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)

Steak ‘n Shake Application Guide (2025): How to Apply for a Server or Kitchen Job Online

Quick Answer: Steak ‘n Shake is a classic American burger and shake chain with 300+ locations across the U.S., many now operating as self-service kiosk franchises. To apply, visit steaknshake.com/careers. Servers start at $10–$15/hr (plus tips), with experienced servers and bartenders earning $13–$18/hr total compensation. Steak ‘n Shake employs approximately 12,000+ people at its 300+ locations.

Steak ‘n Shake at a Glance

Total Locations: 300+
Total Employees: 12,000+
Careers portal: steaknshake.com/careers
Starting pay: $10–$15/hr servers/hosts (plus tips); $13–$18/hr experienced

How to Apply at Steak ‘n Shake

Step 1: Apply Online at steaknshake.com/careers

Visit the careers portal, search by your city or state, and select your desired position. Most Steak ‘n Shake 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.

Steak ‘n Shake Pay Rates (2025)

Steak ‘n Shake Pay Rates by Position (2025)
Position	Hourly Base	Total Compensation (inc. tips)	Type
Counter Associate / Crew Member	$10–$13/hr	$12–$15/hr	Part-time / Full-time
Kitchen Staff	$11–$14/hr	$13–$17/hr	Full-time
Shift Manager	$14–$18/hr	$17–$22/hr	Full-time
Restaurant Manager	$38,000–$50,000/yr	$50,000–$65,000/yr	Salaried

Note: Many Steak ‘n Shake locations have converted to kiosk-only service — staff requirements per location have dropped substantially. Apply in person to confirm the specific staffing model at your location.

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

Has Steak ‘n Shake changed its business model?

Yes — significantly. Steak ‘n Shake has converted most of its corporate locations to a self-service franchise model since 2020. In this model, a ‘owner-operator’ (individual franchise owner) leases the restaurant and serves customers primarily through kiosks with a small staff. This means many Steak ‘n Shake locations have 2–4 employees instead of the traditional 15–20. When applying, confirm whether your target location is corporate-operated or franchise — the hiring process, pay, and benefits differ significantly between the two.

Can I work at Steak ‘n Shake 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 Steak ‘n Shake 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.