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Cafeteria Associate Jobs in Silver Spring, MD (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Bachelor's degree, associate's degree or college credits * Three professional references, including ... Supervise and support students in the classroom, playground, or cafeteria * Foster a safe ...

Utility

Baltimore, MD

$15 - $18/hr

... Associates--both in and outside of work. Benefits include: Health and Welfare plans to include ... This position will clean and maintain equipment in Dishwashing/ Kitchen/ Cafeteria/ Compactor ...

Bachelor's degree, associate's degree or college credits * Three professional references, including ... Supervise and support students in the classroom, playground, or cafeteria * Foster a safe ...

Maintenance Helper

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$17.35 - $29.47/hr

The building is further activated by a vibrant workplace experience, with a full-service cafeteria ... Speak to team members, associates, and co-workers using clear, appropriate and professional ...

Maintenance Helper

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$17.25 - $22.50/hr

The building is further activated by a vibrant workplace experience, with a full-service cafeteria ... Speak to team members, associates, and co-workers using clear, appropriate and professional ...

Showing results 41-60

Cafeteria Associate information

See Silver Spring, MD salary details

$14

$17

$21

How much do cafeteria associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for cafeteria associate in Silver Spring, MD is $17.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.39 and $18.37 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 Silver Spring, MD? The most popular types of Cafeteria jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:
What job categories do people searching Cafeteria Associate jobs in Silver Spring, MD look for? The top searched job categories for Cafeteria Associate jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:
What cities near Silver Spring, MD are hiring for Cafeteria Associate jobs? Cities near Silver Spring, MD with the most Cafeteria Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Cafeteria Associate job openings in Silver Spring, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 66% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,085 per year, or $17.3 per hour.

RETAIL MANAGER - The George Washington University - Washington, DC

Compass Group

Washington, DC • On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago


Compass Group rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 1,088 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

339th of 485 rated business services


Job description

Location: Retail Dining Locations on GWU campus

Salary:  $70,000 - $80,000

At over 300 college & universities around the country, Chartwells Higher Education is re-inventing the on-campus dining experience. We are challenging the norm and setting new standards by investing in high-tech, food-infused social spaces that bring people together to promote meaningful relationships and interactions. We are food-forward difference makers, bound together by a desire to feed hungry minds and prepare students for success.

We are seeking hungry, humble and smart associates who are looking to join and grow with a diverse organization. We invite you to start your career journey with us and look forward to hearing from you. 

Job Summary

Working as Retail Manager, you will be responsible for the successful retail/cafeteria operation of Food & Nutrition Services under the direction of the Director of Dining Services. 

Key Responsibilities:

  • Plans and supervises special functions, maintains cash controls, payroll records, and oversees the hiring and training of our hourly team members
  • Ensures customer satisfaction and good public relations through the safe and efficient uses of resources
  • Directs staff to provide scheduled retail services in accordance with corporate policies and presentation standards
  • Trains staff in customer service, proper portioning, cashier skills, and safety/sanitation
  • Completes all daily, weekly or monthly reports as outlined in the corporate policies and procedures on a timely basis meeting all prescribed deadlines.
  • Communicates effectively with all team members, patients and families
  • Implements and maintains cash handling standards as outlined in the Corporate Policies and Procedures Manual to eliminate theft of services or Company funds

Preferred Qualifications:

  • B.S. Degree in Food Services Technology/Management or related field; or A.A. Degree plus three years of directly related experience preferred.
  • Minimum of one to three years of retail operational foodservice management experience preferred, depending upon formal degree or training
  • Good knowledge of food and catering trends with a focus on quality, production, sanitation, food cost controls, marketing and presentation
  • P&L accountability and contract-managed service experience is desirable
  • Experience with cash retail operations
  • Retail marketing experiences are highly desirable
  • Supervisory, leadership, management and coaching skills
  • Good communication skills both written and verbal
  • Ability to communicate on various levels to include management, customer and associate levels
  • Knowledge of financial, budgetary, accounting and computational practices
  • Proficient computer skills to include; various computer programs, Microsoft Office programs, e-mail and the Internet

Apply to Chartwells Higher Education today!

Chartwells Higher Education is a member of Compass Group USA

Click here to Learn More about the Compass Story

Compass Group is an equal opportunity employer.  At Compass, we are committed to treating all Applicants and Associates fairly based on their abilities, achievements, and experience without regard to race, national origin, sex, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other classification protected by law.

Qualified candidates must be able to perform the essential functions of this position satisfactorily with or without a reasonable accommodation. Disclaimer: this job post is not necessarily an exhaustive list of all essential responsibilities, skills, tasks, or requirements associated with this position. While this is intended to be an accurate reflection of the position posted, the Company reserves the right to modify or change the essential functions of the job based on business necessity. We will consider for employment all qualified applicants, including those with a criminal history (including relevant driving history), in a manner consistent with all applicable federal, state, and local laws, including the City of Los Angeles' Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, and the New York Fair Chance Act. 

Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis.

Chartwells Higher Ed maintains a drug-free workplace.

Associates at Chartwells Higher Ed are offered many fantastic benefits.

  • Medical
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Life Insurance/ AD
  • Disability Insurance
  • Retirement Plan
  • Paid Time Off
  • Holiday Time Off (varies by site/state)
  • Associate Shopping Program
  • Health and Wellness Programs
  • Discount Marketplace
  • Identity Theft Protection
  • Pet Insurance
  • Commuter Benefits
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Personal Leave

Associates may also be eligible for paid and/or unpaid time off benefits in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. For positions in Washington State, Maryland, or to be performed Remotely, click here or copy/paste the link below for paid time off benefits information.

https://www.compass-usa.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/2023_WageTransparency_ChartwellsHED.pdf

Certain positions may require Florida Level 2 background screening. Details: https://info.flclearinghouse.com/

Req ID: 1531456

Chartwells HE 

KRISTINA MCCARTHY 

[[req_classification]] 


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