Fast Food Worker Salary in Chattanooga, TN
Fast Food Workers in Chattanooga, TN, in 2025, earn approximately $9.80 per hour, which translates to about $392.00 per week, $1,698.67 per month, and $20,384.00 per year.
The demand for Fast Food Workers in Chattanooga is growing positively at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy and expanding job market for fast food service roles in the area.
How Much Does a Fast Food Worker Make in Chattanooga, TN?
The salary of a Fast Food Worker in Chattanooga varies based on experience and responsibility level. Below is a breakdown of earnings across different experience tiers.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $8.23 | $329.20 | $1,424.13 | $17,090.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $9.80 | $392.00 | $1,698.67 | $20,384.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $11.66 | $466.40 | $2,018.13 | $24,252.80 |
Do Fast Food Workers in Chattanooga Earn Tips?
Typically, Fast Food Workers do not earn tips since their jobs mostly involve food preparation and customer service at fast food chains where tipping isn't customary. Their income is generally limited to their hourly wage.
Fast Food Worker Salary in Chattanooga vs. National Average
On a national level, Fast Food Workers earn roughly $13.90 per hour, which equates to about $28,912 per year.
Compared to this, Fast Food Workers in Chattanooga, TN earn less, with an average hourly wage of $9.80 and an annual income of around $20,384.
This difference may be due to varying living costs, economic factors, and demand for fast food workers between Chattanooga and other parts of the country.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Chattanooga for Fast Food Workers
Nearby areas show some variation in pay rates for Fast Food Workers:
- Hixson: $10.52 per hour
Fast Food Workers commuting to Hixson might find better salaries compared to Chattanooga itself, although proximity and commuting costs should be considered.
What Influences a Fast Food Worker’s Salary in Chattanooga?
A number of factors play a role in determining the salary of a Fast Food Worker in Chattanooga:
- Experience: More experienced workers may be eligible for slightly higher wages or supervisory roles.
- Skills and Efficiency: Exceptional customer service and multitasking skills can lead to raises or promotions.
- Type of Establishment: Workers at national chains or higher-volume locations often earn more than those at smaller, independent fast food outlets.
- Shift Timing: Evening or weekend shifts sometimes offer shift premiums that increase earnings.
- Local Economic Conditions: Wage levels in Chattanooga reflect the cost of living and regional demand for labor.
How To Become a Fast Food Worker in Chattanooga
Entering the fast food workforce in Chattanooga is accessible but can be enhanced by taking several steps:
- Obtain Required Certifications: Getting certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensures knowledge of food safety, a common requirement for food service roles.
- Consider Local Educational Programs: Programs like the Chattanooga State Community College Culinary Arts Program or the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga Hospitality Management Program offer relevant skills and knowledge beneficial for career growth in food service.
- Understand Legal Requirements: For those serving alcohol, the Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission Server Permit is mandatory.
- Gain Practical Experience: Starting with a basic position and demonstrating reliability can lead to advancement opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Fast Food Workers in Chattanooga
Some of the leading employers in Chattanooga that regularly hire Fast Food Workers include:
- McDonald's
- Cook Out Restaurants
- KFC
Establishments That Fast Food Workers in Chattanooga Work At
Fast Food Workers in Chattanooga typically find employment at:
- Quick-Service Restaurants: These are the most common employers with fast-paced environments and set menus.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Slightly higher-end than quick-service, these establishments may offer slightly better wages.
- Drive-Thru and Takeout Chains: Predominantly focused on speed and efficiency, pay may vary.
The type and scale of the establishment influence salary, with larger chain locations often providing structured wage scales and benefits not typically found in smaller operations.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Chattanooga for Fast Food Workers
If you're considering similar roles related to Fast Food Worker positions, here are some options that might interest you:
These include Cashier, Fry Cook, and Prep Cook roles, which have overlapping skills and duties in the food service industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Fast Food Workers in Chattanooga
Fast Food Workers should be aware of applicable labor laws and tax regulations to navigate their rights and responsibilities, including:
- Information on Tennessee labor laws and employment regulations can be found at the official Tennessee government website.
- The U.S. Department of Labor's website offers resources on federal labor laws and worker protections.