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Entry Level Restaurant Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Hwy 55 of Lillington, NC

Kitchen Lead

Lillington, NC · On-site

$13.50 - $18.50/hr

... restaurant. Our Front of House Leadership Team is responsible for ensuring that even with a packed ... The Hwy 55 Leadership Team is an entry-level opportunity for folks with backgrounds in serving ...

Hwy 55 of Lillington, NC

Kitchen Lead

Lillington, NC

$13.50 - $18.50/hr

... restaurant. Our Front of House Leadership Team is responsible for ensuring that even with a packed ... The Hwy 55 Leadership Team is an entry-level opportunity for folks with backgrounds in serving ...

Raising Cane's

Cook - Closing Shift

Chapel Hill, NC · On-site

$15.50/hr

Even if you don't have previous Restaurant experience, this position is entry-level (yes, that's no experience required) and we provide paid training for every new Restaurant Cook on the team. We ...

Raising Cane's

Cook - Nights/Weekends

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$15.50/hr

Even if you don't have previous Restaurant experience, this position is entry-level (yes, that's no experience required) and we provide paid training for every new Restaurant Cook on the team. We ...

Raising Cane's

Cook - Closing Shift

Chapel Hill, NC · On-site

$15.50/hr

Even if you don't have previous Restaurant experience, this position is entry-level (yes, that's no experience required) and we provide paid training for every new Restaurant Cook on the team. We ...

Raising Cane's

Cook - Nights/Weekends

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$15.50/hr

Even if you don't have previous Restaurant experience, this position is entry-level (yes, that's no experience required) and we provide paid training for every new Restaurant Cook on the team. We ...

Raising Cane's

Cook - Closing Shift

Chapel Hill, NC · On-site

$15.50/hr

Even if you don't have previous Restaurant experience, this position is entry-level (yes, that's no experience required) and we provide paid training for every new Restaurant Cook on the team. We ...

Raising Cane's

Cook - Nights/Weekends

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$15.50/hr

Even if you don't have previous Restaurant experience, this position is entry-level (yes, that's no experience required) and we provide paid training for every new Restaurant Cook on the team. We ...

Blue Line Aviation LLC

Dishwasher

Smithfield, NC · On-site

$11.25 - $14.50/hr

This is an entry-level position which involves setting up, operating, monitoring and repairing ... Clean restaurant and general facility. * Empty trash from kitchen as needed. * Able to work well ...

Low and Slow Smokehouse

Dishwasher

Smithfield, NC

$11.25 - $14.50/hr

This is an entry-level position which involves setting up, operating, monitoring and repairing ... Clean restaurant and general facility. * Empty trash from kitchen as needed. * Able to work well ...

Low and Slow Smokehouse

Dishwasher

Smithfield, NC · On-site

$11.25 - $14.50/hr

This is an entry-level position which involves setting up, operating, monitoring and repairing ... Clean restaurant and general facility. * Empty trash from kitchen as needed. * Able to work well ...

Low and Slow Smokehouse

Dishwasher

Smithfield, NC · On-site

$11.25 - $14.50/hr

This is an entry-level position which involves setting up, operating, monitoring and repairing ... Clean restaurant and general facility. * Empty trash from kitchen as needed. * Able to work well ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsRestaurant JobsEntry Level Restaurant JobsEntry Level Restaurant Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Entry Level Restaurant information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$24.3K

$46.5K

$66.6K

How much do entry level restaurant jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level restaurant in Raleigh, NC is $46,496.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,400.00 and $50,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in an entry-level restaurant position, and why are they important?

To thrive in an entry-level restaurant role, you generally need basic food safety knowledge, attention to cleanliness, and the ability to follow instructions, often with a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with point-of-sale (POS) systems and basic kitchen equipment is helpful and may be required by some employers. Strong communication, teamwork, and a positive attitude help individuals stand out when interacting with customers and colleagues. These skills ensure efficient service, customer satisfaction, and a safe, well-coordinated work environment.

What is the difference between Entry Level Restaurant vs Entry Level Server?

AspectEntry Level RestaurantEntry Level Server
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; no formal certification neededHigh school diploma or equivalent; may require food safety certification
Work EnvironmentKitchen, dining area, or front of houseDining area, customer service setting
Employer & Industry UsageRestaurants, cafes, fast food outletsRestaurants, cafes, casual dining
Common Search & ComparisonEntry Level Restaurant vs Entry Level Server

Both roles are entry-level positions in the restaurant industry, often requiring similar credentials. The main difference is that an Entry Level Server specifically involves customer service and taking orders, while Entry Level Restaurant can include various roles such as host, busser, or kitchen staff. Understanding these distinctions helps job seekers find the right position aligned with their skills and career goals.

What are entry level restaurant jobs?

Entry level restaurant jobs are positions that require little to no prior experience and are typically the starting point for people beginning a career in the food service industry. These roles often include positions like host or hostess, server, busser, dishwasher, and line cook. Employees in these positions learn the basics of customer service, food safety, and restaurant operations, which can help them advance to higher-level roles over time. Entry level jobs are a great way to gain valuable skills and experience while working in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level restaurant employees, and how can they overcome them?

Entry-level restaurant employees often face challenges such as adapting to fast-paced work environments, learning to multitask effectively, and managing customer interactions under pressure. To overcome these obstacles, it's helpful to communicate openly with team members, seek feedback from supervisors, and observe experienced colleagues. Developing strong organizational skills and maintaining a positive attitude can also make the transition smoother, helping employees build confidence and grow within the industry.
What are the most commonly searched types of Restaurant jobs in Raleigh, NC? The most popular types of Restaurant jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Restaurant jobs in Raleigh, NC? For Entry Level Restaurant jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Restaurant jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Restaurant jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Entry Level Restaurant jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Entry Level Restaurant job openings:
Entry Level Restaurant jobs near you

Kitchen Lead

Hwy 55 of Lillington, NC

Lillington, NC • On-site

$13.50 - $18.50/hr

Other

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Are you looking for a leadership position at a company with a purpose? Do you want to help grow a team on a mission to spread love and kindness through our little corner of the world? Hwy 55 is looking for exceptional individuals to help maintain the daily operations of a fast-paced restaurant. 

Our Front of House Leadership Team is responsible for ensuring that even with a packed house, we are still creating memorable experiences for our guests, providing extraordinary customer service, and building and investing in a great team of servers and drive-thru operators. 

Our Back of House Leadership Team is responsible for producing excellent food, identifying and motivating a team of cooks, and controlling inventory and costs.

The Hwy 55 Leadership Team is an entry-level opportunity for folks with backgrounds in serving, hospitality, short order cooking, or fast food production who are looking to progress into management. We are looking for goal-oriented, ambitious individuals who understand that the only limitations in life are the ones we place upon ourselves. Our Leadership Team is built on the principles of Servant Leadership; our leaders are expected to teach and model an excellent work ethic, hustle, and stamina.

Necessary Skills:

  • Mature, dependable, and able to work within and cultivate a supportive and empowering team environment.
  • A great communicator can lead diverse teams and approach difficult situations with respect and fairness.
  • Skilled and independent thinker, goal-oriented, and capable of seeing both the Big Picture and the day-to-day details.
  • Self-directed and organized with a high-achieving, hustle-hard personality.
  • Energized by a fast-paced environment.
  • In possession of a strong character, able to live and promote our core values of love and respect for our neighbors.
  • Excited and passionate about building relationships with our guests.
  • Able to identify, coach, and encourage new potential leaders.
  • Willing to master all knowledge and skills of every position in the restaurant if applicable.

Specific Requirements:

  • High School Diploma or equivalent.
  • Proven analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Stamina and drive to excel.
  • Flexible Schedule.

Join the Hwy55 Family and receive:

  • Paid comprehensive training with opportunities to retrain in various roles.
  • Free or discounted meals during your shift depending on length of shift.
  • A positive and empowering atmosphere.
  • A clear pathway to leadership positions.
  • Opportunities to build your resume and gain valuable skills you can take with you into any career path.
  • Flexible scheduling.

Your role at Hwy55:

  • Value the stories of all guests who walk through our doors and commit to making their days brighter.
  • Cook and prepare delicious, high-quality food, the way you would serve your family or your best friend.
  • Thrive in a fast-paced, high-energy atmosphere.
  • Implement proper quality assurance and food-safety procedures.
  • Hustle with a smile and a great attitude.

Our Ideal Teammate:

  • Excels in a fast-paced environment and handles stressful situations well.
  • Loves helping others and being part of a team.
  • Willing and able to work in a physically demanding role (able to lift up to 40 lbs. and stay on feet for several hours)

The career opportunities at Hwy 55 go beyond management. Unlike our competitors, we don't believe in searching for outside investors to own our franchises. Over 60 of our current franchisees began their careers at Hwy as cooks or servers. The opportunity to own your own business is available to ALL Hwy 55 employees. 

Check out this video to learn more about our in-house financing for franchisees: 


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