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Dining Assistant Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Cook Full Time

Orange City, IA ยท On-site

$14 - $16/hr

Creative Dining Services at Northwestern College in Orange City, Iowa is looking for Full Time ... Be proactive in communication; monitor communication posting areas closely * Assist management ...

Cook

Sioux Center, IA ยท On-site

Creative Dining Services at Dordt University in Sioux Center, Iowa is looking for a PM Cook . As ... Be proactive in communication; monitor communication posting areas closely * Assist management ...

Foodservice Worker

Sioux City, IA

$14.25 - $17.25/hr

Description Great Western Dining Service is a forward-thinking food service management company that ... * Assist cooks and kitchen staff with various tasks as needed and serving during mealtimes

Showing results 41-60

Dining Assistant information

See Iowa salary details

$7

$17

$38

How much do dining assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for dining assistant in Iowa is $17.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.56 and $19.18 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 is a dining assistant?

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 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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Dining jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Dining jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Dining Assistant jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Dining Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Dining Assistant job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,178 per year, or $17.9 per hour.

Dining Services Assistant - Part-Time

Accura HealthCare of New Hampton

New Hampton, IA โ€ข On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description


Accura HealthCare of New Hamptonย is seeking a Dining Services Assistant to join our dining services team. Dining Services Assistants are highly valued team members who bring a friendly demeanor to the daily lives of our residents.

JOB HIGHLIGHTS:

  • Part Time 4-8p with weekend rotation
  • Full Time 6a-2p
  • Starting at $15 and increases based on experience


ABOUT OUR COMMUNITY:

Accura HealthCare of New Hampton is a 52-bed Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) located in New Hampton, IA.We embrace a unique, upside-down philosophy that places residents, patients, and direct care employees at the very top of the organizational chart. That includes you!

We take pride in providing quality, person-centered care, in addition to fostering an environment that team members want to be a part of. If you desire an organization that creates an environment that allows both our residents and team members to thrive, consider Accura HealthCare and join us in being partners in care, family for life.

ABOUT ACCURA HEALTHCARE: Accura HealthCare is a Midwest-based healthcare company that manages and operates over 30 skilled nursing care, assisted living, independent living, and memory care communities throughout Iowa, Minnesota, South Dakota, and Nebraska. From its beginning in 2016 with 9 care communities, Accura HealthCare has held true to its mission and vision while serving others. Built on the pillars of trust, integrity, accountability, commitment, and kindness, Accura HealthCare is a leader in the Midwest in providing high-quality care. Our employees play a key role in supporting our purpose, "to care for others," while advancing our mission "to be partners in care, family for life."

OUR BRANDS: Accura HealthCare | Stonebridge Suites | Traditions Memory Care

OUR VALUES: Trust. Integrity. Accountability. Commitment. Kindness.

Accura HealthCare is where personal life and work life blend together to bring value and purpose to one's existence.

JOB SUMMARY:

The Dining Services Assistant assists with the preparation and serving of thoughtfully presented meals to our residents. You will work as part of a team to maintain proper sanitation protocols, follow guidelines of resident meal plans, all while communicating positively with team members and residents.

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Ability to read and understand directions.
  • Able to interact professionally, positively, and cooperatively with residents, residents' families, and employees.
  • Must be capable of performing the Essential Functions of this job, with or without reasonable accommodation.

BENEFITS:

  • Vacation time, Sick time & Paid Holidays*
  • Medical, Dental, & Vision Benefits*
  • Flexible Spending Account*
  • Employer Paid Life & AD&D*
  • Supplemental Benefits*
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Education Assistance available through education partners

*These benefits are available to full-time employees. 401k is available to FT and PT employees.ย Minnesota and Nebraska employees are eligible for Sick time regardless of status.

Accura HealthCare, anย Equal Opportunity Employerย and leading post-acute healthcare provider based in Iowa, has communities in Iowa, Minnesota, South Dakota, and Nebraska, and growing!