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Cafeteria Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Cafeteria Assistant

Courtland, VA ยท On-site

$14.50 - $18.25/hr

Cafeteria Assistant Location: Southampton County Public Schools Reports To: Cafeteria Manager Job Summary: The Cafeteria Assistant supports the daily operations of the school cafeteria by assisting ...

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Cafeteria Assistant information

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$10

$16

$23

How much do cafeteria assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for cafeteria assistant in the United States is $16.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $18.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are cafeteria assistants?

Cafeteria assistants are staff members who help with the daily operations of a cafeteria, typically in schools, hospitals, or corporate settings. Their duties often include preparing and serving food, maintaining cleanliness in dining and kitchen areas, stocking supplies, and assisting customers or students during meal times. They may also handle cash registers and ensure that health and safety standards are met. Cafeteria assistants play a key role in providing nutritious meals and a welcoming environment for diners.

What is the difference between Cafeteria Assistant vs Kitchen Assistant?

AspectCafeteria AssistantKitchen Assistant
Primary RoleAssists in food service, manages cafeteria areas, helps serve mealsSupports food prep, cleaning, and basic kitchen tasks
Work EnvironmentSchool or institutional cafeterias, dining areasCommercial or institutional kitchens
Required CertificationsFood safety, hygiene training often preferredFood safety, hygiene training often required
Employer & Industry UsageEducational institutions, hospitals, workplacesRestaurants, schools, catering services

While both roles involve food service and require food safety knowledge, Cafeteria Assistants primarily focus on serving and managing dining areas, whereas Kitchen Assistants support food preparation and kitchen operations. The roles often overlap but differ mainly in scope and environment.

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

To thrive as a Cafeteria Assistant, you need basic food preparation skills, knowledge of food safety, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, point-of-sale (POS) systems, and adherence to hygiene regulations are typically required. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and effective communication help you stand out in this environment. These skills ensure efficient service, maintain food safety standards, and contribute to a positive dining experience for customers.

What does a cafe assistant do?

A cafeteria assistant is responsible for preparing and serving food and beverages, maintaining cleanliness in dining areas, and assisting with customer service. They often handle cash registers, stock supplies, and follow safety and hygiene standards in a food service environment.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Cafeteria assistants typically do not earn $4,000 a week; such high earnings are uncommon without specialized skills or certifications. Jobs that can pay this amount without a degree include certain sales roles, real estate agents, or skilled trades like plumbing or electrical work, often requiring experience or licensing. These positions may involve commission, tips, or overtime to reach high weekly earnings.

What are some common challenges faced by Cafeteria Assistants, and how can they be managed effectively?

Cafeteria Assistants often face challenges such as working in fast-paced environments during peak meal times, maintaining cleanliness standards, and handling multiple tasks simultaneously. Effective time management, strong communication skills, and teamwork are key to overcoming these challenges. Staying organized and following food safety protocols also help ensure a smooth workflow and a positive dining experience for customers and staff.

How much do lunch ladies get paid?

In North Carolina, cafeteria assistants or lunch ladies typically earn an hourly wage ranging from $10 to $14, depending on experience and school district. Salaries may vary based on factors such as location, seniority, and whether the position is full-time or part-time.

How to get a job at a school cafeteria?

To get a job as a cafeteria assistant, applicants should check for openings at local schools or district websites, complete an application, and often undergo a background check. Relevant skills include customer service, food safety knowledge, and the ability to work in a team, with some positions requiring food handler certifications. Availability during school hours and a positive attitude are also important.
What cities are hiring for Cafeteria Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Cafeteria Assistant job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Cafeteria jobs? The most popular types of Cafeteria jobs are:
What states have the most Cafeteria Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Cafeteria Assistant jobs include:
Infographic showing various Cafeteria Assistant job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,579 per year, or $16.6 per hour.
Cafeteria Assistant

Cafeteria Assistant

Fall River Public Schools

Fall River, MA โ€ข On-site

$15/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description

Position Type:
Nutrition/Cafeteria Assistant
Date Posted:
12/17/2025
Location:
Fall River Public SchoolsJob Details Posting ID 5195 Title Cafeteria Assistant Description FALL RIVER PUBLIC SCHOOLS FALL RIVER, MASSACHUSETTS
The Superintendent of Schools announces the following position within the Fall River Public Schools Position: CAFETERIA ASSISTANT
Department: Nutrition Qualifications:
MINIMUM/REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
Able to follow instructions and complete tasks efficiently.
Physically able to perform duties assigned at sufficient speed.
Effective communication skills.
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
Appropriate skills in reading and writing English/ good communication skills.
Understanding of meal pattern requirements; understands federal, state,& local program regulations.
Familiar with basic knowledge of proper food safety and sanitation for food service.
Mature ability to use judgment and be dependable.
Responsibilities:
Manages students during meal service (behavior problems will be referred to the teacher or principal according to guidelines established by the individual school site).
Communicates with students and school staff in a positive and professional manner utilizing appropriate customer service and interpersonal skills.
Circulate throughout the cafeteria or in areas where meals are served and/or eaten helping students who need assistance.
Assists with the order and routines in the cafeteria.
Assists with dismissal of classes in an orderly manner at the scheduled time.
Encourages the use of good table manners.
Participates in training sessions, meetings, and scheduled cleaning days as requested.
Performs other related duties as assigned.
Salary: Minimum Hourly Wage
Closing Date for Applications: As indicated on webpage .
The Fall River Public School District is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. We consider applicants for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, pregnancy, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital/civil union status, ancestry, place of birth, age, citizenship status, veteran status or active military status, mental illness, political affiliation, genetic information or disability. All candidates are encouraged to apply. The Fall River Public Schools offers all programs, activities, and employment opportunities without regard to race, color, sex, religion, national origin, sexual orientation and disability. Shift Type Part-Time Salary Range $15.00 Salary Code Per Hour Job Category Classified External Job Application Classified Internal Job Application Classified