Fast Food and Counter Workers
Fast food and counter workers take orders, serve food and beverages, and handle payment at restaurants, cafes, and similar establishments. They may also prepare items like sandwiches or drinks. The work takes place in kitchens, behind counters, and service areas where they interact with customers throughout their shifts.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against fast food and counter workers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical shift involves standing for extended periods while taking customer orders, entering them into registers or systems, and assembling or serving food and drinks. Workers manage the counter or steam table, handle cash or card payments, and keep the service area clean and organized. During busy times, the pace quickens significantly. Tasks repeat throughout the day as different customers arrive, with occasional downtime during slower periods for restocking and sanitation.
Who this work suits
Holland code CRS. Conventional work is organized, detail-oriented work with clear procedures. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You tend to do well in this role if you prefer structured, hands-on work with clear tasks and procedures. You're organized, detail-oriented, and comfortable with routine. You work efficiently in fast-paced environments and handle the practical aspects of food service without needing creative flexibility in your daily responsibilities.
What it takes
Preparation: Some preparation (usually high school; some on-the-job training). Most people in this occupation hold no formal education requirement.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | $36,790 | $42,280 | $44,970 | 449,840 |
| Washington | $35,880 | $37,710 | $44,240 | 94,710 |
| District of Columbia | $37,340 | $37,430 | $39,050 | 5,500 |
| Colorado | $33,900 | $36,270 | $37,710 | 82,010 |
| Vermont | $34,330 | $36,030 | $38,640 | 6,830 |
| Massachusetts | $33,770 | $35,850 | $36,980 | 85,810 |
| Connecticut | $34,480 | $35,380 | $36,450 | 35,720 |
| Hawaii | $30,460 | $35,250 | $37,510 | 24,130 |
| New York | $34,350 | $35,250 | $37,140 | 168,620 |
| Oregon | $33,560 | $35,050 | $36,880 | 59,920 |
| Maine | $31,990 | $34,710 | $36,500 | 17,250 |
| Arizona | $31,360 | $34,230 | $35,830 | 77,210 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Certified Restaurant Server — American Hotel and Lodging Association Educational Institute
- Certified Home Brewers — Specialty Coffee Association of America
- Certified Coffee Specialist (CCS) — National Automatic Merchandising Association
- NAMA Certified Executive (NCE) — National Automatic Merchandising Association
- Mold Awareness Specialist (MAS) — National Registry of Environmental Professionals
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against fast food and counter workers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 35-3023.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.