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Cafeteria Associate Jobs in Springfield, MO (NOW HIRING)

FOOD SERVICE WORKER

Nixa, MO · On-site

$15/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... 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)

Nixa, MO · On-site

$13.75 - $18.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... 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

Nixa, MO · On-site

$13.75 - $18.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... 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)

Nixa, MO · On-site

$13.75 - $18.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... 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)

Nixa, MO · On-site

$13.75 - $18.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... 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 Springfield, MO salary details

$12

$15

$18

How much do cafeteria associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for cafeteria associate in Springfield, MO is $15.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $16.20 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 Springfield, MO?

The most popular types of Cafeteria jobs in Springfield, MO are:

What are popular job titles related to Cafeteria Associate jobs in Springfield, MO?

For Cafeteria Associate jobs in Springfield, MO, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Cafeteria Associate jobs in Springfield, MO look for?

The top searched job categories for Cafeteria Associate jobs in Springfield, MO are:

What cities near Springfield, MO are hiring for Cafeteria Associate jobs?

Cities near Springfield, MO with the most Cafeteria Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Cafeteria Associate job openings in Springfield, MO as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 63% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,751 per year, or $15.3 per hour.

Dishwasher : Cafeteria Services

Jack Henry & Associates, Inc.

Springfield, MO • On-site

$34K - $38K/yr

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago


Jack Henry & Associates rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 23 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

39th of 244 rated software companies


Job description

General information
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JobID
17228
Position Level
Individual Contributor
Team
Business Operations
Working Time
Full-Time
Position Type
Regular
Travel Requirements
0%
Workplace Type
Onsite
Preferred Location
Monett, MO
Additional Locations
Springfield, MO
Description & Requirements
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At Jack Henry, we're more than a technology company, we're a force for good in financial services. We're redefining how community banks and credit unions connect with the people they serve. Our mission is rooted in people inspired innovation, empowering financial institutions to deliver seamless, secure, and human centered experiences. We deliver cutting-edge solutions that are paving the way for the next generation of digital banking and payments, but our true impact begins with our associates. If you're ready to help transform an industry and grow with a company that values purpose, collaboration, and excellence then we'd love to meet you.
A Dishwasher plays a key role in keeping the kitchen running smoothly by cleaning and sanitizing dishes, utensils, pots, pans, and essential kitchen equipment. The role focuses on maintaining a clean and organized dishwashing station, including sinks and surrounding areas, while ensuring all washed items are properly stored. It also involves managing waste by disposing of trash appropriately and maintaining recycling and waste bins. A Dishwasher may support kitchen staff with basic food preparation when needed, uphold strict food safety and sanitation standards, and use dishwashing equipment correctly while reporting any maintenance needs. The position can also include assisting with receiving and stocking kitchen supplies and performing additional duties as assigned to support overall kitchen operations.
This position will be filled to work onsite at the Jack Henry Monett, MO office location.
The salary range for this position is $34,400 - $38,000. This posted salary range reflects the minimum and maximum base pay we reasonably expect to offer for this role at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary above or below this range and is subject to change in the future. Individual pay is determined by a variety of factors, including but not limited to: relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, performance, work schedule, travel requirements, sales or revenue targets, and overall business needs and affordability.
What you'll be responsible for:
  • Cleans and sanitizes dishes, utensils, pots, pans, and kitchen equipment.
  • Maintains cleanliness of dishwashing station, sinks, and surrounding areas.
  • Ensures all dishes are properly stored after washing.
  • Disposes of waste and maintains trash and recycling bins.
  • Assists kitchen staff with basic food preparation when necessary.
  • Maintains compliance with food safety and sanitation standards.
  • Ensures proper use and maintenance of dishwashing equipment.
  • May assist in receiving and stocking kitchen supplies.
  • May perform other duties as assigned.

What you'll need to have:
  • Must have experience working in a kitchen.
  • Follow OSHA standards.
  • Solid interpersonal communication skills.
  • Demonstrates strong time management skills and the ability to work effectively with team members.
  • Working hours will be 6:00am - 3:00pm CST; must be able to work overtime with flexibility required due to campus events.

What would be nice for you to have:
  • ServSafe certified.
  • Has operated kitchen equipment such as (oven, slicer, flat top grill).
  • Experience with industrial grade cleaners.

If you got this far, we hope you're feeling excited about this opportunity. Even if you don't feel you meet every single requirement on this posting, we still encourage you to apply. We're looking for passionate, driven individuals who align with our mission and can bring unique perspectives to our team.
Why Jack Henry?
At Jack Henry, we live by the motto: "Do the right thing, do whatever it takes, and have fun." It's more than a tagline, it's the foundation of our culture. We recognize that our associates are the key to our success, and we're deeply committed to their wellbeing. That's why we offer comprehensive benefits designed to support your physical, mental, and financial health so you can thrive both personally and professionally.
We're also leading the way in technology modernization, helping financial institutions evolve with speed, security, and flexibility. Our strategy focuses on delivering secure data access, mitigating fraud, and enabling seamless integration. Empowering our teams to build innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of accountholders.
Culture of Commitment
Ask our associates why they love Jack Henry, and many will tell you it is because our culture is exceptional. We do great things together. Our culture empowers us to rise to challenges, seek new opportunities, and support one another through change. It's this shared commitment that drives our success. We're proud to foster an environment where inclusion, sustainability, and community impact are more than values, they're how we operate. Visit our Corporate Sustainability site to learn more about our culture and commitment to our people, customers, community, environment, and shareholders.
Equal Employment Opportunity
At Jack Henry, we know we are better together. We value, respect, and protect the uniqueness each of us brings. Innovation flourishes by including all voices and makes our business - and our society - stronger. Jack Henry is an equal opportunity employer and we are committed to providing equal opportunity in all of our employment practices, including selection, hiring, performance management, promotion, transfer, compensation, benefits, education, training, social, and recreational activities to all persons regardless of race, religious creed, color, national origin, ancestry, physical disability, mental disability, genetic information, pregnancy, marital status, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, age, sexual orientation, and military and veteran status, or any other protected status protected by local, state or federal law.
No one will be subject to, and Jack Henry prohibits, any form of discipline, reprisal, intimidation, or retaliation for good faith reports or complaints of discrimination of any kind, pursuing any discrimination claim, or cooperating in related investigations.
Requests for full corporate job descriptions may be requested through the interview process at any time.
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