This position is open to all applicants, with no diploma required, making it especially attractive for young workers or individuals looking to change careers. While no formal qualifications are necessary, training in food service or production can be a plus for faster progression.
Some brands offer on-the-job training from day one, covering procedures, techniques, and hygiene rules. It is also possible to pursue a CAP in Cuisine or a CAP in Food Service and Production (fast food, collective catering, cafeteria), or to enroll in a work-study program through a company or a specialized temporary work agency.
This profession values motivation, punctuality, and the ability to learn quickly more than formal education.
What is the salary of a production crew member ?
A production crew member’s salary typically starts around the minimum wage, which in 2025 is approximately €1,801.80 gross per month for full-time work. This amount may vary slightly depending on the company, location, and type of contract (permanent, temporary, or apprenticeship).
Additional bonuses may apply, especially for night shifts, Sunday work, or periods of high customer traffic. Some employers also offer performance bonuses or in-kind benefits such as meals or transportation allowances.
With experience and good procedural knowledge, a crew member can move up to multi-skilled crew member, then to team leader or assistant manager—offering rapid salary progression in many companies.
What are the working conditions like?
Being a production crew member requires a sustained work rhythm and physical endurance. The workday is typically punctuated by busy service periods, especially during mealtimes. Crew members work standing for long periods, often in hot, noisy environments, especially in the kitchen.
Work hours vary, with evening, weekend, and sometimes split shifts (lunch and dinner service with a break in between). Strict hygiene compliance is mandatory, including wearing a uniform, frequent hand washing, and regular surface disinfection.
Despite the demands, this job is highly instructive and helps build valuable skills sought after in the food service industry.
What are the career prospects for a production crew member?
The position of production crew member is an excellent entry-level job in the restaurant sector, particularly in fast food or institutional catering. With on-the-job training and accumulated experience, it is possible to quickly advance to roles with greater responsibilities.
With discipline and motivation, a crew member can become multi-skilled, then take on roles such as trainer, team leader, or even assistant manager or restaurant manager. These promotions are common in large chains, which often favor internal advancement and offer structured career development paths.
Some individuals, after gaining several years of experience, may choose to move into restaurant management, food logistics, or even pursue entrepreneurship in the food service industry.