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Cafeteria Associate Jobs in Arkansas (NOW HIRING)

Worker I - Late Dish (Dietary), FT

Searcy, AR · On-site

$13 - $15.75/hr

Any associate that is actively engaged in the use of medical marijuana, even if in possession of a ... Cooks, bakes, prepares hot and cold foods for patients, cafeteria and/or special functions.

Any associate that is actively engaged in the use of medical marijuana, even if in possession of a ... Cooks, bakes, prepares hot and cold foods for patients, cafeteria and/or special functions.

Any associate that is actively engaged in the use of medical marijuana, even if in possession of a ... Cooks, bakes, prepares hot and cold foods for patients, cafeteria and/or special functions.

Worker II Cashier

Searcy, AR · On-site

$10.25 - $13.75/hr

Any associate that is actively engaged in the use of medical marijuana, even if in possession of a ... Cooks, bakes, prepares hot and cold foods for patients, cafeteria and/or special functions.

Worker I - Late Dish (Dietary), FT

Searcy, AR · On-site

$13 - $15.75/hr

Any associate that is actively engaged in the use of medical marijuana, even if in possession of a ... Cooks, bakes, prepares hot and cold foods for patients, cafeteria and/or special functions.

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Cafeteria Associate information

See Arkansas salary details

$11

$13

$17

How much do cafeteria associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for cafeteria associate in Arkansas is $13.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.12 and $14.71 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a cafeteria associate?

Cafeteria Associates are staff members who work in cafeterias, often in schools, hospitals, or corporate settings, to help prepare, serve, and sometimes cook food. They are responsible for ensuring that food is served safely and efficiently, maintaining cleanliness in dining and kitchen areas, handling cash registers or payment systems, and providing customer service to patrons. Their role is essential for the smooth operation of food service in large institutions, and they often work as part of a team under the supervision of a cafeteria manager or supervisor.

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

To thrive as a Cafeteria Associate, you need basic food preparation skills, knowledge of food safety standards, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with point-of-sale (POS) systems, commercial kitchen equipment, and proper sanitation procedures is typically required. Strong teamwork, customer service, and time management abilities help individuals excel in this fast-paced environment. These skills ensure efficient service, customer satisfaction, and compliance with health regulations.

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

Cafeteria Associates often encounter challenges such as managing high customer volumes during peak meal times, maintaining cleanliness under tight schedules, and addressing diverse dietary needs. Effective time management and clear communication with team members can help in prioritizing tasks and ensuring smooth service. Additionally, being adaptable and following established food safety protocols are essential for delivering quality meals and a positive dining experience.

What is the difference between Cafeteria Associate vs Food Service Worker?

AspectCafeteria AssociateFood Service Worker
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; food safety certification often preferredHigh school diploma or equivalent; food safety certification often required
Work EnvironmentSchool cafeterias, cafeterias in institutionsRestaurants, cafeterias, catering services
Employer & IndustryEducational institutions, school districtsRestaurants, catering companies, institutional food services
Job DutiesServing students, cashiering, food prep, cleaningPreparing and serving food, cleaning, customer service

Both roles involve food service in institutional settings, often requiring similar certifications and skills. However, Cafeteria Associates primarily work in school environments serving students, while Food Service Workers may work in a broader range of food service settings like restaurants and catering. The core responsibilities overlap, but the work environment and specific duties differ slightly.

What are the most commonly searched types of Cafeteria jobs in Arkansas?

The most popular types of Cafeteria jobs in Arkansas are:

What are popular job titles related to Cafeteria Associate jobs in Arkansas?

For Cafeteria Associate jobs in Arkansas, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Arkansas are hiring for Cafeteria Associate jobs?

Cities in Arkansas with the most Cafeteria Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Cafeteria Associate job openings in Arkansas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 56% Full Time, and 44% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $28,864 per year, or $13.9 per hour.

Production Associate - Day Shift

American Stave Company

Locust Grove, AR

$15/hr

Full-time

Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

Day Shift Production Associate

 Starting Pay: $15.00 per hour to start. Production pay is available after 90 days.

 Bonuses Available  

  • Attendance Bonus: .50 per hour
  • Safety Bonus: .50 per hour

 Job Description for a Production Associate:


Batesville Mill, a subsidiary of Independent Stave Company, is now hiring for all shifts. We have a variety of manufacturing and general labor roles available in our new state-of-the-art facility. If you are a highly motivated and self-driven individual, you will perform a variety of tasks in the process of making white oak staves used in the manufacturing of white oak barrels for the wine and spirits industry. We provide competitive pay and benefits, including piece-rate or production-based pay opportunities.

 Shift Schedules:

  Days: Monday to Thursday (6:00 am - 4:30 pm)

 Our Culture
Our people are passionate about their craft and take pride in their contribution to the wine and spirits industry, supporting our mission to craft world-class oak barrels and other cooperage products so that our employees, customers and communities flourish.

We are always looking for hard-working people to join our team. A great work-ethic, dedication, and reliability are a few of the characteristics that we look for.

 Essential Functions:

  • Keep up with fast-paced and production line speeds
  • Safely operate equipment used in the various manufacturing processes
  • Working with co-workers and supervisors in a cooperative and respectful manner
  • Dependable and have excellent attendance
  • Responsible for keeping work areas clean, orderly, and free of hazards.
  • Ability to work in various body positions: bending, stooping, standing, and the ability to have coordinated movements of pulling, pushing, grasping, reaching, and bilateral arm movements.

 Benefits:

  • Competitive hourly pay, paid weekly
  • Overtime available
  • Continuing education
  • 401(k) (Employer match equal to 50% of your "eligible contributions.")
  • Insurance after 30 days
  • Cafeteria Plan Including Dental, Vision, Short-Term/Long Term Disability, and Life Insurance
  • Paid Vacation 

 Some benefits are only available to full-time employees or after designated waiting periods.

 Independent Stave Company is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.