Fast Food Worker Salary in Knoxville, TN
Fast Food Workers in Knoxville, TN, in 2025, earn about $12.05 per hour, which amounts to approximately $482.00 per week, $2,088.67 per month, and $25,064.00 per year.
The job market for Fast Food Workers in Knoxville is growing steadily at around 5% per year, indicating a positive demand outlook for this important role in the city's fast-paced food service industry.
How Much Does a Fast Food Worker Make in Knoxville, TN?
Salary levels for Fast Food Workers in Knoxville vary depending on experience and skills. Here is a breakdown of earnings at different career stages.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.50 | $420.00 | $1,820.00 | $21,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $12.05 | $482.00 | $2,088.67 | $25,064.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $14.50 | $580.00 | $2,503.33 | $30,160.00 |
Do Fast Food Workers in Knoxville Earn Tips?
Fast Food Workers typically do not earn tips as their work commonly involves counter service and food preparation rather than table service where tipping is customary.
Fast Food Worker Salary in Knoxville vs. National Average
The national average hourly pay for Fast Food Workers is around $14.50 with an annual salary of approximately $30,160.
Compared to this, Fast Food Workers in Knoxville earn somewhat less, at about $12.05 per hour and $25,064 annually. This difference may reflect regional cost of living and market conditions.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Knoxville for Fast Food Workers
Nearby Knoxville neighborhoods offer slightly varied pay rates for Fast Food Workers:
- Downtown Knoxville: $13.50 per hour
- West Knoxville: $13.00 per hour
Workers commuting to Downtown Knoxville can expect the highest pay among these nearby areas.
What Influences a Fast Food Worker’s Salary in Knoxville?
Several factors can influence the earnings of a Fast Food Worker in Knoxville, including:
- Experience and Tenure: Workers with more experience or those promoted to supervisory roles may earn higher wages.
- Skills and Efficiency: Ability to handle multiple tasks quickly and maintain quality boosts value to employers.
- Type of Establishment: Chain fast food restaurants may offer standard pay scales, while some premium or specialty fast casual restaurants might pay more.
- Shift Timing: Evening or night shifts sometimes come with shift differentials or bonuses.
- Educational Background: While not always mandatory, possession of food safety certifications can enhance employability and earnings.
How To Become a Fast Food Worker in Knoxville
Getting started as a Fast Food Worker in Knoxville can be straightforward but enhanced by certain steps:
- Elementary Education: Most positions require a high school diploma or equivalent.
- Food Safety Training: Obtaining certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification can improve job prospects and compliance with health regulations.
- Specialized Training Programs: Enrolling in programs such as the Pellissippi State Community College Culinary Arts Program or the University of Tennessee's Culinary Institute offers foundational culinary and service skills beneficial for career growth.
- Licenses: Those wishing to serve alcohol in certain venues should also consider the Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission Server Permit.
- Hands-On Experience: Entry-level roles within fast food chains provide on-the-job training and opportunities to move up.
Top Employers Hiring Fast Food Workers in Knoxville
Several prominent employers in Knoxville regularly hire Fast Food Workers, including:
- McDonald's
- KFC
- Cook Out Restaurants
- Chick-fil-A
- Wendy's
Establishments That Fast Food Workers in Knoxville Work At
Fast Food Workers typically find employment at a range of establishments including:
- Quick-Service Restaurants (Fast Food Chains): The most common employers, offering standardized pay and benefits.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: These may offer higher pay and a slightly different dining experience.
- Food Courts and Cafeterias: Providing opportunities with variable pay based on location and employer.
- Convenience Stores with Food Service: Smaller establishments with generally modest pay.
The type and prestige of establishment can affect the salary, with fast casual chains sometimes offering better compensation than traditional fast food outlets.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Knoxville for Fast Food Workers
Those interested in careers related to Fast Food Workers might consider these similar roles:
These roles include Fry Cook, Cook, and Cashier, which share common skills and responsibilities with Fast Food Workers.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Fast Food Workers in Knoxville
Fast Food Workers should be familiar with labor laws and tax requirements applicable in Tennessee:
- Official website of the State of Tennessee provides important information on state labor laws and employment regulations.
- U.S. Department of Labor's official site offers comprehensive details on federal labor laws and worker rights.