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Cafeteria Associate Jobs in Rochester, MN (NOW HIRING)

Culinary Services Aide

Byron, MN · On-site

$14 - $18.75/hr

Operates, cleans and sanitizes kitchen and cafeteria equipment, and performs general cleaning and ... We pride ourselves on having an extraordinary team of associates who provide compassionate care.

Culinary Services Aide

Byron, MN · On-site

$15.96 - $18.53/hr

Operates, cleans and sanitizes kitchen and cafeteria equipment, and performs general cleaning and ... We pride ourselves on having an extraordinary team of associates who provide compassionate care.

FOOD SERVICE WORKER/CASHIER

Byron, MN · On-site

$14 - $17/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 ...

RETAIL CAFE MANAGER II

Rochester, MN · On-site

$51K - $57K/yr

With more than 31,000 associates nationwide, Morrison uses the Power of Food to create personalized ... Our Retail Managers are responsible for the successful retail/cafeteria operation of Food & Retail ...

RETAIL CAFE MANAGER II

Rochester, MN · On-site

$51K - $57K/yr

With more than 31,000 associates nationwide, Morrison uses the Power of Food to create personalized ... Our Retail Managers are responsible for the successful retail/cafeteria operation of Food & Retail ...

RETAIL CAFE MANAGER II

Rochester, MN · On-site

$51K - $57K/yr

With more than 31,000 associates nationwide, Morrison uses the Power of Food to create personalized ... Our Retail Managers are responsible for the successful retail/cafeteria operation of Food & Retail ...

FOOD UNIT LEAD

Byron, MN · On-site

$15.50 - $21.25/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 UNIT LEAD (FULL TIME)

Byron, MN · On-site

$15.50 - $21.25/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 UNIT LEAD (FULL TIME)

Byron, MN

$15.50 - $21.25/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 UNIT LEAD (FULL TIME)

Byron, MN · On-site

$15.50 - $21.25/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 ...

Cafeteria Associate information

See Rochester, MN salary details

$14

$17

$21

How much do cafeteria associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for cafeteria associate in Rochester, MN is $17.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $18.08 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 job categories do people searching Cafeteria Associate jobs in Rochester, MN look for?

The top searched job categories for Cafeteria Associate jobs in Rochester, MN are:

What cities near Rochester, MN are hiring for Cafeteria Associate jobs?

Cities near Rochester, MN with the most Cafeteria Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Cafeteria Associate job openings in Rochester, MN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 56% Full Time, and 44% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $35,482 per year, or $17.1 per hour.

Culinary Services Aide

Benedictine

Byron, MN • On-site

$14 - $18.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

The Culinary Services Aide gets to interact with our residents serving meals and providing an engaging dining experience that meets individual residents’ preferences.


  • Provides a welcoming atmosphere in the dining areas for residents.
  • Adheres to food safety and dietary guidelines based on residents’ needs. 
  • Operates, cleans and sanitizes kitchen and cafeteria equipment, and performs general cleaning and dishwashing.
  • Actively participates in all culinary trainings.

Qualifications Preferred

  • Food service experience.
  • Enjoys working with senior populations

Benedictine is a not-for-profit senior care organization who operates on our four core values: Hospitality, Stewardship, Respect, and Justice. We pride ourselves on having an extraordinary team of associates who provide compassionate care. Our focus is to provide a comforting and empowering culture for our residents and our team members, to help you grow and succeed.  

EEO/AA/Vet Friendly


15.96 - 18.53

A robust benefits package is available to eligible associates, designed to meet the needs of every stage of life, including paid time off (PTO), retirement, medical, dental, vision, education assistance, and a variety of additional voluntary benefits.  For more information visit our website at www.benedictineliving.org.


Benedictine Madonna Summit is looking for big hearts to join our Culinary team! 

Day shift 7:30 - 2:30 pm with an every other weekend rotation

#BHSMadonnaSummit