Q: people who work fast food and retail at the ground level, how much do you get paid?
A: The minimum wage in Missouri is currently $6.65 per hour, and that's what you are likely to start at in most fast food jobs. Beyond that, it gets a little more complicated. Retail stores, especially those that want to look high end, will sometimes pay a bit more than minimum wage, in part because they want to be able to be a little more choosy about whom they hire. If they pay more (even $7.00 or $7.50), they get a better selection. If you work for Wal-Mart, you are likely to get the minimum. But at a dress shop, an electronics store, or even Costco, you will usually get a nice bump above minimum wage. Also, retail stores may give you benefits (like an employee discount). Don't forget restaurants. Servers at sit-down restaurants (even the busboys) get a portion of the tip money. That can make a big difference. Typically, the wait staff gets 2/3 of the tip and the busboys get 1/3. Good luck!!