Whataburger, the beloved fast-food chain known for its fresh, made-to-order burgers, offers exciting career opportunities across its growing network of restaurants. From its humble beginnings in Corpus Christi, Texas, Whataburger has expanded to over 890 locations spanning 14 states. The company provides competitive salaries, benefits, and leadership development programs for employees looking to advance their careers in the food service industry.
Job seekers can explore various positions at Whataburger, including restaurant team leaders and other management roles. The company emphasizes fostering a positive work environment and supporting employee growth. Whataburger’s commitment to its staff extends beyond just compensation, as it also focuses on creating chances for workers to make meaningful impacts in their local communities.
Whataburger Company Overview
Whataburger is an iconic fast-food chain known for its made-to-order burgers and distinctive orange-and-white striped restaurants. The company has grown from a single location to hundreds of restaurants across multiple states.
History of Whataburger
Whataburger was founded in 1950 by Harmon Dobson in Corpus Christi, Texas. Dobson’s vision was to create a burger so big it took two hands to hold. The first Whataburger sold for 25 cents and was an instant hit.
Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, the chain expanded across Texas. By 1967, Whataburger had opened its 40th restaurant. The company introduced its iconic A-frame building design in 1961, which became a recognizable feature of the brand.
In 2019, BDT Capital Partners acquired a majority stake in Whataburger, though the founding Dobson family retains minority ownership.
Mission and Values
Whataburger’s mission centers on delivering high-quality food and exceptional customer service. The company emphasizes fresh ingredients and made-to-order meals.
Key values include:
- Pride in every burger
- Treating employees like family
- Giving back to local communities
Whataburger invests in employee development, offering leadership training programs. The company also supports various charitable initiatives, focusing on hunger relief, education, and disaster recovery efforts.
Current Scale and Locations
As of 2024, Whataburger operates over 890 locations across 14 states. The majority of restaurants are in Texas, but the chain has expanded to:
- Alabama
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- Florida
- Georgia
- Kansas
- Louisiana
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- New Mexico
- Oklahoma
- Tennessee
Whataburger continues to grow, with plans to enter new markets. The company employs thousands of workers across its restaurants and corporate offices. Its headquarters remain in San Antonio, Texas, where it oversees operations, marketing, and product development.
Career Opportunities
Whataburger offers diverse career paths across restaurant operations, leadership, and corporate roles. The company provides opportunities for growth and development at all levels.
Restaurant Team Positions
Restaurant team members form the backbone of Whataburger’s operations. These roles include cashiers, cooks, and dining room attendants. Team members gain valuable customer service and food preparation skills.
Whataburger emphasizes a positive work environment and teamwork. The company offers flexible scheduling options to accommodate students and part-time workers.
Entry-level positions provide a foundation for advancement within the organization. Many team members progress to supervisory roles over time.
Leadership Roles
Whataburger develops leaders through its management training programs. Assistant managers and general managers oversee daily restaurant operations.
These roles involve scheduling, inventory management, and staff development. Leaders ensure food quality and customer satisfaction standards are met.
Whataburger provides competitive salaries and benefits for management positions. The company promotes from within, offering a clear path for career growth.
Area managers supervise multiple restaurant locations. This role requires strong business acumen and leadership abilities.
Corporate Careers
Whataburger’s corporate offices offer positions in various departments. These include marketing, finance, human resources, and information technology.
Corporate roles support the company’s overall strategy and restaurant operations. Many positions require specialized skills or educational backgrounds.
The company culture emphasizes innovation and continuous improvement. Corporate employees often collaborate with restaurant teams to enhance processes.
Whataburger provides professional development opportunities for corporate staff. This includes training programs and potential for advancement within departments.
Company Culture and Events
Whataburger fosters a strong sense of community and family among its employees. The company organizes various events and initiatives to celebrate its unique culture and recognize outstanding team members.
Family Member Stories
Whataburger employees, affectionately called “Family Members,” often share inspiring stories of their experiences within the company. These narratives highlight personal growth, career advancement, and the supportive work environment.
Many Family Members have risen through the ranks, starting as entry-level workers and progressing to leadership positions. Their stories emphasize Whataburger’s commitment to internal promotion and professional development.
The company actively encourages employees to share their journeys, creating a sense of camaraderie and motivation among team members. These personal accounts serve as powerful testimonials for potential recruits and reinforce the company’s values.
Orange Spirit Week and Events
Orange Spirit Week is an annual celebration of Whataburger’s culture and brand identity. The event typically features themed days, team-building activities, and special recognition for outstanding employees.
During OSW, restaurants and corporate offices are decked out in orange decorations. Employees participate in costume contests, trivia games, and community service projects.
The OSW Kickoff marks the beginning of this exciting week. In 2019 and 2021, the kickoffs included virtual elements to ensure widespread participation across all locations.
These events boost morale, strengthen team bonds, and reinforce Whataburger’s core values. They also provide opportunities for employees to showcase their creativity and passion for the brand.
The Whataburger Whatagames
The Whataburger Whatagames is an annual competition that tests employees’ skills and knowledge. Teams from different restaurants compete in various challenges related to customer service, food preparation, and company procedures.
The 2019 Whatagames saw intense competition, with top-performing teams advancing through regional rounds to the final event. Winners receive recognition, prizes, and the prestige of being the best of the best within the Whataburger family.
This event not only motivates employees to excel in their roles but also promotes a spirit of friendly competition. It serves as a unique training opportunity, allowing participants to sharpen their skills and learn from their peers.
The Whatagames exemplify Whataburger’s commitment to excellence and continuous improvement in its workforce.
Development and Training
Whataburger invests heavily in employee growth through comprehensive training programs and clear career paths. The company’s commitment to developing talent from within creates opportunities for team members at all levels.
Onboarding Process
New Whataburger team members undergo a structured onboarding program. This process introduces them to company culture, values, and operational standards. Trainees receive hands-on experience in food preparation, customer service, and safety protocols.
The onboarding curriculum combines classroom instruction with on-the-job training. Experienced team leaders guide newcomers through each step. This approach ensures consistent quality across all Whataburger locations.
Career Progression and Promotion
Whataburger offers clear pathways for career advancement. Team members can progress from entry-level positions to management roles. The company prioritizes internal promotions, recognizing and rewarding talent within its ranks.
Performance evaluations and skill assessments help identify high-potential employees. These team members receive additional training and mentorship. Leadership development programs prepare promising staff for supervisory positions.
Whataburger’s promotion system is merit-based. Hard work, consistent performance, and a positive attitude are key factors in career growth.
Whataburger University
Whataburger University is the company’s flagship training program. It provides advanced education for team members aspiring to leadership roles. The curriculum covers topics such as restaurant management, business operations, and team leadership.
Courses at Whataburger University blend classroom learning with practical exercises. Participants engage in role-playing scenarios and case studies. This approach helps them develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Graduation from Whataburger University often leads to increased responsibilities and promotional opportunities. The program plays a crucial role in shaping the company’s future leaders.
Rewards and Recognition
Whataburger values its employees and offers various incentives to show appreciation. The company provides competitive compensation, educational assistance, and special events to recognize staff contributions.
Competitive Pay and Benefits
Whataburger offers competitive salaries to attract and retain top talent. Employees receive comprehensive health insurance plans, including medical, dental, and vision coverage. The company provides paid time off, allowing workers to maintain a healthy work-life balance. Retirement savings options are available through 401(k) plans with company matching. Whataburger also offers life insurance and disability coverage to provide financial security for employees and their families.
Scholarship Programs
Whataburger supports its employees’ educational pursuits through scholarship programs. The company awards annual scholarships to eligible team members and their dependents. These scholarships can be used for tuition, books, and other educational expenses at accredited colleges, universities, or vocational schools. The selection process considers academic achievement, community involvement, and financial need.
Employee Events and Appreciation
Whataburger hosts regular events to foster team spirit and show appreciation. The company organizes annual picnics and holiday parties for employees and their families. Whataburger participates in teacher appreciation events, offering special discounts or meals to educators. Employee recognition programs highlight outstanding performance and milestones. Team members receive service awards for years of dedication to the company. Whataburger also celebrates work anniversaries with special gifts or bonuses.
Community Involvement and Impact
Whataburger demonstrates a strong commitment to making a positive impact in local communities. The company engages in various initiatives that support education, address food insecurity, and contribute to regional development.
Corporate Social Responsibility
Whataburger’s corporate social responsibility efforts focus on creating meaningful connections within communities. The company’s signature program, Feeding Student Success, targets the intersection of food insecurity and education. This initiative supports college resource rooms and provides scholarships to students in need.
Whataburger also prioritizes environmental sustainability in its operations. The company implements recycling programs and explores energy-efficient solutions in its restaurants. These efforts aim to reduce the environmental footprint of Whataburger’s operations.
Philanthropic Endeavors
Whataburger’s philanthropic activities extend beyond its core business operations. The company partners with local food banks and charitable organizations to combat hunger in communities where it operates. Whataburger regularly donates food and resources to support these causes.
Educational support is another key focus of Whataburger’s philanthropy. The company offers scholarships to employees and their children, promoting educational advancement within the Whataburger family. Additionally, Whataburger supports local schools through sponsorships and donations of educational materials.
Regional Community Events
Whataburger actively participates in and sponsors regional community events. These activities help strengthen the company’s connection with local residents and foster a sense of community pride. Some examples include:
- Sponsoring local sports teams and youth leagues
- Participating in town festivals and fairs
- Organizing charity runs and walkathons
Whataburger employees often volunteer at these events, further reinforcing the company’s commitment to community engagement. These activities provide opportunities for employees to give back to their communities while representing the Whataburger brand.
Applying for a Career at Whataburger
Whataburger offers diverse career opportunities across its restaurants and corporate offices. The company values dedicated individuals who are passionate about customer service and delivering quality food.
Application Process
To apply for a position at Whataburger, visit their official careers website. Browse available job openings and select the role that matches your skills and interests. Create an account on the platform to submit your application online.
Fill out the application form with accurate personal information, work history, and qualifications. Some positions may require additional assessments or questionnaires. Submit your completed application and wait for a response from the hiring team.
Whataburger typically reviews applications within 1-2 weeks. If selected, you’ll receive an invitation for an interview via email or phone.
Interview Tips
Prepare for your Whataburger interview by researching the company’s history, values, and menu offerings. Dress professionally and arrive 10-15 minutes early for in-person interviews.
Be ready to discuss your relevant experience and why you want to work at Whataburger. Highlight your customer service skills and ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
Practice common interview questions and prepare examples of how you’ve handled challenging situations in previous roles. Show enthusiasm for the position and ask thoughtful questions about the role and company culture.
Resume and Cover Letter Advice
Tailor your resume to highlight skills relevant to the position you’re applying for at Whataburger. Include previous food service or customer-facing experience if applicable.
Use bullet points to list key achievements and responsibilities from past jobs. Quantify your accomplishments where possible, such as “served an average of 100 customers per shift” or “trained 5 new team members.”
In your cover letter, express your genuine interest in working for Whataburger. Mention specific aspects of the company that appeal to you, such as its commitment to quality or community involvement.
Keep both documents concise and error-free. Use clear, professional language and formatting to make a strong first impression.