Let’s talk about Chick-fil-A. If fast food restaurants were ranked by reputation, Chick-fil-A would be at the absolute top. Clean restaurants, polite employees, food that doesn’t make you regret your life choices, and that famous “my pleasure” customer service. It’s basically the Disney World of chicken sandwiches.
But here’s what most people don’t realize about learning how to get hired at Chick-fil-A: it’s competitive. Like, way more competitive than McDonald’s or Burger King. Chick-fil-A is notoriously picky about who they hire because they have a reputation to uphold. Their acceptance rate for team members is often lower than some colleges.
I’ve helped thousands of people figure out how to get hired at Chick-fil-A, and I’m about to share everything you need to know. The pay structure (it’s better than most fast food), the legendary work culture, the application secrets, interview strategies that actually work, and what makes Chick-fil-A different from every other fast food job.
Whether you’re 16 and looking for your first job, 20 and needing flexible work during college, or 30+ and making a career change, Chick-fil-A offers opportunities. This complete guide on how to get hired at Chick-fil-A covers every step from understanding what they really want to wearing that red polo shirt.
Let’s get you hired at America’s favorite chicken restaurant. 🐔
The Quick Facts About How to Get Hired at Chick-fil-A
Here’s what you need to know right now:
💰 Starting Pay: $13-$18/hour (higher than most fast food)
📍 Location Count: 3,000+ restaurants across 47 states
👥 Employees: 200,000+ team members
⏱️ Time to Get Hired: 2-4 weeks (longer than McDonald’s—they’re selective)
🎂 Minimum Age: 14-16 years old (varies by state and location)
💉 Drug Test: Generally NO for team members
🔍 Background Check: Sometimes (varies by franchise)
🎓 Education Required: NONE (but they value students)
📅 Schedule: Closed Sundays (huge perk!), flexible otherwise
🎯 Competition Level: HIGH (Chick-fil-A is picky)
🌟 Culture: Exceptional (best in fast food by far)
Now let’s break down why Chick-fil-A is worth the extra effort and how you can stand out.
Why Chick-fil-A is the Best Fast Food Job (Yes, Really)
Before diving into how to get hired at Chick-fil-A, let’s talk about why people fight to work here.
1. The Pay is Better
Chick-fil-A pays $13-$18/hour starting, which is $1-3/hour more than most fast food competitors. That adds up to $2,000-$6,000 more per year.
2. You’re Off Every Sunday
Chick-fil-A is famously closed on Sundays. This means:
- Guaranteed day off every week
- No Sunday shifts ever
- Consistent schedule
- Better work-life balance
Real talk: This alone makes Chick-fil-A better than competitors. Every other fast food place works you Sundays.
3. The Culture is Actually Good
Chick-fil-A’s reputation for exceptional service isn’t fake. They:
- Treat employees with genuine respect
- Emphasize “servant leadership”
- Create positive work environment
- Care about employee development
- Recognize and reward good work
You’re not just a number here. That matters.
4. The Scholarship Opportunities Are Insane
Chick-fil-A awards $17+ million in scholarships annually to team members. These range from $2,500 to $25,000 per year.
Not joking. Working at Chick-fil-A can literally pay for college. The application rate for these scholarships is way better than external scholarships because only Chick-fil-A employees can apply.
5. It Actually Looks Good on Your Resume
Unlike some fast food jobs that get ignored on resumes, Chick-fil-A stands out. Hiring managers know Chick-fil-A employees are:
- Well-trained in customer service
- Reliable and professional
- Able to work in fast-paced environments
- Probably pleasant to work with
“Chick-fil-A team member” > “McDonald’s crew member” in resume value. Fair or not, it’s true.
6. Leadership Opportunities Are Real
Chick-fil-A invests heavily in leadership development. They want to develop your skills even if you don’t stay forever. Programs include:
- Leadership training
- Mentorship
- Management pathways
- Personal development
7. The Customers Are Better
Chick-fil-A customers are generally:
- More polite (the culture affects them too)
- More patient
- More appreciative
- Less likely to be awful
You’ll still get difficult customers, but statistically fewer than McDonald’s or Burger King.
What Jobs Can You Get at Chick-fil-A?
Let’s break down positions when learning how to get hired at Chick-fil-A.
Entry-Level Team Member Positions
Team Member (Front of House) – $13-$16/hour
Working the front counter, drive-thru, or dining room serving guests.
What you’ll do:
- Take orders (front counter or drive-thru headset)
- Process payments
- Deliver food to tables (Chick-fil-A brings food to you!)
- Refill drinks
- Bag orders
- Maintain dining room cleanliness
- Provide exceptional customer service
Best for: People-oriented individuals, multitaskers, those with positive attitudes, patient personalities.
What makes it different from other fast food:
- You’re trained extensively on hospitality
- “My pleasure” instead of “you’re welcome” (they drill this into you)
- You actually engage with customers (not just transactions)
- Dining room service (bringing food to tables)
Physical demands: Standing entire shift, lots of walking, fast-paced during rushes.
Team Member (Back of House) – $13-$16/hour
Working in the kitchen preparing food.
What you’ll do:
- Breading and frying chicken
- Preparing sandwiches and salads
- Prepping ingredients
- Maintaining food safety standards
- Operating fryers and grills
- Keeping kitchen clean and organized
Best for: Those who prefer less customer interaction, detail-oriented people, food prep enthusiasts.
Physical demands: Heat from fryers, standing all shift, fast pace, repetitive tasks.
Why some prefer it: Less direct customer interaction, focus on food quality, clear tasks.
Drive-Thru Team Member – $13-$16/hour
Chick-fil-A’s drive-thru is legendary. During lunch rush, you’ll have people outside with tablets taking orders (yes, really).
What you’ll do:
- Take orders via headset
- Take orders face-to-face with iPad (during busy times)
- Process payments
- Hand out orders
- Coordinate with kitchen
- Keep cars moving efficiently
Best for: Clear communicators, multitaskers, those who stay calm under pressure, tech-comfortable people.
The reality: Chick-fil-A drive-thrus are BUSY. Like, 100+ cars during lunch busy. But the system is well-designed, and you’ll be trained thoroughly.
Hospitality Team Member – $13-$16/hour
This is unique to Chick-fil-A. You’re focused entirely on guest experience.
What you’ll do:
- Greet guests entering
- Bring food to tables
- Refill drinks
- Clear trays
- Assist with special requests
- Create exceptional experiences
- Handle issues with grace
Best for: Service-oriented people, those who genuinely enjoy making people happy, social butterflies.
Why it’s cool: You get to interact positively with guests. You’re the reason people say “Chick-fil-A service is amazing.”
Leadership Positions
Team Leader/Shift Leader – $15-$19/hour
Supervising team members during shifts, training new hires, ensuring quality.
Requirements: Usually 6-12 months experience at Chick-fil-A, demonstrated leadership ability.
What you’ll do: Lead shifts, train team members, ensure standards, handle issues, coordinate operations.
The jump: $2-3/hour increase, more responsibility, leadership development.
Director – $18-$25/hour or salaried $35-50K
Managing specific areas (kitchen, front counter, drive-thru, hospitality).
Requirements: 1-2 years Chick-fil-A experience, proven leadership.
Operator (Franchise Owner) – Earnings vary widely ($100K-$500K+)
Chick-fil-A’s franchise model is unique. You don’t own the restaurant—Chick-fil-A does. You operate it.
Investment required: Only $10,000 (vs. $500K+ at other franchises)
The catch: Chick-fil-A is EXTREMELY selective. Less than 1% of applicants become operators. It’s harder to become a Chick-fil-A operator than to get into Harvard.
The Pay Structure at Chick-fil-A
Let’s get into money details when learning how to get hired at Chick-fil-A.
Starting Pay by Position (2025)
| Position | Starting Pay | After 1 Year | Top Pay |
|---|---|---|---|
| Team Member | $13-16/hr | $14-17/hr | $16-19/hr |
| Team Leader | $15-19/hr | $17-21/hr | $20-24/hr |
| Director | $18-25/hr | $22-28/hr | $28-35/hr |
Note: Pay varies by location. High cost-of-living areas pay more.
Geographic Pay Differences
Low COL areas (rural South, Midwest):
- Starting: $13-14/hour
Medium COL areas (suburbs, mid-size cities):
- Starting: $14-16/hour
High COL areas (major cities, California, NY):
- Starting: $16-18/hour
How Raises Work
Performance reviews: Every 6-12 months typically
Typical raises: $0.50-$1.00/hour for good performance (better than most fast food)
Bonuses: Many locations offer performance bonuses for team members
Promotion jumps: $2-4/hour when moving to leadership roles
Benefits at Chick-fil-A (Better Than You Think)
Understanding how to get hired at Chick-fil-A means knowing what you get beyond hourly pay.
Benefits for ALL Team Members
Sundays Off:
- Every. Single. Sunday.
- No exceptions (unless there’s a special event, which is rare)
- This is worth gold for work-life balance
Free Meals:
- Free meal during every shift
- Employee discount when not working (usually 50%)
- Saves $150-250/month
Flexible Scheduling:
- Work around school
- Request specific days/shifts
- Shift swapping is easy
- Management actually works with your schedule
Scholarship Opportunities:
- $2,500-$25,000 scholarships available
- Multiple scholarships (Leadership, True Inspiration Awards, Remarkable Futures)
- Awarded to thousands of team members annually
- Available after 1+ year of employment
This is HUGE. Chick-fil-A gives away more scholarship money than almost any employer.
Additional Benefits (Varies by Location)
Some franchise operators offer:
- Health insurance (for full-time team members)
- 401(k) plans
- Paid time off
- Tuition reimbursement (beyond scholarships)
- Professional development programs
- Leadership conferences
- Mentorship programs
Reality check: Because Chick-fil-A operates on a franchise model, benefits vary by owner. Corporate-owned locations and generous franchise owners offer more.
The Application Process (The Competitive Part)
Alright, now the actual how to get hired at Chick-fil-A process. This is where most people mess up.
Step 1: Find Your Local Chick-fil-A
Two ways to apply:
Option 1: Online
- Go to Chick-fil-A.com/careers or CFAjobs.com
- Search by location
- Apply through their system
Option 2: In-Person (Often better)
- Go to the Chick-fil-A where you want to work
- Ask to speak with a manager or director
- Express interest in joining the team
- Ask for application or apply online
Pro tip: Chick-fil-A values in-person initiative. Going in person shows:
- You’re serious
- You have confidence
- You can communicate well
- You made an effort
When to go: Weekday afternoons (2-4pm) when it’s not busy. Avoid lunch rush.
Step 2: Complete the Application
What you’ll need:
Personal Information:
- Standard contact info
- Work authorization status
Availability:
- CRITICAL SECTION
- What days can you work? (Remember: Sundays are automatic off)
- What shifts? (morning, afternoon, evening)
- How many hours?
BE FLEXIBLE. Chick-fil-A values flexible team members.
Work History:
- Previous jobs (if any)
- First-timers welcome—Chick-fil-A hires many
Education:
- Current school or highest level
- GPA if you’re a student (they actually care about this)
- Activities, sports, clubs (show you’re well-rounded)
References:
- 2-3 people who can vouch for you
- Teachers, coaches, previous employers, mentors
- Make sure they’ll say good things
Why You Want to Work Here:
- Many applications ask this
- Be genuine and specific
- Show you know what Chick-fil-A stands for
Step 3: The Assessment (If Required)
Some locations use personality assessments or situational judgment tests.
What they’re testing:
- Customer service orientation
- Teamwork ability
- Work ethic
- Positive attitude
- Reliability
How to pass:
- Show you’re service-oriented (“I love helping people”)
- Emphasize teamwork (“I work well with others”)
- Demonstrate positivity (“I stay upbeat even when busy”)
- Show reliability (“I’m punctual and responsible”)
What Happens Next
Timeline:
- Application reviewed (1-7 days)
- If interested: Phone call or email for interview
- Interview scheduled
- Sometimes group interview, sometimes one-on-one
- If successful: Job offer
Reality: Chick-fil-A takes longer than McDonald’s because they’re selective. Be patient.
The Interview Process (Make or Break)
This is where learning how to get hired at Chick-fil-A gets real. Chick-fil-A interviews are more thorough than typical fast food.
What to Expect
Format:
- 20-45 minutes (longer than McDonald’s)
- Usually with manager or director
- Sometimes group interview (you + other applicants)
- May include scenarios or role-play
- Sometimes second interview
Chick-fil-A’s vibe: They’re looking for character, not just competence. They want to know who you are as a person.
What to Wear
Business casual to professional:
- Guys: Khakis or dress pants, collared shirt (polo or button-down), clean shoes
- Ladies: Nice pants or skirt, blouse or professional top, clean shoes
Don’t wear:
- Jeans (even nice jeans—dress up more than other fast food)
- T-shirts, hoodies, sneakers
- Anything too casual
Chick-fil-A expects professionalism. Dress accordingly.
Interview Questions & How to Answer Them
“Why do you want to work at Chick-fil-A specifically?”
❌ Bad: “I need a job” or “It’s close to my house”
✅ Good: “I want to work at Chick-fil-A because of your reputation for exceptional service and treating employees well. I’ve been a customer and I’m always impressed by how friendly and professional your team is. I want to be part of that culture. Plus, I appreciate that Chick-fil-A invests in team members through scholarships and leadership development. This isn’t just a job—it’s a place I can grow.”
Why this works: Shows you researched, understand the culture, value development, and want to contribute to their mission.
“How would you describe excellent customer service?”
✅ Perfect answer: “Excellent customer service means making every guest feel valued and cared for. It’s about being genuinely friendly, anticipating needs, solving problems with a positive attitude, and going the extra mile to create a memorable experience. At Chick-fil-A, that means saying ‘my pleasure,’ being attentive, and treating every guest like they’re the most important person we’ll serve today.”
Why this works: Shows you understand Chick-fil-A’s service philosophy specifically.
“Tell me about a time you went above and beyond to help someone.”
Use STAR method: Situation, Task, Action, Result
✅ Example: “In my previous job [or at school], a customer [or classmate] was struggling with [problem]. I could have just done the minimum, but I took extra time to really help them understand. I [specific action you took]. They were so grateful and even thanked my manager [or teacher]. It felt great to make a difference.”
If you have no work experience: Use school, volunteer work, family situations, helping neighbors—anything that shows you care about others.
“How do you handle stress or pressure?”
✅ Good answer: “I stay calm and focused. I prioritize what needs to be done, communicate with my team, and keep a positive attitude. I understand that rushes are part of working at Chick-fil-A, and I actually do well in fast-paced environments. I don’t panic—I just keep moving and stay friendly with guests even when it’s busy.”
“Why should we hire you over other applicants?”
✅ Strong answer: “You should hire me because I genuinely care about providing excellent service, I’m reliable and will show up every shift on time, I’m a fast learner who takes feedback well, I work great with teams, and I align with Chick-fil-A’s values. I’m not just looking for any job—I specifically want to work here because I believe in what you stand for. I’ll represent your brand well.”
“What does ‘my pleasure’ mean to you?”
(Yes, they actually ask this sometimes)
✅ Good answer: “To me, ‘my pleasure’ represents more than just words—it’s an attitude of genuine service. It means I’m truly happy to help, that serving guests isn’t a burden but a privilege. It reflects the Chick-fil-A culture of hospitality and going beyond just doing a job to creating positive experiences.”
“Tell me about yourself.”
60-90 seconds covering:
- Who you are
- What you’re doing (school, etc.)
- Your values/character
- Why Chick-fil-A
✅ Example: “I’m [name], I’m currently [student at X school / working at Y]. I’m someone who values service and treating people well—that’s something I learned from my family. I’m involved in [activities/sports/volunteer work] which has taught me teamwork and responsibility. I want to work at Chick-fil-A because your reputation for excellence and positive culture aligns with my values. I’m looking for more than just a paycheck—I want to be part of something I’m proud of.”
“Can you work a flexible schedule, including weekends and evenings?”
✅ “Yes, I’m very flexible. I understand Chick-fil-A is busiest on weekends and evenings, and I’m available during those times. I can work morning, afternoon, or evening shifts, and I’m happy to work the hours you need.”
If you have limitations: “I’m very flexible overall. I do have [school/commitment] on [specific times], but I’m available most other times including weekends and evenings.”
“What are your long-term goals?”
✅ Good answer: “Short-term, I want to become an excellent team member and contribute to your operations. Long-term, I’m interested in developing leadership skills and possibly growing into a team leader or director role. I’m also pursuing [education/career goal], and I appreciate that Chick-fil-A supports team members’ growth through scholarships and development programs.”
Questions YOU Should Ask
✅ Great questions:
- “What do you enjoy most about working at Chick-fil-A?”
- “What does success look like for team members here?”
- “What opportunities are there for advancement?”
- “Can you tell me about the scholarship programs?”
- “What’s the culture like on your team?”
- “What are the next steps in the hiring process?”
❌ Don’t ask yet:
- Pay specifics (they’ll cover it)
- “When do I get a raise?”
- Overly personal questions
Group Interview Tips (If Applicable)
Many Chick-fil-A locations do group interviews.
What happens:
- You + 3-10 other applicants
- Manager leads discussion
- Icebreakers and scenarios
- Observing how you interact
How to stand out:
1. Participate actively (but don’t dominate)
- Share thoughts and experiences
- Don’t talk over others
- Add value to discussion
2. Be positive and encouraging to other applicants
- Chick-fil-A watches how you treat others
- Be supportive, not competitive
- This shows character
3. Use names
- Listen when others introduce themselves
- Use their names when responding
- Shows you value people
4. Display energy and enthusiasm
- Smile
- Make eye contact
- Show genuine interest
5. Be yourself
- Don’t be fake
- Authenticity matters at Chick-fil-A
What Chick-fil-A is REALLY Looking For
Understanding how to get hired at Chick-fil-A means knowing what they value:
1. Character Over Skills
Chick-fil-A prioritizes who you are over what you can do. They want people who are:
- Honest
- Kind
- Respectful
- Humble
- Service-oriented
Skills can be taught. Character can’t.
2. Positive Attitude
They want team members who:
- Smile naturally
- Stay upbeat under pressure
- Bring positive energy
- Encourage others
3. Servant Leadership
Even entry-level team members embody this:
- Putting others first
- Serving with humility
- Leading by example
- Caring about team success
4. Reliability
They need people who:
- Show up on time
- Show up every scheduled shift
- Follow through on commitments
- Are dependable
5. Coachability
They want people who:
- Take feedback well
- Want to improve
- Don’t make excuses
- Learn from mistakes
6. Alignment with Values
Chick-fil-A has Christian values (founder S. Truett Cathy was devout Christian). While you don’t need to be Christian to work there, you should:
- Respect their values
- Embrace their culture
- Align with their mission
They’re not preachy or discriminatory, but the culture is rooted in these values.
Background Check & Drug Testing
Good news here.
Background Check
Most Chick-fil-A locations DON’T run background checks for team members.
Why? Because many team members are teenagers with no background to check.
Exception: Some franchise owners do check. Management positions usually checked.
If they check:
- Criminal history
- Employment verification
What typically disqualifies:
- Violent crimes
- Theft (especially food service)
- Dishonesty on application
Drug Testing
Generally NO drug testing for team members.
Chick-fil-A operates similarly to McDonald’s here—testing is expensive and they hire quickly.
Exception: Some locations test. Management positions sometimes tested.
Your First Day at Chick-fil-A
You got hired! Welcome to the team.
Orientation
Length: 4-8 hours (sometimes split over two days)
What you’ll do:
- Paperwork (I-9, W-4, direct deposit)
- Welcome and culture immersion
- Training videos (customer service, food safety)
- Tour the restaurant
- Meet your team
- Get your uniform
What to bring:
- Government ID
- Social Security card OR birth certificate + ID
- Bank account info
- Pen and notepad
Your Uniform
Chick-fil-A provides:
- Red polo shirt with logo (or black for some positions)
- Visor or hat
- Name tag
You provide:
- Black or khaki pants (no jeans, no holes)
- Black belt (usually required)
- Non-slip black shoes (REQUIRED—kitchen safety)
Dress code is strict. Chick-fil-A is professional compared to other fast food.
Training Period
Length: 2-4 weeks typically (longer than McDonald’s)
What happens:
- Extensive hands-on training
- Shadow experienced team members
- Role-play customer interactions
- Practice “my pleasure” and hospitality
- Learn positions gradually
- Lots of positive feedback and coaching
Chick-fil-A’s training is thorough. They invest heavily in developing you.
First Paycheck
Pay schedule: Bi-weekly (every 2 weeks) at most locations
Payday: Varies by franchise
Method: Direct deposit or pay card
First check: 2-3 weeks wait (standard)
What It’s Actually Like Working at Chick-fil-A
Let’s get real about the day-to-day experience.
Your Schedule
Shifts:
- Breakfast: 5:30am-12pm or 6am-1pm
- Lunch: 10am-4pm or 11am-5pm
- Dinner: 4pm-10pm or 5pm-11pm
- Closing: Can go until midnight (cleaning after close)
NEVER Sunday shifts. This is the best perk.
Hours:
- Part-time: 15-28 hours/week typically
- Full-time: 30-40 hours/week
Scheduling:
- Posted 1-2 weeks ahead
- Usually digital (app or online)
- Shift swapping is easy
- Requests usually honored if done early
The Pace (It’s BUSY)
Chick-fil-A is one of the busiest fast food chains per location.
Rush times:
- Breakfast: 7-9am
- Lunch: 11:30am-1:30pm (CRAZY busy)
- Dinner: 5:30-7:30pm
What this means:
- You’re moving constantly during rushes
- Drive-thru lines wrap around the building
- Team coordination is essential
- Fast but controlled chaos
Between rushes:
- Cleaning, restocking, prep
- Slower but still productive
- Training opportunities
The Physical Reality
It’s demanding:
- Standing entire shift (6-8 hours)
- Constant movement
- Heat from kitchen
- Fast-paced
- Some repetitive tasks
But it’s manageable. The team support and systems make it less overwhelming than you’d think.
The Culture (This is Different)
What makes Chick-fil-A unique:
✅ Genuine positivity – Not fake corporate forced smiles. People are actually pleasant.
✅ Team support – You help each other. Competition is minimal.
✅ Leadership that cares – Managers actually invest in you.
✅ Recognition and encouragement – Good work is noticed and appreciated.
✅ Professional environment – Higher standards than typical fast food.
✅ Personal development – They want you to grow as a person.
✅ Sundays off – Cannot emphasize this enough. It’s life-changing.
The challenges:
❌ High expectations – Chick-fil-A standards are strict
❌ Fast pace – Rushes are intense
❌ Always “on” – You’re expected to be friendly constantly
❌ Strict uniform and appearance codes
❌ Can feel cultish to outsiders (the positivity is real though)
Career Growth Path
Typical progression:
- Team Member → Certified Trainer → Team Leader → Director → Operator (franchise owner)
Timeline:
- 6-12 months: Team Leader possible
- 1-2 years: Director possible
- 3-5 years: Operator consideration (if interested and exceptional)
Chick-fil-A promotes from within religiously. If you’re good, you’ll advance.
Insider Tips for Getting Hired
These separate successful applicants from rejected ones:
1. Visit multiple times before applying
Observe the culture. Notice how team members interact. Reference specific positive experiences in your interview. “I’ve been a customer here and I always notice how your team [specific example].”
2. Apply in person if possible
Show your face. Meet managers. Demonstrate initiative. This works incredibly well at Chick-fil-A.
3. Emphasize character over skills
Don’t just talk about what you can do. Talk about who you are. Integrity, kindness, service—these matter more than speed or experience.
4. Know their core values
Research Chick-fil-A’s mission and values. Reference them naturally in interview. Show alignment.
5. Dress professionally
More professional than other fast food interviews. This shows you take it seriously.
6. Smile genuinely
Chick-fil-A wants naturally happy people. Smile during application drop-off, interview, everywhere.
7. Use “my pleasure” in interview
When they thank you for coming: “My pleasure!” Shows you already embody the culture.
8. Follow up
Call 3-5 days after applying. Send thank-you note after interview (email or handwritten). Shows genuine interest.
9. Be patient
Chick-fil-A takes longer because they’re selective. Don’t get discouraged.
10. Apply to multiple locations
Each Chick-fil-A is independently owned. Different standards. If one says no, try another.
Frequently Asked Questions About How to Get Hired at Chick-fil-A
Q: Is it really harder to get hired at Chick-fil-A?
A: Yes. They’re much more selective than McDonald’s or Burger King. But not impossible—they hire thousands of people annually.
Q: What’s the minimum age?
A: Usually 16, but some locations hire 14-15 with work permits. Call your local Chick-fil-A to confirm.
Q: Is this a good first job?
A: Absolutely! Best first job in fast food. The training and culture are exceptional.
Q: Do I need to be Christian to work here?
A: No. Chick-fil-A employees are diverse. You just need to respect their values and culture.
Q: How long does hiring take?
A: 2-4 weeks typically. Sometimes faster, sometimes longer. Be patient.
Q: Can I work part-time while in school?
A: Yes! Most team members are students. Chick-fil-A is very flexible.
Q: Do I really get every Sunday off?
A: YES. No exceptions (barring extremely rare special events). This is guaranteed.
Q: What are my chances of getting a scholarship?
A: Better than you think. Thousands are awarded annually. After 1 year of employment, apply!
Q: Is the pay really better than other fast food?
A: Yes. Usually $1-3/hour more than competitors.
Q: Can I advance quickly?
A: Yes, if you’re good. Team Leader in 6-12 months is common.
Q: What if I have limited availability?
A: You can still apply, but flexibility helps. Be honest about limitations.
Q: Do they hire people with no experience?
A: Absolutely! Many Chick-fil-A employees have never worked before.
Q: How flexible is the scheduling really?
A: Very flexible. They work around school, sports, family commitments.
Q: What’s the employee discount?
A: Usually 50% off when not working, plus free meal during shifts.
Q: Is it stressful?
A: During rushes, yes. But the team support and systems make it manageable. Less stressful than other fast food actually.
Q: Can I request specific positions (drive-thru, kitchen, etc.)?
A: You can express preferences, but you’ll likely rotate positions initially.
Q: What if I applied and never heard back?
A: Follow up! Call and ask about your application status. Persistence shows interest.
Q: Is working at Chick-fil-A worth it?
A: Yes. Best fast food job available. Better pay, culture, benefits, and Sundays off.
Chick-fil-A vs. Other Fast Food Jobs
Quick comparison:
| Factor | Chick-fil-A | McDonald’s | Popeyes | Taco Bell |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Pay | $13-18/hr ✅ | $12-17/hr | $11-15/hr | $11-15/hr |
| Sundays Off | Yes ✅ | No | No | No |
| Hiring Difficulty | Hard ❌ | Easy | Easy | Easy |
| Culture | Excellent ✅ | Okay | Varies | Okay |
| Scholarships | $17M+ annually ✅ | Some | Rare | Rare |
| Advancement | Excellent ✅ | Good | Moderate | Good |
| Free Meals | Yes ✅ | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Chick-fil-A advantages:
- Highest pay in fast food
- Sundays off (priceless)
- Best culture and work environment
- Exceptional training
- Massive scholarship opportunities
- Resume value
Chick-fil-A disadvantages:
- Harder to get hired
- Higher expectations
- Can be intense during rushes
- Fewer locations than McDonald’s
Alright, Let’s Get You Hired at Chick-fil-A
So there you have it—everything you need to know about how to get hired at Chick-fil-A.
Is it more competitive? Yes.
Does it take longer? Yes.
Is it worth the extra effort? Absolutely.
This is the best fast food job in America. Better pay, better culture, Sundays off, scholarship opportunities, and a work environment that actually values you as a person.
Your Action Plan (Do This Today):
- ✅ Find Chick-fil-A locations near you
- ✅ Visit as a customer (observe the culture)
- ✅ Apply online at Chick-fil-A.com/careers
- ✅ OR apply in person (ask for manager, dress professionally)
- ✅ Emphasize character, service, and alignment with values
- ✅ Prepare for interview using this guide
- ✅ Dress professionally for interview
- ✅ Follow up after 3-5 days
- ✅ Be patient—good things take time
- ✅ Apply to multiple locations if needed
Chick-fil-A is hiring. Positions open regularly. Now that you know exactly how to get hired at Chick-fil-A, you’re ahead of most applicants.
Go get that red polo shirt. 🐔
