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Cafeteria Worker Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

WCPSS

CNS Manager (0-400 Participation)

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$16.25 - $20.25/hr

Overview POSITION TITLE (Oracle title) CNS MANAGER WORKING TITLE CNS Manager SCHOOL/DEPARTMENT ... Provides direct financial and program management of a school cafeteria in the areas of supervision ...

WCPSS

CNS Manager (0-400 Participation)

Cary, NC · On-site

$16.50 - $20.50/hr

Overview POSITION TITLE (Oracle title) CNS MANAGER WORKING TITLE CNS Manager SCHOOL/DEPARTMENT ... Provides direct financial and program management of a school cafeteria in the areas of supervision ...

Elior North America

FT Food Service Worker

Durham, NC · On-site

$16/hr

Preparing, serving and distributing food, and may require working in various areas of the department, such as the tray line, dish room, cafeteria and storeroom. This list of duties and ...

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All JobsCafeteria Worker JobsCafeteria Worker Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Cafeteria Worker information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$8

$13

$19

How much do cafeteria worker jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for cafeteria worker in Raleigh, NC is $13.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.16 and $15.43 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do cafeteria workers get paid?

Cafeteria workers in Texas typically earn an hourly wage ranging from $9 to $13, depending on experience and the employer. The average annual salary is around $20,000 to $27,000, with some positions offering benefits such as flexible schedules and food service skills development.

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.

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.

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 handler certifications. Experience in food service can be beneficial, and work schedules often align with school hours.
More about Cafeteria Worker jobs
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What job categories do people searching Cafeteria Worker jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Cafeteria Worker jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Cafeteria Worker jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Cafeteria Worker job openings:
Cafeteria Worker jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cafeteria Worker job openings in Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, 48% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $29,077 per year, or $14 per hour.

Cafeteria Worker

Wake County Public Schools / Child Nutrition Services

Raleigh, NC

$14/hr

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

Now Hiring: Cafe Assistants for Wake County Public Schools (2026–2027 School Yr)


**Orientations being scheduled in Augustof 2026**


Client: Wake County Public School System - Child Nutrition Services

Employer: Skyline Personnel

Position Type: Temp-to-Hire

Hourly Wage: $14/hour

Schedule: Monday–Friday | 6.5-hour shifts (includes 30-minute unpaid lunch)

Typical Shift Start Times: Between 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM

Typical Shift End Times: Between 1:30 PM and 2:30 PM


Skyline Personnel is excited to partner with the Wake County Public School System to offer entry-level food service opportunities for the upcoming school year. Whether you're looking to gain experience in school nutrition or seeking a path to permanent employment with WCPSS, this is a great opportunity to get started.


Orientations will begin in August, but the screening process takes 1-2 weeks. Get in touch with us to start the process ASAP!




  1. Assist in preparing meals by following standardized recipes and portion guidelines.
  2. Learn and apply quantity food preparation methods and procedures.
  3. Properly operate and care for kitchen equipment.
  4. Follow all sanitation and food safety standards.
  5. Follow assigned work and cleaning schedules.
  6. Label, store, and handle leftover food properly.
  7. Wash dishes, utensils, and kitchen equipment.
  8. Maintain cleanliness in kitchen, serving lines, dining areas, tables, and floors.
  9. Assist in any area as directed by your supervisor.
  10. Comply with policies and procedures in the employee handbook.
  11. Communicate positively with students, staff, parents, and visitors.



  • Must pass a background check and physical examination, including TB testing. (out of pocket cost)
  • Must complete 520 hours through the agency before becoming eligible to apply for permanent positions with WCPSS. (Permanent hire is not guaranteed and is based on application and selection for open positions.)
  • Reliable attendance and flexibility to work at various school locations as needed.



Additional Information:

  • Placements will be based on candidates location and school needs.