Fast Food Worker Salary in Charlotte, NC
Fast Food Workers in Charlotte, NC, in 2025, earn approximately $13.76 per hour, which translates to about $550.40 per week, $2,385.07 per month, and $28,620.80 per year.
The demand for Fast Food Workers in Charlotte is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for job opportunities in this sector annually.
How Much Does a Fast Food Worker Make in Charlotte, NC?
The salary of a Fast Food Worker in Charlotte can vary depending on experience and employer, but here is a general outline across different levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $11.70 | $468.00 | $2,028.00 | $24,336.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $13.76 | $550.40 | $2,385.07 | $28,620.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $16.19 | $647.60 | $2,796.27 | $33,635.20 |
Do Fast Food Workers in Charlotte Earn Tips?
Fast Food Workers generally do not earn tips as this position usually involves counter or kitchen duties with little direct service to customers.
Fast Food Worker Salary in Charlotte vs. National Average
Nationally, Fast Food Workers earn about $13.76 per hour and approximately $28,620.80 per year.
The salary in Charlotte matches the national average closely, also reflecting the standard wages in the fast food industry for this role.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Charlotte for Fast Food Workers
Nearby neighborhoods offer competitive salaries for Fast Food Workers:
- Uptown: $15.50 per hour
- South End: $17.60 per hour
Those working in South End potentially earn more due to the area's popularity and commercial activity.
What Influences a Fast Food Worker’s Salary in Charlotte?
Several factors impact the earnings of a Fast Food Worker:
- Experience: More experienced workers often earn higher wages or advance to supervisory roles.
- Skills: Efficient multitasking, customer service, and food safety knowledge can increase value to employers.
- Type of establishment: Chain fast food restaurants may offer different pay scales compared to independent or local fast food outlets.
- Shift and hours: Working late or weekend shifts might provide shift differentials or overtime pay.
How To Become a Fast Food Worker in Charlotte
Starting as a Fast Food Worker typically requires minimal formal education but ready **training and certification** can enhance job prospects.
- Enroll in culinary arts programs such as the Central Piedmont Community College Culinary Arts Program that provides foundational knowledge of food safety and kitchen management.
- Consider pursuing a degree from institutions like Johnson & Wales University Charlotte Campus offering a Bachelor of Science in Culinary Arts for advanced skills.
- Complete nationally recognized certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification to demonstrate food safety competence.
- Advance with qualifications like the Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) to increase opportunities for supervisory positions.
Top Employers Hiring Fast Food Workers in Charlotte
Leading fast food chains actively recruiting in Charlotte include:
- KFC
- Chick-fil-A
- McDonald's
Establishments That Fast Food Workers in Charlotte Work At
Fast Food Workers are primarily employed in various establishments such as:
- Fast Food Chains: Large franchises with structured pay scales and vast employment.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Offering slightly higher wages due to quality and service expectations.
- Casual Dining Establishments: Some fast food workers transition to casual dining, which may offer improved pay.
The type and prestige of the establishment often influence salary and benefits for Fast Food Workers.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Charlotte for Fast Food Workers
If you're interested in similar roles to Fast Food Worker, consider these options:
These include Cook, Barista, and Cashier roles which share similar entry-level requirements and work environments in hospitality.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Fast Food Workers in Charlotte
Fast Food Workers should understand labor laws and tax requirements applicable in North Carolina for their protection and compliance.
- Visit the U.S. Department of Labor website for federal employment standards and wage information.
- Check the North Carolina Department of Labor for state-specific regulations on employment, wage, and workplace safety.