How to Get a Job at SONIC
This is a complete guide (everything you need to know) for applying to SONIC. It contains the following information:
Facts About Working at SONIC Drive-In
Hiring Age: 16 years old (How old do you have to be to work at SONIC Drive In?)
Available Positions: Assistant manager, carhop, cook, crew member, manager, skating carhop
Printable Application: Yes. Print SONIC Drive-In application (PDF) or Search Job Openings.
How to Apply Online
Go to Sonic’s career website. Once on the site, start applying by taking the following steps.
Step 1
Search for a job title or location. You may also choose from the different job categories listed in the search box.

Sonic offers applicants the opportunity to get tailored job recommendations based on their interests, as well.
Step 2
Browse the search results to find your desired position. You can refine these results by using the search filter on the left hand side of the page.

Step 3
After choosing the job you want to apply for, read the job description and qualifications carefully.

Click “Apply Now” at the bottom of the page.

Step 4
By clicking “apply now” at the bottom of the page, you will go to an external site with the same job description where you must choose to apply for the position again.
Step 5
Complete each step of the application by providing your contact information, answering general questions, noting your availability, and detailing any previous employment history. Then, you can review the application and submit it.
Helpful Hint
SONIC also allows website users to email job listings to other people, making it easy to connect with friends who are also looking for jobs. Applicants can also use their online profile to receive job alerts and upload their resumes.
Tips for Applying
If you plan to apply for a server or car hop job at SONIC, ensure you can meet the physical requirements. Knowing how to roller-skate is a plus since many crew members deliver meals to customers’ cars while wearing skates.
When completing the application online, refrain from backing out of the application too soon since this could delete your progress.
What to Do After Applying
You can typically expect an email or phone call from hiring personnel within a week of submitting your application. Some SONIC locations may hire promising candidates on the spot, so it’s a good idea to visit the restaurant in person and ask to speak to a hiring manager about your application status.
Be aware that busy times are not ideal for this type of professional interaction.
SONIC Drive-In Employee Interview Videos
SONIC Drive-In Job Opportunities
Job Qualifications
Entry-level positions are available for SONIC Drive-In job seekers. The company values those who work hard, think quickly on their feet, and who are energetic. Because of hectic dining hours, staff should be available for a flexible schedule.
Unexpected Perks
In addition to traditional benefits like 401(k) plans and salary packages, SONIC Drive-In careers offer the chance to advance into senior roles. Employees can get product discounts during their shifts. With so many locations, there are plenty of available jobs.
Ideal Candidates
Hopefuls can apply online or in-store with a SONIC Drive-In job application. Supervisors look for workers who are great with people, function as a team, and have reliable transportation. Job seekers should have excellent memorization for taking orders effectively.
Job Positions & Salaries
Both full-time and part-time hours are available at SONIC Drive-In. This restaurant offers training, career development programs, and hourly pay and salary options. Jobs include:
Carhop
- The carhop serves guests in a fast and friendly manner.
- The pay rate for a carhop starts at minimum wage, but can increase over time.
- Carhops typically wear roller skates. Balance and coordination are important skills.
Crew Member
- Job duties include preparing food, restocking the freezers and trays, and keeping work stations clean.
- Ability to use a computer-based cash register to ring in orders.
- Crew members make an hourly wage between $9.00 to $10.00.
Assistant Manager
- These workers are responsible for tracking inventory and assisting in food preparation.
- The assistant manager makes roughly $30k yearly.
- Candidates should be available to for opening and closing shifts, and able to cover any necessary tasks.
Benefits
SONIC Drive-In offers training, competitive wages, and opportunities to move up upon hire. Full-time positions, such as managers, can also get employment benefits packages, including healthcare coverage. Workers can enjoy other perks, such as:
- 401(k) retirement plan
- Medical insurance
- Tuition assistance for students
- Employee discounts
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Paid vacation
Additional Information about SONIC Drive-In
With over 3500 stores across the United States, SONIC Drive-In restaurants feature the throwback business concept of vintage drive-in diners popular in the 1950s. This approach creates a fun and busy environment where employees are always on-the-go.
SONIC Drive-In rewards carhops with a yearly Skate-Off. Winners can receive an all-expenses-paid trip to compete against one another in San Diego, California. Participants take home awards, like cash and prizes.
SONIC Drive-Ins are fun, active work environments where employees gain experience in food prep and customer service. Teamwork, diversity, and inclusion are important to the company’s culture and mission statement.
People with bold, outgoing personalities thrive in SONIC jobs and enjoy the restaurant’s friendly atmosphere and career growth opportunities.
Samantha says:
I worked at Sonic in Ripon, CA back in 2007. I was a car hop. I took orders on an order board. I made drinks and desserts and helped bag food. I hopped food out on roller skates and handled money using a money wallet and changer. I kept the lot looking nice for customers and kept up the bathrooms. I kept things stocked and clean inside. I very much enjoyed my entire experience. Friendly people and great environment!
Felicia Oliver says:
Yes i have worked for sonic. Ive worked a couple times at Sonic drive in . In Metropolis il. I was an employee when Kim Brown was manager over Metropolis il.
Crystal Wood says:
I worked at sonic in Whitney, Texas( 2015-2017) I was a car hop, i took orders on switch board, i took orders out, i bagged orders. I was promoted to work fountain.I made all the drinks, and ice cream i worked day and night shift. I learned how to make the onion rings, close the fountain at night and stock everything. I worked with money and coin changer. I did the daily chores assigned and helped keep the parking lot clean. I really enjoyed my experience working at sonic. I was sad to leave. I met awesome people and become close to several customers and to managers and coworkers.
Patricia Aguilar says:
Great job,great benefits,amazing staff and outstanding food
Alexis Gallagher says:
Can be difficult to begin with, but a few weeks and you get the hang of it. You always have to be on your toes, and communicate is key! Be friendly as ever, and get to know your customers, they will end up recognizing you every time.