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Restaurant Worker Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

A&W Canada

Restaurant Manager

Levis, QC · On-site

The Restaurant Manager/Assistant Manager duties include, but are not limited to: * Managing the ... Working as a team with co-workers to achieve service times * Coaching the staff to provide ...

A&W Canada

Restaurant Manager

Levis, QC · On-site

The Restaurant Manager/Assistant Manager duties include, but are not limited to: * Managing the ... Working as a team with co-workers to achieve service times * Coaching the staff to provide ...

L A Restaurant Mgmt

RESTAURANT TEAM MEMBER

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$18.04 - $23/hr

Position: Restaurant Team Member for KING TACO - PASADENA We welcome energetic, highly motivated individuals that want to learn the mechanics of working in a Quick Service Restaurant. Job ...

L A Restaurant Mgmt

RESTAURANT TEAM MEMBER

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$18.04 - $23/hr

Position: Restaurant Team Member for KING TACO - PASADENA We welcome energetic, highly motivated individuals that want to learn the mechanics of working in a Quick Service Restaurant. Job ...

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Restaurant Worker information

See California salary details

$9

$16

$21

How much do restaurant worker jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for restaurant worker in California is $16.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.19 and $18.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a restaurant worker?

Restaurant workers are employees who perform various tasks to ensure the smooth operation of a restaurant. Their roles can include serving food and drinks, preparing meals, cleaning, taking orders, and handling payments. Depending on the establishment, restaurant workers may specialize as servers, cooks, hosts, bussers, or dishwashers. They work together to provide excellent customer service and maintain a clean, efficient dining environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a restaurant worker, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Restaurant Worker, you need a basic understanding of food safety, customer service, and multitasking, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with point-of-sale (POS) systems, kitchen equipment, and food handling certifications like ServSafe is typically required. Strong communication, teamwork, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are standout soft skills in this role. These skills ensure efficient service, customer satisfaction, and a safe, productive work environment.

What are some of the most common challenges restaurant workers face during busy shifts, and how can they manage them effectively?

Restaurant workers often face challenges such as handling high volumes of customer orders, maintaining clear communication with kitchen staff, and managing time efficiently during peak hours. To manage these challenges, it's important to stay organized, prioritize tasks, and remain calm under pressure. Teamwork is crucial—regularly communicating with colleagues can help prevent mistakes and ensure smooth service. Many restaurants also provide training and guidance to help new staff adapt to these fast-paced environments.

What is the difference between Restaurant Worker vs Server?

AspectRestaurant WorkerServer
Primary RolePerforms various tasks such as cleaning, prep work, and assisting in different restaurant areasProvides food and beverage service directly to customers
Required SkillsBasic customer service, multitasking, teamworkCustomer service, communication, menu knowledge
Work EnvironmentKitchen, dining area, back-of-houseFront-of-house, dining area, customer-facing
Common CertificationsFood handler’s permit, sometimes alcohol service permitFood handler’s permit, alcohol server permit (if applicable)

While both roles are essential in a restaurant setting, a Restaurant Worker typically handles a variety of tasks behind the scenes or in support roles, whereas a Server directly interacts with customers to take orders and serve food. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify the right position for their skills and career goals.

Can I work in a restaurant with no experience?

Restaurant jobs often do not require prior experience, especially for entry-level positions like server, host, or dishwasher. Employers typically provide on-the-job training, and having good communication skills and a positive attitude can help you get hired. Some roles may require food safety certifications, but these can usually be obtained after starting work.

What cities in California are hiring for Restaurant Worker jobs?

Cities in California with the most Restaurant Worker job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Restaurant Worker jobs in CA?

For Restaurant Worker jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Restaurant Worker jobs near you
Infographic showing various Restaurant Worker job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 28% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $35,128 per year, or $16.9 per hour.

Restaurant Manager

Levis, QC • On-site

A&W Canada
201 - 500 employees
Learn more about A&W Canadaexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

Be part of a mature, fun leadership team and excel your career with A&W!

A&W takes pride in offering our employees a working environment that is based on respect and listening. Everyone's efforts and results are recognized and celebrated. We are looking for a fun and experienced leader who loves A&W as much as they love leading a diverse team from their local community!


The Restaurant Manager/Assistant Manager duties include, but are not limited to:

  • Managing the staff to help maintain and achieve restaurant targets and standards
  • Monitoring and controlling labour costs and food costs
  • Working as a team with co-workers to achieve service times
  • Coaching the staff to provide excellent customer service representative of the A&W brand 
  • Spending time every shift on the floor supporting and working with employees
  • Ensuring all food safety regulations are followed
  • Hiring, retaining, and terminating employees
  • Assisting with inventory management 
  • Other duties which involve the day to day operation of a fast food restaurant


Working Conditions:

  • Working in a fast-paced environment
  • Working in a diverse environment with many different personalities and attitudes
  • Working together as partners, as a cohesive unit with co-workers
  • Working with hot products and equipment
  • Working with cleaning materials and chemicals 
  • Working in a noisy environment
  • Working with sharp objects (knives, slicers, etc.)
  • Use of portable or step ladder may be required 

Physical Requirements:

  • This position requires the employee to stand for an extended period of time (up to 8 hours)
  • Occasionally must lift heavy boxes when dealing with product inventory (max 50 lbs.)
  • Engaging in repetitive tasks such as preparing/assembling orders and products and regular cleaning of restaurant facility
  • Must always be mentally alert to ensure the safety of yourself, co-workers, and guests at all times 
  • Maintaining good personal hygiene and appropriate uniform 
  • Having the capacity to handle stressful situations

Why work at A&W?

  • We pride ourselves on our food. We're on a journey to source simple, great-tasting ingredients, farmed with care.
  • Good food makes good food, but there is more to our story than that. We're all about doing the right thing. From using compostable packaging to fundraising to support Canadians living with Multiple Sclerosis, we strive to make a positive impact in our community. 
  • We know you've got a life outside of work. That's why we offer flexible schedules so you can work as much or as little as you need.
  • You'll gain the skills that pay the bills. A career with us will give you great communication skills, valuable customer service prowess, experience working on a team, the ability to thrive under pressure, and the chance to cook some of the best-tasting food in Canada.
  • We pay a competitive wage.
  • As a big business with a small business culture, we pride ourselves in keeping a healthy buzz of excitement and innovation in the air. To keep this spirit of change making front and centre, we follow a set of guidelines we call our Climate Goals. They're one part of the secret sauce that makes A&W such an awesome place to work. We can't wait to tell you all about them.

Requirements

Eligible to work in Canada


Company Information

Working with A&W is more than just sharing a love of great burgers. By joining our team you'll be on the front lines, helping us change the fast food landscape. From eliminating plastic straws, to root beer made with natural cane sugar and all-natural flavours, to being the first national restaurant chain in Canada to offer the plant-based Beyond Meat Burger, we've never been the kind of company to sit back and wait for change to happen. For us, it's all about doing the right thing for our food, people, community, and environment.

Job applicants responding to this posting may be applying to an A&W restaurant independently owned and operated by a local Franchisee. All hiring decisions are made by the local Franchisee.

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