McDonald’s to Hire 375,000 Workers in Massive Summer Jobs Push: What It Means for Job Seekers

McDonald’s kicks off its largest hiring campaign in five years, aiming to recruit 375,000 workers ahead of summer 2025.

McDonald’s Launches Major Hiring Initiative Ahead of Summer 2025

In a bold move to ramp up staffing for the summer rush, McDonald’s is set to hire up to 375,000 workers, marking its largest employment effort in half a decade. This massive recruitment campaign targets staffing needs at the fast-food giant’s 13,000 U.S. locations, aligning with plans to open 900 new restaurants over the next two years.

The announcement was made during a press event in Ohio, with McDonald’s USA President Joe Erlinger and U.S. Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer in attendance.

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Why McDonald’s Is Hiring 375,000 People This Summer

This hiring surge reflects McDonald’s strategy to bolster its workforce during peak seasonal demand, a practice commonly seen in the fast-food and retail sectors. The company currently employs around 800,000 people in the U.S., but due to high employee turnover rates, these positions often need to be refilled regularly.

Unlike other fast-food chains such as Chipotle, which conducts seasonal hiring during “Burrito Season,” or UPS and Amazon which recruit for the holidays, McDonald’s rarely announces hiring on this scale—making this move both significant and strategic.

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A Response to Economic Pressures and Declining Sales

The aggressive hiring campaign also comes on the heels of sluggish financial performance. McDonald’s recently reported its second consecutive quarter of sales decline, with same-store sales dropping 3.6%—the sharpest fall since the COVID-19 lockdowns of 2020.

CEO Chris Kempczinski pointed to a significant drop in spending among low-income consumers, and a surprising dip among middle-income customers, citing rising economic pressures.

By investing in its workforce, McDonald’s aims to enhance customer service and operational efficiency, both of which are crucial for reversing declining foot traffic and boosting customer loyalty.

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What This Means for Job Seekers

With the U.S. unemployment rate hovering at a low 4.2%, job opportunities like this can provide essential income for students, part-time workers, and those re-entering the workforce. As McDonald’s USA President Joe Erlinger noted, investing in employees not only benefits the business but also contributes to stronger local economies.

This hiring wave is an opportunity for thousands of Americans to gain experience in one of the country's most well-known brands, often serving as a stepping stone to long-term career growth.

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Conclusion: A Win-Win Opportunity in a Changing Economy

McDonald’s decision to hire 375,000 employees this summer reflects both the operational demands of the fast-food industry and the company’s effort to stay competitive amid shifting consumer behavior. For job seekers, this marks a valuable chance to earn, learn, and grow in a brand known for launching careers. As McDonald’s strengthens its workforce, it also signals its commitment to community impact and economic resilience—a win-win for both the company and the communities it serves.