Fast Food Worker Salary in Suffolk, VA
Fast Food Workers in Suffolk, VA, in 2026, earn approximately $13.72 per hour, which translates to about $548.80 per week, $2,378.13 per month, and $28,537.60 per year.
The demand for Fast Food Workers in Suffolk is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a healthy and expanding market for quick-service food establishments in the region.
How Much Does a Fast Food Worker Make in Suffolk, VA?
The salary of a Fast Food Worker in Suffolk 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) | $9.38 | $375.20 | $1,625.07 | $19,502.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $13.72 | $548.80 | $2,378.13 | $28,537.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.06 | $802.40 | $3,475.07 | $41,724.80 |
Do Fast Food Workers in Suffolk Earn Tips?
Fast Food Workers typically do not earn tips because their work is generally transactional and quick service-based, involving minimal table service. Their earnings usually come solely from their hourly wages or salary.
Fast Food Worker Salary in Suffolk vs. National Average
Nationally, Fast Food Workers earn an average of around $12.50 per hour, translating to about $26,000 per year.
When compared to the national average, Fast Food Workers in Suffolk earn slightly more, at about $13.72 per hour and $28,537.60 annually.
This difference may be attributed to local wage standards and the specific demands of the region’s food service industry.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Suffolk for Fast Food Workers
When looking at nearby areas, Fast Food Worker salaries vary slightly:
- Harbour View: $15.50 per hour
- Downtown Suffolk: $14.00 per hour
Working in Harbour View can result in higher earnings compared to Downtown Suffolk, offering opportunities for increased wages within commuting distance.
What Influences a Fast Food Worker’s Salary in Suffolk?
Several factors can influence how much a Fast Food Worker makes in Suffolk, VA:
- Experience: Workers with more experience can negotiate higher wages or qualify for better positions within establishments.
- Skills: Proficiency in food preparation, customer service, and cash handling may lead to raises or promotions.
- Type of Establishment: Workers employed by popular chains or high-volume restaurants may earn more than those at smaller or less busy outlets.
- Shift Differentials: Evening and weekend shifts sometimes offer higher pay rates.
- Location: Fast Food Workers in more affluent or busy districts often receive better pay.
How To Become a Fast Food Worker in Suffolk, VA
Starting a career as a Fast Food Worker in Suffolk involves several steps and options to improve prospects:
- Gain Basic Education: Employers generally require a high school diploma or equivalent, but this is not always mandatory.
- Enroll in Local Hospitality Programs: Programs like the Tidewater Community College Culinary Arts Program offer comprehensive training in culinary skills, preparing students for roles in the food service industry.
- Consider High School Technical Education: The Suffolk Public Schools Career and Technical Education provides foundational courses in hospitality and food services, facilitating early entry into the workforce.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certificates like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification and Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) demonstrate knowledge of food safety, often required by employers and beneficial for advancement.
- Gain Work Experience: Many start in entry-level positions and advance with on-the-job training and demonstrated reliability.
Top Employers Hiring Fast Food Workers in Suffolk
Several well-known chains and local establishments are consistently seeking Fast Food Workers in Suffolk, including:
- McDonald's
- Cook Out Restaurants
- Chick-fil-A
- Burger King
- Wendy's
Establishments That Fast Food Workers in Suffolk Work At
Fast Food Workers typically find employment in various types of establishments, including:
- Quick-Service Restaurants: These form the core employment sector offering hourly wages and fast-paced work environments.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Positions here might provide slightly better pay and benefits compared to quick-service chains.
- Convenience Stores and Food Courts: Some fast food positions are within convenience stores or mall food courts, which can differ in wage structures.
The type of establishment can significantly affect salaries, with higher-end fast casuals often paying more than basic quick-service outlets.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Suffolk, VA for Fast Food Workers
If you're interested in roles related to Fast Food Worker, here are a few similar careers to consider that align with skills in quick service and food preparation:
These include Cashier, Fry Cook, and Cook positions, which involve related tasks in the hospitality and food service industry with varying salary ranges and responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Fast Food Workers in Suffolk, VA
Fast Food Workers should be aware of relevant labor laws and taxation rules that impact their employment and income:
- Consult the U.S. Department of Labor website for federal labor law provisions and worker rights.
- Visit Virginia’s official government site for state-specific employment regulations including minimum wage and overtime rules.
- Check the city regulations via Suffolk’s local government website for any local ordinances affecting labor laws and job opportunities.