Applebee's Careers 2026 - Jobs and How to Apply
Positions available across 1,600 plus US locations from entry level to management
Applebee's hires for positions including servers, cooks, hosts, bartenders, and management roles across its 1,600 plus US locations. Most hiring is done by individual franchise owners rather than corporate headquarters, so application processes can vary slightly by location.
Common Applebee's Positions
How to Apply to Applebee's
Find openings near you
Visit applebees.com and find the careers or jobs section, or search Applebee's careers on Indeed and similar job sites. Since hiring is managed by individual franchise groups, openings vary by location.
Search by location
Search for openings near your location since hiring is managed by individual franchise groups. Filter by position type and distance to find roles that match your availability and experience.
Submit your application
Submit an application with your resume and availability. Most locations use online application forms that take 15 to 30 minutes to complete including your work history and references.
Interview at the location
If selected, you will typically be contacted for an interview at the specific location. Interviews are usually conducted by the shift manager or general manager and include questions about your availability and customer service experience.
Complete training
New hires usually complete brief training before starting shifts. Training covers menu knowledge, point of sale systems, food safety protocols, and Applebee's service standards.
What to Expect Working at Applebee's
Server and bartender roles at Applebee's typically pay an hourly base wage plus tips, which can significantly increase total earnings during busy shifts. Kitchen and host positions are typically paid hourly without tips. Many locations offer flexible scheduling which makes these roles popular for students and those seeking part time work. Employee meal discounts are common at most locations. Benefits including health insurance and 401k plans may be available for full time employees depending on the franchise group.
Career Advancement at Applebee's
Applebee's promotes heavily from within, and many general managers started as servers, hosts, or line cooks. Entry level team members who demonstrate reliability, strong customer service skills, and a willingness to learn can move into shift manager roles typically within 12 to 18 months. Shift managers oversee daily operations including opening and closing procedures, cash handling, and team coordination. From shift manager, the next step is assistant general manager and then general manager, with each promotion bringing increased pay and additional benefits. Corporate and franchise support center roles in marketing, operations, training, and supply chain are also available for experienced restaurant professionals seeking to move beyond the restaurant floor.
What Applebee's Looks for in Applicants
For entry level positions, Applebee's values enthusiasm, reliability, and a positive attitude over prior restaurant experience. Servers should be comfortable interacting with guests and working in a fast paced environment during peak meal periods. Kitchen roles require attention to detail and the ability to follow standardized recipes consistently. Bartenders need knowledge of common cocktails and the ability to manage both bar guests and server drink orders simultaneously. For management positions, prior restaurant or retail management experience is typically required along with strong problem solving skills and the ability to lead a team through busy shifts while maintaining food quality and service standards.
Applebee's Careers FAQ
How old do you have to be to work at Applebee's?
Minimum age requirements vary by state and position. Most states require workers to be at least 16 for non-alcohol serving roles like host or food runner, while serving or handling alcohol typically requires being 18 or 21 depending on state law.
Does Applebee's pay weekly?
Pay schedules vary by franchise owner and location. Some Applebee's locations pay weekly while others pay biweekly. This is determined by the specific franchise group operating that restaurant, not by Applebee's corporate.
Is Applebee's a good place to work?
Experiences vary by location since each restaurant is independently owned and operated. Server and bartender positions can offer strong earning potential through tips, particularly during happy hour and weekend shifts. Research reviews for your specific local Applebee's location for the most relevant information.