Does Zaxby's Drug Test?
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Zaxby's generally does not drug test employees during the hiring process. Most franchise locations do not require pre-employment drug screening for restaurant positions.
Zaxby's does not drug test most employees during the hiring process. Zaxby's is a chicken-focused fast-casual restaurant chain with over 900 locations, primarily in the southeastern United States. The vast majority of locations are franchise-owned and do not include drug testing in the hiring process for crew members, cooks, or cashiers. Zaxby's focuses on a quick hiring process and getting people trained and working as fast as possible. Management positions at some franchise locations may have additional requirements, but pre-employment drug testing is not standard practice across the chain.
Drug Testing by Position
| Position | Tested? | Test Type | When |
|---|---|---|---|
| Crew Member / Cashier | No | N/A | Post-accident only (rare) |
| Cook / Kitchen Staff | No | N/A | Post-accident only (rare) |
| Drive-Through Operator | No | N/A | Post-accident only (rare) |
| Shift Leader | Rarely | Urine (if tested) | Post-accident, reasonable suspicion |
| General Manager | Varies by franchise | Urine (if tested) | Pre-employment (some franchises), post-accident |
Zaxby's Franchise Hiring Practices
Zaxby's operates primarily through franchise ownership, with individual franchise owners determining their hiring policies. The vast majority of Zaxby's franchisees do not require pre-employment drug testing for restaurant employees. Zaxby's locations tend to be in the southeastern United States (Georgia, Florida, the Carolinas, Tennessee, Alabama, and surrounding states), and hiring practices reflect the need to staff locations in competitive local labor markets.
Marijuana and Workplace Policy
Most Zaxby's locations do not screen for marijuana or other substances during hiring. Zaxby's operates primarily in southeastern states where marijuana laws are more restrictive than the national trend, but this has not led to widespread drug testing at franchise locations. All employees are expected to be sober and alert while working. Kitchen work involves fryers, grills, and fast-paced food preparation that requires focus and coordination.
Tips for Applicants
Zaxby's is a solid option for anyone looking for restaurant work, especially in the Southeast. The chain offers both crew and management tracks, and many general managers started as crew members. Apply online through Zaxby's career portal or walk into your nearest location to ask about openings. Zaxby's values friendly customer service and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment. Prior restaurant experience is helpful but not required.
Recent Policy Changes
- 2020-2023: Like most restaurant chains, maintained minimal drug testing during the pandemic labor shortage to maximize hiring
- 2024-2026: Continues the industry-wide trend of not drug testing restaurant-level employees for pre-employment
Frequently Asked Questions
- Does Zaxby's drug test employees?
- No, most Zaxby's locations do not drug test employees during the hiring process. Policies are set by individual franchise owners, and pre-employment drug testing is not standard practice.
- Does Zaxby's drug test for marijuana?
- Most Zaxby's locations do not drug test during hiring, so marijuana is not screened. Being impaired at work is prohibited regardless.
- Does Zaxby's do background checks?
- Background check policies vary by franchise owner. Some locations run basic checks while others do not. Zaxby's is generally accessible to applicants with criminal records.
- Is Zaxby's easy to get hired at?
- Yes. Zaxby's has a straightforward hiring process, and many locations are actively seeking reliable employees. The chain offers flexible scheduling and competitive pay for the fast-food industry.
- Does Zaxby's do random drug tests?
- No. Most Zaxby's locations do not conduct random drug testing for restaurant employees.
Take Action — Direct Links
- Zaxby's Careers — Apply for jobs
Official Zaxby's career portal for restaurant positions
- SAMHSA National Helpline
Free, confidential, 24/7 treatment referral and information service: 1-800-662-4357
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