According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics(BLS), more than 3.5 million Americans work as cashiers in the United States, in companies that range from convenience stores to gas stations to big box retailers to fast food restaurants, and the number of these type of jobs is expected to remain static over the next decade. Cashiers generally work eight to ten-hour shifts. They may work overnight shifts, as many of these businesses are open 24 hours a day. These workers earn an average salary of $10.11 per hour (or $21,030 per year for full-time work), according to the BLS. However, this number can vary depending on the available labor pool, the region of the country, your state’s minimum wage laws and whether the job involves any supervisory responsibilities. No secondary education or advanced training is necessary for most cashier positions.
Working at McDonald’s
McDonald’s is one of the most recognizable names in the restaurant industry. The company has more than 30,000 locations around the globe and employs nearly 1.9 million workers. In fact, McDonald’s is the world’s second largest employer (behind Walmart). The name, McDonald’s, has been synonymous with burgers and fries since 1955 when the original hamburger stand became a franchise. Today, McDonald’s is the world’s largest restaurant chain by revenue and serves more than 69 million customer each and every day in more than 100 countries. It’s an obscure part of the world that doesn’t have a McDonald’s restaurant nearby.
No experience is needed to work in most positions, including as a cashier, at McDonald’s. The company will train you on the job. To apply, you need to be at least 16 years of age. Shift supervisors need to be at least 18 years of age.
Benefits for part-time employees at McDonald’s include educational assistance, childcare discounts and discounts on menu items. Full-time employees also get access to group healthcare plans, paid time off and access to 401k retirement plans.
What to expect when working as a cashier at McDonald’s
Cashiers at McDonald’s restaurants are expected to greet customers warmly, accurately ring up customer orders, handle money and make change. They are also responsible for preparing some menu items, such as drinks and milk shakes, and keeping supplies stocked in their areas. Cashiers need to be friendly and have a good knowledge of the McDonald’s menu. In most cases, the cashier is the first person that a customer encounters when entering the restaurant, so creating that good first impression is important to the restaurant’s success. Cashiers may work either at the front counters or at the drive-through windows.
Cashier shift managers are charged with making sure that all restaurant guests enjoy their experience at the McDonald’s restaurant. These employees often work as a cashier during part of their shift, during the busiest periods, and are generally promoted from the restaurant’s pool of cashiers. In addition to their cashier duties, shift managers are responsible for scheduling, taking and maintaining inventory and making sure all employees follow food safety regulations. Cashier shift managers may have to take an additional shift occasionally to fill in for an absent cashier.
Hours of operation vary by McDonald’s location. Some locations are open 24 hours. Part-time employees work between 15 and 30 hours a week, and full-time employees work 30-40 hours per week. Shift supervisors work a minimum of 40 hours per week.
Cashiers at McDonald’s are paid close to the minimum wage. This amount varies by state and averages $10.11 per hour, according to the BLS. Shift supervisors are paid a salary that averages $26,000 per year. Both positions are awarded pay raises periodically, based on performance.
To apply for a cashier position at a McDonald’s restaurant, stop by the location where you’d like to work and complete a job application. Most locations accept applications continuously. As with any job interview, it’s a good idea to be familiar with the location and their menu and to dress professionally. You never know, the manager or shift supervisor may want to talk with you the day you visit. Most restaurants are less busy between 10:00 a.m. and noon and between 3:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m.
Working as a cashier at a McDonald’s restaurant is a good introduction to customer service and to the restaurant industry. Whether you’re looking to earn a few extra dollars or to begin your food service career, working for the world’s second-largest employer is a good place to start.
McDonald’s Jobs Near You
Assistant General ManagerMcDonald's - 43345 JUNCTION PLZ [Assistant Restaurant Manager] As an Assistant General Manager at McDonald's, you'll: Supervise, manage and motivate team members on a daily basis; Ensure food safety; Perform inventory management and daily maintenance to keep the areas clean; Ensure quality food production by training and developing team members...Hiring Immediately >>
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McDonald's - 13003 LEE JACKSON MEMORIAL HIGHWAY [Crew Member / Restaurant Associate] As a Team Member at McDonald's, you'll: Greet customers with a smile; Take accurate food order; Prepare all of McDonald's World Famous food; Partner with other Crew and Managers to meet target goals during your shift; Ensure restaurant cleanliness and all items are well stocked...Hiring Immediately >>
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McDonald's - 5931 FORT DR [Restaurant Shift Lead] As a Shift Manager at McDonald's, you'll: Supervise, manage and motivate team members on a daily basis; Ensure food safety; Perform inventory management and daily maintenance to keep the areas clean; Ensure quality food production by training and developing team members...Hiring Immediately >>
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