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Cafeteria Food Service Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Bradley County Schools

Food Service Substitute

Cleveland, TN · On-site

$10.50 - $14.25/hr

Food Service (Cafeteria)/Food Service Sub Date Posted: 6/19/2023 Location: System-Wide Food Service Substitute Summary Applicants need to have the ability to fill in on short notice. Qualification ...

AtWork

School Cafeteria Worker- Corinth

Corinth, TX · On-site

$15/hr

We are seeking a dependable and experienced Cafeteria Food Service Worker to join a school district in the Corinth,TX area. In this role, you will assist with preparing and serving food, maintaining ...

WDH

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SCHOOL CAFETERIA WORKER- Food service

Chicago, IL · On-site

$17 - $18/hr

In this role, you will be responsible for providing excellent customer service while assisting in food preparation, serving meals, and maintaining a clean and organized cafeteria environment. The ...

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Cafeteria Food Service information

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How much do cafeteria food service jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for cafeteria food service 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 who prepare, serve, and sometimes cook food in cafeterias, such as those in schools, hospitals, or workplaces. Their duties often include setting up food lines, serving meals, handling cash registers, cleaning dining areas, and following food safety standards. They play a key role in ensuring that customers receive nutritious meals in a clean and efficient environment. Excellent customer service skills and the ability to work as part of a team are important for this role.

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 and sanitation, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, point-of-sale (POS) systems, and sometimes a food handler’s certification are typically required. Strong teamwork, customer service, and time management skills help you stand out in this fast-paced, customer-facing environment. These skills ensure efficient service, safe food handling, and a positive dining experience for patrons.

What are some common challenges faced in a cafeteria food service role, and how can they be managed?

In a Cafeteria Food Service position, employees often face challenges such as managing high-volume meal periods, maintaining food safety standards, and addressing diverse dietary needs. Staying organized, communicating effectively with team members, and following established protocols can help manage these challenges. Additionally, being adaptable and having a positive attitude during busy times contributes to a smoother workflow and a better customer experience.

What is the difference between Cafeteria Food Service vs Cafeteria Cook?

AspectCafeteria Food ServiceCafeteria Cook
Primary RoleServing and assisting customers, managing food stationsPreparing, cooking, and assembling meals
Work EnvironmentFood service areas, customer interactionKitchen, food preparation areas
Required CertificationsFood handler's permit often neededFood safety certifications typically required
Employer & Industry UsageSchools, cafeterias, institutional diningSchool cafeterias, institutional kitchens

While both roles are part of cafeteria operations, Cafeteria Food Service focuses on customer service and managing food stations, whereas Cafeteria Cooks are responsible for preparing and cooking meals. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right position in the cafeteria industry.

What cities are hiring for Cafeteria Food Service jobs?

Cities with the most Cafeteria Food Service job openings:

What states have the most Cafeteria Food Service jobs?

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

Cafeteria Food Service jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cafeteria Food Service 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.

Part Time Elementary School Cafeteria Manager

The Greater Cincinnati School Application Consortium

Cincinnati, OH • On-site

$16 - $20/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

Provides assistance for food services operations in the elementary school.  Performs work in cooperation with all food services employees to maintain efficiency and cleanliness for entire cafeteria/food service operations.



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