2025 State of Hiring in the QSR and Fast Casual Restaurant Industry

The Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) and Fast Casual sectors remain pivotal to the U.S. economy, employing millions nationwide. However, the hiring landscape in 2025 is shaped by a tight labor market, shifting workforce demographics, and evolving employee expectations. This report offers data-driven strategies for restaurant managers to recruit and retain top talent at the location level.

Key Industry Statistics

The 2025 hiring environment for restaurants is characterized by both opportunity and challenge:

• Employment Growth: The restaurant industry added over 210,300 jobs in 2024, with a 4% growth in the QSR segment​.

• High Turnover Rates: The QSR industry faces as high as 150% turnover rates, the highest among major sectors.

• Recruiting Challenges: 65% of restaurant operators report that the labor market remains "tight" or "very tight."

• Retention Gaps: 27% of managers rank retention as their top workforce challenge, citing poor work-life balance and limited growth opportunities​.

Tactical Tips for Recruiting and Retention

1. Leverage Technology and Mobile Platforms

Why It Matters: Younger workers, especially Gen Z and Millennials, demand tech-savvy, app-based hiring processes. In fact, 87% of Gen Z job seekers apply for jobs using their smartphones.

Practical Steps:

• Use AI-Powered Platforms: Apps like JobGet match candidates with roles based on skills and preferences, reducing time-to-hire and improving applicant quality.

• Streamline Applications: Limit applications to essential fields, allowing candidates to apply in under 5 minutes. Job abandonment rates skyrocket for forms exceeding 15 minutes.

• Utilize Text Communication: With 73% of Gen Z preferring text over email, use SMS for interview scheduling and follow-ups.

• Apply → Screen → Schedule in One Step: Gen Z has grown up with "immediate gratification" through smartphones and same-day delivery. Meet their expectations with an application process that fast-tracks qualified candidates to schedule interviews with hiring managers.

  
  

2. Offer Competitive Pay and Tailored Benefits

Why It Matters: Compensation and benefits remain primary drivers for job acceptance. Median base wages in QSRs increased by 4% to $14.20 per hour in 2024.

Practical Steps:

• Display Pay Rate on Job Postings: Transparency matters. Clearly list the pay rate for every role in your postings. Compensation is the number one factor Everyday job seekers consider when applying for jobs, and roles displaying pay information see higher visibility and click-through rates, building trust with potential hires.

• Implement Same-Day Pay Options: Younger workers value financial flexibility. Services like DailyPay can attract candidates who need faster access to earnings.

• Highlight Perks Beyond Pay: Benefits such as free meals, transportation stipends, or mental health resources can differentiate your brand. Only 31% of restaurants currently offer these perks, providing a competitive opportunity.

  
  

3. Build an Employer Brand That Resonates

Why It Matters: Candidates are drawn to brands with strong reputations for culture and growth. In fact, 45% of employees cite poor management as a reason for leaving.

Practical Steps:

• Drive Quality Referrals: Your best employees can help you find more great talent. Incentivize referrals by creating a structured program that rewards team members for bringing in candidates who stick. Use apps like JobGet, which combine personalization and social sharing, to amplify referrals and make it easy for employees to recommend jobs to their networks.

• Inspect Your Brand Reputation: Your employer ratings on platforms like Indeed and Glassdoor matter more than you think. Many restaurant operators complain about receiving low-quality candidates from these job boards but fail to recognize how poor ratings may deter top talent. Audit your online reviews regularly, address recurring feedback, and focus on improving employee satisfaction. As part of your strategy, consider testing job advertising on platforms like JobGet, which prioritize quality matches and aren’t weighed down by outdated or negative reviews.

  
  

4. Foster a Positive Workplace Culture

Why It Matters: High turnover stems from poor work-life balance and poor morale. Flexibility is a top priority for today’s workforce​.

Practical Steps:

• Introduce Flexible Scheduling: Use software like 7shifts to allow employees to swap shifts and manage their availability in real-time.

• Recognize Employee Achievements: Regularly celebrate milestones, such as anniversaries or completed certifications, to foster team loyalty.

  
  

5. Offer Clear Career Pathways

Why It Matters: Employees are 75% more likely to stay when they see opportunities for advancement.

Practical Steps:

• Provide Training Programs: Offer leadership development courses or certifications to help employees envision their future with your brand.

• Promote From Within: Highlight success stories of employees who started as entry-level staff and advanced to managerial roles.

  
  

6. Embrace Generational Preferences

Why It Matters: Gen Z prioritizes quick applications, personalized experiences, and purpose-driven roles.

Practical Steps:

• Keep Job Postings Short and Simple: Ensure your job descriptions are concise, appealing, and to the point.

• Use Short-Form Content: Promote job openings with engaging videos on platforms like TikTok, showcasing why working at your restaurant is unique.

• Be Transparent: Clearly list pay rates, schedules, and job expectations in all postings to align with Gen Z’s demand for authenticity.

Looking Ahead: Sustainable Workforce Solutions

The QSR industry faces a labor market that requires innovative solutions. By leveraging mobile technology, offering tailored benefits, and investing in workplace culture, restaurant managers can build resilient teams for 2025 and beyond.

"Modern hiring isn’t just about filling roles; it’s about creating environments where employees want to stay," noted a QSR industry leader in QSR Magazine. "If you do that, you’ll always have the workforce you need."

Ready to streamline your hiring process and attract top talent? With its app-first, AI-driven platform, JobGet connects you with high-quality candidates faster than ever. Simplify your recruiting today—Employers can learn more at jobget.com/enterprise.