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Cafeteria Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Cafeteria Staff

Gig Harbor, WA ยท On-site

$17.13 - $17.73/hr

Cafeteria Staff DEPARTMENT : Cafeteria/Operations REPORTS TO: Cafeteria Manager FLSA STATUS: Non-exempt JOB SUMMARY: Provide support to the school cafeteria with specific responsibilities for ...

Cafeteria Staff

Gig Harbor, WA ยท On-site

$17.13 - $17.73/hr

Cafeteria Staff DEPARTMENT : Cafeteria/Operations REPORTS TO: Cafeteria Manager FLSA STATUS: Non-exempt JOB SUMMARY: Provide support to the school cafeteria with specific responsibilities for ...

One free meal per shift in our Cafeteria! Job Summary: Performs various functions within the food services departments, including but not limited to: cleaning cafeteria tables, making coffee/espresso ...

Cook's Helper (40 hrs/wk)

Kirkland, WA ยท On-site

$21.06 - $32.28/hr

One free meal per shift in our Cafeteria! Job Summary: Performs various functions within the food services departments, including but not limited to: cleaning cafeteria tables, making coffee/espresso ...

One free meal per shift in our Cafeteria! Job Summary: Performs various functions within the food services departments, including but not limited to: cleaning cafeteria tables, making coffee/espresso ...

FT Cook II

Seattle, WA ยท On-site

$26.50/hr

Key Responsibilities: * Assist in the preparation and cooking of a variety of cafeteria-style meals * Follow recipes and guidelines to ensure consistent quality and taste * Handle food ingredients ...

FT Cook II

Seattle, WA ยท On-site

$26.50/hr

Key Responsibilities: * Assist in the preparation and cooking of a variety of cafeteria-style meals * Follow recipes and guidelines to ensure consistent quality and taste * Handle food ingredients ...

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Cafeteria information

See Seattle, WA salary details

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How much do cafeteria jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for cafeteria in Seattle, WA is $16.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $18.08 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, or other institutions that provide meals. Their responsibilities typically include setting up food stations, maintaining cleanliness, following food safety regulations, and assisting customers with their meal selections. They may also handle cash registers, restock supplies, and clean dining areas to ensure a safe and pleasant environment for patrons. Cafeteria workers play an important role in making sure that nutritious meals are served efficiently and safely.

What are cafeteria jobs?

A cafeteria worker helps provide a dining service for employees or visitors. They may work for a school, hospital, or other organization. There are multiple duties and responsibilities associated with cafeteria work, such as creating a menu, working in the kitchen, serving food, or providing food preparation services. For a cafeteria to be efficient, the people working there have to operate as a team. Other duties of a cafeteria worker include following hygienic practices, cleaning and maintaining equipment, ensuring that condiments and similar items are full and ready for use, and collecting payment.

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 typically need basic food preparation skills, knowledge of food safety regulations, and at least a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, point-of-sale (POS) systems, and food handling certifications like ServSafe are often required. Strong teamwork, customer service, and time management skills help you excel in a fast-paced environment. These skills and qualifications ensure efficient, safe food service and a positive dining experience for customers.

What are some common challenges faced by cafeteria staff and how can they be managed effectively?

Cafeteria staff often face challenges such as managing high-volume meal service during peak times, maintaining food safety standards, and coordinating efficiently with team members. Effective communication, strong organizational skills, and the ability to work quickly under pressure are essential for success. Many cafeterias provide ongoing training and foster a collaborative team environment to help staff manage these challenges and ensure a positive experience for both employees and patrons.

What is the difference between Cafeteria vs Food Service Worker?

AspectCafeteriaFood Service Worker
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalentHigh school diploma or equivalent
Work EnvironmentSchool or institutional cafeteriasRestaurants, cafeterias, catering
Industry UsageEducational institutions, corporate cafeteriasFood service industry, hospitality
Job RolePrepare and serve food in a cafeteria settingAssist in food prep, serve customers, maintain cleanliness

While both Cafeteria workers and Food Service Workers operate in food service environments, Cafeteria staff typically work in institutional settings like schools or corporate cafeterias, focusing on serving large groups. Food Service Workers have a broader role across various food establishments, including restaurants and catering services, often involving more diverse responsibilities. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right fit based on their skills and career goals.

What are the most commonly searched types of Cafeteria jobs in Seattle, WA?

The most popular types of Cafeteria jobs in Seattle, WA are:

What are popular job titles related to Cafeteria jobs in Seattle, WA?

For Cafeteria jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Cafeteria jobs in Seattle, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Cafeteria jobs in Seattle, WA are:

What cities near Seattle, WA are hiring for Cafeteria jobs?

Cities near Seattle, WA with the most Cafeteria job openings:

Infographic showing various Cafeteria job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,041 per year, or $16.4 per hour.

Cafeteria Staff

Lighthouse Christian School

Gig Harbor, WA โ€ข On-site

$17.13 - $17.73/hr

Part-time

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Description

JOB TITLE: Cafeteria Staff

DEPARTMENT: Cafeteria/Operations

REPORTS TO: Cafeteria Manager

FLSA STATUS: Non-exempt


JOB SUMMARY: Provide support to the school cafeteria with specific responsibilities for preparing and serving food to students and staff while maintaining safe and sanitary conditions.


This position will primarily focus on serving lunch.


Flexible Hours: Between 6-20 hours per week, must work Fridays. Can work up to 5 days/week based on candidate availability.


QUALIFICATIONS

  • Born-again Christian and credible Christian role model whose godly lifestyle and character demonstrate obedience to God and the Holy Scriptures.ย 
  • Active member of an evangelical Trinitarian church.
  • 1 year of job-related experience in commercial food preparation operation preferred, but not required.
  • High School diploma or equivalent.
  • Possess/obtain appropriate food handler permit.
  • Knowledge of modern methods of food preparation, health codes and sanitation principles, nutritional requirements and cashiering.ย 
  • Basic knowledge of food allergies, reading labels for allergens and cross-contamination best practices.
  • Ability to properly administer first aid/CPR if necessary. (First Aid, CPR and Bloodborne Pathogens certification required - provided by school if necessary)
  • Education Required: High School diploma or equivalent.

SKILLS & ABILITIES:

  • Ability to work as part of a team with a positive attitude.
  • Good communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Basic computer skills.
  • Ability to learn and use school systems and/or technology.
  • Ability to learn and use commercial grade kitchen equipment.
  • Ability to trouble-shoot issues or challenges.
  • Ability to multi-task, prioritize, and efficiently complete all tasks assigned.
  • Ability to anticipate potential needs and provide creative, imaginative solutions.
  • Ability to communicate clear direction to others and make independent judgments based upon common sense, keep and maintain accurate records, understand and carry out oral and written instructions.ย 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Participates in the serving and preparation of food in accordance with the instructions of the Cafeteria Manager.
  • Maintains the highest standards of safety and cleanliness in the kitchen according to the guidelines established by Pierce County Health Department, U.S.D.A., and the Cafeteria Manager.
  • Uses proper procedures with receiving and storage of groceries and kitchen supplies.ย 
  • Maintains a healthy atmosphere with all fellow employees. ย Communicates effectively with other employees, creating productivity and satisfaction in the workplace. ย 
  • Follows Food Service Dress Code Policy. ย 
  • Reports to the Cafeteria Manager any faulty or inferior quality food which is received.
  • Assists in the daily cleaning and sanitation of kitchen, equipment, dishes and utensils.
  • Maintains high standards of ethical behavior and confidentiality.ย 
  • Has regular and predictable attendance.
  • Must be able to communicate effectively with students in lunchroom with regards to discipline and corrective actions.ย 
  • Ability and willingness to rotate through all kitchen positions such as, but not limited to, cooking, serving, dishwashing, cleaning, cashiering, inventory and mopping.
  • Performs all other duties as assigned.ย 
  • Participate in meetings, devotions, professional learning community and Inservice as required

WORK REQUIREMENTS

  • Part time, non-exempt position based upon the school year calendar. Some summer work required at the end and before the start of school (i.e. kitchen close-up/prep for year, Staff orientations, etc)ย 
  • Hourly wage as outlined in the annual at-will employment letter.ย 
  • This position includes the need to stand and walk for prolonged periods. Significant physical abilities include lifting forty (40) pounds, carrying, pushing, balancing, stooping, reaching, handling, hearing conversations and other sound (potential hazards), visual acuity, depth perception and visual accommodation.ย 
  • Ability to work in an environment with significant slipping hazards.ย 
  • Exercises proper lifting techniques, holding load close to your body, keeping back straight and lifting with legs.
  • Be able to work in some temperature extremes (i.e. freezer, walk-in cooler, warm cooking equipment, etc)


BENEFITS

  • Paid Sick Time
  • Wellness reimbursement
  • Ongoing professional development
  • Complimentary lunch on school daysย 
  • Employee Assistance Plan (EAP)
  • Tuition discount for enrolled students or their choice of up to $2,500 additional retirement contribution, education reimbursement or student loan reimbursement (Prorated based on FTE)ย