Fast Food Worker Salary in Evanston, IL
Fast Food Workers in Evanston, IL, in 2025, earn approximately $15.50 per hour, which translates to about $620.00 per week, $2,686.67 per month, and $32,240.00 per year.
Job demand for Fast Food Workers in Evanston is growing positively at around 5% per year, indicating a steady expansion in opportunities within the fast food industry in the area.
How Much Does a Fast Food Worker Make in Evanston, IL?
The salary of a Fast Food Worker in Evanston varies depending on experience, but here’s a breakdown across different levels of expertise.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.00 | $520.00 | $2,253.33 | $27,040.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.50 | $620.00 | $2,686.67 | $32,240.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
Do Fast Food Workers in Evanston Earn Tips?
Fast Food Workers typically do not earn tips as their roles usually involve order taking, food preparation, and cashier duties in fast food settings where tipping is uncommon.
Fast Food Worker Salary in Evanston vs. National Average
Nationally, Fast Food Workers earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, which equates to approximately $30,160 per year.
Compared to this, Fast Food Workers in Evanston, IL, earn slightly more at about $15.50 per hour and $32,240 annually, reflecting the area's cost of living and job market.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Evanston for Fast Food Workers
Nearby areas show competitive salaries for Fast Food Workers:
- Downtown Evanston: $16.00 per hour
- Northwestern University Area: $15.80 per hour
This suggests that shifts in busier or more central parts of Evanston may offer higher pay rates.
What Influences a Fast Food Worker’s Salary in Evanston?
Several key factors influence the salary of a Fast Food Worker in Evanston, including:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Fast Food Workers often command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Larger fast food chains or locations with higher customer volume may pay more.
- Shift Timing: Night or weekend shifts might offer premium pay.
- Local Cost of Living: Evanston's urban environment can push wages above the national average.
- Additional Responsibilities: Workers with roles in management or training may earn better compensation.
How To Become a Fast Food Worker in Evanston
Getting started as a Fast Food Worker in Evanston involves several straightforward steps:
- Obtain Required Food Safety Certifications: Such as the Food Handler Certification and ServSafe Certification, which are key to meeting health and safety standards.
- Consider Culinary or Food Service Training: Programs like the Oakton Community College Culinary Arts Program or Kendall College Culinary Arts Program provide foundational food service skills that can enhance employability.
- Gain Practical Experience: Entry-level positions are widely available and provide valuable on-the-job training.
- Develop Customer Service Skills: Strong communication and teamwork improve job prospects and advancement.
Top Employers Hiring Fast Food Workers in Evanston
Several well-known fast food chains regularly hire Fast Food Workers in Evanston:
- Chipotle
- Noodles & Company
- Steak N Shake
Establishments That Fast Food Workers in Evanston Work At
Fast Food Workers commonly find employment at various types of dining establishments, such as:
- Fast Food Restaurants: Typically offer consistent, hourly wages with structured roles.
- Fast Casual Dining: May provide slightly higher wages and require more customer interaction.
- Food Courts and Concessions: Often seasonal or part-time with varying pay rates.
The type of establishment significantly affects pay and work environment, with national chains sometimes offering better benefits and advancement opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Evanston for Fast Food Workers
If you’re interested in roles related to Fast Food Worker, consider these similar hospitality positions:
These include Cashier, Food Runner, and Fry Cook positions, which share similar work environments and responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Fast Food Workers in Evanston
Fast Food Workers should be aware of various labor laws and tax regulations affecting their employment:
- Information on federal labor laws can be found on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For state-specific labor laws, the Illinois Department of Employment Security website provides valuable resources.
- Local regulations and employment resources are available at the City of Evanston official website.