If you’re looking for an entry-level job, you may ask, “How old do you have to be to work at Sonic?”. Sonic Drive-In restaurants, which operate over 3500 locations around the US, are modeled after historic drive-in diners famous in the 1950s. This method fosters a vibrant and active work atmosphere where employees are constantly on the move.
Individuals looking to work at Sonic need to be 16 years old and older. You might be able to secure a position if you’re within 14 and 15, but this is highly unlikely. However, the age requirement is only one of the few factors to consider when applying. You also need to consider the position and the responsibilities that come with it.
You need to answer several questions if you want to work at Sonic. This article gives details of the available positions, what it entails, and the age requirement. We’ll also look at how much you earn if you’re lucky to be hired.
How Old Do You Have to Be to Work at Sonic?
So, what kinds of jobs are there? From full-time to part-time jobs, Sonic provides several opportunities for individuals. Entry-level jobs include:
Carhop
As a Sonic Drive-In Carhop, you’ll be responsible for serving and delivering food to customers. You handle fast delivery and should learn to make changes when needed. Carhops should be able to carry a 25-pound tray and also clear these trays from guests’ cars.
Some Sonic Drive-Ins employ Skating Carhop servers, depending on the hiring practices of the specific Drive-In restaurant. Skating Carhop servers are exclusive to Sonic restaurants and add a “surprise and excitement” element to the visitor experience. As a result, all Skating Carhop servers must complete a Skating Training Program.
You must be able to work irregular hours and be flexible in all situations based on business needs. Carhops must also skate proficiently and frequently on various surfaces when delivering food. Aside from that, you have to be well articulated as you get to interact with guests directly.
Sixteen years is the legal age for any person looking to get this position. There might be exceptions; the Sony drive-in outlet might consider hiring someone a year younger. You also earn the standard minimum hourly wage amount, depending on your state.
Crew Member
Working as a crew member means you’ll be part of the team that works in the kitchen. These individuals are in charge of preparing food, serving, and restocking the trays and freezers. Keeping the station clean is another duty they handle.
Crew members only need to have basic knowledge of arithmetic, reading, and writing. They should be able to use a digital cash register to ring in orders.
Due to the dynamic nature of the job, workers have to be able to think fast on their feet. Being energetic is also very important, especially during rush hours.
Sonic requires applicants to be at least 16 years to fit into this position. Crew members earn between $9 and $10 hourly.
Cook
You will supervise the Appetite Satisfaction Department as a Sonic Drive-In restaurant Cook. In other words, you handle food production, grilling, frying, and additional responsibilities as needed.
You should be able to work odd hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays. Cooks also have to adapt to all conditions based on company demands and be willing to cross-train at all stations.
To work at Sonic as a cook, you have to be at least 16 years, hardworking, and ready to handle rush hours. You earn between $9 to $13 hourly. However, if you have previous experience, there’s room for negotiation of a higher amount.
How to Apply for a Job at Sonic
Application is possible online and offline, depending on which you prefer. If you’re applying online, you have to log into the website, fill out a form and upload your resume. Note that several others are vying for that position, so there’ll be a lot of competition.
In other words, when applying online, you should make your application unique. Note your strong points and include any information differentiating you from the competition.
Another way of applying is in person. You can visit any outlet and speak to the hiring manager. You need to hold your resume and other documents if you decide on this option.
Just as applying online, you need to note what you can do best for you to get the upper hand in the competition. Some of the requirements you should consider adding are if you’re proficient in another language or have prior experience. You should also be willing to learn on the job and attend training if needed.
What Level of Experience Is Required to Work at Sonic Drive-In?
Sonic Drive-In is an entry-level employer that does recruit teenagers. Without prior experience, you can apply for a position and be hired. If you have any experience, you earn a better wage and advance quickly into supervisory and managerial positions.
Though you don’t need experience, you should have some basic skills. First, you should be able to communicate in English fluently (a second language is a plus). It’s also essential to work as a team to serve the customers efficiently.
Conclusion
How old you have to be to work at Sonic is only a starting point when applying for a job. You must also be confident that you can fit into the position even if you have no experience. Carhops, for instance, need to learn how to skate to be more efficient.
Despite this, Sonic may still hire you if you have some basic skills and a willingness to learn.