53 per month, and $32,718.40 per year.
The demand for Fast Food Workers in Albuquerque is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting positive job growth and an expanding market in the fast food industry locally.
How Much Does a Fast Food Worker Make in Albuquerque, NM?
The earnings of a Fast Food Worker in Albuquerque vary depending on experience and specific employer, here is a breakdown across common experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.44 | $497.60 | $2,143.73 | $25,875.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.73 | $629.20 | $2,726.53 | $32,718.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $19.90 | $796.00 | $3,432.67 | $41,392.00 |
Do Fast Food Workers in Albuquerque Earn Tips?
Fast Food Workers generally do not earn tips as their work mostly involves counter service with limited customer tipping. Their income primarily comes from wages rather than gratuities.
Fast Food Worker Salary in Albuquerque vs. National Average
Nationally, Fast Food Workers earn an average of about $13.22 per hour, equating to approximately $27,497.60 per year.
Compared to the national average, Fast Food Workers in Albuquerque earn a higher hourly wage at $15.73 per hour and an annual salary of around $32,718.40, reflecting favorable local wage conditions.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Albuquerque for Fast Food Workers
Nearby areas around Albuquerque offer slightly different wages for Fast Food Workers:
- Downtown: $16.50 per hour
- Nob Hill: $16.00 per hour
Working in Downtown may provide higher hourly pay compared to Nob Hill, though both areas generally offer better wages than the city average.
What Influences a Fast Food Worker’s Salary in Albuquerque?
Several important factors impact how much a Fast Food Worker can earn in Albuquerque.
- Experience: More experienced workers can negotiate higher wages and often receive raises.
- Skills: Proficiency in food preparation, customer service, and multitasking improves earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Fast food chains with high volume or upscale chains might pay better than smaller or independent outlets.
- Shift Timing: Evening or weekend shifts may come with shift differentials increasing pay.
- Local Wage Legislation: Albuquerque's labor laws and minimum wage regulations influence baseline pay.
How To Become a Fast Food Worker in Albuquerque
Embarking on a career as a Fast Food Worker involves some practical steps to prepare and enhance your chances of employment and career growth.
- Complete Culinary or Food Service Training: Programs like Central New Mexico Community College Culinary Arts Program offer valuable practical skills in food preparation and kitchen management.
- Management and Operations Courses: The University of New Mexico Continuing Education Food Service Management Course provides knowledge useful for progressing to supervisory roles.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Earning a ServSafe Food Handler Certification is often required by employers, emphasizing safe food handling practices.
- Comply with Alcohol Service Regulations: For roles involving alcohol, the New Mexico Alcohol Server Permit is necessary to operate legally and responsibly.
Top Employers Hiring Fast Food Workers in Albuquerque
Several well-known companies actively hire Fast Food Workers in Albuquerque:
- McDonald's
- Alvarado Restaurant Nation
- Taco Bell
Establishments That Fast Food Workers in Albuquerque Work At
Fast Food Workers commonly find employment in several types of food service establishments including:
- Fast Food Chains: High volume, standardized menu establishments offer stable employment but often at set wage scales.
- Casual Dining Restaurants: May offer slightly higher wages and chances for tips compared to fast food chains.
- Food Courts and Convenience Outlets: These places provide entry-level opportunities, often with flexible schedules.
The type of establishment influences factors such as pay rate, work environment, and potential for advancement.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Albuquerque for Fast Food Workers
There are alternative and related roles within hospitality that share similar skills and career pathways with Fast Food Workers.
These careers include Cashier, Fry Cook, and Busser, which are related food service positions offering different responsibilities and growth opportunities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Fast Food Workers in Albuquerque
Fast Food Workers in Albuquerque should familiarize themselves with labor laws and tax regulations relevant to their employment.
- Visit the State of New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions website for information on local employment standards and workforce services.
- Consult the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) website for guidance on federal tax obligations affecting employees and employers.
- Review safety guidelines on the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) website to ensure compliance with workplace safety standards.