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Cafeteria Associate Jobs in Covington, GA (NOW HIRING)

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Cafeteria Associate information

See Covington, GA salary details

$12

$14

$17

How much do cafeteria associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for cafeteria associate in Covington, GA is $14.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.46 and $15.10 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 job categories do people searching Cafeteria Associate jobs in Covington, GA look for? The top searched job categories for Cafeteria Associate jobs in Covington, GA are:
What cities near Covington, GA are hiring for Cafeteria Associate jobs? Cities near Covington, GA with the most Cafeteria Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Cafeteria Associate job openings in Covington, GA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 5% Full Time, 87% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $29,616 per year, or $14.2 per hour.

Cafeteria Worker - Dacula

Publix Super Markets, Inc.

Dacula, GA • On-site

$14.70 - $20.30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago


Publix rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 4,663 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

27th of 122 rated grocery stores


Job description

Description
  • stocking and rotating inventory
  • preparing, cooking, and serving meals for Publix associates and
  • washing pots and operating the dishwasher
  • the responsibilities listed on this posting are not intended to be all-inclusive and additional responsibilities may be assigned as needed.

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
  • 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.).
  • 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.

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
  • be at least 18 years old
  • be able to work nights
  • be able to work weekends, holidays, and extended periods of time
  • have a valid driver's license and authorization to drive a company vehicle (on or before his or her start date in the position)
  • be able to lift a minimum of 50 pounds
  • be able to read, write, and solve math problems
  • be able to interpret, understand, and follow instructions
  • be able to stand for long periods of time
  • be able to bend, stoop, and twist
  • have at least six months of cooking experience in an environment where a variety of entrees and methods are used (for example, a restaurant, cafeteria, or culinary school)
  • have the ability to work well with others and be a team member
  • show enthusiasm, initiative, and pride in work and
  • show commitment to Publix's mission.

Preferred Qualifications
  • current Dacula distribution associate
  • have more than six months of cooking experience in an environment where a variety of entrees and methods are used (for example, a restaurant, cafeteria, or culinary school)

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
  • 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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