Fast Food Cooks
Overview
Fast Food Cooks prepare and cook food in fast food restaurants with limited menus. Their duties focus on preparing a few basic items and typically involve using large-volume, single-purpose cooking equipment.
Did you know?
Most fast food cooking positions provide on-the-job training, but completing a Certificate II in Kitchen Operations or Food Safety Supervisor course can improve job prospects and demonstrate commitment to the industry.
At a Glance
Median Wage
$48,000 Avg/yr
Growth
Stable
Top Skill
Reading Comprehension
Key Responsibilities
- Taking and serving food and beverage orders, and receiving payment from customers
- Preparing food such as hamburgers, pizzas, fish and chips
- Washing, cutting, measuring and mixing foods for cooking
- Operating cooking equipment such as grills, microwaves and deep-fat fryers
- Cleaning food preparation areas, cooking surfaces and utensils
- Ordering and taking delivery of fast food ingredients
- May arrange delivery of prepared food and beverages
Career Considerations
Entry-Level Training and Certification
Most fast food cooking positions provide on-the-job training, but completing a Certificate II in Kitchen Operations or Food Safety Supervisor course can improve job prospects and demonstrate commitment to the industry.
Essential Skills for Success
Develop strong time management, multitasking, and communication skills. Physical stamina is important as the work involves standing for long periods and working in hot environments.
Career Advancement Opportunities
With experience, fast food cooks can advance to shift supervisor, assistant manager, or pursue further training to become qualified chefs in restaurants or hospitality venues.