Fast Food Worker Salary in Spokane-Valley, WA
Fast Food Workers in Spokane-Valley, WA, earn approximately $18.22 per hour, which translates to about $728.80 per week, $3,158.13 per month, and $37,897.60 per year.
The job demand for Fast Food Workers is growing moderately at around 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for employment opportunities in this sector in Spokane-Valley.
How Much Does a Fast Food Worker Make in Spokane-Valley, WA?
Fast Food Worker salaries vary depending on experience levels and responsibilities. Below is an overview of average earnings based on career stage.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.85 | $634.00 | $2,745.33 | $32,968.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.22 | $728.80 | $3,158.13 | $37,897.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.95 | $838.00 | $3,611.33 | $43,576.00 |
Do Fast Food Workers in Spokane-Valley Earn Tips?
Fast Food Workers typically do not earn tips as most work in fast-service environments where tipping is uncommon. Their earnings generally come from hourly wages.
Fast Food Worker Salary in Spokane-Valley vs. National Average
Nationally, Fast Food Workers earn an average of about $13.10 per hour, equating to roughly $27,248 per year.
Compared to the national figures, Fast Food Workers in Spokane-Valley earn a significantly higher hourly wage at around $18.22 and an annual income of approximately $37,897.60.
This difference may be influenced by regional labor market conditions and the cost of living in Washington State.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Spokane-Valley for Fast Food Workers
Nearby cities offer the following competitive wages for Fast Food Workers:
- Spokane: $20.21 per hour
- Seattle: $23.65 per hour
Fast Food Workers commuting to Seattle or Spokane may find even higher wages compared to Spokane-Valley, reflecting urban market demands.
What Influences a Fast Food Worker’s Salary in Spokane-Valley?
Experience plays a significant role, as workers with several years on the job often command higher wages through improved efficiency and skills.
The type of establishment also affects pay; fast food chains may offer different wage scales compared to casual or fast-casual restaurants.
Shift timings can affect salary, with evening or weekend shifts sometimes offering premium pay.
Additional skills such as cash handling, customer service excellence, or familiarity with kitchen equipment can boost earning potential.
Finally, local labor market conditions and minimum wage laws impact the baseline compensation for this role.
How To Become a Fast Food Worker in Spokane-Valley
Entering this role requires a few accessible steps focused on gaining relevant knowledge and certifications.
- The Washington State Food Worker Card is a mandatory certification for all food service workers in Washington, ensuring understanding of food safety practices.
- Obtaining the ServSafe Certification is valuable and often sought by employers for food safety training.
- Enrolling in culinary training programs like the Spokane Community College Culinary Arts Program or the Inland Northwest Culinary Academy can provide comprehensive training in culinary skills.
- Practical experience through entry-level jobs or internships in fast food establishments builds necessary skills.
Top Employers Hiring Fast Food Workers in Spokane-Valley
Several prominent chains look for reliable Fast Food Workers to join their teams, including:
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Panera Bread
- Arby's
- Cinnabon
Establishments That Fast Food Workers in Spokane-Valley Work At
Fast Food Workers are generally employed in various types of food service venues.
- Fast Food Chains: These establishments usually offer steady hours and hourly pay but limited opportunities for tips.
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Sometimes pay higher wages and may offer some tipping opportunities depending on the service style.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: These provide a mix of fast service and food quality, occasionally offering better pay rates.
- Cafes and Bakeries: Smaller venues may pay less or have variable hours but provide experience in food preparation and customer service.
The type and reputation of the establishment often influence the salary potential for Fast Food Workers.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Spokane-Valley for Fast Food Workers
If you're interested in opportunities related to the Fast Food Worker role, several similar careers exist in the hospitality sector.
These include Cook, Fry Cook, and Cashier, which share some skill sets and provide paths for advancement or specialization.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Fast Food Workers in Spokane-Valley
Fast Food Workers should be aware of specific laws and tax regulations governing their employment:
- Check labor regulations and workplace rights at the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries.
- For federal labor laws, visit the U.S. Department of Labor.
- Tax guidelines and resources are provided by the Internal Revenue Service.