Anonymous - Anonymous employee McDonald's Employee Review

4.0
19 Feb 2016
Anonymous employee
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Excellent culture. The people are super laid back with a mix of old and young people. Flexible hours if you're in the right group. Great work/life balance. Ability to move laterally.

Cons

There were certain managers that had pretty bad reputations that caused people to leave the company. Though it was well known, nothing was done to prevent the managers from causing more brilliant talent from leaving the company. Also, top management lied a lot. For instance, in 2015, the company announced "There are rumors that we are moving our HQ to Chicago. These rumors are not true. We are only thinking of putting the new digital team there." Then come 2016, they announce "We are considering moving our HQ downtown." Do you know how many McDonald's lifers are at this company? There are a ton of people who moved their families close to Oakbrook for this job. Only the young folks are excited about this potential move. Maybe that's their plan... They had great work/life balance but it came with lower than market pay. There was an insane amount of turnover during the two years I was there. No job security. The last thing is it's nearly impossible to move up. In fact, I knew some people that remained the "senior" level for over 30 years and they gave up with trying to move up.

Explore other reviews about McDonald's

5.0
5 July 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

The job teaches speed, consistency, time management, and how to work under pressure during busy rushes. It also helps you learn teamwork because the kitchen depends on everyone communicating and moving efficiently.

Cons

It can also be a social job.

2.0
18 June 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Experience varies heavily depending on the owner/operator you work for. Free and discounted food. 2 weeks PTO. Vision, Dental and Health insurance. Offers rapid development opportunities.

Cons

Work-life balance is nonexistent. In fact, the director of operations has stated numerous times, “Work life balance is a myth”. The company states you are required to work 45 hrs/week minimum; Realistically, GM’s can expect to work 55-60 hours in store with constant calls and messages when home. The company does not count any work done outside of the restaurant toward your 45hr requirement. There is no training for this position as you are expected to figure it out on the job. They offer $2000 per month performance bonus but are always finding new ways to disqualify you and move the goalposts when you actually earn it.

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