Let’s talk about McDonald’s. Love it or hate it, the Golden Arches are everywhere—14,000+ locations in the U.S. alone. And here’s something most people don’t realize: McDonald’s is probably the easiest first job to get in America.
Seriously. If you’re 14-16 years old and need your first job, or if you’re 50 and need immediate income, or if you’re anywhere in between and need flexibility, learning how to get hired at McDonald’s is your fastest path to a paycheck.
I’ve helped thousands of people figure out how to get hired at McDonald’s, and here’s the truth: they hire almost everyone who shows up, acts professionally, and demonstrates basic reliability. The bar isn’t super high. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be strategic about it.
This complete guide on how to get hired at McDonald’s will cover everything—from the application process to what they actually pay (it’s better than you think), the benefits (yes, they exist), interview tips, and what it’s really like working there. Plus, I’ll share the insider secrets that separate people who get hired immediately from those who wait weeks.
Whether this is your first job ever, a temporary gig, or a stepping stone to management, McDonald’s offers opportunities. Let’s get you hired. 🍟
The Quick Facts About How to Get Hired at McDonald’s
Here’s what you need to know right now:
💰 Starting Pay: $12-$17/hour (varies widely by location)
📍 Location Count: 14,000+ restaurants in the U.S.
👥 Employees: 200,000+ in the U.S. (millions worldwide)
⏱️ Time to Get Hired: 1-2 weeks (often faster—sometimes same-day offers)
🎂 Minimum Age: 14-16 years old (varies by state—usually 16)
💉 Drug Test: Generally NO (varies by franchise)
🔍 Background Check: Usually NO for entry-level (varies by franchise)
🎓 Education Required: NONE (not even for minors)
🗓️ Schedule: Extremely flexible (one of McDonald’s biggest advantages)
🚀 Hiring Speed: FAST (McDonald’s hires constantly)
Now let’s break down why McDonald’s is worth considering and how to actually get the job.
Why McDonald’s is Actually a Smart First Job
Before we dive into how to get hired at McDonald’s, let’s address the elephant in the room: working at McDonald’s has a stigma. People act like it’s beneath them or embarrassing. That’s dumb. Here’s why:
1. It’s Fast Income
McDonald’s hires FAST. Like, apply-Monday-start-Friday fast. If you need money quickly, McDonald’s delivers.
2. The Skills Transfer Everywhere
Working at McDonald’s teaches:
- Customer service under pressure
- Multitasking (seriously, try managing drive-thru during lunch rush)
- Time management
- Teamwork
- Handling difficult people
- Working fast and accurately
- Following systems and procedures
- Basic cash handling
Real talk: These skills apply to literally any job. McDonald’s on your resume shows you can work hard in a fast-paced environment. That’s valuable.
3. Flexibility is Unmatched
Need to work around school? McDonald’s works with you.
Need mornings only? They’ve got morning shifts.
Need weekends only? They’ll take you.
Need 10 hours a week? Fine.
Need 40 hours? Also fine.
Few employers are this flexible.
4. Advancement is Real (and Fast)
McDonald’s promotes from within aggressively. You can go from crew member to shift manager in 6-12 months. Shift managers make $15-20/hour. Store managers make $50-70K+. McDonald’s has actual career paths.
5. The Perks Are Better Than You Think
- Free meals during shifts (this saves money)
- Employee discounts (50% off even when not working)
- Flexible scheduling
- Tuition assistance (Archways to Opportunity program)
- 401(k) for eligible employees
- Career advancement programs
- Some locations offer benefits (varies by franchise)
6. It’s Not Forever
McDonald’s is a stepping stone. Few people make it a career (though some do). Most use it to:
- Get work experience for their resume
- Make money while in school
- Bridge between jobs
- Learn work ethic and skills
- Figure out what they actually want to do
There’s no shame in that. Every successful person you know probably had a “McDonald’s equivalent” in their past.
What Jobs Can You Get at McDonald’s?
Let’s break down the positions when learning how to get hired at McDonald’s.
Entry-Level Crew Positions
Crew Member – $12-$15/hour starting
This is the catch-all position. You’ll rotate between various stations based on needs.
What you might do:
- Front Counter: Taking orders, processing payments, assembling orders
- Drive-Thru: Taking orders via headset, handling window transactions
- Kitchen: Cooking burgers, fries, nuggets (grill, fry station, prep)
- Dining Room: Cleaning tables, restocking supplies, maintaining cleanliness
- Runner: Bringing orders to customers, supporting various stations
Best for: First-time workers, students, anyone needing flexible hours.
Real talk: You’ll probably do all of these at some point. McDonald’s cross-trains everyone. It keeps the work from getting too boring and makes you more valuable.
Physical demands: Standing entire shift, some heat (near grills/fryers), fast-paced during rushes.
Guest Experience Leader (Front Counter Specialist) – $12-$15/hour
You’re primarily working the front counter—taking orders, processing payments, handling customer requests.
What you’ll do: Greet customers, take orders on register or kiosk, process payments, assemble orders, handle complaints diplomatically.
Best for: People-oriented individuals, those with good communication skills, patient personalities.
Reality check: During rush hours (breakfast, lunch, dinner), you’re taking 100+ orders. It’s fast. You need to be accurate and friendly simultaneously.
Kitchen Staff – $12-$15/hour
You’re working in the back—cooking, prepping, assembling orders. Less customer interaction.
What you’ll do: Grill burgers, cook chicken, fry fries and nuggets, prep ingredients, assemble sandwiches, maintain kitchen standards.
Best for: People who prefer not dealing with customers, those who can handle heat and fast pace, detail-oriented workers.
Physical demands: Heat from grills and fryers, standing all shift, some burns are possible (it happens).
Why some people prefer it: No dealing with difficult customers. You just cook and prep. Simple.
Drive-Thru Attendant – $12-$15/hour
You’re managing the drive-thru—taking orders, handling payment window, coordinating with kitchen.
What you’ll do: Take orders via headset, process payments, hand out orders, maintain accuracy and speed, handle complaints.
Best for: Multitaskers, those with clear speaking voices, people who stay calm under pressure.
The challenge: Drive-thru is STRESSFUL during rushes. You’re juggling headset orders, payment window, order window, and keeping cars moving. It’s intense.
The benefit: Time flies. Busy shifts end quickly.
Overnight Crew – $13-$17/hour (night differential)
Working overnight shifts (typically 10pm-6am or midnight-8am).
What you’ll do: Same crew duties but overnight. Usually includes more cleaning, restocking, prep for next day.
Best for: Night owls, those who want higher pay, people who prefer quieter environment.
Why it pays more: Night differential (usually $1-2/hour extra). Fewer customers. Less chaos.
The reality: Some locations are still busy overnight (urban areas, highway locations). Others are dead quiet.
Management Positions
Shift Manager – $15-$20/hour
You’re overseeing operations during your shift—managing crew, ensuring standards, handling issues.
Requirements: Usually 6-12 months crew experience (sometimes less if you’re good).
What you’ll do: Supervise crew, manage cash handling, ensure food quality, handle customer complaints, coordinate breaks, manage inventory, open/close restaurant.
Best for: Natural leaders, organized people, those wanting more responsibility and pay.
The jump: This is a significant pay increase ($3-5/hour more) and responsibility increase. You’re now management.
Assistant Manager – $35K-$45K salary
Supporting store manager with daily operations, managing shifts, training crew.
Requirements: 1-2 years McDonald’s experience typically, management capability.
Store Manager (General Manager) – $50K-$70K+ salary
Running the entire restaurant—hiring, scheduling, inventory, financials, customer satisfaction, everything.
Requirements: 2-3 years McDonald’s management experience usually.
The reality: Store managers at high-volume locations can make $70-80K+. This is an actual career if you want it.
The Pay Structure at McDonald’s
Let’s get real about money when learning how to get hired at McDonald’s.
Starting Pay by Location (2025)
McDonald’s pay varies WILDLY by location because most are franchises. Here’s the general breakdown:
Low cost-of-living areas (rural South, Midwest):
- Starting: $11-$13/hour
- Average: $12-$14/hour
Medium cost-of-living areas (most suburban areas):
- Starting: $13-$15/hour
- Average: $14-$16/hour
High cost-of-living areas (California, New York, major cities):
- Starting: $16-$19/hour
- Average: $17-$20/hour
Example: McDonald’s in rural Alabama might start at $11/hour. McDonald’s in San Francisco might start at $18/hour.
Pay by Position
| Position | Starting | After 1 Year | Top Pay |
|---|---|---|---|
| Crew Member | $12-15/hr | $13-16/hr | $15-18/hr |
| Shift Manager | $15-20/hr | $17-22/hr | $20-25/hr |
| Assistant Manager | $35-45K | $40-50K | $50-60K |
| Store Manager | $50-70K | $60-80K | $80-100K+ |
How Raises Work
Performance reviews: Usually every 6-12 months
Typical raises: $0.25-$0.75/hour for crew members
Promotion jumps: $2-5/hour when moving to shift manager
Real talk: McDonald’s raises aren’t huge for crew members, but promotions happen fast if you’re good.
Benefits at McDonald’s (Yes, They Exist)
Understanding how to get hired at McDonald’s means knowing what you actually get.
Benefits for ALL Employees (Part-time and Full-time)
Free Meals:
- Free meal during shift (usually one meal per shift)
- Employee discount 50% off when not working
- This saves $100-200/month easily
Flexible Scheduling:
- Work around school, kids, other jobs
- Shift swapping is easy
- Request time off (usually approved)
Archways to Opportunity Program:
- High school diploma assistance (free)
- College tuition assistance
- English language courses
- Career advising
- Available to crew members after 90 days
This is HUGE. McDonald’s will help pay for college. Not many fast food places do this.
Additional Benefits (Varies by Franchise and Hours)
Some franchise owners offer:
- Health insurance (for full-time employees)
- Paid time off
- 401(k)
- Life insurance
- Dental/vision
Reality check: Benefits vary widely because McDonald’s operates on a franchise model. Corporate stores typically offer more benefits than franchises. Ask during interview what’s available.
The Application Process
Alright, let’s get into the actual how to get hired at McDonald’s steps.
Step 1: Apply Online OR In-Person
Option 1: Online
- Go to McDonalds.com/careers
- Search by location
- Apply through McDonald’s system
Option 2: In-Person (Often Better)
- Go to the McDonald’s where you want to work
- Ask to speak with the hiring manager
- Ask for an application
- Fill it out on the spot
Pro tip: In-person applications often get faster responses. Hiring managers appreciate the initiative. Dress neat (jeans and a clean shirt are fine), be polite, and hand it directly to a manager.
Step 2: Fill Out the Application
Online or paper, you’ll need:
Personal Information:
- Name, address, phone, email
- Social Security Number
- Work authorization status
Availability:
- What days can you work?
- What shifts can you work?
- How many hours do you want?
CRITICAL: Be as flexible as possible. The more availability you show, the more likely you’ll get hired.
Work History:
- Previous jobs (if any)
- If this is your first job, that’s totally fine—McDonald’s hires tons of first-timers
Education:
- Current school or highest level completed
- Again, doesn’t matter much—they hire high school students
References:
- 2-3 people who can vouch for you
- Teachers, coaches, previous employers, family friends (not relatives)
Step 3: The Interview (Usually Very Simple)
McDonald’s interviews are straightforward. They’re not trying to trick you. They want to know:
- Can you show up on time?
- Can you work hard?
- Are you pleasant to be around?
That’s it.
Interview format:
- Usually 10-20 minutes
- With hiring manager or store manager
- Sometimes in the restaurant, sometimes in office
- Casual conversation more than interrogation
Interview Questions & How to Answer
“Why do you want to work at McDonald’s?”
❌ Bad: “I need money” (true but uninspiring)
✅ Good: “I’m looking for my first job and I want to learn customer service and work ethic. McDonald’s has a reputation for training people well, and I know several people who’ve worked here and said good things. Plus, I like the flexible scheduling since I’m in school.”
Why this works: Shows thought, references the positives, mentions flexibility.
“Tell me about yourself.”
Keep it short (60 seconds):
- Who you are
- What you’re doing (school, etc.)
- Why you want this job
✅ Example: “I’m [name], I’m a junior at [school], and I’m looking for my first job. I’m responsible and reliable—I have good attendance at school and I’m involved in [activity]. I want to work at McDonald’s because I need work experience and I’m looking for something flexible around my school schedule.”
“What’s your availability?”
✅ Be as flexible as possible: “I’m available weekdays after 3pm, and I can work weekends anytime. I’m flexible and willing to work the hours you need.”
If you have real limitations: “I’m available every day except Wednesdays because I have [commitment]. I can work mornings, afternoons, and weekends.”
Reality: The more available you are, the more hours you’ll get. Limited availability = fewer hours.
“Can you work under pressure?”
✅ Good answer: “Yes, I work well under pressure. I stay focused and don’t panic. I understand McDonald’s gets busy during rush hours, and I’m ready for that pace.”
“How would you handle a rude customer?”
✅ Perfect answer: “I’d stay calm and polite. I’d listen to their concern, apologize for any issue, and try to fix it or get a manager to help. I wouldn’t take it personally—I know people have bad days. The goal is to turn their experience around.”
“Tell me about a time you worked on a team.”
Use school projects, sports, group activities if you have no work experience.
✅ Example: “In school, I worked on a group project where we had to present on [topic]. I coordinated with my team, made sure everyone had their part done on time, and we ended up getting an A. I learned that communication is key to teamwork.”
“Why should we hire you?”
✅ Solid answer: “You should hire me because I’m reliable, I’m a fast learner, and I’ll work hard. I show up on time, I follow instructions, and I’m friendly with people. I’m ready to work and I’ll be an asset to your team.”
“Do you have any questions for us?”
❌ Don’t say: “No, I’m good.”
✅ Ask:
- “What does a typical shift look like?”
- “What’s your favorite part about working here?”
- “When would I start training if hired?”
- “What opportunities are there to grow?”
What They’re REALLY Looking For
McDonald’s hiring managers care about:
- Reliability – Will you show up?
- Availability – Can you work when needed?
- Attitude – Are you pleasant or difficult?
- Work ethic – Will you actually work or stand around?
- Basic competence – Can you follow instructions?
If you demonstrate these five things, you’ll get hired.
After the Interview
Timeline:
- McDonald’s usually decides within 1-5 days
- You might get a call the same day (yes, really)
- If you don’t hear back in 3-5 days, follow up
How to follow up:
- Call the store
- Ask to speak with the hiring manager
- “Hi, I interviewed for a crew position on [date] and I wanted to follow up. I’m very interested in the position.”
Pro tip: Persistence works. If they say they’ll call you back, call again in 2-3 days.
Background Check & Drug Testing
Here’s the good news: McDonald’s is usually very relaxed about this.
Background Check
Most locations DON’T do background checks for crew positions.
Why? Because many crew members are teenagers with no background to check. Also, McDonald’s hires so many people so fast, background checks would slow everything down.
Exception: Some franchise owners do background checks. Some states require it.
What they’d check (if they do):
- Criminal history
- Previous employment (sometimes)
What typically disqualifies (if they even check):
- Violent crimes
- Theft (especially food service theft)
- Falsifying application
Drug Testing
Most locations DON’T drug test crew members.
Again, because it’s expensive and McDonald’s hires fast.
Exception: Some franchises test. Management positions usually test.
Reality: If you’re applying for crew member, you probably won’t be tested. But don’t show up to work impaired.
Your First Day at McDonald’s
You got hired! Congrats. Here’s what happens.
Orientation
Length: Usually 2-4 hours
What you’ll do:
- Paperwork (I-9, W-4, direct deposit forms)
- Watch training videos (food safety, customer service)
- Store tour
- Meet crew and managers
- Get your uniform
What to bring:
- Government ID (driver’s license, state ID, passport)
- Social Security card OR birth certificate + ID
- Bank account info for direct deposit
- Pen
Your Uniform
McDonald’s provides:
- Shirt (usually polo or crew shirt with logo)
- Hat or visor
- Name tag
You provide:
- Black pants (jeans work at most locations, no holes)
- Non-slip shoes (REQUIRED—kitchen floors are slippery)
Pro tip: Invest in good non-slip shoes. Walmart and Payless sell them cheap. Cheap non-slip shoes beat expensive regular shoes.
Training Period
Length: 1-2 weeks typically
What happens:
- Shadow experienced crew members
- Hands-on training at different stations
- Computer-based learning (food safety, procedures)
- Gradual independence
- Eventually you’ll work alone
McDonald’s training is systematic. Everything has a procedure. You’ll learn by repetition.
First Paycheck
Pay schedule: Bi-weekly (every 2 weeks) at most locations
Payday: Varies by franchise (usually Friday)
Method: Direct deposit or pay card
First check: You’ll wait 2-3 weeks (standard for new jobs)
What It’s Actually Like Working at McDonald’s
Let’s get real about the day-to-day when learning how to get hired at McDonald’s.
Your Schedule
Shifts:
- Opening: 5am-1pm or 6am-2pm
- Mid: 11am-7pm or 12pm-8pm
- Closing: 4pm-12am or 5pm-1am
- Overnight: 10pm-6am (24-hour locations)
Shift lengths:
- Usually 4-8 hours per shift
- Part-time: 10-25 hours per week
- Full-time: 30-40 hours per week
Scheduling:
- Varies by location
- Some use apps (very convenient)
- Usually posted 1-2 weeks in advance
- Shift trading is common and easy
The Pace (It’s Fast)
McDonald’s is BUSY. Especially:
- Breakfast rush (6-9am)
- Lunch rush (11am-1pm)
- Dinner rush (5-7pm)
- Late night (after bars close in some locations)
What this means:
- You’re moving constantly during rushes
- No standing around
- Multitasking is essential
- Time flies when it’s busy
Between rushes:
- Cleaning, restocking, prep work
- Slower pace but there’s always something to do
The Physical Reality
It’s physically demanding:
- Standing entire shift (6-8 hours)
- Constant movement
- Heat from grills and fryers (kitchen is HOT)
- Some burns are inevitable (minor, but they happen)
- Grease smell (you’ll smell like McDonald’s)
- Fast-paced stress
You’ll get used to it. The first week is rough. By week two, your body adapts.
The Customers
Most customers are fine. They order, pay, eat, leave.
You’ll also encounter:
- Rush customers: Stressed, hurried, sometimes impatient
- Confused customers: Don’t know what they want, change orders
- Difficult customers: Rude, demanding, unreasonable
- Kids: Making messes, being loud (it’s McDonald’s)
- Late night customers: Sometimes drunk or high
Real talk: Customer service at McDonald’s teaches patience. You’ll deal with nonsense. But you’ll also help nice people and make their day better.
The Culture
The good:
✅ Coworkers are usually chill (lots of teens/young adults)
✅ Fast-paced environment (time goes fast)
✅ Shift meals are free (saves money)
✅ Flexible scheduling
✅ Easy to get time off (usually)
✅ Promotion opportunities are real
✅ Skills transfer everywhere
The challenges:
❌ It’s fast food—not glamorous
❌ Some customers are terrible
❌ Management quality varies wildly by location
❌ Can be stressful during rushes
❌ Smell transfers to your clothes and car
❌ Social stigma (people judge)
❌ Pay isn’t amazing (but it’s steady)
Career Growth
Typical path:
- Crew Member (entry) → Crew Trainer (6 months) → Shift Manager (12 months) → Assistant Manager (2 years) → Store Manager (3-5 years)
Reality: If you’re good and express interest, you can be in management within a year. Some people go crew-to-GM in 3-4 years.
McDonald’s promotes aggressively from within. They prefer developing crew over hiring external managers.
Insider Tips for Getting Hired Fast
These are things most people don’t know about how to get hired at McDonald’s:
1. Apply in person
Go to the actual store, ask for a manager, express interest. This works better than online often.
2. Apply to multiple locations
Apply to 3-5 McDonald’s near you. Different franchises = different hiring speeds.
3. Show maximum availability
Weekends, nights, early mornings—say yes to all of it initially. You can adjust later.
4. Follow up aggressively
Call 2-3 days after applying. Call again if needed. Persistence shows interest.
5. Emphasize reliability
Mention good school attendance, being on time, responsibility. This matters more than skills.
6. Look neat
When applying in person or interviewing, dress clean and neat. You don’t need a suit—jeans and a clean shirt are fine. Just look put-together.
7. Be friendly and smile
McDonald’s wants people with good attitudes. Smile, be polite, show energy.
8. Apply at new locations
New McDonald’s opening in your area? APPLY. They hire dozens of people at once for grand openings.
9. Be honest about experience (or lack of it)
McDonald’s expects first-timers. Don’t pretend you know stuff you don’t. They want trainable people.
10. Ask about immediate openings
When applying: “Are you hiring for immediate positions? I can start right away.” This shows urgency.
Frequently Asked Questions About How to Get Hired at McDonald’s
Q: What’s the minimum age to work at McDonald’s?
A: Usually 16, but some states allow 14-15 with work permits. Call your local McDonald’s to confirm.
Q: Is this a good first job?
A: Yes! McDonald’s hires tons of first-time workers and trains you fully. Perfect resume builder.
Q: How long does hiring take?
A: Fast. Usually 1-2 weeks from application to first shift. Sometimes same-day interviews and offers.
Q: Can I work part-time while in school?
A: Absolutely. Most McDonald’s employees are students. They’re very flexible.
Q: Do I need a resume?
A: Not required for crew positions. Helpful but not necessary. McDonald’s has applications.
Q: Will I get enough hours?
A: Depends on your availability and location. More availability = more hours. Part-timers typically get 15-25 hours.
Q: Can I request certain shifts?
A: You can request, but there’s no guarantee. More flexibility = more likely to get what you want eventually.
Q: Is it hard work?
A: It’s fast-paced and physical. You’ll be tired. But it’s not complicated—just demanding.
Q: Will this help my resume?
A: Yes! McDonald’s shows you can work in fast-paced environments, handle customers, and be reliable. Employers respect this.
Q: How often do you get raises?
A: Usually every 6-12 months, typically $0.25-$0.50. Promotions give bigger bumps.
Q: Can you advance quickly?
A: Yes! Shift manager in 6-12 months is common if you’re good.
Q: What if I have no experience?
A: Perfect! McDonald’s trains everyone from scratch. They expect zero experience.
Q: Do they hire felons?
A: Depends on the crime and franchise. Many do, especially for non-violent offenses.
Q: Is the employee discount good?
A: 50% off is solid. Plus free meal per shift. You’ll save $100-200/month eating there.
Q: Can I transfer to another McDonald’s?
A: Usually yes, especially within the same franchise. Different franchises require reapplying.
Q: What’s the worst part?
A: Rush hours are stressful, some customers are rude, and it’s physically tiring. But it’s manageable.
Q: What’s the best part?
A: Flexible schedule, fast income, coworkers are usually cool, time goes fast, and free food.
Q: Should I be embarrassed?
A: Absolutely not. Anyone who judges you for working is an idiot. Work is work. Earning money is respectable.
McDonald’s vs. Other Fast Food Jobs
Quick comparison for context:
| Factor | McDonald’s | Chick-fil-A | Taco Bell | Burger King |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Pay | $12-17/hr | $13-16/hr | $11-15/hr | $11-15/hr |
| Hiring Speed | Very Fast ✅ | Moderate | Fast | Fast |
| Flexibility | Excellent ✅ | Good | Good | Good |
| Advancement | Good ✅ | Excellent | Good | Moderate |
| Free Meals | Yes ✅ | Yes ✅ | Yes | Yes |
| Tuition Help | Yes ✅ | Yes | Limited | Limited |
McDonald’s advantages:
- Hires fastest
- Most locations = most opportunities
- Flexible scheduling
- Archways to Opportunity education program
- Advancement is real
McDonald’s disadvantages:
- Slightly lower pay than some competitors
- Very busy (high stress during rushes)
- Social stigma (people judge)
Alright, Let’s Get You Hired at McDonald’s
So there you have it—everything you need to know about how to get hired at McDonald’s.
Is it the most prestigious job? No.
Is it the highest-paying job? No.
Is it easy money? Definitely not—you’ll work hard.
But it’s:
- Fast to get hired
- Flexible scheduling
- Steady income
- Valuable experience
- A stepping stone to better things
And honestly? There’s dignity in working. Period.
Your Action Plan (Do This Today):
- ✅ Find McDonald’s locations near you
- ✅ Go in person OR apply online at McDonalds.com/careers
- ✅ Fill out application completely
- ✅ Mark maximum availability
- ✅ Prepare for quick interview using this guide
- ✅ Follow up after 2-3 days
- ✅ Be persistent—call back if needed
- ✅ Apply to multiple locations
- ✅ Be ready to start quickly
McDonald’s hires constantly. Right now, thousands of people are working there. You can be one of them.
Now stop reading and go apply. Those fries aren’t going to cook themselves. 🍟
