Last Updated: April 17, 2026

Updated: April 2025 | Hub: Casual Dining Jobs | Positions: Server, Host, Bartender, Line Cook, Manager | Min Age: 16–18 (varies by role)

Noodles & Company Application Guide (2025): How to Apply for a Server or Kitchen Job Online

Quick Answer: Noodles & Company is a fast-casual restaurant chain with 460+ locations across 29 states, serving globally-inspired noodle and pasta dishes. To apply, visit noodles.com/careers. Servers start at $13–$16/hr (plus tips), with experienced servers and bartenders earning $15–$20/hr (manager-track) total compensation. Noodles & Company employs approximately 12,000+ people at its 460+ locations.

Noodles & Company at a Glance

Total Locations: 460+
Total Employees: 12,000+
Careers portal: noodles.com/careers
Starting pay: $13–$16/hr servers/hosts (plus tips); $15–$20/hr (manager-track) experienced

How to Apply at Noodles & Company

Step 1: Apply Online at noodles.com/careers

Visit the careers portal, search by your city or state, and select your desired position. Most Noodles & Company locations use an ATS — create a profile and apply to your nearest location. Many restaurants also accept walk-in applications — visit during off-peak hours (2pm–4pm) and ask to speak with the manager on duty.

Step 2: In-Person or Phone Interview

Restaurant interviews for front-of-house roles focus on personality, customer service instincts, and availability. For kitchen positions, culinary experience and specific cooking techniques are assessed. Most restaurant interviews last 15–30 minutes and decisions are made quickly — offers within 24–72 hours of interview are common.

Step 3: Background Check and Orientation

Standard background check required. New servers complete a training period (typically 3–7 shifts shadowing an experienced server) before being assigned their own section. Kitchen hires train on specific stations relevant to their role.

Noodles & Company Pay Rates (2025)

Noodles & Company Pay Rates by Position (2025)
Position	Hourly Base	Total Compensation (inc. tips)	Type
Team Member (FOH/BOH)	$13–$15/hr	$14–$17/hr	Part-time / Full-time
Shift Manager	$15–$19/hr	$18–$22/hr	Full-time
Assistant General Manager	$40,000–$50,000/yr	$50,000–$60,000/yr	Salaried
General Manager	$55,000–$70,000/yr	$70,000–$85,000/yr	Salaried

Note: Noodles & Company uses counter service (no tipping) — all income is hourly, providing income predictability that full-service restaurants cannot.

Requirements

Minimum age: 16 for host and some kitchen prep roles; 18 for serving alcohol and operating equipment; some states require 21 to serve liquor.
Experience: Not required for entry-level host and busser roles. Server experience preferred; kitchen experience required for line cook positions.
Food handler certification: Required in most states — often provided by the restaurant during onboarding.
Availability: Must be available for weekends, evenings, and holidays — peak restaurant hours. More flexible availability = faster hiring.

Benefits

Health insurance: Available for full-time employees (30+ hours) at most corporate-owned locations.
Employee meals: Free or discounted meals during shifts.
Flexible scheduling: Restaurant scheduling is typically set weekly — many servers choose shifts that work with school or other commitments.
Advancement: Server → Lead Server → Shift Manager → Restaurant Manager. Most restaurant managers promoted from within. GM roles at casual dining chains earn $55,000–$85,000/yr.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Noodles & Company a good first job?

Yes — Noodles & Company is frequently cited as a positive early career employer, particularly for high school and college students. The fast-casual format (counter service, no tipping) means consistent hourly earnings without the income variability of full-service tipped work. The company has a reputation for manageable scheduling and a collaborative kitchen culture. Glassdoor reviews specifically note manager quality and advancement opportunities as strengths.

Can I work at Noodles & Company with no restaurant experience?

Yes for entry-level positions — host, busser, and food runner roles are the typical starting points for people new to restaurant work. These positions require no prior experience and teach the fundamentals of restaurant operations. Most Noodles & Company locations promote internally, so starting as a host or busser and moving to server is a common progression. For kitchen positions (line cook, prep cook), prior food service experience is preferred but not always required for entry-level prep roles.