Fast Food Worker Salary in Missoula, MT
Fast Food Workers in Missoula, MT, in 2025, earn approximately $20.58 per hour, which translates to about $823.20 per week, $3,567.20 per month, and $42,806.40 per year.
The job outlook for Fast Food Workers in Missoula is positive with a 5% growth rate per year, indicating an increasing demand for this role in the local hospitality market.
How Much Does a Fast Food Worker Make in Missoula, MT?
The earnings for Fast Food Workers in Missoula vary significantly based on experience and other factors. Here’s a breakdown of typical salaries by 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) | $15.00 | $600.00 | $2,600.00 | $31,200.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $23.05 | $922.00 | $3,984.67 | $47,944.00 |
Do Fast Food Workers in Missoula Earn Tips?
Generally, Fast Food Workers do not earn tips. Their role mainly involves quick service in fast-paced environments where direct tipping is uncommon. Any additional earnings would mainly come from their hourly wages.
Fast Food Worker Salary in Missoula vs. National Average
On a national scale, Fast Food Workers earn an average of about $18.22 per hour or approximately $37,897.60 yearly.
Compared to this, Fast Food Workers in Missoula earn slightly more at about $20.58 per hour and $42,806.40 annually. This can reflect local cost of living adjustments or employer competitiveness in the region.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Missoula for Fast Food Workers
Nearby areas offer different pay scales for Fast Food Workers:
- Downtown: $21.05 per hour
- Southgate Triangle: $17.00 per hour
Those working in Downtown Missoula typically have better salary prospects compared to Southgate Triangle, likely due to higher customer traffic and establishment size.
What Influences a Fast Food Worker’s Salary in Missoula?
The salary of a Fast Food Worker in Missoula can be influenced by several factors:
- Experience: More experienced Fast Food Workers often earn higher wages for their efficiency and skill.
- Establishment Type: Fast Food Workers at larger chain restaurants or high-traffic locations usually have better pay.
- Skills and Training: Workers trained in specific equipment or customer service may command higher salaries.
- Work Hours: Evening, weekend, and holiday shifts could include premium pay.
- Local Economic Conditions: Wages can reflect the cost of living and demand for labor in Missoula.
How To Become a Fast Food Worker in Missoula
Starting a career as a Fast Food Worker in Missoula generally requires no formal education but can be enhanced by targeted training and certifications:
- Enroll in Culinary or Hospitality Programs: Locally, Missoula College offers a Culinary Arts Program that provides hands-on experience in food preparation and safety. The University of Montana has a Hospitality Management Program focussing on operations in the hospitality industry.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: Certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification demonstrate knowledge of food safety and are often required.
- Complete State Alcohol Service Training: If working in establishments serving alcohol, Montana Responsible Alcohol Sales and Service Training is mandatory.
Top Employers Hiring Fast Food Workers in Missoula
Fast Food Workers in Missoula can find employment with major chains such as:
- McDonald's
- KFC
- Chick-fil-A
Establishments That Fast Food Workers in Missoula Work At
Fast Food Workers are typically employed in various types of dining establishments including:
- Quick-Service Restaurants: These provide the core employment base, focusing on speed and efficiency.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: These establishments often offer slightly higher wages due to higher food quality and service levels.
- Cafeterias and Food Courts: Employment here may vary, with wages largely depending on the employer’s size and budget.
The type of establishment significantly impacts salary due to differences in customer volume, operational hours, and service complexity.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Missoula for Fast Food Workers
Those interested in careers similar to Fast Food Workers might consider other roles in the hospitality industry with overlapping skills and duties.
Included are Cashier, Fry Cook, and Food Runner roles that can provide alternative or complementary career paths within the food service industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Fast Food Workers in Missoula
Understanding local labor laws and tax responsibilities is vital for Fast Food Workers in Missoula.
- Visit the Montana Department of Labor and Industry (state government site) for details on minimum wage, employment rights, and labor regulations specific to Montana.
- Access federal tax information and guidance through the Internal Revenue Service (federal government site) to ensure compliance with income and employment taxes.