Fast Food Worker Salary in Lincoln, NE
Fast Food Workers in Lincoln, NE, in 2025, earn approximately $13.00 per hour, which translates to about $520.00 per week, $2,253.33 per month, and $27,040.00 per year.
The demand for Fast Food Workers in Lincoln is growing at about 5% per year, showing an expanding market with increasing opportunities in the fast food sector.
How Much Does a Fast Food Worker Make in Lincoln, NE?
The salary of a Fast Food Worker in Lincoln can vary depending on experience and employer. Below is a general overview of earnings based on experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.00 | $480.00 | $2,080.00 | $24,960.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $13.00 | $520.00 | $2,253.33 | $27,040.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $15.00 | $600.00 | $2,600.00 | $31,200.00 |
Do Fast Food Workers in Lincoln Earn Tips?
Fast Food Workers generally do not earn tips as their roles typically involve counter service or drive-thru orders without direct tipping from customers. Their earnings are primarily based on wages.
Fast Food Worker Salary in Lincoln vs. National Average
Nationally, Fast Food Workers earn an average of around $14.00 per hour, translating to approximately $29,120.00 per year.
In comparison, Fast Food Workers in Lincoln earn slightly less on average, with about $13.00 per hour and $27,040.00 annually.
This difference may be influenced by cost of living and regional economic factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Lincoln for Fast Food Workers
Nearby areas offer slightly varied pay rates for Fast Food Workers:
- Downtown: $14.00 per hour
- Haymarket District: $14.50 per hour
Workers commuting to these areas might benefit from marginally higher wages compared to Lincoln's average.
What Influences a Fast Food Worker’s Salary in Lincoln?
Several factors influence the salary of a Fast Food Worker in Lincoln:
- Experience: Workers with more time in the industry often command higher wages.
- Skills and Efficiency: Ability to handle multiple tasks, fast order processing, and customer service can lead to raises or bonuses.
- Type of Establishment: Larger chains or franchises may offer different wage scales compared to independent fast food restaurants.
- Shift Times: Evening or overnight shifts can sometimes come with premium pay.
- Location Within the City: Areas like Downtown or Haymarket District often pay more due to higher business volume and living costs.
How To Become a Fast Food Worker in Lincoln
Starting a career as a Fast Food Worker in Lincoln involves several practical steps:
- Obtain Required Food Safety Certifications: Holding a Food Handler's Permit is mandatory in Nebraska to ensure knowledge of safe food handling.
- Pursue Additional Certification: The ServSafe Certification is widely recognized and can improve job prospects in the food service industry.
- Consider Culinary Training: Programs like the Southeast Community College Culinary Program and courses at the Lincoln Culinary Institute offer valuable skills relevant to fast food management and operations.
- Gain On-the-Job Experience: Entry-level positions in local fast food establishments like McDonald's or KFC offer training and advancement potential.
Top Employers Hiring Fast Food Workers in Lincoln
Some of the top employers in Lincoln actively seeking Fast Food Workers include:
- McDonald's
- KFC
- Runza
Establishments That Fast Food Workers in Lincoln Work At
Fast Food Workers in Lincoln typically work at various establishments such as:
- Fast Food Chains: Often provide standardized training and steady hours; pay may vary slightly based on brand and location.
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These may pay higher wages and offer some tipped roles.
- Fast Casual Venues: Combining quick service with some table service, often offering slightly better pay than traditional fast food.
- Food Courts and Cafeterias: Frequently employ Fast Food Workers with varied wage scales depending on clientele and business volume.
The type of establishment can significantly affect earnings, with larger chains and fast casual environments generally offering better compensation packages.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Lincoln for Fast Food Workers
If you are exploring careers related to Fast Food Worker roles, here are a few similar positions to consider:
These include Cashier, Busser, and Fry Cook, all roles related to the fast pace and customer service environment of fast food work.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Fast Food Workers in Lincoln
Fast Food Workers in Lincoln need to be aware of several labor regulations and tax obligations:
- For Nebraska-specific labor laws and resources, visit the State of Nebraska Department of Labor website.
- For federal labor law guidance, the U.S. Department of Labor official website offers comprehensive information.