What It’s Like to Work at Subway in the U.S.

Subway is one of the most well-known fast-food chains in the United States, recognized worldwide for its fresh sandwiches and quick service. With thousands of stores across the country, it is also a major employer that provides accessible jobs to people looking for their first work experience, part-time opportunities, or even long-term careers in food service.

In the U.S., employees at Subway can earn up to $1,860 per month, depending on their role, hours worked, and location. The company offers entry-level positions that require little or no prior experience, making it an ideal choice for students, parents, and anyone seeking stable income with flexible scheduling.

This article explains how to apply for jobs at Subway, the types of positions available, the benefits employees receive, what a typical workday looks like, opportunities for career growth, and the challenges workers may face.

How to Apply for a Job at Subway

Application process

• Online applications: Candidates apply through Subway’s official careers website or major job platforms.
• In-person applications: Applicants can visit local Subway stores to submit applications directly to managers.
• Interview stage: Short interviews focus on teamwork, availability, and customer service skills.
• Onboarding and training: New hires receive training in food preparation, safety, and customer service.

Requirements

• Minimum age: Usually 16 or older, depending on state laws.
• No previous experience required for entry-level positions.
• Availability for nights, weekends, or holidays can increase chances of being hired.

Positions Available at Subway

Sandwich artist

• Prepares sandwiches and salads according to customer preferences.
• Maintains cleanliness of the counter and kitchen area.
• Provides friendly service and ensures accuracy of orders.

Cashier

• Manages customer payments and transactions.
• Assists with order accuracy.
• Handles returns or complaints professionally.

Shift leader

• Supervises employees during shifts.
• Ensures food quality and customer satisfaction.
• Handles scheduling and task assignments.

Assistant manager

• Supports the store manager in operations.
• Oversees inventory, orders, and employee training.
• Helps with hiring and performance evaluations.

Store manager

• Responsible for the entire store’s performance.
• Manages sales targets, customer service standards, and staff.
• Acts as the primary leader for the location.

Benefits of Working at Subway

Competitive pay

• Monthly income ranges from $1,400 to $1,860, depending on position and location.

Flexible schedules

• Opportunities for part-time and full-time shifts.
• Ideal for students or individuals balancing work with personal responsibilities.

Meal discounts

• Employees often receive discounted or free meals during shifts.

Training and experience

• Subway provides training in customer service, teamwork, and food preparation.
• Experience gained is transferable to other industries.

Growth opportunities

• Clear promotion paths from entry-level to management.
• Franchise structure creates additional leadership roles.

Employee recognition

• Workers are often rewarded for good performance through bonuses or recognition programs.

A Typical Day at Subway

Opening duties

• Setting up the kitchen and preparing ingredients for the day.
• Cleaning and organizing workstations.
• Ensuring bread and vegetables are ready for customers.

Lunch rush

• Serving high volumes of customers during peak hours.
• Preparing sandwiches quickly and accurately.
• Working together as a team to manage customer flow.

Afternoon tasks

• Restocking ingredients.
• Cleaning dining areas.
• Handling orders from delivery apps.

Dinner hours

• Serving evening customers, often including families and commuters.
• Maintaining speed and accuracy even during busy periods.

Closing routine

• Cleaning kitchen equipment and surfaces.
• Storing leftover food properly.
• Securing cash registers and preparing reports.

Career Growth at Subway

Entry-level advancement

• Many employees start as sandwich artists and move into leadership roles within months.

Shift leader promotions

• Reliable workers often become shift leaders, gaining responsibility and higher pay.

Assistant manager roles

• Experienced staff may progress to assistant manager, overseeing operations and training.

Store management

• Store managers lead entire locations, managing staff, sales, and customer satisfaction.

Franchise opportunities

• Dedicated employees may eventually move into franchise ownership, creating long-term business opportunities.

Challenges of Working at Subway

Fast-paced environment

• Rush hours require quick service and multitasking.
• Employees must handle pressure while staying accurate.

Physical demands

• Standing for long periods.
• Repetitive tasks such as chopping and assembling sandwiches.

Customer interactions

• Workers may deal with impatient or demanding customers.
• Professionalism and patience are required.

Irregular schedules

• Shifts may include nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Flexibility is essential.

Strict food safety standards

• Employees must follow health and safety rules consistently.
• Mistakes in preparation or cleanliness can impact the whole store.

Why Subway Is a Strong Employer

• Accessible jobs requiring no previous experience.
• Competitive wages for entry-level work.
• Flexible scheduling to accommodate different lifestyles.
• Clear opportunities for promotions and long-term careers.
• Experience that builds teamwork, communication, and customer service skills.

Conclusion

Subway is one of the most reliable employers in the U.S. for those seeking accessible, flexible, and rewarding jobs. With potential monthly earnings of up to $1,860, employees enjoy stable pay, meal perks, and opportunities for career growth.

Although the job can be fast-paced and physically demanding, workers benefit from gaining valuable skills and advancing into leadership positions. For many, Subway serves as both a starting point in the workforce and a long-term career path.

From sandwich artist to store manager, employees at Subway contribute to one of the most recognized brands in the world while securing steady income and building a future.