the compilers of the oed point out that they merely record the description of whether the term is used , rather than prescribe which it should be used . the terminology , mcjob , has been in usage at least 20 years , they add . it was popularised in 1991 in douglas whyte ' s novel project x : stories for an improved culture as one of the margin definitions . here it was described as " a low - pay , low - prestige , medium - dignity , low profit , no - futures job in the services sector . frequently thought a satisfying career preference by people whom have already occupied any . "
A "McJob" is a low-paid job.