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Cafeteria Food Service Worker Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Saint Luke's Health System

Food Service Worker

Trenton, MO · On-site

$12.75 - $15.50/hr

Wright Memorial is looking for a food service worker. This position is responsible for handling ... Duties entail preparation of cafeteria food service and delivery of food to customers restocking of ...

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How much do cafeteria food service worker jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for cafeteria food service worker in the United States is $14.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.50 and $15.87 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a cafeteria food service worker?

Cafeteria Food Service Workers are employees responsible for preparing, serving, and sometimes cooking food in cafeterias, such as those found in schools, hospitals, or businesses. Their duties typically include assembling meals, portioning food, maintaining cleanliness, and operating kitchen equipment. They may also handle cash registers, restock supplies, and ensure food safety standards are met. These workers play a vital role in ensuring that customers receive nutritious and safe meals in a timely manner.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a cafeteria food service worker?

To thrive as a Cafeteria Food Service Worker, you need basic food preparation skills, knowledge of food safety regulations, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, point-of-sale systems, and food handling certifications such as ServSafe are typically required. Excellent teamwork, customer service, and time management skills help workers efficiently serve customers and maintain a positive dining environment. These skills are essential to ensure food quality, safety standards, and customer satisfaction in a fast-paced setting.

What are some common challenges cafeteria food service workers face during busy meal times, and how are they typically addressed?

Cafeteria food service workers often encounter high-pressure situations during peak meal times, such as lunch rushes, where they must efficiently prepare, serve, and restock food while maintaining cleanliness and food safety standards. To manage these challenges, teams rely on clear communication, division of tasks, and well-established routines. Cross-training often helps staff step into multiple roles as needed, and supervisors provide support and guidance to keep service running smoothly. Adapting quickly and staying organized are key skills for success in this fast-paced environment.

What is the difference between Cafeteria Food Service Worker vs Kitchen Assistant?

AspectCafeteria Food Service Worker
CertificationsFood safety, sanitation, and sometimes ServSafe certification
Work EnvironmentSchool cafeterias, cafeterias in institutions, or corporate dining areas
Job DutiesServing food, cleaning dining areas, assisting with meal prep, and maintaining cleanliness
Employer & IndustryEducational institutions, healthcare facilities, corporate cafeterias

The main difference between a Cafeteria Food Service Worker and a Kitchen Assistant is that the former primarily focuses on serving food and maintaining dining areas in cafeterias, while the latter often assists with food prep, cleaning, and supporting kitchen operations in various food service settings. Both roles may require food safety certifications and are essential in food service environments, but their specific duties and work settings differ.

How do you become a cafeteria food service worker?

To become a cafeteria food service worker, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and may be required to complete food safety training or certifications such as ServSafe. Experience in food handling, customer service, or kitchen work can be beneficial, and the job often involves working flexible hours in a school or institutional setting.

How much do cafeteria food service workers get paid?

Cafeteria food service workers in Texas typically earn an hourly wage ranging from $9 to $13, depending on experience, location, and employer. The average annual salary is approximately $20,000 to $27,000, with some positions offering additional benefits or opportunities for advancement.

What cities are hiring for Cafeteria Food Service Worker jobs?

Cities with the most Cafeteria Food Service Worker job openings:

What states have the most Cafeteria Food Service Worker jobs?

States with the most job openings for Cafeteria Food Service Worker jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Cafeteria Food Service Worker jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Cafeteria Food Service Worker jobs are:

Cafeteria Food Service Worker jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cafeteria Food Service Worker job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $29,912 per year, or $14.4 per hour.

School Cafeteria Food Service Worker - Carrollton, TX

AtWork

Carrollton, TX • On-site

$15/hr

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

We are HIRING! We are seeking a dependable and experienced Cafeteria Food Service Worker to join a school district in the Carrollton,TX area.
The Cafeteria Food Service Woker will be responsible for assisting with preparing and serving food, maintaining a clean and safe cafeteria environment, and providing friendly customer service to students, staff, and visitors.
  • Work Schedule: Monday-Friday 6:30am-2pm
  • Pay Rate: $15 per hour

Key Responsibilities:
  • Prepare and serve food items according to established guidelines and recipes
  • Assist with food preparation such as washing, cutting, and portioning ingredients
  • Set up serving lines and ensure food is presented attractively and safely
  • Serve meals and beverages while providing excellent customer service
  • Operate basic kitchen equipment such as ovens, warmers, and dishwashers
  • Maintain cleanliness of the kitchen, dining areas, and food service equipment
  • Wash dishes, utensils, and trays as needed
  • Follow all food safety, sanitation, and health regulations
  • Assist with stocking supplies and monitoring inventory levels
  • Support the kitchen team with additional tasks as assigned
Requirements:
  • Previous food service experience is required
  • Must be able to pass a national background check and drug screening test
  • Must be available to start as soon as possible

Apply