Restaurants in the U.S. are projected to add around 490,000 jobs during the upcoming summer season, with a significant increase in employment opportunities expected, especially for those 16-19 years old and others just entering the workforce.
And if you're in the market for one of those jobs, here's a pro tip: In-N-Out Burger has the happiest employees among America’s major restaurant chains, with 91 percent of employees willing to recommend their job to a friend in a new poll.
When it comes to why the restaurant industry is set to experience a surge in employment, experts say it's due to a robust return of teens and young adults to the workforce following the pandemic, per the National Restaurant Association’s 27th annual Eating and Drinking Place Summer Employment Forecast
The number of working teens reaching the highest level in over 15 years, with the Northeastern states, including Maine, Alaska, Delaware, and Rhode Island, expected to see the largest proportional rises in restaurant employment.
“Restaurant jobs teach communication, adaptability, attention to detail, and teamwork—skills that set employees up for success, whether they stay in the restaurant industry or take these lessons into other professions,” said Michelle Korsmo, CEO of the National Restaurant Association, in INC.com. “With 6.2 million teens in the labor force this April—the highest level in over 15 years—restaurants are poised to benefit from a strong pipeline of talent heading into the summer season.”
With all the learning opportunities in a fast food job -- including the kind of leadership skills that look great on a college application -- George Charlesworth, vice president of operations for In-N-Out Burger, attributes the high satisfaction rating to the company's focus on quality products and friendly service, as well as the "commitment to taking care of both customers and associates."
In-N-Out Burger has consistently ranked in the top 10 for highest employee satisfaction for the past ten years, with 86 percent of employees willing to recommend their job in 2024. Charlesworth credits the positive work environment to higher starting wages, great benefits, and growth opportunities under the leadership of owner and president Lynsi Snyder.
Raising Cane’s, Dutch Bros., Chuy’s, and Peet’s Coffee & Tea follow In-N-Out Burger in the ranking of restaurant chains with the happiest employees, according to the survey conducted by William Blair.
"Our founders, Harry and Esther Snyder, focused on serving the freshest, highest-quality products and providing the friendliest service to our customers," Chatsworth also said.