Fast Food Workers

Employment for fast food and counter workers is expected to increase by 6 percent (faster than the average for all occupations) from 2023 through 2028, according to the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL). Americans are constantly on the move and will continue to eat at fast food restaurants to save time and money. Job opportunities for fast food and counter workers are expected to be plentiful in the coming years. Job turnover is high in the fast food business, and most openings will result from a need to replace workers who have left the field for other professions.

Job opportunities for all cooks are projected to grow 6 percent from 2023 to 2033, but employment for fast food cooks is expected to decline by 14 percent. The DOL says that "reduced demand for fast food cooks is expected because of automated systems, employment of workers who both prepare and serve food, and other efforts to streamline operations." With that said, there will continue to be opportunities because the fast food industry is so large and there is a need to replace workers who leave the field.

It is relatively easy to land an entry-level job. Submitting an application and keeping in touch with managers for openings can lead to the beginning of a successful career in the fast food industry. Owning a franchise is a popular business venture, but one that demands the recruitment and promotion of reliable, capable staff. Knowledge of the business from the bottom up is a definite advantage for franchise owners.