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Elementary Cafeteria Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Monitor the cafteria 2 hours per day at elementary campuses. Compensation: 2 hours a day for $15/hour. About the Cafeteria Monitor role The Cafeteria Monitor is responsible for ensuring that the ...

Elementary Cafeteria Worker

Ava, MO · On-site

$12 - $15.25/hr

Cafeteria Staff/Food Service Staff Date Posted: 4/24/2026 Location: Ava Elementary School The Ava R-I School District is adding a new member to our food service crew for the 26-27 school year.

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Elementary Cafeteria information

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How much do elementary cafeteria jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for elementary cafeteria in the United States is $16.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $18.99 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by staff working in an elementary cafeteria, and how can they be managed?

Elementary cafeteria staff often encounter challenges such as managing large groups of energetic children, accommodating various dietary restrictions, and ensuring food safety standards are maintained. Effective communication with teachers and school administrators is key to coordinating mealtimes and addressing any student-specific needs. Additionally, teamwork and flexibility help staff adapt to busy periods and unexpected situations, creating a positive and efficient environment for students.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Elementary Cafeteria Worker, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Elementary Cafeteria Worker, you need basic food preparation skills, knowledge of food safety regulations, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, point-of-sale systems, and sometimes a food handler's certification is typically required. Strong teamwork, communication, and a friendly demeanor help build rapport with students and staff. These skills ensure safe, efficient meal service and contribute to a positive dining environment for young students.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

In an elementary cafeteria setting, jobs typically do not pay $10,000 a month without a degree. However, high-paying roles in food service management or food service director positions can reach such salaries, especially with experience and certifications. These roles often require strong leadership skills, operational knowledge, and sometimes industry-specific certifications but not necessarily a college degree.

What are elementary cafeteria workers?

Elementary cafeteria workers are staff members responsible for preparing, serving, and sometimes planning nutritious meals for students in elementary schools. They ensure that food is handled safely and meets the dietary guidelines required for growing children. Their duties often include food preparation, maintaining cleanliness, and assisting students during meal times. In addition to food service, they help create a welcoming and safe environment for all students during breakfast and lunch periods.

What jobs pay $400 an hour?

Jobs that pay $400 an hour are typically highly specialized roles such as experienced surgeons, senior corporate lawyers, or top-tier consultants. These positions often require advanced education, extensive experience, and sometimes certification or licensing. Such high-paying roles are usually found in healthcare, legal, or executive consulting fields.

What is the difference between Elementary Cafeteria vs School Cook?

AspectElementary CafeteriaSchool Cook
CredentialsFood service certification often requiredFood handler's permit usually needed
Work EnvironmentSchool cafeteria, serving studentsKitchen, preparing and cooking meals
Employer & IndustrySchool districts, educational institutionsSchool cafeterias, educational institutions
Job FocusOverseeing meal service, maintaining cleanlinessCooking, meal preparation, food safety

Elementary Cafeteria staff typically oversee meal service and manage the cafeteria environment, while School Cooks focus on preparing and cooking meals. Both roles require food safety certifications and work within school food service settings, but their primary responsibilities differ—one manages service and operations, the other handles meal preparation.

How much do lunch ladies get paid?

In North Carolina, elementary cafeteria workers, often called lunch ladies, typically earn an hourly wage ranging from $10 to $14, depending on experience and school district. Salaries may also include benefits such as paid time off and health insurance, with some districts offering additional stipends for certifications or extended hours.

How to get a job in school cafeteria?

To get a job in a school cafeteria, applicants typically need to complete an application process through the school district or food service provider, and may be required to pass a background check. Prior experience in food service or customer service can be helpful, and some positions may require food safety training or certifications. Availability during school hours and the ability to work as part of a team are also important factors.
What cities are hiring for Elementary Cafeteria jobs? Cities with the most Elementary Cafeteria job openings:
What states have the most Elementary Cafeteria jobs? States with the most job openings for Elementary Cafeteria jobs include:
Infographic showing various Elementary Cafeteria job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,270 per year, or $17 per hour.

$15/hr

Other

Posted 3 days ago


Job description

Monitor the cafteria 2 hours per day at elementary campuses. 
Compensation: 2 hours a day for $15/hour.
  About the Cafeteria Monitor role 

The Cafeteria Monitor is responsible for ensuring that the school cafeteria is a safe, orderly, and clean environment for students, staff, and visitors. 

  Role Purpose 

The purpose of a Cafeteria Monitor is to supervise the cafeteria and ensure the safety and well-being of all students. This includes monitoring the lunchroom atmosphere, enforcing school rules, assisting with food service, and helping to maintain order in the cafeteria. The Cafeteria Monitor may also assist with any other duties as assigned by the school administration.