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Cafeteria Associate Jobs in Athens, GA (NOW HIRING)

Retail Manager -Culinary

Braselton, GA · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

Our Retail Managers are responsible for the successful retail/cafeteria operations in a healthcare ... Associate Shopping Program * Health and Wellness Programs * Discount Marketplace * Identity Theft ...

Our Retail Managers are responsible for the successful retail/cafeteria operations in a healthcare ... Associate Shopping Program * Health and Wellness Programs * Discount Marketplace * Identity Theft ...

Retail Manager -Culinary

Braselton, GA · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

Our Retail Managers are responsible for the successful retail/cafeteria operations in a healthcare ... Associate Shopping Program * Health and Wellness Programs * Discount Marketplace * Identity Theft ...

Retail Manager -Culinary

Braselton, GA · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

Our Retail Managers are responsible for the successful retail/cafeteria operations in a healthcare ... Associate Shopping Program * Health and Wellness Programs * Discount Marketplace * Identity Theft ...

Showing results 21-40

Cafeteria Associate information

See Athens, GA salary details

$13

$16

$19

How much do cafeteria associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for cafeteria associate in Athens, GA is $16.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.34 and $17.16 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 job categories do people searching Cafeteria Associate jobs in Athens, GA look for?

The top searched job categories for Cafeteria Associate jobs in Athens, GA are:

What cities near Athens, GA are hiring for Cafeteria Associate jobs?

Cities near Athens, GA with the most Cafeteria Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Cafeteria Associate job openings in Athens, GA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,705 per year, or $16.2 per hour.

Pre-Assembly Worker, Overnight, Fresh Kitchen - Dacula

Publix Super Markets, Inc.

Dacula, GA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Publix rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 4,721 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

29th of 124 rated grocery stores


Job description

Description
Responsibilities include:
  • performing set-up and start-up activities on all equipment in the department
  • opening packages, placing product in tubs or racking product, and transporting to appropriate area
  • documenting equipment inspections and reporting unsafe conditions or damage to product, equipment or facility
  • documenting lot numbers and code dates
  • labeling and ensuring accurate inventory of products
  • reading and comprehending production paperwork and documents
  • auditing materials for Quality Assurance
  • assisting operators with daily production tasks
  • accurately completing all paperwork required by the position and
  • other duties as assigned.

Additional Information
Your application may have additional steps that you will need to complete in order to remain eligible for consideration. Please be sure to monitor your email, including your spam folder, on a daily basis for critical, time-sensitive emails that could require action within 24-48 hours.
Please do not use your Publix email address when applying. Once your application has been successfully submitted you will receive a confirmation email.
For this position, Publix does not and will not file a petition or application with the USCIS or Department of State on behalf of any noncitizen for any immigration-related benefit to work and/or to continue to work in the United States, e.g., an H-1B or TN petition or permanent residence.
Other Compensation Information
Weekend Differential: A $2.00 per hour weekend differential is paid to associates for hours worked between 12:00 a.m. Saturday through 11:59 p.m. Sunday.
Night differential: A $.75 per hour night differential is paid to associates regularly scheduled to work any hours between midnight and 3:00 a.m. (this does not include shifts that end at midnight or begin at 3:00 a.m.).
Year End Bonus
To reward associates for their contributions to the company for the calendar year, Publix provides a Holiday Bonus in November. In the first year of continuous employment the bonus is equal to 15 hours of pay, and in the second year of continuous employment the bonus is equal to one week's pay if associate remains employed through issue date of the bonus check. In subsequent years, the bonus is equal to two weeks' pay.
Required Qualifications
The required qualifications for this position include:
  • must be at least 18 years old
  • must demonstrate excellent work habits in line with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs)
  • must demonstrate safe working habits
  • must be able to push or pull pallets in excess of 1500 lbs.
  • must be able to lift in excess of 50 lbs. frequently
  • must be able to learn and perform all positions
  • must be able to work in a fast-paced environment
  • must have good human relations skills (the ability to work well with others and be a team player)
  • must be able to work any shift, nights, weekends, holidays, and extended hours
  • must have excellent attendance and punctuality
  • must be willing to assist other team members in other areas
  • must be able to perform steady and productive work for an extended period of time
  • must be able to work efficiently with little or no supervision
  • must understand Lockout/Tagout compliance requirements
  • must be dependable and possess good follow up skills
  • good verbal and written communication skills
  • must be able to follow detailed written and verbal instructions
  • must possess basic math skills
  • must be able to communicate effectively
  • must show enthusiasm, initiative, and pride in work and
  • a commitment to Publix and our mission.

Benefits Information
  • Employee stock ownership plan that contributes Publix stock to associates each year at no cost
  • An opportunity to purchase additional shares of our privately-held stock
  • 401(k) retirement savings plan
  • Group health, dental and vision plans plan
  • Paid Time Off
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Short- and long-term disability insurance
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Free hot lunches (buffet-style) at facilities with a cafeteria
  • Visit our website to see all of our benefits: Benefits - Jobs (publix.com)

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