You’ve probably grabbed a Zinger Box or shared a bucket with your mates after school, but have you ever thought about what it’s like behind the counter? Spoiler alert: it’s not just about the chicken (though let’s be real, that is a pretty great perk).
Starting your KFC career means stepping into a world that’s high-energy, full of opportunities, and packed with people who genuinely have your back. Whether you’re mastering cooking with the 11 secret spices, greeting customers with a smile, or leading a team during the dinner rush, a KFC career gives you hands-on experience in one of the most dynamic environments out there.
From day one, you’re learning real-world skills that stick with you; think leadership, confidence, teamwork, and problem-solving, all while earning a paycheck and working flexible hours that actually fit around your life. Your KFC career isn’t just about getting through your next shift. It’s about shaping your future and maybe even becoming the next Assistant Manager like Will, who started just like you (but more on that later).
So, if you’re looking for something more than just a casual job, your KFC career is calling. Grab that headset, pull on your apron, and let’s get started!
What’s a Shift Really Like at KFC?
Working at KFC is fast-paced, energetic, and all about teamwork! A typical shift involves everything from taking orders and preparing their iconic FLG chicken, to keeping the restaurant clean and welcoming customers. You’re constantly moving, but there’s a strong sense of camaraderie where everyone pitches in to help each other, especially during those busy rushes.
Whether you’re new or experienced, there’s always someone to help guide you through KFC’s comprehensive training. The vibe is friendly and upbeat, with a focus on delivering great service and having a good time with your mates. What sets KFC apart is their amazing people, who genuinely look out for one another and take pride in doing things right.
Curious about what your first day might look like? Check out what it’s really like to work at KFC.
Why Students Choose KFC
KFC’s people are like the Colonel’s 11 herbs and spices; without them, it’s just chicken.
Here are just a few of the many reasons to join KFC’s crew:
More Than Just a Paycheck
Students choose KFC because it offers more than just a job. It’s a place where you can be your BEST self, grow, and earn while you study. Juggling uni, TAFE, or school commitments? KFC offers flexible rosters that fit around your schedule, giving you the freedom to focus on what matters most. The team is made up of people from all backgrounds, and everyone’s voice is valued. You’re encouraged to bring your true FLG originality and energy to work every day, every shift!
Recognition is a big deal at KFC. When you go the extra mile, people notice. Their teams make sure that your efforts are seen and celebrated. There’s also the bonus of 20% off your fave menu items, so you can treat yourself after a shift or share a bucket with your mates.
Career Growth Starts Here
Career Growth at KFC starts from day one. Inside KFC Restaurants, you’ll build real-world skills in leadership, communication, and problem-solving, all in a supportive team environment that puts your wellbeing first. Many Team Members go on to become Shift Supervisors, Assistant Managers, and even Restaurant General Managers running their very own KFC!
P.S. If you want a head start, consider checking out KFC’s school-based traineeships to launch your career, your way.
Build Skills That Go Beyond the Kitchen
KFC also supports you with the UOW Partner Advantage which helps to fast track your studies through fee discounts and recognition of prior learning, turning on-the-job experience into academic progress. No matter your goal, KFC helps you build confidence, learn valuable transferrable skills, and take on new challenges.
There’s a clear path for growth, and KFC makes it easy to explore new opportunities at every stage. Want to see where your role could take you? Head to their Restaurant Careers page and discover how you can grow your dream career with KFC.
Real Stories: Meet Will, Assistant Manager at 20
Don’t just take our word for it; hear from someone who has been there (and got the career growth t-shirt).
Will is an Assistant Manager at KFC Macquarie Centre, who started at KFC at 16 as a cook. After a year, he started cross-training in customer service and food prep positions before, at 18 years old, Will trained as a shift supervisor. Then, a little further into his KFC career, Will had a career conversation with his Area Coach, which led to him being promoted to assistant manager!
Since working as an assistant manager for about 10 months, Will has been trained in 3 core business streams: team member experience, customer experience and business growth.
A highlight of Will’s is achieving the highest team-based KPIs (Key Performance Indicators) in all equity restaurants, while also driving the KFC Listens team member survey and building a culture around safety and reporting hazards and incidents.
Take it From Will:
“In the lead up to getting my role at Macquarie Centre, I’d had lots of conversations with my Restaurant Manager and Area Coach.
“I remember the day that I found out I got the role. I was sitting at the physio waiting for my appointment, and my Area Coach rang me to give me the great news. I remember being super excited and calling my mum straight away. When I told her, she was stoked, and that’s how I got to where I am!
“Whether I’m playing, coaching, or refereeing, soccer is my biggest hobby. Because my roster is super flexible, I can still keep up with all of my soccer-related commitments outside of work hours. But the best thing about working at KFC is the tight-knit team and all the opportunities that have come up throughout my career. I’ve made some lifelong friends here.”
Need Help Applying? Say Hi to Sandy!
Got questions or ready to apply? Meet Sandy, your digital recruitment assistant who’ll walk you through it all:
Hi, I’m Sandy, your new recruitment bestie! I’m so excited to help create enhanced candidate experiences! I’m here to guide candidates through the application process, whether they prefer chatting via web browser or SMS. From initial inquiries to scheduling interviews, I’ve got it covered! Candidates can reach out to me anytime, day or night, and I’ll be there to provide them with responses to dozens of topics.
Visit the KFC Careers website https://careers.kfc.com.au/ and your recruitment bestie, Sandy, will always be there to help you in the bottom right corner browser.
You can search by location. Let Sandy know what suburb you’d like to work in, and they will connect you with a job close by!
Grow Your Career at KFC
Ready to venture into your first job? Whether you’re after casual shifts or a career you can grow into, there’s a spot for you on the KFC team.
Head to KFC Careers and take your first step today!
