Fast Food Worker Salary in Modesto, CA
Fast Food Workers in Modesto, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $20.49 per hour, which translates to about $819.60 per week, $3,551.60 per month, and $42,619.20 per year.
The demand for Fast Food Workers in Modesto is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for job opportunities in the fast-food industry locally.
How Much Does a Fast Food Worker Make in Modesto, CA?
The salary of a Fast Food Worker in Modesto varies based on factors like experience and employer, but below is a breakdown of the typical earnings across different levels of expertise.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $19.86 | $794.40 | $3,433.60 | $41,213.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $20.49 | $819.60 | $3,551.60 | $42,619.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $21.14 | $845.60 | $3,523.73 | $44,012.80 |
Do Fast Food Workers in Modesto Earn Tips?
Fast Food Workers generally do not earn tips since their roles focus more on food preparation and order assembly with limited customer interaction, so their earnings mainly come from wages.
Fast Food Worker Salary in Modesto vs. National Average
Nationally, Fast Food Workers earn an average of around $13.53 per hour, translating to about $28,142.40 per year.
Compared to the national average, Fast Food Workers in Modesto earn significantly higher wages with an average hourly rate of $20.49 and yearly pay around $42,619.20.
This difference is likely influenced by local economic conditions and the demand for quick-service employees in the Modesto area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Modesto for Fast Food Workers
Nearby areas offer slightly varied pay for Fast Food Workers:
- Downtown Modesto: $21.00 per hour
- North Modesto: $20.75 per hour
Fast Food Workers in Downtown Modesto enjoy the highest wage opportunities compared to surrounding neighborhoods.
What Influences a Fast Food Worker’s Salary in Modesto?
Several factors can influence how much a Fast Food Worker earns in Modesto:
- Experience: Workers with more years on the job often negotiate better hourly rates or move into higher-paying roles.
- Skill Set: Familiarity with multiple kitchen tasks, customer service, or operating machinery may increase earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Chain fast-food restaurants versus local family-owned businesses can influence pay scales.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Night shifts or weekend work sometimes carry shift differentials that boost pay.
- Location: Wage variations may exist between different neighborhoods or districts within Modesto.
How To Become a Fast Food Worker in Modesto
Starting a career as a Fast Food Worker in Modesto typically involves:
- Basic Food Safety Certifications: Obtaining the California Food Handler Card is mandatory for all food service employees.
- Additional Certifications: ServSafe Certification is nationally recognized and may enhance job prospects.
- Vocational Training: Programs at Modesto Junior College Culinary Arts Program provide foundational knowledge in food safety, kitchen management, and culinary skills.
- Career Technical Education: The Stanislaus County Office of Education's Career Technical Education Center offers practical training focusing on food service and hospitality skills.
Top Employers Hiring Fast Food Workers in Modesto
Some prominent employers frequently seeking Fast Food Workers in Modesto include:
- KFC
- Domino's Pizza
- Wendy's
- Costco
Establishments That Fast Food Workers in Modesto Work At
Fast Food Workers in Modesto typically find employment in several types of food service establishments:
- Fast Food Restaurants: High-volume establishments with standardized menus, generally offering steady hourly wages but limited tips.
- Casual Dining: These might offer slightly higher salaries or performance bonuses depending on the business model.
- Food Courts and Concessions: Pay and work environment can vary widely, often with flexible hours but less stability.
The type of establishment directly impacts wages, benefits, and career advancement opportunities for Fast Food Workers.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Modesto for Fast Food Workers
If you're interested in roles similar to Fast Food Worker, here are a few related positions to consider:
These include Cook, Fry Cook, and Prep Cook positions, which involve related culinary responsibilities and can offer different salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Fast Food Workers in Modesto
Fast Food Workers should be aware of both state and federal labor regulations and tax obligations:
- California Department of Industrial Relations - State labor laws and regulations provide essential information regarding wages, workplace safety, and employee rights.
- California Employment Development Department - State employment services and benefits offers guidance on unemployment insurance, payroll taxes, and workforce programs.
- U.S. Department of Labor - Federal labor laws and resources covers minimum wage, overtime pay, and workplace standards.