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Cafeteria Associate Jobs in Lancaster, SC (NOW HIRING)

HarborChase LLC

WAITSTAFF

Rock Hill, SC · On-site

Perform cleaning duties in dining room, kitchen, serving areas, cafeteria and storerooms as ... The ability to take ownership for associate's safety and the safety of the residents * Must ...

HarborChase of Riverwalk

WAITSTAFF

Rock Hill, SC

Perform cleaning duties in dining room, kitchen, serving areas, cafeteria and storerooms as ... The ability to take ownership for associate's safety and the safety of the residents * Must ...

HarborChase

WAITSTAFF

Rock Hill, SC · On-site

Perform cleaning duties in dining room, kitchen, serving areas, cafeteria and storerooms as ... The ability to take ownership for associate's safety and the safety of the residents * Must ...

Compass Group

FOOD UNIT LEAD

Lancaster, SC · On-site

$12.50 - $17.25/hr

... the cafeteria happier and healthier than they came in, by serving food kids love to eat and creating custom dining programs. With more than 16,000 associates in 4,300 schools, ranging from large ...

Compass Group

FOOD SERVICE WORKER/CASHIER

Lancaster, SC · On-site

$12.25 - $14.75/hr

... the cafeteria happier and healthier than they came in, by serving food kids love to eat and creating custom dining programs. With more than 16,000 associates in 4,300 schools, ranging from large ...

South Piedmont Community College

Success Navigator

Monroe, NC · On-site

$18.25 - $24/hr

... cafeteria plan. Essential Duties Summary • Provide assistance to all current and potential ... Associate's degree OR a high school diploma and student support related experience, minimum one ...

All JobsCafeteria Associate JobsCafeteria Associate Jobs in Lancaster, SC

Cafeteria Associate information

See Lancaster, SC salary details

$12

$14

$17

How much do cafeteria associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for cafeteria associate in Lancaster, SC is $14.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.51 and $15.19 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 Lancaster, SC?

The most popular types of Cafeteria jobs in Lancaster, SC are:

What job categories do people searching Cafeteria Associate jobs in Lancaster, SC look for?

The top searched job categories for Cafeteria Associate jobs in Lancaster, SC are:

What cities near Lancaster, SC are hiring for Cafeteria Associate jobs?

Cities near Lancaster, SC with the most Cafeteria Associate job openings:

Cafeteria Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cafeteria Associate job openings in Lancaster, SC as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 24% Full Time, 71% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $29,770 per year, or $14.3 per hour.

WAITSTAFF

HarborChase LLC

Rock Hill, SC • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
Position Summary:
Responsible for the prompt, pleasant, and efficient service to all community residents visiting dining rooms and activities. Remain aware of the physical appearance of dining rooms and waitress stations. Be watchful for situations that might pose a trip hazard for the residents.
Full Benefits Package that includes:
Medical
Dental
Vision and
Many other electives
10 Days Vacation
5 Sick Days
Referral Bonus
Competitive Pay
Weekends
Essential Functions:
  • Maintain or exceed standards of appearance and cleanliness. Maintain personal hygiene and health standards
  • Maintain and protect the confidentiality of resident information at all times
  • Provide a pleasant dining experience for all community residents, while following instructions to meet their specific dietary needs when necessary
  • Responsible for the proper dining set-up of the dining room(s) while meeting or exceeding hospitality and service standards
  • Distribute and store clean dishes
  • Practice safe, sanitary food handling for food preparation, food holding and service
  • Assist I preparation of foods as directed
  • Perform cleaning duties in dining room, kitchen, serving areas, cafeteria and storerooms as directed
  • Mop floors in areas as designated by supervisor
  • Practice and observe all safety and loss prevention procedures; adhere to universal precautions and all infection control guidelines
  • May perform other duties or fill in for other dining room or wait staff as requested
  • The ability to take ownership for associate's safety and the safety of the residents
  • Must disclose any medication that might impair associate's ability to perform the job safely or competently.

Non-Essential Functions:
  • Leads by example exhibiting the CORE Values through servant leadership
  • Must possess a passion to work with and around senior citizens
  • Attends required community meetings and participates Life Enrichment activities when able
  • Is prompt and able to perform the required duties of the position on a regular, predictable basis
  • All associates are responsible for maintaining a safe and secure environment for all community residents

Requirements
Qualifications/Skills/Educational Requirements:
  • High school education or GED equivalent required.
  • Minimum of one (1) year experience in "front of the house operations" within restaurant, hotel, club or similar environment
  • Able to communicate effectively with all levels of management, associates, residents, family members, and outside contacts
  • Knowledge of OSHA regulations
  • Knowledge of state food-handling and kitchen regulations
  • Must possess a passion to work with and around senior citizens
  • Must have patience, tact, and cheerful disposition

Background Screening Requirement
HarborChase is a Florida based company, this position requires a Level 2 background screening through the Florida Care Provider Background Screening Clearinghouse. For more information regarding the Clearinghouse, disqualifying offenses, and exemption procedures, please visit: https://info.flclearinghouse.com

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