Fast Food Worker Salary in Wilmington, NC
Fast Food Workers in Wilmington, NC in 2026 earn approximately $13.90 per hour, which amounts to about $556.00 per week, $2,409.33 per month, and $28,912.00 per year.
The job outlook for Fast Food Workers in Wilmington is positive, with employment expected to grow at a rate of about 5% per year. This indicates a steady demand for Fast Food Workers in the local food service industry.
How Much Does a Fast Food Worker Make in Wilmington, NC?
The salary of a Fast Food Worker in Wilmington varies depending on experience level and employer, but here’s an overview across different experience tiers:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.50 | $420.00 | $1,816.67 | $21,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.10 | $564.00 | $2,430.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Fast Food Workers in Wilmington Earn Tips?
Fast Food Workers generally do not earn tips. Their compensation is typically based on hourly wages or salary rather than gratuities, as the role mostly involves food preparation and order taking without direct customer tipping interactions.
Fast Food Worker Salary in Wilmington vs. National Average
Across the United States, Fast Food Workers earn an average hourly wage of about $14.50, which translates to roughly $30,160 annually.
Compared to the national average, Fast Food Workers in Wilmington earn slightly less on average, making about $13.90 per hour and around $28,912 per year.
This modest difference may be influenced by the cost of living and regional labor market conditions specific to Wilmington, NC.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Wilmington for Fast Food Workers
Nearby areas tend to offer differing wages for Fast Food Workers:
- Area 1: $15.50 per hour
- Area 2: $17.60 per hour
Workers willing to commute may find higher pay in these surrounding regions compared to Wilmington.
What Influences a Fast Food Worker’s Salary in Wilmington?
Several factors impact how much a Fast Food Worker can earn in Wilmington:
- Experience: More seasoned workers often command higher pay rates due to faster, more efficient performance and basic supervisory responsibility.
- Skills: Ability to handle multiple stations, use of point-of-sale systems, and customer service skills can affect wages.
- Type of Establishment: Fast Food Workers employed by premium or franchise restaurants may earn more than those at local or independent outlets.
- Shift Timing: Working during peak hours or overnight shifts sometimes come with differential pay.
- Local Market Demand: Wilmington’s economic environment and labor supply influence overall wage levels.
How To Become a Fast Food Worker in Wilmington
Becoming a Fast Food Worker in Wilmington is accessible and often requires minimal formal education. Consider the following pathways:
- Culinary Arts Training: Programs like the Cape Fear Community College Culinary Arts Program offer comprehensive skills useful even in fast food environments.
- Hospitality Education: UNC Wilmington Hospitality Management Program covers knowledge pertinent to restaurant operations and customer service.
- Food Safety Certification: Obtaining a ServSafe Food Handler Certification is often essential to comply with food safety laws.
- Alcohol Service Training: If serving alcohol, North Carolina Alcohol Server Training certification is required.
Top Employers Hiring Fast Food Workers in Wilmington
Some of the largest employers seeking Fast Food Workers in Wilmington include:
- McDonald's
- Chick-fil-A
- KFC
Establishments That Fast Food Workers in Wilmington Work At
Fast Food Workers primarily work in:
- Fast Food Chains: These typically have standardized menus and systems and often provide consistent hours but may offer minimal pay increases.
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Some fast casual places might pay slightly more due to higher service quality demands.
- Snack Bars and Food Courts: Pay may vary significantly based on location and business volume.
The type of establishment affects wages, with branded franchises generally paying more competitive salaries and offering advancement opportunities than smaller independent outlets.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Wilmington for Fast Food Workers
If you are considering roles similar to Fast Food Worker, here are a few related positions that might interest you:
These roles include Cashier, Cook, and Fry Cook, all of which share responsibilities related to food service and preparation.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Fast Food Workers in Wilmington
Fast Food Workers should be familiar with labor laws and taxation to ensure fair treatment and compliance.
- Explore federal labor regulations at the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- North Carolina state-specific labor rules and resources can be found at the North Carolina Department of Labor website.