Department Manager

Department Manager

Starting at $18-$20/hr

Step Up, Lead Strong, and Make a Real Impact

As a Department Manager, you're not just leading a shift-you're building a team, driving performance, and helping lead a business. This is the next level of leadership at McDonald's, with clear pathways for growth and personal development.

If you're an experienced Shift Manager or a motivated leader in hospitality or retail, this role gives you the opportunity to coach others, take ownership of results, and make a real difference in our restaurants and your own career.

What You'll Do:

As a Department Manager, you'll take ownership of one of three core areas of the restaurant:

Guest Services

* Ensure exceptional customer experiences in the dining room, drive-thru, and front counter

* Lead sales promotions and service training

* Motivate staff to deliver fast, friendly service

Kitchen Operations

* Deliver quality, food safety, and speed in every meal

* Monitor and control food costs

* Train kitchen team on prep procedures and new menu items

People & Staffing

* Recruit, train, and schedule qualified crew

* Support employee development and performance

* Recognize and reward great work

All Department Managers help lead shifts, coach crew and shift managers, track progress toward goals, and create a positive team culture that supports success.

Growth Path:
Become a General Manager

Top-performing Department Managers have the opportunity to be promoted to General Manager, a salaried leadership position with additional benefits and greater responsibilities. This includes paid, in-person leadership development courses at Hamburger University in Chicago-a world-class training program for future McDonald's executives.

What We're Looking For:

* Previous leadership experience in restaurants, retail, or hospitality

* Strong communication and problem-solving skills

* Ability to inspire, organize, and hold teams accountable

* Must be 18+ and available for a flexible schedule

Benefits You'll Love:

* Competitive pay starting at $18-$20/hr

* Up to 15 days paid vacation

* 401(k) with 4% company match

* Medical, dental, and vision insurance

* Short- and long-term disability, life & accident coverage

* Paid leaves of absence

* Free meals during shifts

* World-class training & career development

* Education assistance via Archways to Opportunity

* Employee Resource Connection and service awards

The Fine Print:

This posting outlines the typical responsibilities of the role but is not an exhaustive job description. Department Managers often perform a wide variety of tasks, and each day may bring something new.

This is a position with a franchise-owned McDonald's location, not McDonald's USA. By applying, you acknowledge that all hiring, scheduling, and employment decisions are made by the independent franchisee-not McDonald's Corporation.