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Dining Assistant Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Covenant Woods

RESIDENT DINING ASSISTANT

Mechanicsville, VA · On-site

$14.50 - $18.75/hr

Report any observations to the Charge Nurse and/or CNA. * Respond in a calm, courteous, and cooperative manner to residents, staff, and visitors. * Must have Long term care experience or dining ...

The Glebe - LifeSpire

Server

Daleville, VA

Dining Assistants welcome diners, help them find seating and make sure they are comfortable and have a pleasant dining experience Essential Duties and Responsibilities: * Presets dining areas in ...

The Glebe - LifeSpire

Server

Daleville, VA · On-site

Dining Assistants welcome diners, help them find seating and make sure they are comfortable and have a pleasant dining experience Essential Duties and Responsibilities: * Presets dining areas in ...

The Glebe - LifeSpire

Server

Daleville, VA

Dining Assistants welcome diners, help them find seating and make sure they are comfortable and have a pleasant dining experience Essential Duties and Responsibilities: * Presets dining areas in ...

The Glebe

Server

Daleville, VA · On-site

Dining Assistants welcome diners, help them find seating and make sure they are comfortable and have a pleasant dining experience Essential Duties and Responsibilities: * Presets dining areas in ...

Parkhurst Dining

Dining Room Attendant

Bridgewater, VA · On-site

$12.50 - $16/hr

Empty glass racks must be taken to dish room. 5. Assist our guests, as needed, in a friendly and ... Dining. * Paid time off * Management career advancement opportunities * Access to continuous ...

Parkhurst Dining

Dining Room Attendant

Ashland, VA

$12.25 - $15.75/hr

Empty glass racks must be taken to dish room. 5. Assist our guests, as needed, in a friendly and ... Dining. * Paid time off * Management career advancement opportunities * Access to continuous ...

Parkhurst Dining

Dining Room Attendant

Lexington, VA · On-site

$12.50 - $13/hr

Empty glass racks must be taken to dish room. 5. Assist our guests, as needed, in a friendly and ... Dining. * Paid time off * Management career advancement opportunities * Access to continuous ...

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All JobsDining JobsDining Assistant JobsDining Assistant Jobs in Virginia

Dining Assistant information

See Virginia salary details

$7

$18

$40

How much do dining assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for dining assistant in Virginia is $18.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.28 and $20.24 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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Dining jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Dining jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Dining Assistant jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Dining Assistant job openings:
Dining Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Dining Assistant job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,242 per year, or $18.9 per hour.

Dining assistant

Lake Manassas Health & Rehabilitation Center

Gainesville, VA

$14.75/hr

Other

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Lake Manassas Health & Rehabilitation Center, a 120-bed healthcare center in Gainesville, Virginia, is seeking an energetic and customer focused Dining Services Associate. We recognize that food brings people together, and dining is an important part of the outstanding experience we provide for our patients.

We are searching for caring, warm-hearted people who are searching for an opportunity to do meaningful work, an opportunity to put a personal touch on improving the lives of others. We understand the demands of caring for others, and we consider it an honor. Our team members experience the daily joy of enriching the lives of others, while building genuine relationships with patients and their families. Become part of an enthusiastic and dedicated team of professionals who share their positive attitudes and compassionate hearts with every patient, family and co-worker.

Primary responsibilities include but are not limited to the following: performs a variety of kitchen duties as assigned. May assemble prepared foods for regular or modified diet trays and deliver trays to serving areas. May prepare and serve between meal snacks for patients. May work the tray line, tend and load machines that clean food service items, or hand wash items that are not machine washable. May clean floors, work areas, tables, and cabinets.

Job qualifications include but are not limited to:

  • Prior dietary experience preferred.
  • Ability to communicate, read, comprehend, understand, and write messages, and follow directions is required.