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Cafeteria Associate Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

NucoreVision (NVI)

Food Service Associate

Fort Belvoir, VA · On-site

$16.50 - $17.41/hr

The Food Service Associate supports cafeteria and kitchen operations by preparing meal items, setting up serving lines, restocking supplies, cleaning equipment, and assisting customers and staff. The ...

PrideStaff

Counter Service Sales Associate

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$17 - $18/hr

... Associate to join their growing team in Sterling, VA. Our client is one of the nations leading ... Section 125 Cafeteria Plan - Pay Flex * Holiday Pay * Leave Pay * Educational benefits for approved ...

Mango

MULTIFUNCTIONAL SALES ASSOCIATE

Arlington, VA · On-site

$16 - $21.75/hr

We are looking for MULTIFUNCTIONAL SALES ASSOCIATE WHAT WOULD YOUR DAY TO DAY BE LIKE AT MANGO? At ... The company subsidises part of the daily menu, as well as for all the cafeteria products.

Mango

MULTIFUNCTIONAL SALES ASSOCIATE

Arlington, VA · On-site

$16 - $21.75/hr

We are looking for MULTIFUNCTIONAL SALES ASSOCIATE WHAT WOULD YOUR DAY TO DAY BE LIKE AT MANGO? At ... The company subsidises part of the daily menu, as well as for all the cafeteria products.

SOSi

Food Service Chef-Executive (OCONUS)

Reston, VA · On-site

$75K - $104K/yr

An associate's degree in culinary arts, with a minimum of five (5) years' non-supervisory ... cafeteria style or multi-entree operations or minimum of five (5) years non-supervisory experience ...

SOSi

Food Service Chef-Executive (OCONUS)

Reston, VA

$75K - $104K/yr

An associate's degree in culinary arts, with a minimum of five (5) years' non-supervisory ... cafeteria style or multi-entree operations or minimum of five (5) years non-supervisory experience ...

HarborChase

WAITSTAFF

Olney, MD · 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 LLC

WAITSTAFF

Olney, MD · 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 Olney

WAITSTAFF

Olney, MD · 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 ...

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All JobsCafeteria Associate JobsCafeteria Associate Jobs in Reston, VA

Cafeteria Associate information

See Reston, VA salary details

$14

$17

$21

How much do cafeteria associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for cafeteria associate in Reston, VA is $17.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.49 and $18.51 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 Reston, VA?

The most popular types of Cafeteria jobs in Reston, VA are:

What job categories do people searching Cafeteria Associate jobs in Reston, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Cafeteria Associate jobs in Reston, VA are:

What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Cafeteria Associate jobs?

Cities near Reston, VA with the most Cafeteria Associate job openings:

Cafeteria Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cafeteria Associate job openings in Reston, VA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,315 per year, or $17.5 per hour.

Food Service Associate

NucoreVision (NVI)

Fort Belvoir, VA • On-site

$16.50 - $17.41/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

Position Overview:
The Food Service Associate supports cafeteria and kitchen operations by preparing meal items, setting up serving lines, restocking supplies, cleaning equipment, and assisting customers and staff.
The Food Service Associate has Cashier experience and supports dining operations by processing payments and assisting customers.
The Food Service Associate also assist with Patient Tray Service and focuses on preparing, assembling, and delivering patient meal trays in accordance with diet orders and hospital guidelines.
Responsibilities:
  • Prepare and assemble menu items and serve meals cafeteria-style.
  • Set up and break down serving stations and dining areas.
  • Operate commercial dish machine and 3-compartment sink.
  • Perform routine and heavy-duty kitchen cleaning tasks.
  • Follow all Tri-Service Food Code sanitation practices.
  • Assemble trays by diet and portion-control guidelines.
  • Stock and maintain patient tray lines and unit refrigerators.
  • Transport carts to nursing units and return soiled carts for sanitizing.
  • Prepare salads, sandwiches, and cold meal items.
  • Maintain sanitation and patient safety standards.
  • Operate electronic cash register accurately.
  • Verify meal eligibility (CAC badge / patient ID).
  • Balance cash drawer and complete end-of-shift accounting.
  • Maintain cleanliness of dining and condiment areas.
  • Operate electronic cash register accurately.
  • Verify meal eligibility (CAC badge / patient ID).
  • Balance cash drawer and complete end-of-shift accounting.
  • Maintain cleanliness of dining and condiment areas.
  • Operate electronic cash register accurately.
  • Verify meal eligibility (CAC badge / patient ID).
  • Balance cash drawer and complete end-of-shift accounting.
  • Maintain cleanliness of dining and condiment areas.

Required Qualifications:
  • High School Diploma or equivalent.
  • Ability to complete 24 hours orientation and up to 80 hours on-the-job training.
  • Ability to read, speak, and understand English; perform basic math.
  • Ability to lift up to 40 lbs and stand/walk for extended periods.
  • Food safety/sanitation training required (provided if not current).
  • Attention to accuracy with patient diet requirements.
  • Strong customer service skills.
  • Basic math and cash handling experience.
  • No more than 3 register discrepancies in 6 months

Security & Medical Requirements:
  • U.S. Citizenship
  • Tier 1 Public Trust background screening + CAC
  • Must be willing to take a Drug test, TB screening, Annual flu vaccine, and Hepatitis A compliance

NucoreVision (NVI) is an EEO Employer - M/F/Disability/Protected Veteran Status

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