Fast Food Worker Salary in Kansas City, MO
Fast Food Workers in Kansas City, MO, earn approximately $13.90 per hour, which equates to about $556.00 per week, $2,409.33 per month, and $28,912.00 per year.
The job market for Fast Food Workers in Kansas City is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook with increasing demand for this role in the region.
How Much Does a Fast Food Worker Make in Kansas City, MO?
Fast Food Workers' salaries in Kansas City can vary depending on experience, skills, and employer size. Below is an overview of typical earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.50 | $420.00 | $1,816.67 | $21,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.10 | $564.00 | $2,438.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Fast Food Workers in Kansas City Earn Tips?
Typically, Fast Food Workers do not earn tips as their roles mainly involve food preparation and service at counter or drive-thru without direct table service. Their income primarily depends on hourly wages.
Fast Food Worker Salary in Kansas City vs. National Average
Nationally, Fast Food Workers earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, or about $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Fast Food Workers in Kansas City earn slightly less hourly at $13.90 per hour and annually at $28,912. This difference can be influenced by regional cost of living and local demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Kansas City for Fast Food Workers
Nearby areas offer varying pay levels for Fast Food Workers:
- Downtown: $15.50 per hour
- Plaza District: $17.60 per hour
Workers in the Plaza District can expect the highest wages, reflective of its busier commercial environment and higher living costs.
What Influences a Fast Food Worker’s Salary in Kansas City?
Several factors affect how much a Fast Food Worker can earn in Kansas City:
- Experience: More experienced workers often receive higher pay due to greater efficiency and skill.
- Skills and Certifications: Knowledge of food safety or additional skills can lead to better wages.
- Type of Establishment: Fast food chains vs. local quick-service restaurants can vary in pay scales.
- Shift Work: Evening or weekend shifts may pay more due to demand or shift differentials.
- Location: Pay rates differ across neighborhoods within Kansas City.
How To Become a Fast Food Worker in Kansas City
Starting a career as a Fast Food Worker in Kansas City involves several practical steps:
- Gain Basic Food Service Knowledge: Enrolling in culinary-related programs like the Johnson County Community College Culinary Arts Program or the Metropolitan Community College Hospitality Management Program can provide foundational skills.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as ServSafe Food Handler Certification or Missouri Food Manager Certification are often required and demonstrate understanding of safe food handling.
- Apply to Entry-Level Positions: Many fast food chains offer on-the-job training suitable for beginners.
- Develop Strong Customer Service Skills: Being friendly and efficient helps in fast food environments.
Top Employers Hiring Fast Food Workers in Kansas City
If you're searching for work as a Fast Food Worker in Kansas City, some of the major employers include:
- McDonald's
- Wendy's
- Taco Bell
Establishments That Fast Food Workers in Kansas City Work At
Fast Food Workers can typically be found working in:
- Fast Food Restaurants: These are the primary employers, often providing standardized pay and benefits.
- Fast Casual Dining: These establishments may offer slightly higher wages and require more specialized skills.
- Food Courts and Concessions: Often pay lower wages but offer flexible hours.
The type and prestige of establishment can affect salary, with fast casual venues generally offering better pay and growth potential compared to traditional fast food spots.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Kansas City for Fast Food Workers
For those considering related roles in hospitality, several positions share similar work environments or skill sets:
These include Barista, Fry Cook, and Cashier positions, all of which utilize customer service and food preparation skills similar to those required of Fast Food Workers.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Fast Food Workers in Kansas City
Fast Food Workers in Kansas City should be informed about relevant labor laws and tax responsibilities, which influence working conditions and compensation:
- For federal labor regulations and rights, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- The Missouri state labor department provides guidelines on wages, working hours, and workplace safety specific to the state.
- The Kansas City official government website offers local employment resources and regulations.