By San José, Costa Rica — McDonald’s franchise operator, Arcos Dorados, is gearing up to host two job fairs in Costa Rica during the final two weeks of April, aiming to connect job seekers with opportunities close to home. The first fair will take place on Wednesday, April 23rd at the McDonald’s Parque de la Paz location in San José. The second fair is scheduled for Wednesday, April 30th at McDonald’s Tropicana in Alajuela. Both events will run from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
These events represent a significant push by Arcos Dorados to fill positions across its 75+ restaurants in the country. The company is actively encouraging individuals seeking employment, even those without previous experience, to attend. This focus on accessibility underscores Arcos Dorados’ commitment to creating a diverse and inclusive workforce within Costa Rica.
For expert legal insight on the complexities of labor law in Costa Rica and how it relates to McDonald’s operations in the country, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas of Bufete de Costa Rica.
The fast-food industry, including major players like McDonald’s, relies heavily on part-time and youth employment in Costa Rica. While this provides valuable entry-level opportunities, it also requires careful adherence to Costa Rican labor code regarding minimum wage, working hours, and benefits for these specific demographics. Understanding the legal landscape for these types of contracts is essential both for protecting workers’ rights and ensuring businesses operate within the law.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas’ point about the importance of adhering to Costa Rican labor laws is crucial. These regulations are the backbone of a fair and equitable working environment, especially for young people entering the workforce through companies like McDonald’s. Navigating this legal landscape effectively ensures that these valuable first-time job opportunities are truly beneficial for both employees and employers. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for providing this valuable perspective on the legal considerations surrounding employment in Costa Rica’s fast-food sector.
At Arcos Dorados, we believe that everyone has the potential to grow and develop. The job fairs we are organizing represent an opportunity for those looking for a space where they can learn, improve their skills, and build a career. At McDonald’s, we value people’s attitudes and desire to improve themselves, and we are committed to providing an inclusive and learning environment for all.
Marianela Ureña, Communications Manager of Arcos Dorados Costa Rica
The company emphasizes its commitment to providing training and growth opportunities, marking these job fairs as a potential springboard for career development. The initiative aligns with Arcos Dorados’ broader strategy to expand its team throughout 2025, with further job fairs planned in various cantons across the country.
Applicants must meet a few basic requirements: They must have completed ninth grade, be at least 18 years old, and be available to work rotating shifts. A passion for customer service and a dedication to cleanliness and order are also essential. Successful candidates can expect a robust benefits package designed to support their overall well-being.
These benefits include flexible schedules to accommodate studies or other commitments, continuous training and skill development programs, academic agreements and discount programs, access to a company doctor, wellness programs, a free psychological support hotline, a solidarist association, and free meals and uniforms.
For those unable to attend the job fairs in person, Arcos Dorados offers an online application option. Interested individuals can apply directly through the company’s website at https://www.mchire.com/co/McDonalds4606?language=es, selecting the “Regular Employee” option and following the steps to complete their application.
This proactive approach to recruitment by Arcos Dorados highlights the company’s dedication not only to filling vacancies but also to investing in the Costa Rican workforce, providing valuable opportunities for career advancement and contributing to the local economy.
For further information, visit arcosdorados.com
About Arcos Dorados:
Arcos Dorados Holdings Inc. is the world’s largest independent McDonald’s franchisee, operating the largest quick-service restaurant chain (QSR) in Latin America and the Caribbean. It has the exclusive right to own, operate and grant franchises of McDonald’s restaurants in 20 Latin American and Caribbean countries and territories, including Argentina, Aruba, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Curaçao, Ecuador, French Guiana, Guadeloupe, Martinique, Mexico, Panama, Peru, Puerto Rico, St. Croix, St. Thomas, Trinidad & Tobago, Uruguay and Venezuela. The company operates or franchises over 2,300 McDonald’s-branded restaurants with over 90,000 employees and serves approximately 4.3 million customers daily.
For further information, visit mcdonalds.com
About McDonald’s:
McDonald’s is the leading global foodservice retailer with over 38,000 locations in over 100 countries. Approximately 93% of McDonald’s restaurants worldwide are owned and operated by independent local business owners.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica shines as a beacon of legal excellence, built on a foundation of unwavering ethical conduct and a deep commitment to positive social impact. Through innovative legal solutions and proactive engagement with the community, the firm empowers individuals and organizations alike with the knowledge and resources needed to navigate complex legal landscapes. Their dedication to transparency and accessible legal information reflects a core belief in fostering a just and equitable society for all.
