Tallo logoTallo logo

Fast Food / Counter Worker

Quick Facts

Median Salary$28,475
Most Common EducationHigh school or GED
Projected 10-Year Growth+32.74%
Assessment MatchTake the Assessment

What They Do

A Fast Food or Counter Worker assists with preparing and serving food. Works as part of food service team in a hospital or other institution. or takes orders and serves food at a fast food restaurant.


Core Tasks:

  • Receive and process customer payments.
  • Prepare or serve hot or cold beverages, such as coffee, espresso drinks, blended coffees, or teas.
  • Clean or sanitize work areas, utensils, or equipment.
  • Take customer orders and convey them to other employees for preparation.
  • Clean service or seating areas.
  • Describe menu items to customers, or suggest products that might appeal to them.
  • Serve prepared foods, such as muffins, biscotti, or bagels.
  • Prepare or serve menu items, such as sandwiches or salads.
  • Set up or restock product displays.
  • Provide customers with product details, such as coffee blend or preparation descriptions.
  • Stock customer service stations with paper products or beverage preparation items.
  • Weigh, grind, or pack coffee beans for customers.
  • Wrap, label, or date food items for sale.
  • Take out garbage.
  • Order, receive, or stock supplies or retail products.
  • Slice fruits, vegetables, desserts, or meats for use in food service.
  • Check temperatures of freezers, refrigerators, or heating equipment to ensure proper functioning.
  • Demonstrate the use of retail equipment, such as espresso machines.
  • Create signs to advertise store products or events.

What to expect as a Fast Food / Counter Worker

1Earn a High school or GED Diploma

26% of people achieve this level of education.

2Gain skills and experience

See Fast Food / Counter Worker related courses on Tallo

3Land a job

34617 openings for Fast Food / Counter Workers

Career Progression

in United States (Nation)

The career progression is an interactive way to explore careers related to Fast Food / Counter Worker. Click on each career to see its associated salary, job availability, skills, and more.