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Cafeteria Custodian Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Cafeteria and Custodial Assistant

Mcewen, TN · On-site

$14.50 - $18.25/hr

Job Type Full-time Description Full-time cafeteria and custodial assistant. 9:30 am - 5:00 pm Assist Cafeteria Manager and complete all tasks assigned. Must be able to lift 50lbs and contribute ...

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Cafeteria Custodian information

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$11

$18

$25

How much do cafeteria custodian jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for cafeteria custodian in the United States is $18.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.62 and $20.43 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Cafeteria Custodian vs School Custodian?

AspectCafeteria CustodianSchool Custodian
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent often requiredHigh school diploma or equivalent often required
Work EnvironmentPrimarily in cafeteria and kitchen areasThroughout school building, including hallways, classrooms, and common areas
Employer & IndustrySchools, educational institutionsSchools, educational institutions
Job DutiesCleaning cafeteria, dining areas, and kitchen spacesCleaning entire school facilities, including classrooms and hallways

Both Cafeteria Custodians and School Custodians work in educational settings and require similar credentials. However, Cafeteria Custodians focus mainly on cleaning dining and kitchen areas, while School Custodians maintain the entire school environment. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find roles aligned with their skills and interests.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a cafeteria custodian?

To thrive as a Cafeteria Custodian, you need knowledge of cleaning techniques, safety procedures, and sanitation standards, usually supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with cleaning equipment, chemical handling, and sometimes OSHA regulations is typically required. Attention to detail, reliability, and the ability to work independently are crucial soft skills for the role. These skills ensure a clean, safe, and welcoming environment that supports health standards and smooth cafeteria operations.

What does a cafeteria custodian do?

A cafeteria custodian is responsible for maintaining cleanliness and sanitation in cafeteria areas. Their duties typically include sweeping and mopping floors, cleaning tables and chairs, emptying trash bins, and sanitizing surfaces to ensure a safe and hygienic environment. They may also handle basic maintenance tasks and restock supplies such as soap, paper towels, and cleaning products. Cafeteria custodians play an important role in supporting the health and safety of students, staff, and visitors.

What are common challenges faced by cafeteria custodians and how can they be managed?

Cafeteria custodians often face challenges such as maintaining cleanliness during busy meal periods, handling spills quickly to prevent accidents, and managing waste in a way that meets health and safety standards. Effective communication with kitchen staff and other custodians is key to staying ahead of high-traffic times and unexpected messes. Developing a routine cleaning schedule and staying organized helps ensure all areas are consistently maintained, which can reduce stress and improve efficiency.

How do you become a cafeteria custodian?

To become a cafeteria custodian, applicants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and must pass background checks. Relevant skills include cleaning, organization, and knowledge of sanitation standards; some positions may require training in food safety or use of cleaning equipment. Employment often involves working during school hours or shifts in a school or institutional setting.
More about Cafeteria Custodian jobs
What cities are hiring for Cafeteria Custodian jobs? Cities with the most Cafeteria Custodian job openings:
What states have the most Cafeteria Custodian jobs? States with the most job openings for Cafeteria Custodian jobs include:
Infographic showing various Cafeteria Custodian job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,921 per year, or $18.7 per hour.

$12.50 - $16/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

TITLE: Cafeteria Custodian P/T

CLASSIFICATION: Classified Hourly

REPORTS TO: Unit Manager

SUMMARY: The Cafeteria Custodian supports meal service during breakfast and lunch, disposes of classroom breakfast trash, and ensures cleanliness of the cafeteria and kitchen areas.Duties also include assisting with the loading, unloading, and transporting of food and supplies.
PERFORMANCE RESPONSIBILITIES:
1. Sets up tables in the cafeteria for breakfast and lunch.
2. Sweep and mop cafeteria floors before, during, and after meal service.
3. Wipe-down and sanitize tables, chairs, trash cans.
4. Spot clean spills and messes quickly to prevent accidents
5. Disposes of rubbish from the kitchen, cafeteria, and other adjacent areas in such a manner as to meet county health department safety and sanitation standards.
6. Collects and disposes of breakfast trash from classrooms.
7. Assists delivery and kitchen personnel with lifting heavy cartons and equipment in
8. the cafeteria including food deliveries.Cleaning and maintaining in the cafeteria during breakfast and lunch
9. Maintains custodial supplies, including chemicals, properly and in accordance with health department regulations
10. Utilizes safe work practices in all functions
11. Performs other job-related duties as assigned by the Unit Manager
EDUCATION/CERTIFICATIONS: High school diploma or equivalent.
EXPERIENCE:
1. Previous custodial experience is preferred.
2. Prior work experiences where duties were performed with minimum direct supervision and cooperation with others are desired.
SKILLS/KNOWLEDGE/ABILITIES:
1. Ability to bend, carry and lift 50 pounds, climb, and push and pull 50 pounds. 
2. Ability to stand and walk for extended periods of time
3. Ability to perform general maintenance.
4. Knowledge of English required to read and interpret schedules, memos, instructions on tools and equipment, and to communicate with co-workers and students.
5. Knowledge of safety procedures and ability to maintain a safe working environment.

























WORKING CONDITIONS: The working environment is the normal school setting and conditions include exposure to dirt and dust, and noise and vibration of maintenance equipment.
TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT: 10-month year, part-time 4 hours per week, Classified Hourly Salary Schedule Level D.