TLDR: There's no shame in working for McDonald's if it pays better and has better working conditions. Go work there and use the extra time/money to get the cred

TLDR: There's no shame in working for McDonald's if it pays better and has better working conditions. Go work there and use the extra time/money to get the credentials you need to advance your career. > In the past 2 weeks we've had 3 people quit from just my team Now is the time to have a frank 1-1 with your superior. Point out that they are having trouble retaining employees, and that you can quickly make more money, and have a better life, working at McDonald's. Don't demand a raise or make any threats. Just point out the facts. Then, here's the kicker: After about 1-2 weeks, get a job at McDonald's. There is no shame walking away from a "career" job because you can make a decent living elsewhere. When you quit, be very polite about it, and tell them that you'd happily come back for ~50k / year with reasonable hours. Make sure they know the door is always open, and that you're just doing this because of the "realities of the economy and your need to support your family." Then, enjoy your job and McDonald's. Do good work, try to get promoted. At the same time, continue your education and look for a career job. When interviewed, if anyone asks why you went to work at McDonald's, just be honest: "I quit my job at XXX because McDonald's paid more and had more reasonable hours. The better pay and reasonable hours allowed me to continue my education." If your current employer calls you back, hold firm that they need to pay you more then McDonald's.