Does Steak 'n Shake Drug Test?

Drug Testing by Position

Drug Test Type and Process

For the great majority of Steak 'n Shake crew and server applicants, there is no drug test — hiring is typically a quick application, a short interview, and onboarding, and many reviewers describe being hired with no screen and no in-depth background check. When a drug test does happen, it is usually reserved for management candidates or triggered after a workplace accident. In those cases it is a standard urine drug test at a third-party clinic, screening for marijuana, cocaine, opiates, amphetamines, and PCP. Because the chain mixes company-operated and franchise/franchise-partner locations, the exact process depends on the owner and state. If you are applying for a leadership role and want to be prepared, ask the hiring manager whether a pre-employment screen is part of the offer.

Marijuana Policy

Steak 'n Shake does not publish a single public marijuana-testing policy, and because most crew roles are not tested at hiring, off-duty marijuana use generally is not a barrier to being hired as a server, cook, or crew member. Being impaired on shift is prohibited everywhere. For management candidates who are tested, marijuana (THC) is part of the standard urine panel, and how a positive is handled can depend on the location and on state cannabis laws — several states now protect certain off-duty use. Like much of the fast-food and casual-dining industry since 2020, many operators have de-emphasized pre-employment THC screening for hourly roles amid labor shortages. If cannabis use is a concern and you are pursuing a management position, assume a test is more likely.

Tips for Applicants

Steak 'n Shake is a high-volume, frequently hiring employer, which makes it a practical option for first jobs and for people rebuilding after a record — crew and server roles rarely involve a drug test or a heavy background check, so a past record or off-duty cannabis use is often not a dealbreaker at that level. Apply through the official Steak 'n Shake careers site or in person, and be ready for a quick interview focused on availability, reliability, and customer service. If you are aiming for a shift-leader or manager role, prepare for the possibility of a pre-employment urine screen and give yourself time if needed. Because policies vary by owner and state, it is completely reasonable to ask the hiring manager directly whether a drug test is required before you accept.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Steak 'n Shake drug test at hiring?

Usually not for crew. Servers, cooks, and drive-thru/crew applicants overwhelmingly report no pre-employment drug test. Management candidates are more likely to be screened, and policy can vary between company-owned and franchise locations.

Does Steak 'n Shake drug test for weed?

For untested crew roles, off-duty marijuana use generally will not stop you from being hired. Where management candidates are tested, THC is on the standard panel and handling depends on the location and state law. Being impaired at work is always prohibited.

Does Steak 'n Shake drug test managers?

More often than crew. Shift leaders, assistant managers, and general managers are more likely to face a pre-employment urine drug test than servers or cooks, though it still varies by owner and state.

Will Steak 'n Shake test me if I get hurt on the job?

Often, yes. Even at locations that skip pre-employment testing for crew, many reserve the right to test after a workplace accident (post-accident) or when there is reasonable suspicion of impairment on shift.

Does Steak 'n Shake do a background check?

For most crew and server roles, applicants report little or no in-depth background check. Management roles may involve more screening. Because policies vary by location, confirm with the hiring manager for your specific position.

How do I know if my local Steak 'n Shake drug tests?

Ask the hiring manager directly. With a mix of company-owned and franchise locations, the only reliable answer comes from your specific restaurant — it is normal to ask before accepting an offer.