Fast Food Worker in Milwaukee, WI
Fast Food Workers in Milwaukee, WI, in 2025, earn approximately $14.00 per hour, which translates to about $560.00 per week, $2,426.67 per month, and $29,120.00 per year.
The demand for Fast Food Workers in Milwaukee is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for job opportunities in this fast-paced sector.
How Much Does a Fast Food Worker Make in Milwaukee, WI?
The salary of a Fast Food Worker in Milwaukee can vary depending on experience and the specific employer, but here is a general look at earnings across experience levels.
| 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) | $14.00 | $560.00 | $2,426.67 | $29,120.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Fast Food Workers in Milwaukee Earn Tips?
Fast Food Workers generally do not earn tips since their roles typically don’t involve direct table service or customer tipping. Their earnings are mostly based on hourly wages or salaries.
Fast Food Worker Salary in Milwaukee vs. National Average
Nationally, Fast Food Workers earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, translating to about $30,160 per year.
In comparison, Fast Food Workers in Milwaukee earn slightly less than the national average, at about $14.00 per hour and $29,120 annually.
This difference may be influenced by cost of living variations and local labor market conditions.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Milwaukee for Fast Food Workers
When looking at neighborhoods nearby, Fast Food Workers can expect the following average hourly wages:
- Downtown Milwaukee: $15.50 per hour
- East Side: $17.60 per hour
These areas offer higher pay, likely due to their higher cost of living and concentration of fast food establishments with competitive compensation.
What Influences a Fast Food Worker’s Salary in Milwaukee?
Several key factors influence the salary of a Fast Food Worker in Milwaukee:
- Experience and Skill Level: Workers with more experience or specialized skills, such as operating certain machinery or handling drive-thru efficiently, may earn more.
- Type of Establishment: Fast food chains with national reputations sometimes offer higher wages compared to small local eateries.
- Shift and Hours Worked: Night shifts or weekend shifts often come with additional pay premiums.
- Local Demand and Cost of Living: Higher demand and living costs in certain parts of Milwaukee can push wages upward.
How To Become a Fast Food Worker in Milwaukee
Starting a career as a Fast Food Worker in Milwaukee involves a few key steps:
- Apply to Entry-Level Positions: Many fast food establishments hire without formal education requirements, focusing on customer service aptitude.
- Consider Culinary or Food Safety Training: Programs such as the Milwaukee Area Technical College Culinary Arts Program and Waukesha County Technical College Hospitality and Culinary Management Program offer foundations that can improve skills.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications like ServSafe Food Handler Certification and Wisconsin Food Manager Certification are valuable for food handling roles and can help with advancement opportunities.
- Gain Practical Experience and Advance: Demonstrating reliability and skills can lead to promotions to supervisory or managerial positions.
Top Employers Hiring Fast Food Workers in Milwaukee
Some of the leading employers in Milwaukee hiring Fast Food Workers include:
- McDonald's
- Culver's
- Shake Shack
Establishments That Fast Food Workers in Milwaukee Work At
Fast Food Workers in Milwaukee are typically employed in various types of establishments, including:
- Fast Food Chains: These establishments provide standard hours and consistent pay but can vary widely among different chains.
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Sometimes requiring additional skills, these workplaces may offer better wages and tips.
- Food Trucks or Kiosks: Earnings here may fluctuate and depend heavily on location and business volume.
The type of establishment can influence the salary, with national chains generally providing more stable wages and benefits.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Milwaukee for Fast Food Workers
Individuals interested in career paths related to Fast Food Workers may consider roles such as:
These include Fry Cook, Cashier, and Barista positions—all of which share similar work environments and skill sets.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Fast Food Workers in Milwaukee
Fast Food Workers in Milwaukee should familiarize themselves with federal, state, and local labor regulations to protect their rights and understand tax responsibilities.
- Federal labor laws and regulations can be found at the U.S. Department of Labor.
- State-specific workforce and labor information for Wisconsin is available at the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development.
- Local employment resources and regulations are provided by the City of Milwaukee official website.