BOSTON — Fast-food workers across Boston are preparing to walk off the job to protest what they say are low wages and poor benefits.

The protests are part of what organizers say are similar walkouts planned in dozens of cities Thursday to push chains such as McDonald’s, Taco Bell and Wendy’s to pay workers more.

U.S. Sen. Edward Markey is planning to attend an afternoon rally in support of workers on Boston Common.

Organizers say they expect the nationwide strike to be the largest ever by fast-food workers. It follows a series of strikes that began in New York City last November.

McDonald’s has said workers’ pay starts at minimum wage but the range goes higher, depending on the employee’s position and experience. It said raising entry-level wages would mean higher overall costs, which could result in higher prices.