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Cafeteria Associate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ovisllc93023

Associate Cafeteria - Line Cook

Ojai, CA

$15.75 - $19/hr

The Cafeteria Cook assists the culinary team in providing Five Diamond standards of service and cooking to the associate cafeteria while practicing OVI policies and procedures. Prepares and cooks ...

ovisllc93023

Associate Cafeteria - Line Cook

Ojai, CA · On-site

$15.75 - $19/hr

The Cafeteria Cook assists the culinary team in providing Five Diamond standards of service and cooking to the associate cafeteria while practicing OVI policies and procedures. Prepares and cooks ...

Benchmark

Associate recognition programs * Exclusive discounts and family perks * Free employee meal daily What You'll Do * Set up and maintain the cafeteria service line, ensuring food is properly displayed ...

Omni Hotels & Resorts

Cafeteria Attendant

Austin, TX · On-site

Our associates are the heart of our success - a dedicated, passionate team who bring to life the ... Omni Hotels & Resorts is seeking a Full-Time Associate Cafeteria Attendant for the beautiful Barton ...

Publix Super Markets, Inc.

Cafeteria Cook - Miami

Miami, FL · On-site

$15.85 - $21.85/hr

Description * preparing, cooking, and serving meals for Publix associates * the responsibilities ... Free hot lunches (buffet-style) at facilities with a cafeteria * Visit our website to see all of ...

Publix Super Markets, Inc.

Cafeteria Worker - McCalla

AL · On-site

$14 - $19.30/hr

A $.75 per hour night differential is paid to associates regularly scheduled to work any hours ... Free hot lunches (buffet-style) at facilities with a cafeteria * Visit our website to see all of ...

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Cafeteria Associate information

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How much do cafeteria associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for cafeteria associate in the United States is $16.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $17.79 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do lunch ladies get paid?

In North Carolina, cafeteria associates or lunch ladies typically earn an hourly wage ranging from $10 to $14, depending on experience and school district. Salaries may vary based on factors such as location, union agreements, and whether the position is part-time or full-time.

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 are Cafeteria Associates?

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 jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Cafeteria associates typically do not earn $4,000 a week; such high earnings are uncommon in this role. Jobs that can pay this amount without a degree often include skilled trades like commercial truck driving, sales, real estate, or entrepreneurship, which may require specialized skills, certifications, or experience. These roles often involve high commissions, bonuses, or overtime to reach that income level.

What is a cafeteria job description?

A cafeteria associate's job description includes preparing and serving food and beverages, maintaining cleanliness in dining and kitchen areas, and providing customer service to students or staff. The role often requires good communication skills, the ability to follow safety and sanitation standards, and may involve operating kitchen equipment or cash registers.

What is a cafe assistant job role?

A cafeteria associate or cafe assistant is responsible for preparing and serving food and beverages, maintaining cleanliness, and providing customer service in a food service environment. They often handle cash registers, stock supplies, and follow health and safety regulations to ensure a clean and efficient operation.

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.
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What are the most commonly searched types of Cafeteria jobs? The most popular types of Cafeteria jobs are:
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Cafeteria Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cafeteria Associate job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,906 per year, or $16.8 per hour.
Cafeteria Supervisor A - Deerfield

Cafeteria Supervisor A - Deerfield

Publix Super Markets, Inc.

Deerfield Beach, FL

Other

Posted 17 days ago

Publix rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 4,609 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

25th of 119 rated grocery stores

Job description

The purpose of this position is to lead the day-to-day activities and functions within one of 18 Publix associate cafeterias and assist the Cafeteria Manager in the planning and execution of departmental strategies. This position assists with developing hourly associates, determining, implementing, and executing best practices, meeting objectives and goals, driving improvement, directing associates, ensuring a safe work environment for associates and reporting on operations to departmental leadership.
  • assisting supervision in the efficient operation of the department and ensuring premier service to customers (Distribution, Manufacturing, Office, and all other support associates)
  • monitoring and executing a cafeteria's annual operating cost plan ($500K - $2M)
  • facilitating and executing business area process changes in the cafeteria to ensure smooth transitions

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