Fast Food Worker Salary in Durham, NC
Fast Food Workers in Durham, NC, in 2025, earn approximately $13.16 per hour, which translates to about $526.40 per week, $2,281.07 per month, and $27,372.80 per year.
The job market for Fast Food Workers in Durham is showing positive growth, increasing by about 5% per year, indicating an expanding demand for this role in the local fast food industry.
How Much Does a Fast Food Worker Make in Durham, NC?
The salary of a Fast Food Worker in Durham varies based on experience and expertise. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings at different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.22 | $408.80 | $1,773.87 | $21,305.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $13.16 | $526.40 | $2,281.07 | $27,372.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $16.94 | $677.60 | $2,917.87 | $35,235.20 |
Do Fast Food Workers in Durham Earn Tips?
Fast Food Workers typically do not earn tips in their roles, as their work is mostly behind counters or in kitchen preparation without direct table service. Their earnings mostly come from their base pay.
Fast Food Worker Salary in Durham vs. National Average
Nationally, Fast Food Workers earn an average of about $13.16 per hour or roughly $27,372.80 annually.
The salary for Fast Food Workers in Durham aligns closely with the national average, reflecting the city's competitive wage rates in the fast food sector.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Durham for Fast Food Workers
Nearby areas offer varying pay scales for Fast Food Workers:
- Downtown Durham: $15.50 per hour
- Research Triangle Park: $17.60 per hour
Fast Food Workers in Research Triangle Park typically earn more compared to Downtown Durham, making it a lucrative nearby option.
What Influences a Fast Food Worker’s Salary in Durham?
Several factors play a crucial role in determining how much a Fast Food Worker can earn:
- Experience and Tenure: Workers with more years on the job tend to earn higher wages.
- Skill Level: Proficiency in food preparation, customer service, and operating kitchen equipment can lead to better pay.
- Type of Establishment: Fast food chains with higher sales volumes or premium franchises might offer higher pay.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts may provide shift differentials.
- Location: Workers in areas with higher living costs or demand, like Research Triangle Park, typically earn more.
How To Become a Fast Food Worker in Durham
Entering the Fast Food Worker profession in Durham requires some straightforward steps:
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications like ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensure compliance with food safety standards and are often required.
- Gain Basic Culinary Knowledge: Programs such as the Durham Technical Community College Culinary Arts Program offer comprehensive training in culinary skills relevant to fast food roles.
- Develop Hospitality Skills: Education through courses such as the Wake Technical Community College Hospitality Management Program equips individuals with essential service and management skills.
- Understand Alcohol Serving Regulations: For establishments serving alcohol, the North Carolina Alcohol Beverage Control Commission Permit might be necessary.
- Build Experience: Entry-level positions often welcome candidates with strong customer service attitudes and reliability more than formal education.
Top Employers Hiring Fast Food Workers in Durham
Durham's fast food industry includes several prominent employers actively hiring:
- McDonald's
- Chick-fil-A
- Wendy's
- Burger King
- Taco Bell
Establishments That Fast Food Workers in Durham Work At
Fast Food Workers find employment in various types of establishments:
- Quick-Service Restaurants: These are the most common workplaces for Fast Food Workers, offering standardized wages and schedules.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: These establishments may offer slightly higher pay due to enhanced service standards and food quality.
- Cafeterias and Food Courts: Working in these places may have variable pay depending on the employer's scale.
The salary can vary across establishments, with upscale fast casual venues generally providing better compensation compared to standard quick-service outlets.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Durham for Fast Food Workers
Fast Food Workers interested in expanding their career horizons might explore related roles such as:
These include Fry Cook, Cashier, and Backwaiter roles, which share related skills and duties within the hospitality and food service industries.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Fast Food Workers in Durham
Fast Food Workers should familiarize themselves with applicable labor laws and tax requirements to ensure proper employment conditions.
- Visit the U.S. Department of Labor website for federal labor regulations and rights.
- Check the North Carolina Department of Labor for state-specific labor laws and workplace protections.
- Consult the City of Durham government website for local labor standards and services.