The highest paying fast food jobs include managers at In-N-Out Burger earning up to $160,000 annually, Chick-fil-A team leaders making $19–$21 per hour, and shift leaders at Chipotle earning $17–$20 per hour. Pay varies by location, experience, and company benefits like bonuses and stock options.
Fast Food Jobs That Pay the Most
General managers at fast food chains earn the highest salaries, with some exceeding $100,000 per year. In-N-Out Burger managers can earn up to $160,000 annually, one of the top-paying roles in the industry. Shift leaders at Chipotle and team leaders at Chick-fil-A also offer above-average hourly wages, often between $17 to $21 per hour.
These roles require strong communication skills, the ability to manage a team, and often involve overseeing food preparation, health protocols, and food safety in a fast-paced environment. While a college degree is not always required, experience and leadership ability can significantly increase earnings.
Why Fast Food Wages Are Increasing
Wages in the fast food industry are rising due to labor shortages, higher minimum wage laws, and growing competition among chains. As states increase the minimum wage, companies respond by raising starting pay across the board to retain staff.
For example, in California, fast food workers must now earn at least $20 per hour at large chains, which has influenced nationwide pay structures. Fast food restaurant workers with experience and leadership skills can move up into roles that provide six figure salaries, especially in management.
Additionally, many fast food companies now include employee development programs, bonus pay, and employee discounts, increasing the total compensation package.
Highest Paying Fast Food Chains
The table below shows average entry-level pay and the top-paying role at each major fast food chain:
| Fast Food Chain | Average Hourly Pay (Entry-Level) | Highest Paying Position | Salary for Highest Position |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipotle | $14.74 | General Manager | $29/hour ($60,320/year) |
| Panera Bread | $15.50–$18 | Salad/Sandwich Maker | $18/hour ($37,440/year) |
| Taco Bell | $9–$12 | General Manager | $56,075/year |
| Chick-fil-A | $12.92 | Team Leader | $26,874/year |
| Wendy’s | $12.38 | General Manager | $18.48/hour ($38,438/year) |
| Domino’s | $10 | Delivery Driver/Manager | Up to $45,000/year |
Chipotle, Panera Bread, and Chick-fil-A stand out for offering above-average entry-level wages, especially in high-cost states. Taco Bell and In-N-Out Burger offer career paths that can lead to six-figure earnings for store managers.
Roles That Pay the Most in Fast Food
The best paying roles in fast food include:
- General Manager: Oversees all store operations, manages staff, monitors food quality, and ensures customer satisfaction.
- Shift Leader: Handles staff scheduling, manages working hours, and ensures team performance during shifts.
- Team Leader: Supports shift leaders and handles both customer service and food preparation.
- Delivery Driver (Domino’s): Combines base pay with tips, sometimes earning $20–$25/hour in busy areas.
- Assistant Manager: Bridges entry-level and management, often earning between $40,000 to $50,000/year.
These jobs typically require a few years of experience and strong leadership and organizational skills. They also demand the ability to cook food, manage working conditions, and maintain safety standards.
Entry-Level vs Management Salaries
Management jobs in fast food pay significantly more than entry-level positions.
| Role | Average Pay |
|---|---|
| Crew Member | $12–$14/hour |
| Shift Leader | $17–$20/hour |
| Assistant Manager | $42,000–$52,000/year |
| General Manager | $56,000–$160,000/year |
This large wage gap shows how employee development and promotions within the fast food restaurant system can lead to much higher pay. Fast food restaurant workers who stay with a company and learn management duties often move up without needing a college degree.
Jobs with the Best Benefits and Perks
Chipotle leads the industry in benefits beyond salary, offering:
- Paid time off
- Tuition reimbursement
- Health insurance
- Bonuses
- 401(k)
Panda Express also offers employee discounts, meal perks, and sometimes event tickets.
These benefits improve the overall employment experience, especially for workers who value flexible scheduling, educational support, and health coverage. Employees at these companies typically report better working conditions and stronger company culture than in other chains.
Summary: Best Fast Food Jobs in 2025
For high pay, career growth, and benefits, these are the top fast food jobs in 2025:
- In-N-Out Burger Store Manager – Up to $160,000/year
- Chipotle General Manager – $60,000+/year with bonus potential
- Chick-fil-A Team Leader – $19–$21/hour with flexible hours
- Domino’s Delivery Driver – High hourly earnings with tips
- Panera Bread Sandwich Maker – $18/hour starting pay
These positions offer competitive wages, stable employment, and career advancement within major fast food chains. They reward strong performance, reliability, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
Common FAQs
What are the best fast food jobs for flexible schedules?
Chick-fil-A and In-N-Out Burger offer flexible scheduling, including Sundays off at Chick-fil-A.
Can fast food jobs provide opportunities for career growth?
Yes. Chipotle promotes from within and offers a path to general manager roles. Taco Bell also offers advancement to six-figure positions.
Which fast food job offers the best benefits beyond salary?
Chipotle offers the most complete benefits package, including paid time off, health insurance, and tuition support.
Are there fast food jobs that pay above minimum wage without requiring prior experience?
Yes. Panera Bread and Chipotle offer above-minimum wages for entry-level roles with no experience required.
What is the highest-paying role in the fast food industry?
In-N-Out Burger Store Managers earn up to $160,000/year. Taco Bell General Managers can earn up to $100,000 in select markets.
How do regional differences affect fast food salaries?
Fast food wages vary by location, depending on minimum wage laws and cost of living. California chains often pay more than chains in the South or Midwest.
Bottom line
Fast food jobs are no longer limited to low pay or no future. With roles paying up to six figures, clear career paths, and excellent benefits, the fast food industry is a viable long-term employment option for those with leadership ability, reliability, and a drive to succeed.
