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Dining Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Hiawatha Care Center

Dining Assistant

Hiawatha, IA

$15/hr

The Dining Assistant plays an important role in promoting resident nutrition, comfort, and independence while assisting with meal service. If you enjoy helping others and are looking for a rewarding ...

tlc

Dining Assistant

Spokane, WA · On-site

$17.50 - $18.25/hr

We are currently looking for team members that are able to assist us in providing our residents with a pleasant and enjoyable dining experience as a Dining Assistant / Server . Come join our team of ...

Phoebe Ministries

Dining Assistant

Allentown, PA

$12 - $16/hr

Dining Assistant Allentown, PA At Phoebe Ministries Allentown , we're more than a workplace - we're a community rooted in compassion and excellence, dedicated to enriching the lives of our residents.

tlc

Dining Assistant

Spokane, WA

$17.50 - $18.25/hr

We are currently looking for team members that are able to assist us in providing our residents with a pleasant and enjoyable dining experience as a Dining Assistant / Server . Come join our team of ...

Touchmark

Dining Assistant

Spokane, WA · On-site

$17.50 - $18.25/hr

As a Dining Assistant /Server you will: * Have a genuine interest in working with seniors; * Be patient and tactful when dealing with residents, family members, visitor, and other staff * Be able to ...

Three Pillars

Dining Assistant

Dousman, WI · On-site

$15.25 - $21.10/hr

Dining Assistant Part Time | Evening Shift working 4-7 pm Pay: $15.25-$21.10/hour based on experience and shift differentials Make a difference with Three Pillars Senior Living Communities, located ...

Heath Village

Dining Assistant

Hackettstown, NJ · On-site

$15.92/hr

Dining Assistant/ Waitstaff responsibilities include but are not limited to: * Sets up dining room for meals, assuring sufficient and appropriate tableware and utensils are placed and pours liquids ...

Edgewood Healthcare

Dining Assistant

Watertown, SD · On-site

Paid time off begins accruing day 1 * 401K plan with employer contribution As a Dining Assistant at Edgewood, you'll help serve meals and provide an outstanding dining experience to the most amazing ...

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Dining Assistant information

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$7

$19

$41

How much do dining assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for dining assistant in the United States is $19.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $20.43 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What job pays you to eat food?

A dining assistant typically does not get paid to eat food; their role involves serving, cleaning, and assisting in food service. However, some food critics, taste testers, or food reviewers are paid to sample and evaluate food, often as part of marketing or quality control roles. These positions usually require specific skills, such as palate training or culinary knowledge.

What do dining assistants do?

Dining assistants support food service operations by helping prepare and serve meals, setting tables, and maintaining cleanliness in dining areas. They may also assist with customer needs and follow safety and hygiene standards to ensure a positive dining experience.

What are some common challenges faced by Dining Assistants, and how can they be effectively managed?

Dining Assistants often work in fast-paced environments where multitasking and effective communication are essential. Common challenges include managing multiple tables during busy meal times, handling special dietary needs, and ensuring customer satisfaction under time constraints. To manage these challenges effectively, it's important to stay organized, prioritize tasks, and maintain a positive attitude even during high-pressure periods. Collaborating closely with kitchen staff and fellow servers also helps ensure smooth service and a supportive team environment.

What does a food service assistant do?

A food service assistant, often called a dining assistant, helps prepare and serve meals in settings such as cafeterias or dining halls. They may set tables, assist with food distribution, maintain cleanliness, and ensure a positive dining experience, often following safety and hygiene standards. Basic knowledge of food handling and customer service skills are typically required.

What is the difference between Dining Assistant vs Food Service Worker?

AspectDining AssistantFood Service Worker
CredentialsMay require food safety certification or trainingOften requires food handler's permit or certification
Work EnvironmentHospitals, schools, senior living facilities, cafeteriasRestaurants, cafeterias, catering services
Job DutiesAssisting diners, setting tables, serving food, cleaningPreparing, serving, and cleaning up food in various settings

Both roles involve food service and may require similar certifications, but Dining Assistants typically focus on supporting dining experiences in institutional settings, while Food Service Workers often work in restaurants or catering. The roles overlap in customer service and food handling, but their work environments and specific duties differ.

What are dining assistants?

Dining assistants are professionals who support the serving of food and beverages in settings like care homes, hospitals, schools, and restaurants. Their role typically includes setting up dining areas, helping with meal service, assisting individuals who need help eating, and maintaining cleanliness. They play a key part in ensuring meal times are enjoyable and efficient, especially for people who may require additional support. Dining assistants also follow hygiene and safety regulations to ensure a safe dining environment.

What qualifications do I need to be a catering assistant?

To be a catering assistant, there are typically no strict formal qualifications required, but relevant skills include good communication, teamwork, and basic food safety knowledge. Some employers may prefer candidates with previous experience in food service or hospitality, and a food hygiene certificate can be beneficial. Flexibility with working hours and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment are also important.

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

To thrive as a Dining Assistant, you need basic food service knowledge, attention to hygiene, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with point-of-sale (POS) systems, food safety protocols, and sometimes a food handler certification is typically required. Excellent communication, teamwork, and a friendly demeanor help create a positive dining experience for guests. These skills ensure efficient service, safety compliance, and customer satisfaction in busy dining environments.
More about Dining Assistant jobs
What cities are hiring for Dining Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Dining Assistant job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Dining jobs? The most popular types of Dining jobs are:
What states have the most Dining Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Dining Assistant jobs include:
Dining Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Dining Assistant job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,582 per year, or $19 per hour.

Dining Assistant

Hiawatha Care Center

Hiawatha, IA

$15/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Hiawatha Care Center is actively hiring Dining Assistants to support residents during mealtimes by providing compassionate dining assistance and ensuring a positive dining experience. The Dining Assistant plays an important role in promoting resident nutrition, comfort, and independence while assisting with meal service. If you enjoy helping others and are looking for a rewarding part-time opportunity, we'd love to have you join our team.

What We Offer

Compensation: $15 per hour

Additional Pay

  • Eligible for an additional $5 per hour worked on Saturday and Sunday (Weekend Bonus)

Benefits

  • Health, Dental, Vision and Life Insurance

  • 401(k)

  • Paid Time Off (PTO)

  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Schedule and Employment Type

  • Part-Time Days (7:45AM - 9:30AM) & (11:45AM - 1:30PM) | Splith Shift and must be available to work both Breakfast and Lunch shifts

Key Responsibilities

  • Assist residents with eating and drinking during mealtimes

  • Encourage resident independence while providing assistance as needed

  • Set up dining areas before meal service

  • Assist with serving meals and beverages

  • Ensure residents receive the appropriate meals and dining assistance

  • Clear tables and assist with dining room cleanup after meals

  • Maintain a clean, safe, and welcoming dining environment

  • Observe residents during meals and report concerns to nursing staff

  • Provide compassionate, respectful, and resident-centered service

  • Perform other duties as assigned

Qualifications

  • Compassionate and patient with a desire to help others

  • Excellent customer service and communication skills

  • Ability to work effectively as part of a team

  • Reliable attendance and dependable work ethic

  • Previous experience in healthcare, food service, or customer service is preferred, but not required

If you are a compassionate Dining Assistant who enjoys helping residents during mealtimes, apply today to join the Hiawatha Care Center team!