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Cafeteria Assistant Jobs in Dothan, AL (NOW HIRING)

Southeast Health

Dietary Assistant - Tray line

Dothan, AL · On-site

$11.75 - $15.50/hr

May be responsible for stocking and serving food to customers in the cafeteria, catering, doctors lounge and Oak Garden with correct details in meal presentation and service. Professional behavior is ...

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Cafeteria Assistant information

See Dothan, AL salary details

$9

$15

$21

How much do cafeteria assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for cafeteria assistant in Dothan, AL is $15.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.12 and $16.39 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a cafeteria assistant?

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 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.
What cities near Dothan, AL are hiring for Cafeteria Assistant jobs? Cities near Dothan, AL with the most Cafeteria Assistant job openings:
Cafeteria Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cafeteria Assistant job openings in Dothan, AL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,435 per year, or $15.1 per hour.

Dietary Assistant - Tray line

Southeast Health

Dothan, AL • On-site

$11.75 - $15.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago

Job description

Southeast. Always the right career direction.
Job Description Summary
May prepare and portion needed salads, gelatins and cold foods in forms and quantities to meet assigned food service schedules. May interpret production sheet data to determine food requirements according to regular and modified patient diet orders. May follow standardized recipes to accomplish necessary food production. May weigh, measure and chop ingredients. May be responsible for stocking and serving food to customers in the cafeteria, catering, doctors lounge and Oak Garden with correct details in meal presentation and service. Professional behavior is required at all times.
Job Description
QUALIFICATIONS:
  • High school graduate or GED.
  • Some training and/or background in Customer Service.

LANGUAGE/ COMMUNICATION SKILLS:
  • Ability to read, write and follow spoken and/or written instructions in English as would normally be achieved with 9 to 11 years of schooling

SKILLS:
  • Ability and stamina to work well with others in close quarters while meeting tight time schedules.
  • Manual dexterity and motor coordination are required to handle dishes, serve food and trays efficiently, and to work with various cleaning supplies.
  • Ability to move, transport trays, carts, equipment and supplies.

Shift
DayShift Details
First
FTE
1
Type
Regular
Join one of Forbes 500 best mid-sized employers in America.
Equal Employment Employer
Southeast Health is committed to provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. In addition, Southeast Health will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities.

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