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Cafeteria Associate Jobs in Erie, PA (NOW HIRING)

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Cafeteria Associate information

See Erie, PA salary details

$13

$16

$20

How much do cafeteria associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for cafeteria associate in Erie, PA is $16.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $17.21 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 Erie, PA?

The most popular types of Cafeteria jobs in Erie, PA are:

What job categories do people searching Cafeteria Associate jobs in Erie, PA look for?

The top searched job categories for Cafeteria Associate jobs in Erie, PA are:

What cities near Erie, PA are hiring for Cafeteria Associate jobs?

Cities near Erie, PA with the most Cafeteria Associate job openings:

Cafeteria Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cafeteria Associate job openings in Erie, PA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 63% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,818 per year, or $16.3 per hour.

Full-Time Food Service Associate

Erie, PA • On-site

Cura-Hospitality
Food Services and Drinking Places • 501 - 1,000 employees

5.9

Company rating: 5.9 out of 10

Based on 21 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

44th of 68 rated caterers

Free food

Learn more about Cura-Hospitalityexternal

$18/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

Full-Time Food Service Associate

Job Reference Number: 41586
Employment Type: Full-Time, Onsite 
Segment: Healthcare
Brand: Cura-Hospitality
Location: Saint Vincent Hospital

 

Why work for Elior North America?
  • Weekly Pay!
  • Work/Life Balance!
  • Competitive Benefit Packages!
  • Tuition Reimbursement!
  • Employee Referral Bonus!
  • 401K & Company Match!

Elior North America is a family of distinct hospitality companies with more than 50 years of industry experience and 15,000 team members united in our passion for food, service, and excellence. We share an appetite for growth which drives all of us to continually reimagine our customers’ experience.

The Role at a glance:

We are looking to add a motivated Full-Time Food Service Associate to our food service team in Erie, PA. As a Food Service Associate, you will have the opportunity to perform a variety of tasks, learn a variety of skills, and interact with a diverse clientele daily in a fast-paced environment. 

What you'll be doing:
  • Preparing, serving and distributing food, and may require working in various areas of the department, such as the tray line, dish room, cafeteria and storeroom.  
  • This list of duties and responsibilities is not all-inclusive and may be expanded to include other duties and responsibilities, as management may deem necessary from time to time.
What we're looking for:

Must-haves: 

  • Must possess strong interpersonal and customer skills.  
  • Have excellent attention to details and service knowledge. 
  • Have excellent communication and organization skills.

Nice-to-haves: 

  • Prior food service experience is preferred.
Where you'll be working:
  • Saint Vincent Hospital, located in Erie, PA
Full-Time Benefits:
  • Medical 
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Voluntary UNUM offering for Accident, Critical Illness and Hospital Indemnity
  • Discount Program
  • Commuter Benefits (Parking and Transit) 
  • EAP
  • 401k
  • Sick Time
  • Holiday Pay (9 paid holidays)
  • Tuition Reimbursement 
  • Paid Time Off 
Compensation:
  • $18.00 per hour

About Elior North America:

Elior North America is an equal opportunity employer.  Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability or protected veteran status. We are committed to diversity and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds and abilities. We take pride in supporting the development of our employees and their skills at all levels and in fostering an environment of growth.

At Elior North America, we are committed to offering growth and advancement opportunities for all of our employees. The valuable skills and experience you’ve gained with Elior will propel you further in your career, whether with our corporate office or one of our brand segments.

Disclaimer: This job description can be revised  by management as needed. #LI-EB1

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