Which employer should I apply for?

[InsecureLivesMatter]

I have only been working a side job some days of the week, and that doesn't pay too well (I know, it's better than nothing). The side job I am currently working for is the one I've been trapped in since the middle of 2019, even though I didn't work at that spot all of 2020 and most of 2021 due to COVID. I have aspirations to become an industrial designer and engineer, and even at one point I want to become a handyman/real estate agent volunteer. I am also officially a 3D artist, but I really do good with AI designs (especially car designs).

I am on a budget right now and I have been exploring places to work at that pay at least $20 an hour. I live in Pasadena, California. Where should I start working? Aside from a few big and medium corporations (like Jack in the Box and In-N-Out), there are a few smaller businesses like The Original Tops, as well as a boba tea shop nearby. I am trying to avoid McDonald's and Starbucks as much as I can, though I'm down with Taco Bell ("down with" in a good way; that's how we Californians speak).

I am 24 years old with no car or license (don't ask me why, that's for an entirely different post; I will not respond to such comments). I'm also open to Chick-fil-A and Chipotle. I used to work at Target as a cashier and Whole Foods as eCommerce. I am great with cooking, and I have a food handler's card that lasts until 2025.

[Oliverlogan263]

Here's what I think, dude:

I'd recommend applying to the boba shop or Original Tops. Those smaller local places will probably be more flexible with scheduling since you don't drive. And they might value your food prep and customer service skills more than a big chain.

Chipotle could also be good since you have food handler experience. The pay is usually decent there too. Only issue is it can be busy.

I'd avoid McDonald's or Starbucks mainly because of how huge and corporate they are - more rules to follow.

Chick-fil-A pays well but Sundays off could limit your hours. Taco Bell would be fun though - always a vibe in there.

Ultimately hit up the closest places first since walking is your move. Get face time with the managers. Play up your strengths like cooking and graphics skills. You got this man - something will stick for sure. Let me know if any of that helps with your search!

[InsecureLivesMatter]

Thank you!

[Oliverlogan263]

You’re welcome man

[Redstang88]

Well considering what you want to progress into you’d be better off looking at something in trades. Pays better than fast food too

[Paris13]

Whatever is Best from the Rest for you. If No Car, Some Place easy to Travel to. Good Luck, dear. xxoo

[Paris13]

Thanks, Gag. xxoo