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Cafeteria Associate Jobs in Worcester, MA (NOW HIRING)

Aerotek

Quality Assurance Associate

Southbridge, MA · On-site

$22.25 - $26.19/hr

The associate will record, distribute, and file appropriate data gathered from inspections and ... cafeteria with free water and Gatorade. The work environment is much cleaner than most plating ...

Aerotek

Quality Assurance Associate

Southbridge, MA

$22.25 - $26.19/hr

The associate will record, distribute, and file appropriate data gathered from inspections and ... cafeteria with free water and Gatorade. The work environment is much cleaner than most plating ...

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How much do cafeteria associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for cafeteria associate in Worcester, MA is $16.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.82 and $17.74 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 Worcester, MA?

The most popular types of Cafeteria jobs in Worcester, MA are:

What are popular job titles related to Cafeteria Associate jobs in Worcester, MA?

For Cafeteria Associate jobs in Worcester, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Cafeteria Associate jobs in Worcester, MA look for?

The top searched job categories for Cafeteria Associate jobs in Worcester, MA are:

What cities near Worcester, MA are hiring for Cafeteria Associate jobs?

Cities near Worcester, MA with the most Cafeteria Associate job openings:

Cafeteria Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cafeteria Associate job openings in Worcester, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,830 per year, or $16.7 per hour.

Nutrition Services Associate - 4 Hour

Fitchburg School District

Fitchburg, MA • On-site

Other

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Nutrition Services Associate - 4 Hour

Qualifications:

  • HS diploma/GED or equivalent;
  • Authorization to work in the US;
  • Experience in school cafeteria work including but not limited to food preparation, food service, and food safety HACCP program;
  • Demonstrates knowledge relevant to the position

Responsibilities:

  • Primarily responsible for breakfast and lunch service. Also responsible for food preparation, food safety, sanitation, and the operation of the cash register;
  • Other responsibilities as required

Terms of employment/salary/work year:

As negotiated by the Fitchburg School Committee and the SERVICE EMPLOYEES INTERNATIONAL UNION (SEIU) LOCAL 888, CTW, CLC

Competitive and comprehensive health benefits are offered through the City of Fitchburg; www.fitchburgma.gov/benefits

An offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of NCBC (fingerprinting) and CORI prior to your start of employment.

The responsibilities and duties listed are illustrations of the various types of work performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position. The information contained in this job description is for compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and is not an exhaustive list of the duties performed for this position. Additional duties may be assigned as required.

Notice of non-discrimination The School Committee's policy of nondiscrimination extends to students, employees, and the general public with whom it does business. Fitchburg Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, or disability in admission to, access to, employment in, or equal treatment in its programs and/or activities in compliance with state and federal law. Questions related to this policy must be addressed to: The Office of Human Resources, 376 South Street, Fitchburg, MA 01420, HR@Fitchburg.k12.ma.us

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