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Dining Hall Associate Jobs in Pleasant Prairie, WI

Oversee kitchen and dining hall cleanliness, equipment maintenance, and safety protocols ... Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Culinary Arts, Food Service Management, Nutrition, or related ...

Dining Hall Associate information

See Pleasant Prairie, WI salary details

$26.2K

$136.9K

$300.9K

How much do dining hall associate jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for dining hall associate in Pleasant Prairie, WI is $136,855.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,700.00 and $205,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a dining hall associate?

Dining Hall Associates are staff members who work in institutional dining facilities, such as those found in schools, universities, hospitals, or corporate campuses. Their primary responsibilities include preparing and serving food, maintaining cleanliness in dining areas, restocking supplies, and assisting customers with their dining needs. Dining Hall Associates may also operate cash registers, follow food safety protocols, and support kitchen staff as needed. This role is essential for ensuring a positive dining experience and upholding health and safety standards.

What is the difference between Dining Hall Associate vs Food Service Worker?

AspectDining Hall AssociateFood Service Worker
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent often preferredHigh school diploma or equivalent typically required
Work EnvironmentSchool or college dining halls, cafeteriasRestaurants, cafeterias, catering services
Employer & IndustryEducational institutions, campus dining servicesFood service establishments, hospitality industry
Job DutiesAssisting with meal service, cleaning, customer assistanceFood prep, serving customers, cleaning

While both roles involve working in food service environments, a Dining Hall Associate primarily works in educational settings assisting with meal service and customer support, whereas a Food Service Worker may work in various food establishments performing food prep and serving duties. The roles share similar credentials and work environments but differ in specific job responsibilities and employer types.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a dining hall associate?

To thrive as a Dining Hall Associate, you need strong customer service skills, basic food handling knowledge, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with point-of-sale (POS) systems, commercial kitchen equipment, and food safety certifications like ServSafe are typically required. Reliability, teamwork, and effective communication are valuable soft skills for ensuring smooth operations and a positive dining experience. These skills are important to maintain food quality, uphold safety standards, and provide efficient, friendly service to guests.

What are some typical challenges dining hall associates face during busy meal periods, and how can they address them?

Dining Hall Associates often encounter challenges such as high customer volume, managing multiple food stations, and maintaining cleanliness during peak meal times. Staying organized, working efficiently as part of a team, and communicating clearly with coworkers are essential strategies for managing these busy periods. Associates who remain calm under pressure and are proactive in restocking supplies or assisting guests often find the role more manageable and rewarding.

What cities near Pleasant Prairie, WI are hiring for Dining Hall Associate jobs?

Cities near Pleasant Prairie, WI with the most Dining Hall Associate job openings:

Food Service Director

Timber-Lee Ministries INC

East Troy, WI • On-site

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Description:

The Food Service Director is responsible for planning, organizing, and overseeing all aspects of the camp's food service operations, ensuring campers and staff receive safe, nutritious, and appealing meals throughout the season. This role manages kitchen staff, oversees menu planning and food ordering, maintains compliance with health and safety regulations, and works closely with camp leadership to accommodate dietary restrictions and special events.

  • Plan and develop seasonal menus that are nutritious, cost-effective, and appealing to campers and staff, accommodating allergies and dietary restrictions
  • Order, receive, and manage inventory of food and kitchen supplies, minimizing waste and staying within budget
  • Hire, train, schedule, and supervise kitchen staff, dishwashers, and dining room hosts.
  • Ensure compliance with all local health department, food safety, and sanitation regulations
  • Maintain proper food storage, labeling, and temperature logs
  • Oversee kitchen and dining hall cleanliness, equipment maintenance, and safety protocols
  • Coordinate meal timing and logistics around the camp's daily schedule and special events (cookouts, banquets, overnights, etc.)
  • Manage the food service budget and track expenses against projections
  • Conduct regular staff meetings and training on food safety, customer service, and kitchen procedures
  • Maintain accurate records for health inspections, staff certifications, and food safety audits
  • Respond to and resolve any food-related concerns or complaints from campers, parents, or staff
  • Plan for and manage food service during emergencies (weather delays, power outages, etc.)
Requirements:

Spiritual

  • Is a professing Christian, committed to a Christian lifestyle in keeping with the biblical model

Organizational

  • Agrees with, and supports, Timber-lee's Ministries’ philosophy and policies

Positional

  • High school diploma required; Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Culinary Arts, Food Service Management, Nutrition, or related field preferred
  • Minimum 2–3 years of experience in food service management, preferably in a camp, school, healthcare, or commercial kitchen
  • ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification (or ability to obtain within 30 days of hire)
  • Must be available to work weekends, evenings and some holidays.
  • Ability to effectively communicate with families, guests, and co-workers
  • Promote a positive environment and teamwork approach
  • Demonstrate excellent customer service skills
  • Hold your Food Handlers ServSafe certificate
  • Proficiency in Google Suite and reservation management software
  • Able to lift and carry 50 pounds at least 50 feet on flat surfaces and up and down stairs and be on one’s feet standing for extended periods of time
  • Ability to perform mixture of indoor and outdoor work and traverse a multi-terrain campground year round.