Discover everything about the available roles, salaries, benefits, and the step-by-step process to apply.

Open positions at McDonald’s in the United Kingdom are among the most accessible and promising opportunities for those looking to start or restart an international career.

With hundreds of restaurants across the country and a corporate culture focused on human development, the network not only employs—it trains professionals, opens doors, and offers a structure for real growth.

Whether you’re seeking your first job, a chance to gain experience abroad, or a path to stability and professional advancement, working at McDonald’s UK could be the turning point you need.

In this comprehensive guide, you’ll discover how to apply, what positions are available, what the company looks for in candidates, and why so many people are taking this step toward a new phase in life.

McDonald’s UK: Much More Than a Job

McDonald’s in the United Kingdom is not just a fast-food giant. With over 1,300 restaurants across the country, the company employs approximately 120,000 people and is recognized for its strong culture of inclusion, development, and talent appreciation.

Many professionals start as Crew Members and, over time, move up to leadership positions. Others use the job as a springboard to improve their English, support their studies, or achieve financial independence.

Regardless of the goal, McDonald’s offers an environment with constant training, managerial support, and recognition. Additionally, it is an award-winning company in various categories, such as workplace environment, youth inclusion, and equality policies.

Who Can Apply?

One of the biggest differentiators of McDonald’s UK is accessibility. The company is open to candidates from different backgrounds, and many of the positions are perfect for those seeking their first job in the country, even without prior experience.

General Requirements:

• Minimum age: From 16 years old (some positions require 18+).
• Basic English: Communication is important, but fluency is not necessary to start.
• Authorization to work in the United Kingdom: Essential to have legal status, such as a work visa, citizenship, or residency.

These criteria make the positions accessible to international students, temporary residents, newcomers, and even retirees looking to return to the workforce.

What Positions Are Available?

McDonald’s offers different roles, allowing you to find the one that best matches your profile and goals.

1. Crew Member

The Crew Member position is the most common entry-level role at McDonald’s UK, ideal for those starting in the job market or seeking flexible employment. These professionals perform various functions and are considered the heart of the restaurant’s daily operation.

Daily tasks include taking orders at counters or drive-thru, preparing burgers, fries, and drinks, and ensuring all areas are clean and organized. This requires dynamism, agility, and attention to detail, as the environment is fast-paced with a high customer flow.

Beyond operational routines, Crew Members are encouraged to develop interpersonal skills, such as teamwork, effective communication, and customer service empathy. Many of these competencies are transferable to other areas and contribute to professional growth.

Over time, those who stand out can be promoted to Crew Trainer, responsible for training new employees, or move into leadership roles. It’s a position that offers constant practical learning and opportunities for career advancement, even without prior experience.

2. Customer Care Assistant

The primary mission of the Customer Care Assistant is to ensure that the customer experience is not only satisfactory but memorable. While customer service is part of every employee’s routine, this role is especially dedicated to hospitality and well-being in the dining area.

This professional moves around the dining area, offering proactive assistance, collecting trays, cleaning tables, answering questions, and quickly identifying any customer discomfort. They also assist mothers with young children, people with disabilities, or elderly individuals who need help.

This role requires sensitivity and the ability to anticipate needs. Empathy is one of the most valued qualities, along with the ability to remain calm even during peak hours.

The Customer Care Assistant directly contributes to the store’s reputation and customer loyalty. Those who excel in this area may be invited to join leadership programs or transition into customer relationship management.

3. Kitchen Staff

The Kitchen Staff plays a fundamental role behind the scenes of the operation. They ensure that products are delivered with the quality, standardization, and food safety required by the network.

Daily, these professionals handle the preparation and assembly of food items, such as burgers, wraps, salads, and desserts. This includes operating equipment like fryers, grills, and ovens, as well as organizing ingredients, monitoring expiration dates, and adhering to strict hygiene standards.

This role is suited for those who prefer technical focus over direct customer contact. Nevertheless, it requires teamwork and the ability to maintain pace during busy periods, as integration with service staff must be seamless.

Professionals who excel in responsibility and technical performance have real chances of being promoted to Crew Trainer or taking on responsibilities in specific kitchen sectors, especially during peak hours.

4. Shift Manager

The Shift Manager serves as the link between management and the operational team. They are responsible for coordinating the store during a specific shift, which means managing people, processes, and results in real-time.

This position requires strategic vision and the ability to make decisions under pressure. Key responsibilities include assigning tasks among employees, resolving conflicts, ensuring quality and service standards are met, and supporting new team members.

Additionally, the Shift Manager monitors operational indicators such as service time, hourly sales, and customer satisfaction. They are also responsible for contacting technical support when necessary and ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations.

It’s a trusted role, typically filled by individuals who have previously held other positions within the network. Performance as a shift leader is one of the main criteria for promotions to roles like Assistant Manager and subsequently Restaurant Manager.

5. Maintenance Person

The Maintenance Person is essential for the restaurant to operate efficiently and safely every day. Although often working behind the scenes, their actions directly impact the quality of the customer experience and team productivity.

This professional handles preventive and corrective maintenance of equipment and facilities. Tasks include checking the operation of fryers, refrigerators, and electrical systems, performing minor structural repairs, and conducting routine inspections to detect issues before they disrupt service.

Additionally, the maintenance assistant works alongside the cleaning team on more technical tasks and communicates with external suppliers when specialized repairs are needed.

The role requires basic knowledge in general maintenance and attention to technical details. In larger units, this professional may be promoted to facilities leader or work regionally, supporting other stores in the network.

Salaries and Benefits

One of the strengths of working at McDonald’s UK is the combination of competitive salary and a robust benefits package. Even in entry-level positions, earnings can exceed the minimum wage in some regions of the country.

Estimated Salaries (per hour):

• Crew Member: £9,00 a £12,43
• Shift Manager: £12,60 a £14,01
• Assistant Manager: £13,00 a £16,50
• Kitchen Staff: £10,00 a £12,00

Main Benefits:

• Free meal during shifts.
• Exclusive discounts at over 800 partners in the UK.
• Continuous training and development.
• Recognition rewards for outstanding performance.
• Flexible schedules.
• Well-being programs and mental health support.

How to Apply?

The process is simple, intuitive, and 100% online.

Step-by-Step to Apply:

1. Access the official careers website by clicking the button below.

2. Click on “Find a Job” (or “Search Jobs”).
3. Use filters to select your preferred location, role, and availability.
4. Create an account on the platform.
5. Fill out your personal details and background (experience is not required).
6. Submit your application and wait for contact.

Tip: The whole process takes less than 10 minutes. Some restaurants also accept candidates who hand in their resumes directly at the location.

How to Stand Out and Secure Your Position

McDonald’s values attitude and mindset over formal qualifications. Even without experience, you can impress with preparation.

Tips to Stand Out:

• Be proactive: Show enthusiasm, a willingness to learn, and initiative during interviews and your daily routine.
• Demonstrate flexibility: Being open to different shifts and roles earns you extra points with recruiters and managers.
• Practice basic English: Even if your level isn’t advanced, learning common phrases and showing that you are willing to improve makes a positive impression.
• Dress appropriately: Whether for in-person interviews or video calls, professionalism matters.
• Understand the company culture: McDonald’s values teamwork, efficiency, and excellent customer service. Showing that you align with these principles puts you ahead of other candidates.

Conclusion: Your New Life Starts with One Click

Working at McDonald’s in the United Kingdom is more than just a job — it’s a real opportunity to build a solid career, gain international experience, develop essential skills, and create a new professional reality.

With hundreds of open positions at McDonald’s, the company continues to be one of the most accessible and structured entry points for those who want to start their journey with security and real growth potential.

The flexibility of schedules, paid training, and opportunity for rapid promotion make McDonald’s an ideal choice for those seeking both stability and personal development.

And if you’re looking to expand your options for working in the UK — don’t stop here! Check out our next article on job openings at Sainsbury’s, one of the UK’s largest supermarket chains, offering excellent roles with great benefits in the retail sector.