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Cafe Associate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Cafe Associate

Toledo, OH · On-site

$15.25 - $18.75/hr

IMAGINATION STATION Café Associate Part Time: Approximately 20-25 hours/week Description: This position reports to the Cafe Manager and is responsible for greeting and serving visitors and for ...

Cafe Associate

Middle Brook, MO

$14 - $17/hr

Café Associate- this is a seasonal position. Responsibilities * Assist Café Manager and / or lead in ensuring that food and beverage items are prepared and serviced according to recipes * Clean and ...

As a Café Associate, you'll help create an exceptional guest experience while supporting day-to-day café operations. Responsibilities may include: * Welcoming guests and providing friendly customer ...

CAFÉ ASSOCIATE *Workcampers Welcome* Summary of Position: Responsible for preparing food and beverage items in accordance with recipes and established Company standards to deliver extraordinary ...

Cafe Associate

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$17 - $21/hr

THE ROLE The Café Associate is responsible for providing quick and efficient service to customers in a variety of duties relating to a fast-casual food service experience. Some duties include ...

Midtown is looking for a friendly and driven Food & Beverage Associate to enhance our stellar ... Cleaning, stocking, and maintaining a safe and sanitary cafe workspace * Building lasting ...

Cafe Associate

Willowbrook, IL · On-site

$15 - $17/hr

Midtown is looking for a friendly and driven Food & Beverage Associate to enhance our stellar ... Cleaning, stocking, and maintaining a safe and sanitary café workspace * Building lasting ...

Cafe Associate

New York, NY

$17 - $20.75/hr

THE ROLE The Cafe Associate is responsible for providing quick and efficient service to customers in a variety of duties relating to a fast-casual food service experience. Some duties include ...

As a Cafe Associate, you'll help create an exceptional guest experience while supporting day-to-day cafe operations. Responsibilities may include: * Welcoming guests and providing friendly customer ...

As a Café Associate, you'll help create an exceptional guest experience while supporting day-to-day café operations. Responsibilities may include: * Welcoming guests and providing friendly customer ...

Cafe Associate

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$17 - $20.75/hr

THE ROLE The Café Associate is responsible for providing quick and efficient service to customers in a variety of duties relating to a fast-casual food service experience. Some duties include ...

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Cafe Associate information

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How much do cafe associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for cafe associate in the United States is $16.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $18.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are cafe associates?

Cafe associates are team members who work in cafes and coffee shops, assisting with tasks such as taking customer orders, preparing and serving food and beverages, handling payments, and maintaining a clean and welcoming environment. They often provide customer service, answer questions about menu items, and ensure that guests have a positive experience. Cafe associates may also help with restocking supplies, cleaning tables, and supporting other staff as needed.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Cafe Associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cafe Associate, you need customer service skills, basic food handling knowledge, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with point-of-sale (POS) systems, espresso machines, and food safety certifications like ServSafe are typically required. Strong communication, teamwork, and multitasking abilities help you stand out in this fast-paced environment. These skills and qualities are essential for delivering excellent customer experiences, maintaining safety standards, and ensuring efficient cafe operations.

What is the difference between Cafe Associate vs Barista?

AspectCafe AssociateBarista
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; training provided on-siteHigh school diploma or equivalent; barista training often provided
Work EnvironmentCustomer service in cafes, coffee shops, or casual diningPreparing coffee and beverages in cafes, coffee shops, or specialty coffee stores
Employer & IndustryRestaurants, cafes, coffee chainsCoffee shops, specialty cafes, quick-service restaurants
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between a Cafe Associate and a Barista lies in their roles. A Cafe Associate typically handles customer service, order taking, and general support in a cafe environment, while a Barista specializes in preparing coffee and beverages. Both roles require similar credentials and work in comparable settings, but Baristas focus more on beverage preparation skills.

What are some typical challenges a Cafe Associate might face during busy shifts, and how are they managed?

During peak hours, Cafe Associates often juggle multiple tasks such as taking orders, preparing beverages, restocking supplies, and maintaining cleanliness, all while delivering excellent customer service. Managing long lines and high volumes of orders requires strong organizational skills, teamwork, and the ability to stay calm under pressure. Many cafes provide structured training and encourage associates to communicate openly with team members to divide responsibilities efficiently. Utilizing point-of-sale systems effectively and adhering to standard operating procedures also helps associates handle busy periods smoothly.
What cities are hiring for Cafe Associate jobs? Cities with the most Cafe Associate job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Cafe jobs? The most popular types of Cafe jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Cafe Associate jobs? The top employers for Cafe Associate jobs are:
What states have the most Cafe Associate jobs? States with the most job openings for Cafe Associate jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to Cafe Associate jobs? For Cafe Associate jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Cafe Associate job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, 33% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,207 per year, or $16.4 per hour.
Part-Time Cafe Associate (Metalsa) (KY, Elizabethtown)

Part-Time Cafe Associate (Metalsa) (KY, Elizabethtown)

Five Star Food Service, Inc

Elizabethtown, KY • On-site

$14.25 - $17.50/hr

Part-time

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Part-Time Cafe Associate (Metalsa) (KY, Elizabethtown)
KY, Elizabethtown
Job Description - Café Associate
Department: Dining & Refreshment Services
About the Role
Five Star Breaktime Solutions is looking for a friendly, dependable, and service-oriented Café Associate to join our Dining Services team. In this role, you'll play an important part in creating an enjoyable experience for every guest by preparing and serving food items, maintaining cleanliness, and providing outstanding customer service.
This position is ideal for someone who enjoys working in a fast-paced environment, takes pride in quality service, and values teamwork.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Provide exceptional customer service by greeting guests and assisting with orders.
  • Prepare and serve food and beverages according to company standards.
  • Accurately handle cash, credit, and electronic transactions using the point-of-sale system.
  • Maintain a clean and organized work area, including dining and kitchen spaces.
  • Follow all food safety and sanitation procedures.
  • Restock supplies and assist with inventory as needed.
  • Support the overall success of the café by assisting teammates and contributing to a positive work environment.

Qualifications & Skills
  • Prior experience in food service, retail, or hospitality preferred.
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to cleanliness and food safety.
  • Ability to handle cash and perform basic math accurately.
  • Excellent communication and customer service skills.
  • Dependable, punctual, and able to work independently or as part of a team.

Why Join Five Star?
  • Competitive pay and flexible scheduling.
  • Opportunity to work in a supportive, team-oriented environment.
  • Access to company benefits and advancement opportunities within our Dining & Refreshment Services division.
  • Be part of a company that values integrity, leadership, discipline, and community.

EEO Statement
Five Star Breaktime Solutions is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We encourage veterans and individuals with disabilities to apply.
Location - KY, Elizabethtown - KY - 804 South Park