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Cafeteria Associate Jobs in Mobile, AL (NOW HIRING)

Compass Group

FOOD SERVICE WORKER/CASHIER

Lucedale, MS · On-site

$9.40/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 ...

All JobsCafeteria Associate JobsCafeteria Associate Jobs in Mobile, AL

Cafeteria Associate information

See Mobile, AL salary details

$14

$16

$20

How much do cafeteria associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for cafeteria associate in Mobile, AL is $16.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.72 and $17.64 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 are the most commonly searched types of Cafeteria jobs in Mobile, AL? The most popular types of Cafeteria jobs in Mobile, AL are:
What job categories do people searching Cafeteria Associate jobs in Mobile, AL look for? The top searched job categories for Cafeteria Associate jobs in Mobile, AL are:
What cities near Mobile, AL are hiring for Cafeteria Associate jobs? Cities near Mobile, AL with the most Cafeteria Associate job openings:
Cafeteria Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cafeteria Associate job openings in Mobile, AL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 4% Temporary, 4% Contract, and 4% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,638 per year, or $16.7 per hour.

Facilities Equipment Tech 2 - Alabama

Publix Super Markets, Inc.

Mobile, AL • On-site

$26.80 - $37/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago

Publix rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 4,667 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

27th of 122 rated grocery stores

Job description

Description
The purpose of this position is to support our retail stores by performing repairs and preventative maintenance on production equipment in the Bakery, Produce, Meat departments, Deli, and common areas.
Responsibilities Include:
  • evaluating and making repairs on Retail equipment
  • providing support to our New stores, Remodels and PAD Programs for our company
  • housekeeping, which includes vehicle inventory and cleaning, credit card statements and other paperwork associated with this position.

Additional Information
Candidates will need to live in: Mobile and Baldwin Counties
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.
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
  • High School diploma or its equivalent
  • three years' experience in using mechanical/electrical troubleshooting and diagnosis of food preparation equipment.
  • must be at least 20 years old and have a valid driver's license
  • must have and be able to maintain an excellent driving record
  • must have or obtain Natural/Propane Gas certifications within 180 days of hire
  • ability to work flexible hours, nights, weekends, holidays, and extended periods of time
  • willingness to be on call 24/7 when an emergency arises
  • willingness to travel to stores throughout the retail division, including nights, weekend, Holidays, overnight stays and extended periods of time as required.
  • basic knowledge in Lock-out/Tag-out procedures
  • basic knowledge in Food Safety
  • ability to troubleshoot and repair all equipment being serviced. This includes Electrical, Plumbing, Brazing, Mechanical,
    Natural and Propane Gas
  • ability to communicate both verbally and in written or electronic format
  • ability to manage time effectively
  • must be able to lift up to 40 lbs.
  • computer skills (Outlook, Excel)
  • good human relation skills (the ability to work well with others and be a team member)
  • show enthusiasm, initiative and pride in work and a
  • commitment to Publix and our Mission.

Preferred Qualifications
  • degree in electrical motor control repairs from an Industrial Mechanical Trade School
  • six or more years' experience with mechanical/electrical troubleshooting and diagnosis
  • knowledge of CMMS computer program

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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