Fast Food Worker Salary in Cambridge, MA
Fast Food Workers in Cambridge, MA, in 2025, earn approximately $15.20 per hour, which translates to about $608.00 per week, $2,634.67 per month, and $31,616.00 per year.
The demand for Fast Food Workers in Cambridge is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increased job opportunities in the fast food industry within the city.
How Much Does a Fast Food Worker Make in Cambridge, MA?
The salary of a Fast Food Worker in Cambridge varies depending on experience, but the following provides a breakdown across different levels:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.50 | $540.00 | $2,340.00 | $28,080.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.20 | $608.00 | $2,634.67 | $31,616.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.50 | $700.00 | $3,033.33 | $36,400.00 |
Do Fast Food Workers in Cambridge Earn Tips?
Fast Food Workers typically do not earn tips as their roles focus on food preparation and order handling rather than direct table service. Their income usually comes from their hourly wage without additional tip earnings.
Fast Food Worker Salary in Cambridge vs. National Average
Nationally, Fast Food Workers earn an average of about $14.50 per hour, which amounts to approximately $30,160 annually.
Compared to the national average, Fast Food Workers in Cambridge earn slightly more—about $15.20 per hour and $31,616 annually. This higher pay reflects Cambridge's cost of living and labor market conditions.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Cambridge for Fast Food Workers
Nearby areas offer competitive wages for Fast Food Workers, including:
- Harvard Square: $16.00 per hour
- Kendall Square: $16.50 per hour
These salaries indicate that Fast Food Workers near Cambridge can find higher-paying opportunities, especially in bustling neighborhoods with heavy foot traffic and demand.
What Influences a Fast Food Worker’s Salary in Cambridge?
Several key factors can influence how much a Fast Food Worker earns in Cambridge:
- Experience and Reliability: Workers with more time on the job and proven dependability often receive higher pay or raises.
- Skills and Efficiency: Abilities such as speed, teamwork, and multitasking can boost earning potential.
- Type of Fast Food Establishment: Large chains like McDonald's or Wendy's might offer standardized wages, whereas independent or upscale fast casual locations could provide higher salaries.
- Shift Timing: Working overnight or weekend shifts sometimes comes with shift differential pay.
- Local Economic Factors and Labor Demand: The overall demand for fast food workers and minimum wage laws in Cambridge affect pay levels.
How To Become a Fast Food Worker in Cambridge
Starting a career as a Fast Food Worker in Cambridge generally involves the following steps:
- Obtain Basic Food Handling Knowledge: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification provide essential food safety skills recognized nationally.
- Complete Allergen Awareness Training: Massachusetts requires food service employees to be trained on allergen handling, ensuring customer safety.
- Gain Practical Experience: Many fast food roles do not require formal education but benefit from experience in food preparation and customer service.
- Consider Culinary Programs: The Cambridge School of Culinary Arts and Boston University Metropolitan College Culinary Arts Program offer foundational knowledge that can improve employment prospects and advancement opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Fast Food Workers in Cambridge
The fast food sector in Cambridge is largely dominated by major chains, including:
- McDonald's
- Burger King
- Wendy's
Establishments That Fast Food Workers in Cambridge Work At
Fast Food Workers in Cambridge find employment in various types of establishments, such as:
- Fast Food Chains: These frequently hire large numbers of workers, offer standardized wages, and opportunities for advancement.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Often offering higher wages and a focus on higher quality or specialized menu items.
- Cafeterias and Food Courts: Typically provide steady hours and moderate pay.
The type of establishment greatly impacts a Fast Food Worker’s salary, with fast casual and popular chains generally offering better pay and benefits.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Cambridge for Fast Food Workers
If you are considering roles similar to Fast Food Worker, here are some related positions worth exploring:
These include Cashier, Barista, and Fry Cook roles, which require overlapping skills in food service and customer interaction.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Fast Food Workers in Cambridge
Fast Food Workers in Cambridge should familiarize themselves with relevant labor laws and tax regulations:
- Information on worker rights, wage laws, and employment standards in Massachusetts can be found on the Massachusetts government website.
- For federal labor laws and additional resources, visit the U.S. Department of Labor's official site.