Last Updated: April 25, 2026
How to Apply at Stater Bros.
- Visit staterbros.com and find the Careers or Jobs section.
- Browse available positions by category (clerk, courtesy clerk, meat, deli, bakery, pharmacy) and store location.
- Select a position that interests you and review the job description.
- Click “Apply Now” and create an online account.
- Complete the application form with your personal information and employment history.
- Provide references and answer questions about your experience and availability.
- Submit the application and note your confirmation number.
- Wait for contact from your local store within 5–10 business days.
Stater Bros. Job Positions & Pay Rates
| Position | Entry Pay Range | Experience Level |
|---|---|---|
| Courtesy Clerk | $17.00–$18.50/hr | No experience required |
| Grocery Clerk | $17.50–$19.00/hr | No experience required |
| Deli Clerk | $18.00–$20.00/hr | Food service experience preferred |
| Meat Cutter | $19.00–$22.00/hr | Butcher certification preferred |
| Bakery Associate | $17.50–$19.50/hr | No experience required |
| Pharmacy Technician | $18.00–$20.50/hr | Pharmacy certification required |
Stater Bros. Application Requirements
To apply at Stater Bros., you must be at least 18 years old for most positions. A high school diploma or equivalent is not required for entry-level roles, though it is preferred for supervisory positions. All applicants must pass a comprehensive background check, which includes criminal history verification and is essential for employment eligibility. The background check process typically takes 7–10 business days. Valid identification and Social Security information are required during the hiring process.
Work authorization is required for all employees, and applicants must provide documentation proving legal right to work in the United States. Stater Bros. is a union-represented employer with most positions covered by the United Food and Commercial Workers union contract. This means employees in eligible positions receive union protections, collective bargaining representation, and access to negotiated benefits including comprehensive healthcare and pension plans. Union membership is a significant advantage for compensation and job security.
Flexible scheduling availability is important, as retail positions require the ability to work varying shifts including early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays. Stater Bros. values reliability and customer service orientation. Some positions, such as pharmacy technician, require specific professional certifications or licenses. Clean driving record may be required for positions involving vehicle operation or delivery responsibilities. The company looks for applicants who demonstrate commitment to customer service excellence and teamwork.
Stater Bros. Interview Process
Stater Bros. typically conducts interviews at the local store level. After submitting your application, the store manager or department manager will review it and contact you via phone or in person to schedule an interview. This initial contact usually occurs within 5–10 business days of application submission. Some applicants may be contacted quickly if the store has immediate staffing needs.
Your in-store interview will last approximately 20–30 minutes and cover your customer service experience, availability, and why you are interested in the position. For specialized positions like meat cutter or pharmacy technician, you may be asked about relevant certifications and technical knowledge. The hiring manager will explain the role’s responsibilities, the training process, and expectations for reliability and performance. You should come prepared with examples of your work experience and how you have handled customer service situations.
Stater Bros. emphasizes customer service and teamwork in its hiring decisions. Be prepared to discuss situations where you provided excellent service, handled difficult customers, or worked effectively with colleagues. Ask questions about the training process, advancement opportunities, and union representation during your interview. The hiring team typically makes decisions within 3–5 business days. If you are selected, you will be offered the position and scheduled for orientation and background check completion. Union stewards can answer questions about representation and contract provisions.
Stater Bros. Employee Benefits
Stater Bros. employees, particularly those in union-represented positions, receive competitive benefits reflecting California market standards. Full-time union members receive comprehensive health insurance coverage including medical, dental, and vision plans. The company contributes to union pension plans, ensuring employees build retirement savings throughout their tenure. Union-negotiated benefits are among the strongest in the grocery retail industry.
Paid time off is provided to eligible full-time employees, with accrual based on hours worked and tenure. Union employees also receive paid sick leave and personal days, plus additional vacation time as tenure increases. The company offers an employee discount on groceries, typically 10–15% throughout the store. This discount extends to pharmacy purchases and may include fuel discounts at Stater Bros. fuel stations.
Additional benefits for union-represented employees include life insurance, disability coverage, and access to union health and welfare funds. Part-time employees may receive limited benefits depending on hours worked and tenure. Stater Bros. also provides tuition reimbursement programs for employees pursuing further education, pharmacy continuing education support, and employee assistance programs offering counseling and support services. Union representation provides job security and a formal grievance process for employee concerns.
Stater Bros. Career Development
Stater Bros. offers career advancement opportunities for employees demonstrating strong performance and commitment. The company promotes from within, with many department managers and store managers beginning as entry-level associates. Structured training programs help employees develop skills for supervisory roles, including leadership fundamentals and operational management. The company values developing future leaders from the current workforce.
For specialized positions, Stater Bros. supports continuing education and certification programs. Meat cutters can pursue advanced butchery certifications, deli workers can obtain food safety certifications, and pharmacy technicians can complete additional training to expand their responsibilities. The company provides mentorship from experienced managers and encourages employees to take on additional responsibilities as they demonstrate readiness. Professional development opportunities help employees advance their careers.
Part-time employees can transition to full-time status with strong performance and expressed interest in advancement. Lateral moves between departments are encouraged, allowing employees to develop diverse skill sets. Union representation ensures standardized advancement procedures and wage progression based on seniority and performance. Regular performance reviews provide feedback and identify opportunities for promotion and salary increases. The union contract provides clear pathways for advancement and wage increases, supporting long-term career growth within Stater Bros. for dedicated employees.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Stater Bros. hire at age 16 or 17?
A: No. Stater Bros. requires applicants to be at least 18 years old for most positions. This age requirement ensures compliance with equipment operation and food handling regulations specific to California.
Q: Are all Stater Bros. positions union positions?
A: Most Stater Bros. store positions are covered by United Food and Commercial Workers union contracts. Supervisory and management positions may be outside the union. Union status is specified in individual job postings.
Q: What is included in the Stater Bros. union benefits?
A: Union benefits include comprehensive health insurance, pension plan contributions, paid time off, sick leave, paid holidays, and access to union health and welfare funds. Union benefits are negotiated regularly to improve employee compensation.
Q: How long does the background check process take?
A: Background checks typically take 7–10 business days to complete. You will receive employment authorization after the check clears and can begin work shortly after.
Q: Can I transfer between Stater Bros. locations?
A: Yes. Stater Bros. allows employees to request transfers to other store locations. Transfers may depend on position availability and staffing needs at the desired location. Union contracts often include transfer provisions.
Q: Does Stater Bros. offer opportunities for skill development?
A: Yes. The company supports continuing education, certification programs, and on-the-job training in specialized areas like meat cutting, deli operations, and pharmacy work. Union contracts often include provisions supporting professional development.
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