ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Cafeteria Worker Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Upshift

Cafeteria Server

Allen Park, MI · On-site

$15 - $20/hr

Upshift is looking for Cafeteria Servers for flexible shifts. • Pick when and where you want to ... Apply today and start working on your terms! *Hourly rate projected based on current client pay ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsCafeteria Worker JobsCafeteria Worker Jobs in Michigan

Cafeteria Worker information

See Michigan salary details

$7

$12

$17

How much do cafeteria worker jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for cafeteria worker in Michigan is $12.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $10.91 and $13.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a cafeteria worker?

Cafeteria workers are employees who prepare, serve, and sometimes cook food in schools, hospitals, businesses, and other institutional dining settings. Their responsibilities often include setting up serving lines, portioning food, cleaning work areas, and ensuring that food safety standards are met. They may also handle cash registers, restock supplies, and assist with inventory. Cafeteria workers play a crucial role in providing nutritious meals to a large number of people efficiently and safely.

What are the duties of a cafeteria worker?

As a cafeteria worker, your primary responsibilities are to prepare and serve meals, typically for large groups of people. When preparing food, you adhere to any and all food preparation safety standards. When serving, you give food to customers as they walk through a line or by selling prepackaged items that can be purchased a la carte. In addition to preparing and serving food, your duties include restocking and maintaining supplies for the kitchen and cafeteria, as well as maintaining and cleaning the kitchen, equipment, and washing dishes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a cafeteria worker, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cafeteria Worker, you need basic food preparation skills, knowledge of food safety practices, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment and, in some cases, a food handler’s certification are typically required. Excellent teamwork, reliability, and strong customer service skills help you stand out in this role. These abilities ensure efficient service, safe food handling, and a positive dining experience for customers.

What are some common challenges cafeteria workers face during busy meal periods, and how can they effectively manage them?

During peak meal times, cafeteria workers often encounter challenges such as long lines, high noise levels, and the need to quickly prepare and serve food while maintaining quality and safety standards. Effective time management, clear communication with team members, and staying organized can help manage these pressures. Many cafeterias use well-defined roles and prep routines to streamline service, and teamwork is crucial for keeping service running smoothly. Adapting to fast-paced environments and being proactive in restocking supplies or cleaning work areas can also help reduce stress during busy periods.

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

AspectCafeteria WorkerFood Service Worker
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; food safety certification often preferredHigh school diploma or equivalent; food safety certification often required
Work EnvironmentSchool cafeterias, educational institutionsRestaurants, cafeterias, catering services
Employer & IndustrySchools, educational institutionsRestaurants, catering companies, food establishments
Job DutiesServing students, preparing simple meals, cleaningServing customers, preparing food, cleaning, taking orders

While both Cafeteria Workers and Food Service Workers operate in food service environments, Cafeteria Workers primarily serve in school settings focusing on student meals, whereas Food Service Workers work in various food establishments serving the general public. The required credentials and job duties overlap but differ based on the work environment and specific responsibilities.

Do school cafeteria workers get paid in the summer?

School cafeteria workers are typically paid only during the school year when they are actively working. Some districts may offer summer employment or extended programs, but generally, pay is not provided during the summer break unless the worker is involved in summer meal programs or other year-round roles. Pay schedules depend on the school district's policies and employment agreements.

How do you become a school cafeteria worker?

To become a school cafeteria worker, applicants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and may be required to pass a background check. Relevant skills include food safety knowledge and the ability to operate kitchen equipment; some positions may require food service certifications. Employment often involves part-time hours and adherence to health and safety regulations.
More about Cafeteria Worker jobs

What are popular job titles related to Cafeteria Worker jobs in Michigan?

For Cafeteria Worker jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Cafeteria Worker jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Cafeteria Worker jobs in Michigan are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Cafeteria Worker jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Cafeteria Worker job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Cafeteria Worker jobs in MI?

For Cafeteria Worker jobs in MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Cafeteria Worker jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cafeteria Worker job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 3% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $26,071 per year, or $12.5 per hour.

Cafeteria Worker Level III

Wayne, MI • On-site

Wayne County Schools Employment Network
Education • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about Wayne County Schools Employment Networkexternal

$11.75 - $15/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

Position Type:
Food Services/Food Service
Date Posted:
7/10/2026
Location:
Grosse Ile Elementary School
Date Available:
09/08/2026
District:
Grosse Ile Township Schools
Attachment(s):
  • Cafeteria Worker III (Elementary).pdf

Apply