Cub Foods is one of the leading grocery store chains across the Midwestern United States, known for its large-format supermarkets, competitive pricing, and focus on delivering quality products. As a popular employer in retail and food service, many job seekers—from high school students to career-driven professionals—are curious: How much does Cub Foods pay per hour? This comprehensive article answers that question while exploring wage trends, benefits, job opportunities, factors influencing pay, and how Cub Foods compares to other major grocery chains.
Whether you’re considering applying for a position at Cub Foods, evaluating a job offer, or comparing wages in the retail industry, this guide will equip you with the latest, well-researched information.
Overview of Cub Foods and Its Employment Landscape
Cub Foods was first established in 1968 and is currently operated by Ahold Delhaize USA, one of the largest food retail groups in the country. The chain operates over 75 locations across Minnesota, Illinois, and Indiana—mostly suburban and bustling urban markets. As part of the Fresh & Easy family of brands, which also includes Jewel-Osco, Stop & Shop, and Hannaford, Cub Foods benefits from regional market strength and economies of scale.
These operations require a large workforce, making Cub Foods a significant regional employer. From cashiers and stock clerks to pharmacy technicians and management, the company offers a broad range of employment opportunities, many of which are hourly paid positions.
But the central question remains: What can you expect to earn at Cub Foods on an hourly basis?
Current Hourly Wages at Cub Foods (2024 Data)
Wages at Cub Foods vary depending on job role, location, experience, and union status. The grocery industry in the Midwest sees consistent pressure to raise pay due to cost-of-living increases, labor shortages, and competitive hiring practices.
Based on aggregated data from employee reports (via Glassdoor, Indeed, and PayScale), public job postings, and regional labor board filings, here is a general breakdown of hourly wages at Cub Foods in 2024:
Entry-Level and Frontline Positions
Cashier
Cashiers are among the most common roles at Cub Foods. In most locations, cashiers start at a range between $14.00 and $17.50 per hour. Urban stores or unionized locations may pay nearer to $17.50 or above, especially in higher-cost areas such as Minneapolis or Chicago suburbs.
Stock Clerk / Overnight Stocker
Stocking shelves and organizing inventory falls under this category. Starting wages typically range from $14.50 to $18.00 per hour. Overnight shifts may include small premium pay bonuses, usually around $1–$2 per hour.
Bagger / Courtesy Clerk
Primarily part-time or seasonal roles, baggers generally earn between $13.50 and $16.00 per hour. Pay scales may increase slightly with seniority or regional demand.
Customer Service Associate
These employees assist with returns, price checks, and general store support. Pay ranges between $15.00 and $17.75, with higher-end pay in areas where customer experience is prioritized.
Specialty and Department-Specific Roles
Delicatessen (Deli) Associate
Deli workers prepare and serve food, handle meats and cheeses, and support specialty counters. Pay ranges between $15.00 and $18.50 per hour. Some experienced associates earn upward of $19 with tips or incentive schemes.
Butcher / Meat Department Associate
Trained meat cutters and butchers earn significantly more. Starting pay is around $17.00–$20.00 per hour, with skilled or lead butchers occasionally making over $23.00 hourly, especially in union shops.
Baker Associate
In-store bakery teams can expect wages in the range of $16.00 to $19.00 per hour. Specialized pastry bakers or overnight bakers may command higher hourly rates.
Pharmacy Technician
A highly technical role, pharmacy techs must be certified and often work under pharmacists. Salaries range from $17.50 to $23.00 per hour, depending on certification, workload, and experience.
Management and Supervisory Roles
Team Leader / Shift Supervisor
These positions involve leading store teams during shifts and assisting with customer flow. Hourly pay ranges from $18.00 to $22.00, influenced heavily by location and years of service.
Department Manager
Each major department (produce, meat, dairy, etc.) has a manager responsible for operations, staffing, and inventory. Managers typically earn between $22.00 and $28.00 per hour (equivalent to $45,000–$58,000 annually for full-time hours).
Store Manager
Store-level leadership roles are usually salaried but can be converted to hourly for comparison. A Cub Foods store manager may earn the equivalent of $30–$37 per hour based on a base salary of $62,000 to $77,000 annually.
| Position | Hourly Wage Range (2024) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cashier | $14.00 – $17.50 | Higher in urban areas |
| Stock Clerk | $14.50 – $18.00 | Overnight shifts may pay more |
| Bagger | $13.50 – $16.00 | Often seasonal or part-time |
| Deli Associate | $15.00 – $18.50 | May include tips |
| Butcher | $17.00 – $23.00 | Requires specialized skills |
| Pharmacy Tech | $17.50 – $23.00 | Certification required |
| Team Leader | $18.00 – $22.00 | Shift leadership duties |
| Department Manager | $22.00 – $28.00 | Mid-level management |
| Store Manager | $30.00 – $37.00* | Salaried but comparable hourly |
*Note: Store Manager hourly equivalent is based on average annual salary divided by 2,080 hours.
Factors That Influence Cub Foods Hourly Pay
Several key variables affect how much Cub Foods pays per hour. Understanding these can help job seekers assess their earning potential more accurately.
1. Geographic Location
Pay varies significantly by city and state. For example:
- Minneapolis, MN: Higher minimum wages push cashier pay upward from $15 to $17.50.
- Chicago, IL suburbs: Union influence and competitive labor markets enhance pay, often reaching $18+ for experienced positions.
- Rural Minnesota or Indiana locations: Wages may start at $14–$15 due to lower cost of living and fewer competitors.
2. Unionization and Collective Bargaining
Many Cub Foods employees in the Twin Cities metro area are represented by United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 653. This union negotiates comprehensive labor agreements that include wage scales, healthcare benefits, and job security.
Union contracts often result in:
- Predictable wage increases based on tenure
- Guaranteed pay minimums above state or federal requirements
- Additional premium pay for holidays and overnight work
Unionized employees generally earn 10–15% more than non-unionized peers at similar roles in non-unionized grocery chains.
3. Experience and Seniority
Cub Foods typically offers step increases—small pay bumps after 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years in a role. For example, a new cashier might start at $14.25, then rise to $15.50 after one year and $16.75 after two.
Department leads and veteran staff often achieve the upper limits of the pay scale simply through longevity and reliability.
4. Time of Hire and Market Demand
Cub Foods has periodically raised starting wages during labor shortages. In 2021–2023, due to hiring challenges post-pandemic, the company increased base wages at many locations. These increases often remain in place, creating pay differences between employees hired before and after such waves.
Hiring during peak seasons (e.g., holidays) might also result in temporary signing bonuses or higher base pay.
5. Department Complexity and Skill Requirements
Roles requiring certification, technical knowledge, or direct customer interaction tend to pay more. Pharmacy techs and butchers naturally earn higher hourly wages because of their specialized skills and responsibilities compared to general stockers.
Benefits and Perks at Cub Foods: Beyond Hourly Pay
While hourly wages are a primary concern, Cub Foods offers a comprehensive benefits package that significantly enhances overall compensation—especially for full-time employees.
Health and Wellness Benefits
Full-time Cub Foods staff are eligible for:
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- Prescription drug coverage
- Mental health and wellness programs
- Flexible spending accounts (FSAs)
Many union contracts also include enhanced healthcare plans with lower employee premiums.
Time Off and Paid Leave
- Paid vacation and sick time (accrual based on hours worked and tenure)
- Paid holidays—for example, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter
- Bereavement and jury duty leave
On average, employees with one year of service earn 10–15 days of paid time off annually.
Retirement and Financial Security
Cub Foods offers a 401(k) retirement savings plan with employer matching. Employees can contribute pre-tax income, and the company matches a percentage (typically up to 4–6%) based on years of service.
Employee Discounts and Perks
– Discounted groceries at Cub Foods stores (typically 10–20% off)
– Discounts on fuel at affiliated gas stations
– Access to exclusive employee deals and promotions
This can equate to hundreds of dollars in annual savings, equivalent to a modest wage increase.
Training and Advancement Opportunities
Cub Foods promotes from within and offers:
– Paid on-the-job training
– Cross-training in departments
– Leadership development programs
– Tuition assistance for eligible employees pursuing higher education
These opportunities not only improve job satisfaction but also lead to pay raises and promotions over time.
How Cub Foods Compares to Other Grocery Chains
To truly understand Cub Foods’ pay scale, it helps to benchmark it against other major grocers. Here’s how Cub Foods stacks up:
Comparison with Target (SuperTarget)
Target operates grocery departments in many of its SuperTarget stores. While similar in scope, Target often pays slightly higher wages:
– Cashiers: $15.00–$18.00
– Stockers: $15.50–$19.00
– Team leads: $20.00–$25.00
Target also offers better national health plans and more robust tuition reimbursement.
However, Cub Foods often compensates with union-backed job protections and strong retiree benefits.
Comparison with Walmart (Supercenter)
Walmart has historically paid at or near the federal minimum wage but has steadily increased pay due to competition.
– Walmart hourly associates: $14.00–$17.00
– Department managers: $20.00–$25.00
While Walmart’s entry-level pay overlaps with Cub Foods, management pay and benefits are generally lower. However, Walmart may offer larger stores, more shift flexibility, and nationwide transfer options.
Comparison with Hy-Vee
Hy-Vee, another Midwestern grocery chain, is known for above-average pay and strong employee benefits.
– Cashiers: $15.00–$19.00
– Butchers: $18.00–$24.00
– Pharmacy techs: $18.00–$25.00
Hy-Vee pays slightly more than Cub Foods on average, particularly in non-union areas. Both chains are highly respected regionally.
Comparison with Trader Joe’s
Trader Joe’s pays significantly above industry standards:
– Crew members: $17.00–$22.00 starting
– Store management: $70,000–$100,000 annually
However, Trader Joe’s operates fewer locations and has a more competitive hiring process.
Ultimately, Cub Foods offers a competitive wage and benefits package—especially in unionized areas—though it may not match the premium pay of boutique grocers.
Tips for Maximizing Earnings at Cub Foods
Whether you’re applying for your first job or looking to grow professionally, here are five ways to increase your hourly pay at Cub Foods.
1. Aim for Specialized Roles
Positions in the deli, bakery, meat department, pharmacy, or floral center often offer higher starting hourly rates. If you have an interest in a specialty area, get trained and cross-certified.
2. Target Unionized Stores
If you live in a region with union representation (primarily Minnesota and parts of Illinois), choose a unionized Cub Foods location. The collective bargaining agreements ensure better wages, consistent raises, and stronger benefits.
3. Gain Experience and Seek Promotions
Cub Foods values internal candidates. An employee starting as a stocker can move into a team lead role within 12–18 months with consistent performance. Then, in 3–5 years, they may qualify for department management.
4. Work During High-Demand Shifts
Overnight stocking, early morning deliveries, and holiday shifts often come with premium pay or bonuses. Some employees strategically build their schedules to include these shifts for extra income.
5. Take Advantage of Employee Perks
Maximize the 20% grocery discount, FSA accounts, and tuition assistance. These non-wage benefits significantly improve your take-home value even if your base pay is modest.
Is Cub Foods a Good Place to Work?
Beyond wages, job satisfaction at Cub Foods depends on several factors:
Work Environment
Most employees report a positive, community-focused culture. The stores are generally clean, well-organized, and geared toward customer service. Cub Foods emphasizes teamwork and respect among coworkers.
Management Support
Feedback varies by location. Unionized workplaces benefit from standardized performance reviews and grievance procedures. In non-union stores, management quality can vary—some locations are well-managed, while others face turnover issues.
Scheduling and Flexibility
Store managers typically accommodate school schedules, parental responsibilities, and second jobs. However, weekend and holiday work are often required.
Opportunities for Growth
Cub Foods is known for promoting internally. A stocker today can become a front-end supervisor or department manager within a few years with dedication and good performance reviews.
Final Thoughts: How Much Does Cub Foods Pay Per Hour?
So, how much does Cub Foods pay per hour in 2024? The answer is nuanced. While starting pay in entry-level roles generally falls between $13.50 and $18.00 per hour, many factors—such as location, union status, department, and experience—can push earnings higher.
In unionized areas like the Twin Cities, workers in roles like deli associate or butcher commonly earn $18–$23 per hour, with benefits and paid time off substantially increasing net compensation. Management roles can command the equivalent of $30–$37 per hour, making Cub Foods an attractive employer in the Midwest retail grocery sector.
For job seekers, Cub Foods offers not only competitive pay but also a supportive work environment, growth opportunities, and meaningful benefits. While it may not match the premium wages of niche grocers, it provides solid middle-ground compensation for retail employees seeking stability and room to grow.
Ultimately, if you’re considering a job at Cub Foods, focus not just on the base hourly rate, but on the total package—wages, benefits, advancement potential, and workplace culture. In many cases, the long-term value outweighs the initial pay rate.
If you’re ready to explore retail jobs with strong community roots and fair pay, Cub Foods could be an excellent choice in 2024.
What is the average hourly wage for Cub Foods employees in 2024?
As of 2024, the average hourly wage for Cub Foods employees ranges between $13 and $19 per hour, depending on the position, geographic location, and level of experience. Entry-level roles such as grocery clerks, stockers, and baggers typically start at the lower end of this range, often beginning around $13 to $15 hourly. However, employees in specialized departments like pharmacy, deli, or those with leadership responsibilities such as shift supervisors or department managers tend to earn higher wages, sometimes reaching up to $19 per hour or more.
Regional differences significantly influence pay rates. For example, Cub Foods locations in high-cost-of-living areas such as parts of Minnesota or Wisconsin may offer higher starting wages to remain competitive and comply with local minimum wage laws. Additionally, wage increases in 2024 have been influenced by nationwide labor market trends, inflation adjustments, and efforts by parent company Instacart to attract and retain workers. Therefore, while $16 per hour may be a reasonable mid-range estimate for many associates, actual pay may vary based on these complex factors.
How does Cub Foods pay compare to other grocery chains in 2024?
In 2024, Cub Foods’ hourly pay is competitive with other regional and national grocery chains, though it may not always lead the market. Compared to major retailers like Kroger or Albertsons, which often offer base wages starting at $15+ per hour, Cub Foods’ starting wages are similar but can sometimes lag slightly depending on the locale. However, when compared to warehouse or discount grocery models like Walmart or Aldi, Cub Foods tends to provide comparable or sometimes slightly better compensation, especially when benefits are factored in.
One differentiating factor for Cub Foods is its focus on associate benefits and internal advancement opportunities. While some chains may offer marginally higher starting wages, Cub Foods often provides better access to employee discounts, healthcare benefits for part-time workers, and structured career development programs. In markets where Cub Foods is a dominant employer, it sometimes leads in wage competitiveness. Overall, their pay rates are considered fair and in line with industry standards for mid-tier regional grocery stores.
Do Cub Foods employees receive raises and how often?
Yes, Cub Foods employees are eligible for periodic performance-based raises. Typically, new hires undergo a 90-day probationary period after which their performance is evaluated. If the evaluation is satisfactory, employees may receive a wage increase. After the initial raise, additional increases are often tied to annual performance reviews, longevity with the company, or successful completion of training programs that qualify them for higher-responsibility roles.
The frequency and amount of raises can vary by store management and regional policies. In 2024, many Cub Foods locations have adopted more structured pay progression systems, especially in states with strong labor regulations. Employees who demonstrate reliability, take on additional duties, or cross-train in multiple departments are more likely to receive raises or promotions. Unionized locations may have predetermined wage scales and scheduled increases outlined in collective bargaining agreements, further ensuring predictable pay growth over time.
What factors influence Cub Foods hourly pay rates in different locations?
Several key factors influence Cub Foods hourly pay rates across different locations, with local cost of living being one of the most significant. Stores operating in urban areas or states with higher minimum wage requirements—such as certain cities in Minnesota or Illinois—typically offer higher base pay to comply with local ordinances and maintain workforce stability. Additionally, regional labor market conditions, including competition for workers and unemployment rates, play a crucial role in determining wage levels.
Store size, customer volume, and operational complexity also impact pay scales. Larger Cub Foods locations with expanded departments like pharmacy, bakery, or full-service delis may offer higher wages to attract skilled staff. Management decisions at the district or regional level, union presence, and corporate wage strategies implemented by Instacart also contribute to pay variation. These variables ensure that while national averages provide a useful benchmark, actual hourly rates are increasingly localized and responsive to economic conditions.
Are there part-time and full-time Cub Foods positions with different pay structures?
Part-time and full-time Cub Foods employees typically receive the same base hourly wage for equivalent roles, meaning that a part-time stocker and a full-time stocker are paid the same rate per hour. However, full-time employees often have access to additional benefits that can significantly enhance overall compensation. These include health insurance, paid time off, retirement plans with employer contributions, and educational reimbursement.
While hourly pay may not differ, full-time workers generally have more scheduling stability and opportunities for overtime, which can increase total earnings. Part-time roles are ideal for students, retirees, or those seeking flexible hours, but they may miss out on some benefits unless they meet specific eligibility thresholds, such as working a minimum number of hours per week. In 2024, Cub Foods has been working to improve part-time benefits in certain markets to support better retention and employee satisfaction.
What are the highest-paying hourly jobs at Cub Foods in 2024?
Among the highest-paying hourly positions at Cub Foods in 2024 are department managers, pharmacy technicians, and certified food service workers in specialized areas such as deli, meat, or bakery. Department managers, who supervise teams and manage inventory, can earn between $18 and $23 per hour depending on experience and location. Pharmacy technicians, especially those with state certification and specialized training, may earn upwards of $20 per hour due to the technical nature of the role.
Additionally, roles that require food handling licenses, knife skills, or customer service expertise—such as lead deli associates or meat cutters—often command higher wages within the store. These positions not only require additional training but also carry greater responsibility in ensuring quality and safety standards. In some cases, assistant store managers or shift leaders on an hourly basis can earn near $25 hourly, particularly in high-cost areas or during peak staffing needs, making these among the most lucrative hourly roles available.
Does Cub Foods offer bonuses or incentives in addition to hourly pay?
Yes, Cub Foods offers various bonuses and incentives in addition to hourly wages to motivate employees and reward performance. Seasonal bonuses, particularly during holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas, are common and may range from one-time payments of $100 to $300 for associates who meet specific tenure or attendance requirements. Some locations also offer retention bonuses to reduce turnover, especially in high-demand roles or during periods of labor shortage.
In addition to cash bonuses, Cub Foods provides incentives such as gift cards, associate recognition programs, and opportunities for extra shifts during busy periods. Employees who participate in training programs or take on cross-functional responsibilities may qualify for spot bonuses or wage premiums. Furthermore, employee purchase discounts on groceries and access to wellness programs add non-monetary value to overall compensation. These incentives, while not replacing base pay, enhance job satisfaction and total reward packages for team members.