1

Cafeteria Associate Jobs in Decatur, GA (NOW HIRING)

Associate Cafe Attendant

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$13.50 - $17.25/hr

Associates enjoy a fun, dynamic and exciting work environment, comprehensive training, and ... Cafeteria Attendant Overview This team member will ensure all food is served according to ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Cafeteria Associate information

See Decatur, GA salary details

$13

$16

$20

How much do cafeteria associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for cafeteria associate in Decatur, GA is $16.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.48 and $17.36 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 Decatur, GA?

The most popular types of Cafeteria jobs in Decatur, GA are:

What are popular job titles related to Cafeteria Associate jobs in Decatur, GA?

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

What job categories do people searching Cafeteria Associate jobs in Decatur, GA look for?

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Cafeteria Associate job openings in Decatur, GA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 30% Full Time, 65% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,080 per year, or $16.4 per hour.

Cafeteria Cook

Atlanta, GA • On-site

70 Centennial Olympic Park OZ Employer LLC DBA Hotel Phoenix

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago


Job description

The Cafeteria Cook is responsible for preparing and serving high-quality meals for hotel associates in accordance with established menus, recipes, food safety standards, and production schedules. This position maintains a clean, organized, and well-stocked associate cafeteria while providing courteous service to all associates.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Prepare breakfast, lunch, dinner, and other assigned meals for hotel associates.
  • Follow established menus, recipes, portion standards, and production schedules.
  • Ensure food is properly cooked, seasoned, presented, and maintained at the required temperatures.
  • Set up and replenish cafeteria food stations throughout each meal period.
  • Monitor food quantities and communicate additional production needs to the appropriate culinary leader.
  • Properly label, date, store, rotate, and discard food in accordance with food safety standards.
  • Maintain accurate food temperature and production records.
  • Assist with receiving, organizing, and storing food and supplies.
  • Minimize food waste through proper preparation, portioning, storage, and product rotation.
  • Maintain cleanliness and sanitation of workstations, cooking equipment, storage areas, and the associate cafeteria.
  • Wash and sanitize cookware, utensils, and equipment as needed.
  • Follow all hotel, health department, OSHA, and food safety requirements.
  • Immediately report equipment concerns, food safety issues, injuries, or workplace hazards to management.
  • Provide professional and courteous service to hotel associates.
  • Assist other culinary areas based on operational needs.
  • Perform additional duties as assigned.
Qualifications
  • Previous cooking or food preparation experience preferred.
  • Experience in a hotel, restaurant, cafeteria, or high-volume kitchen environment is preferred.
  • Basic knowledge of cooking methods, food preparation, sanitation, and kitchen safety.
  • Ability to follow recipes, menus, and written or verbal instructions.
  • Ability to manage multiple responsibilities in a fast-paced environment.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Food Handler certification required or must be obtained within the timeframe established by the hotel.
  • Must be available to work a flexible schedule, including early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays.
Physical Requirements
  • Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
  • Ability to lift, carry, push, or pull up to 50 pounds.
  • Ability to bend, reach, stoop, and perform repetitive movements.
  • Ability to work safely around hot equipment, steam, sharp utensils, and cleaning products.
  • Ability to work in areas with varying temperatures, including freezers, refrigerators, and hot kitchen environments.
Standards of Conduct

The Cafeteria Cook is expected to maintain professional conduct, follow all hotel policies and procedures, comply with uniform and grooming standards, and support a respectful and inclusive workplace.

This job description summarizes the primary responsibilities of the position. Duties and responsibilities may be modified based on operational needs. It does not create a contract of employment.