Fast Food Worker in Santa Fe, NM
Fast Food Workers in Santa Fe, NM, in 2025, earn approximately $15.00 per hour, which translates to about $600.00 per week, $2,600.00 per month, and $31,200.00 per year.
The demand for Fast Food Workers in Santa Fe is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive trend and increasing opportunities in the fast food industry across the city.
How Much Does a Fast Food Worker Make in Santa Fe, NM?
The salary of a Fast Food Worker in Santa Fe varies based on several factors such as experience and employer. Below is a breakdown of earnings based on experience levels.
| 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) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Fast Food Workers in Santa Fe Earn Tips?
Fast Food Workers generally do not earn tips since most transactions are prepaid and there's minimal direct tipping interaction. Their income primarily depends on their hourly wages rather than gratuities.
Fast Food Worker Salary in Santa Fe vs. National Average
Nationally, Fast Food Workers earn an average of around $13.16 per hour, which translates to approximately $27,372.80 annually.
Compared to the national average, Fast Food Workers in Santa Fe make slightly more, earning about $15.00 per hour and $31,200.00 annually, which may reflect local wage standards and cost of living variations.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Santa Fe for Fast Food Workers
The salaries can differ slightly in nearby areas of Santa Fe:
- Downtown: $16.00 per hour
- South Capitol: $15.50 per hour
Fast Food Workers in Downtown tend to earn the highest pay around Santa Fe, which may be due to higher customer traffic and living costs.
What Influences a Fast Food Worker’s Salary in Santa Fe?
Several factors affect the salary of a Fast Food Worker in Santa Fe:
- Experience Level: Those with more time in the field often command higher wages due to skill and efficiency.
- Employer Brand: Larger fast food chains may offer better pay and benefits compared to smaller local establishments.
- Shift Timing: Working late-night or weekend shifts might earn shift differentials.
- Location: Areas with higher living costs may offer better salaries.
- Skills and Certifications: Additional skills or food safety certifications can enhance earning potential.
How To Become a Fast Food Worker in Santa Fe
Becoming a Fast Food Worker in Santa Fe generally involves some straightforward steps:
- Basic Education: Most positions require at least a high school diploma or equivalent.
- Food Safety Certifications: Obtaining a Food Handler Certification and preferably a ServSafe Certification improves employment prospects.
- Training Programs: Enrolling in culinary training such as the Santa Fe Community College Culinary Arts Program or attending New Mexico School for the Arts Culinary Workshops can equip workers with valuable skills.
- On-the-Job Experience: Entry-level positions usually provide on-the-job training.
Top Employers Hiring Fast Food Workers in Santa Fe
Several major fast food chains frequently seek Fast Food Workers in Santa Fe:
- McDonald's
- Burger King
- Wendy's
- Taco Bell
- Subway
Establishments That Fast Food Workers in Santa Fe Work At
Fast Food Workers in Santa Fe commonly find employment at a variety of establishments, including:
- Fast Food Chains: Offer standardized roles, steady schedules, and typically set wage scales.
- Casual Dining Restaurants: May pay slightly higher and can involve more customer interaction.
- Food Trucks and Stalls: Provide flexible hours but may have variable pay.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Tend to offer better pay than traditional fast food places given a focus on quality and service.
The type of establishment can significantly impact a Fast Food Worker's pay and growth opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Santa Fe for Fast Food Workers
Fast Food Workers looking to explore similar roles in hospitality may consider options such as:
These roles include Fry Cook, Cook, and Cashier, which share relevant skill sets and offer varied career paths in the food service industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Fast Food Workers in Santa Fe
Fast Food Workers in Santa Fe should be knowledgeable about applicable labor laws and tax regulations to ensure compliance and proper work conditions.
- Visit the State of New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions for comprehensive state labor laws and employment resources.
- The U.S. Department of Labor website is a useful source for federal labor laws and regulations.
- For local government information and updates, the City of Santa Fe Official Website is helpful.