Sept. 26, 2025

Sixty jobs are coming to Harrisburg with the opening of McDonald’s later this year.

Family-owned franchisee Leonard Management is building the restaurant at 148 N. Cliff Ave., across the street from B&G Milkyway.

Hiring will begin in October with an opening expected in early December, said Nate Leonard, who owns the company with his father, Steve, and brother-in-law, Blake Zogleman.

“When the opportunity arose to open a new location in Harrisburg, we were immediately drawn to the idea,” Leonard said. “Harrisburg has the unique charm of a small town combined with the exciting energy of a community that’s rapidly growing. That sense of close-knit connection, where neighbors truly look out for one another, is something we value deeply.”

The McDonald’s in Harrisburg will be the 41st location for Nebraska-based Leonard Management, which opened its first McDonald’s in 1991 in Missouri Valley, Iowa. There are two other locations in Iowa, 28 in Nebraska, soon-to-be nine in South Dakota and one in Minnesota. The South Dakota cities are Madison, Yankton, Huron, Chamberlain, Winner and Pierre, and Mitchell with two.

No other sites are under development now, but “we are always eager to expand to continue serving communities and McDonald’s customers,” Leonard said.

The Harrisburg restaurant will have a double-lane drive-thru, kiosk and counter ordering with seating inside, and pickup options inside and outside for mobile orders.

Leonard Management is looking forward to becoming part of the community, Leonard said.

“Community involvement has always been at the heart of what we do, and we’re eager to bring that same spirit to Harrisburg. From supporting local schools and community events to partnering with organizations like the fire department, our goal is to be a genuine part of the community.

“At our groundbreaking, we had the chance to connect with the Harrisburg Fire Department and make a donation in recognition of the incredible work they do to keep the community and surrounding areas safe. We look forward to building more of these partnerships and finding meaningful ways to give back as Harrisburg grows.”

Once hiring begins, positions will be posted at LeonardMCD.com.