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Cafeteria Associate Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Emerald Staffing

Food Service Associate

Portland, OR

$19 - $23/hr

Food Service Associate Pay: $19.00-$23.00/hour Schedule: Morning Shift: 5:30am - 1:30pm Afternoon ... Prepare food and ingredients in the back of the cafeteria * Wash, cut, and prepare ingredients for ...

HHS LLC

Culinary Utility Assistant

Vancouver, WA · On-site

$19/hr

Maintain a clean and organized kitchen environment for the hospital cafeteria. Sanitize all pots ... Responsibilities Dietary Utility Associate * Wage: $19/hour * Full-time and part-time positions ...

Hhs

Culinary Utility Assistant

Vancouver, WA · On-site

$19/hr

Maintain a clean and organized kitchen environment for the hospital cafeteria. Sanitize all pots ... Responsibilities Dietary Utility Associate * Wage: $19/hour * Full-time and part-time positions ...

Legacy Health

Hospitality Service Associate

Portland, OR · On-site

$17.68 - $23.94/hr

Replenishes food and beverages in the cafeteria or catered event as necessary. * Records over and under on the production sheet as well as recording refrigerator and freezer temperatures.

Azad Technology Partners

Budget Analyst

Vancouver, WA · On-site

$68.88 - $74.39/hr

Associate or Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics, Business Administration, or ... Employee Benefits Co‑paid Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance, Cafeteria Plan, Paid Sick Leave ...

New

Legacy Health

Hospitlty Svc Assoc GS

Portland, OR · On-site

$17.68/hr

Replenishes food and beverages in the cafeteria or catered event as necessary. * Records over and under on the production sheet as well as recording refrigerator and freezer temperatures.

Legacy Health

Hospitlty Svc Assoc EH

Portland, OR · On-site

$17.68/hr

Replenishes food and beverages in the cafeteria or catered event as necessary. * Records over and under on the production sheet as well as recording refrigerator and freezer temperatures.

Compass Group

FOOD SERVICE UTILITY

Ridgefield, WA · On-site

$17.13/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 ...

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Cafeteria Associate information

See Portland, OR salary details

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How much do cafeteria associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for cafeteria associate in Portland, OR is $17.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $18.85 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 Portland, OR?

The most popular types of Cafeteria jobs in Portland, OR are:

What are popular job titles related to Cafeteria Associate jobs in Portland, OR?

For Cafeteria Associate jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Cafeteria Associate jobs in Portland, OR look for?

The top searched job categories for Cafeteria Associate jobs in Portland, OR are:

What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Cafeteria Associate jobs?

Cities near Portland, OR with the most Cafeteria Associate job openings:

Cafeteria Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cafeteria Associate job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 57% Full Time, and 43% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,018 per year, or $17.8 per hour.

Food Service Associate

Emerald Staffing

Portland, OR

$19 - $23/hr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Food Service Associate
Pay: $19.00-$23.00/hour
Schedule: 
Morning Shift: 5:30am - 1:30pm
Afternoon Shift: 1:30pm - 8:45pm
Hours: 22-32 hours 

Are you looking for a fast-paced, team-oriented role where you can make an impact every day? We're seeking a dependable and hardworking staff member to help support our cafeteria operations. Whether you have previous food service experience or are looking to gain hands-on experience, we'd love to hear from you!

The ideal candidate is reliable, detail-oriented, and comfortable working on their feet while helping prepare and serve meals in a clean, professional environment.

Essential Job Duties-
  • Prepare food and ingredients in the back of the cafeteria
  • Wash, cut, and prepare ingredients for meal service
  • Assemble meals and food items
  • Serve customers during peak lunch hours
  • Follow food safety and sanitation guidelines
  • Maintain a clean, organized kitchen and work area
  • Complete general kitchen cleaning duties as needed
Requirements-
  • Active Food Handler's License or being able to obtain a Food Handler's License upon hire.
  • Previous food service experience preferred, but not required
  • Ability to stand for up to 8 hours at a time
  • Strong attention to detail
  • Ability to work efficiently in a team environment
  • Dependable with a positive attitude and strong work ethic


Let us know you are interested!
Daynea Rangel 
(503)-212-0003
daynea@emeraldstaffing.com
www.EmeraldStaffing.com