Also called: Grill Cook (Quick Service), Fry Cook
Cooks burgers, fries, tacos, and other menu items in a quick-service restaurant.
A fast-food cook works the grill and fryer during the lunch rush, follows exact timing and recipes, and keeps the station spotless for inspections.
May 2025 BLS figures.
No formal education, about 0 years after high school. No experience needed; food handler card.
Ways in: On-the-job training. Training cost: Get paid while you train.
Shrinking (about -14% over 10 years). BLS projects a decline as automation and combined crew roles grow (2024-34).
Medium risk in 5 years, high in 10. Robot fryers and burger-flippers are being tested now; chains will need far fewer cooks per store by 2036.
Age 15+. One way to start: Apply online at McDonald's, Chick-fil-A or Wendy's; 14–15 can only do limited cooking
Classes: Culinary arts CTE, Foods & Nutrition class, Math.
Official data: O*NET occupation 35-2011.
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