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Sonic Drive In Jobs in Merced, CA (NOW HIRING)

Shift Manager

Merced, CA

$20.50 - $22.50/hr

Assists in managing the operations of a Sonic Drive-In and assumes responsibility for drive-in operations in the absence of other management. Trains and supports the drive-in employees in order to ...

Sonic Drive In information

See Merced, CA salary details

$34.3K

$64.3K

$88.7K

How much do sonic drive in jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for sonic drive in in Merced, CA is $64,315.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,400.00 and $72,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Sonic Drive In vs Sonic Crew Member?

AspectSonic Drive InSonic Crew Member
RoleManagerial or supervisory position overseeing operationsEntry-level position responsible for customer service and basic tasks
CredentialsExperience in management, possibly a high school diploma or equivalentNo formal credentials required, on-the-job training provided
Work EnvironmentFast-paced restaurant setting, supervising staffCustomer service environment, working at the counter or drive-in
Industry UsageUsed for managerial roles within SonicCommonly used for entry-level positions at Sonic

In summary, Sonic Drive In typically refers to managerial roles overseeing operations, while Sonic Crew Member describes entry-level staff focused on customer service. Both roles are essential to Sonic's restaurant environment but differ in responsibilities and required experience.

What cities near Merced, CA are hiring for Sonic Drive In jobs?

Cities near Merced, CA with the most Sonic Drive In job openings:

Infographic showing various Sonic Drive In job openings in Merced, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 68% Full Time, 30% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,315 per year, or $30.9 per hour.

Shift Manager

Merced, CA


Sonic Drive-In
Food and Beverage Stores • 10K+ employees

4.7

Company rating: 4.7 out of 10

Based on 1,631 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

80th of 107 rated fast food restaurants

Free food

Recommended by students

Respectful managers


$20.50 - $22.50/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

GENERAL PURPOSE OF POSITION: Assists in managing the operations of a Sonic Drive-In and assumes responsibility for drive-in operations in the absence of other management. Trains and supports the drive-in employees in order to provide quality food in a clean, safe and efficient manner so that guests will have an enjoyable experience at the Sonic Drive-In.

ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES:

1.Manages trains, monitors and coaches crew members, carhops and skating carhops.

2.Directs and assigns drive-in employees to perform all duties in the Basic Stations (Fountain & Frozen, Dresser, Front Swamp,Back Swamp, Grill, Switchboard, Expeditor, Food Prep, Carhop, Skating Carhop and if applicable Drive-Thru) as needed and depending on store volume, during a shift to ensure the preparation (portion control), temperature, packaging, appearance, presentation, taste and service of all menu items meet operational standards.

3.Adheres to and monitors employee compliance of the drive-in employee handbook, policies and practices. Takes appropriate action to address employee issues and policy violations and immediately reports all employee issues, complaints and policy violations to his/her immediate supervisor.

4.Performs opening and/or closing duties in compliance with Sonic Drive-In policies and procedures.

5.Monitors and makes appropriate adjustments to staffing levels during assigned shift.

6.Monitors and maintains inventory levels and food cost control during assigned shift and completes weekly inventory as needed.

7.Completes assigned administrative duties timely and accurately. Assists in maintaining files, records and all required documentation.

8.Reinforces the importance of placing guests’ needs first to drive-in employees on a consistent basis.

9.Immediately responds to guest requests in a respectful manner. Reports guest complaints to immediate supervisor and assists in resolving such complaints.

ADDITIONAL DUTIES:

 • Performs all duties in the Basic Stations (Fountain & Frozen, Dresser, Front Swamp, Back Swamp, Grill, Switchboard, Expeditor, Food Prep, and if applicable Drive-Thru) as needed and depending on store volume, during a shift to ensure the preparation (portion control), temperature, packaging, appearance, presentation, taste and service of all menu items meet operational standards.

 • Operates switchboard and records customer order, repeats order in a clear and understandable manner.

 • Operates Drive-Thru window and sales register and makes accurate change quickly and efficiently.

 • Prepares fountain drinks and ice cream items.

 • Prepares food by cutting and chopping food items and cooking on grill or in fryers.

 • Prepares food orders efficiently within 2-3 minute time frame.

 • Packages all menu items into bags or trays and places drink orders into drink carrier.

 • Serves food to customers in an efficient manner as necessary when working in other Basic Stations.

 • Occasionally moves food product weighing up to 50 lbs into freezer and shelves stacked from floor to ceiling.

 • Occasionally disposes of trash by transporting bags outside and into dumpsters.

 • Occasionally cleans areas of drive-in, including mopping, sweeping, washing dishes, wiping counter-tops and emptying used grease.

 • Complies with all federal, state and local wage and hour laws and labor and employment laws.

 • Wears required uniform and appropriate personal protective equipment as outlined in the Sonic Drive-In operations manual.

 • Performs frequent washing and sanitizing of: food areas, food preparation tools, and hands.

 • Performs other job-related duties as assigned or required.QUALIFICATIONS AND JOB REQUIREMENTS:

 • General knowledge and understanding of the restaurant industry or retail operations required. Six months of restaurant management experience (QSR) or one year entry level retail management experience required.

 • Experience running shifts without supervision

 • Effective communication skills

 • Basic math and basic reading skills

 • Basic computer skills

 • Ability to follow directions

 • Ability to work irregular hours, nights, weekends and holidays

 • Ability to multi-task

 • Ability to successfully solve problems

 • Works with autonomy once given direction

 • Complies with all Sonic Drive-In Policies and Procedures, and all health and sanitation laws and regulations

 • Successfully completes and follows requirements of all STAR certification and other Sonic Drive-In training programs.

 • Continuous standing, bending, stooping, lifting, stretching and frequent over-head lifting will be required when staging, preparing or packaging menu items and/or cleaning.

ENVIRONMENT: Frequent exposure to heat and hot liquid shortening while cooking. Frequent exposure to freezer when stocking food items. Occasional exposure to extreme temperatures based on variable weather conditions.

Here at SONIC Drive-in, our priority isn’t just great service, it’s great experiences. Whether you’re coming for a Cherry Limeade on your lunch break or picking up Shakes with your team after a big win, we’re ready for you. That’s why our drive-in makes your burgers with 100% pure beef patties, prepares hand-made onion rings, and serves real ice cream. Carhops deliver orders with a smile because “This is How We SONIC”. Download the SONIC app and order your favorites to enjoy exclusive perks and offers, including half price drinks and slushes any time. Stop by to treat yourself today!



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