El Pollo Loco Retail Associate Interview Questions
& Process
Real candidates share what happened, how many rounds they had,
and how the experience turned out.
Based on 35 interview experiences · FREE TO READ
Candidate interview experiences
First-hand accounts from people who interviewed at El Pollo Loco.
El Pollo Loco
Cashier
Entry Average Positive experience Accept offer 1 round
Interview process
Recruiter call Background check Offer
Interview formats
Behavioral
I walked into the restaurant and asked for a paper application. I filled it out and gave it straight to the manager. A few days later, the manager called me to schedule an interview at the restaurant for the morning. I dressed in business clothes and arrived 15 minutes early. She asked to see my work authorization and asked me about the food industry. I showed her my resume, and she showed me some paperwork. She mentioned she'd call if I got the job. That same night, she called to offer me the job. The next few days, I went in for more paperwork and the initial training.
Confirmed questions2 questions
- Can you tell me about your experience in the food industry?
- Can you provide proof of authorization to work in the US?
El Pollo Loco
Chef
Mid Average Positive experience Accept offer 3 rounds
Interview process
Recruiter call Background check Offer
Interview formats
Behavioral Other
I applied for the vacancy via the internet and by mail. I was invited for a personal interview and received the results of the interview by phone. After that, I had a working conditions interview with the manager.
Confirmed questions1 question
- What do you bring to the table?
El Pollo Loco
Cashier
Entry Easy Neutral experience No offer 2 rounds
Interview process
Recruiter call Onsite Background check
Interview formats
Behavioral Other
I found an El Pollo Loco that had online applications and applied. One of them called me back within a week to set up an interview for that same day at 4:30PM. I got there a little early and checked in with what I think was a manager. He told me to sit down and someone would be with me. A few minutes later, a woman came and we exchanged names, shook hands, and moved to a table for two. I was expecting an office, but it was okay since it wasn't too busy. She asked about my current situation as a part-time student and if I had any previous jobs, which I didn't since this would be my first. I told her I was open to any position, and she seemed pleased, as most people just say cashier. I mentioned my customer service experience from volunteering and working with my aunt and dad, and she said my Spanish skills were a bonus. She also mentioned that if I got a second interview with the head manager, she would be the one to train me. She then said she didn't have more questions because I lacked experience, which made me feel bad. She seemed nice and implied I might get another interview. I gave her my resume, and she said she'd look at it and call me back. I didn't hear anything for a week, so I figured I should move on. About another week later, I got an email saying they were looking for someone more suitable.
Confirmed questions1 question
- Can you tell me three negative qualities about yourself?
El Pollo Loco Retail Associate Interview Questions
Quoted word for word from El Pollo Loco interview reports.
“What is the acceptable amount to be short or over on cash?”
Read reports →“Can you recall a time you made someone happy?”
Read reports →“Can you provide proof of authorization to work in the US?”
Read reports →“What do you know about the space?”
Read reports →“Can you tell me about the best teacher you ever had and explain why?”
Read report →“Would you be able to communicate with customers in Spanish regarding the menu?”
Read report →“What do you like to do in your free time?”
Read report →“What makes you want to join El Pollo Loco?”
Read report →“Would you consider working at a different store location?”
Read report →Formats, difficulty and experience
Across all 35 El Pollo Loco interview reports.