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Cafeteria Associate Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Public Area Attendant

Portland, OR

$14.75 - $18.75/hr

All associates can enjoy our complimentary cafeteria. * 401k matching for all our associates. * Hotel discounts at marriott.com. * Our location is right next to the center of all for MAX lines and ...

All associates can enjoy our complimentary cafeteria. * 401k matching for all our associates. * Hotel discounts at marriott.com. * Our location is right next to the center of all for MAX lines and ...

Public Area Attendant

Portland, OR · On-site

$18.50/hr

All associates can enjoy our complimentary cafeteria. * 401k matching for all our associates. * Hotel discounts at marriott.com. * Our location is right next to the center of all for MAX lines and ...

FOOD SERVICE WORKER (PART TIME)

Vancouver, WA · On-site

$15.75 - $19/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 ...

FOOD SERVICE WORKER (ON CALL)

Ridgefield, WA · On-site

$16 - $19.25/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 ...

FOOD SERVICE WORKER

Ridgefield, WA · On-site

$16 - $19.25/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 ...

FOOD SERVICE WORKER/CASHIER

Brush Prairie, WA · On-site

$14.75 - $18/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 ...

FOOD SERVICE WORKER (PART TIME)

Brush Prairie, WA · On-site

$15.75 - $19.25/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 ...

FOOD SERVICE WORKER (PART TIME)

Vancouver, WA · On-site

$15.75 - $19/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 ...

FOOD SERVICE WORKER (PART TIME)

Vancouver, WA · On-site

$16 - $19.50/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 ...

FOOD SERVICE WORKER (ON CALL)

Ridgefield, WA · On-site

$16 - $19.25/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 ...

FOOD SERVICE WORKER

Vancouver, WA · On-site

$16 - $19.50/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 ...

Showing results 21-40

Cafeteria Associate information

See Portland, OR salary details

$15

$17

$21

How much do cafeteria associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 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 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 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 cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Cafeteria Associate jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Cafeteria Associate job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,018 per year, or $17.8 per hour.

$14.75 - $18.75/hr

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 24 days ago


Job description

Why us?

At Sage Hospitality, how we work matters just as much as what we do. We are guided by a shared purpose to enrich lives, one experience at a time, and a vision to redefine how the world experiences hospitality.

At The Nines, Portland, we embrace:

  • Historic Retail Palace Reborn - Adaptive reuse of the 1909 Meier & Frank building as a love letter to Portland's architectural past
  • Dual Culinary Destination - Urban Farmer's farm-to-table steakhouse and Departure's rooftop pan-Asian cuisine - two of Portland's most acclaimed restaurants
  • Living Sustainability Philosophy - Onsite honeybees, hydroponic gardens, and a house butcher reflect a genuine commitment to sourcing
  • Oregon Art Immersion - 400+ locally curated pieces including the iconic Bird Song chandelier and student monotypes in every room
  • Sophisticated Portland Spirit - Luxury rooted in the city's creative, locally obsessed, independent character

All associates play an essential role in creating welcoming, inclusive environments where kindness, hospitality, and excellence are felt by guests and teams alike. These brandings reflect the unique spirit of The Nines, Portland and align with Sage Hospitality's commitment to genuine, meaningful connection.

Job Overview

Maintains cleanliness and order in lobby and common guest areas. Provides prompt and courteous service to guests.

Responsibilities
  • Maintains parking lot and public space cleanliness. 
  • Complete daily, weekly and quarterly cleaning checklists.
  • Dust and polish furniture, fixtures, thresholds, base boards, railings, elevators, stairwells and window frames.
  • Vacuum and spot clean carpeting, upholstery and drapery. Remove any gums from surfaces.
  • Clean and shine all glass and metal surfaces.
  • Empty all materials from trash receptacles and polish. Replace trash bags if used. Remove trash to dumpster.
  • Clean offices as assigned.
  • Clean public restrooms and stock with supplies.
  • Clean public and service elevators (inside and out).
  • Complete all restocking and cleaning duties by performing opening and closing side work as instructed.
  • Appearance must be clean and professional with a cheerful and courteous demeanor at all times.
  • Notify housekeeping leadership, maintenance department or MOD of malfunctioning equipment, supplies needed or damage to floor covering, upholstery,
  • Attends all departmental meetings in person in order to enhance communication and gain knowledge of products, service and facility.
  • Respond to customer inquiries and comments in person and on phone by providing timely and knowledgeable information in order to provide customer service.
  • Follow all safety guidelines to ensure safety and protection of self, associates and guests.
Qualifications

Education/Formal Training

No formal education required.

Experience

No experience required

Knowledge/Skills

Ability to meet standard appearance.

Ability to meet cleaning standards.

Basic understanding of cleaning methods, cleaning implements and chemicals

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an associate to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to

  • Lifting cleaning supplies -30 lbs., pushing and pulling equipment -30-50 lbs., carrying supplies -30 lbs. (All done frequently during shift).
  • Bending to start machines and load chemicals -done frequently during shift.
  • Must be able to be on feet and walk behind floor care equipment for full shift. Continuous standing may be required.
  • No driving required.
Benefits

The Nines offers perks that are comparable to progressive employers.

  • All associates can enjoy our complimentary cafeteria.
  • 401k matching for all our associates.
  • Hotel discounts at marriott.com.
  • Our location is right next to the center of all for MAX lines and close to the Portland Streetcar, a prime location for driving, taking public transportation, biking, or even walking to work.
  • $50 TriMet monthly subsidy!

Bold. Bright. Caring. Energetic. Driven. Strategic. Daring. To deliver the type of outstanding experience we aim to provide our guests, we need remarkable individuals who are passionate and committed to making a difference. If this sounds like you, then explore the career positions at Sage Restaurant Group that await you.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

Sage Hospitality Group logo

About Sage Hospitality Group

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

As part of Sage Hospitality Group, we passionately strive to be the best and create excellence in everything we do. We believe in enriching lives one experience at a time. More than a slogan, we empower our employees to make positive impacts on the communities in which we live and work. By providing genuine service we build relationships with our guests and value for our shareholders, and we create unforgettable experiences.

Industry

Hospitality services

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Denver, CO, US

Year founded

1984