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Entry Level Food Service Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Umd

Food Service Specialist- Concessions

College Park, MD · On-site

$48K - $57K/yr

Under general supervision, functions as a specialist or entry level manager responsible for providing assistance in the planning and coordination of one or more components of a food service operation.

Wegmans Food Markets

Entry Level Manager

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$21.75 - $22.50/hr

We're looking for entry-level leaders who are passionate and ready to collaborate, lead, and give ... Customer service experience, preferably in a food service, grocery or retail setting * Proven ...

Wegmans Food Markets

Lead Cook Trainee

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$21.75 - $22.50/hr

This is an entry-level structured training program designed to be completed within 6 months with ... Experience working in a multi-faceted food service facility, including restaurant, hotel, country ...

August Healthcare at Iliff

Dietary Aide

Dunn Loring, VA · On-site

$13.50 - $17/hr

... food service environments Reasonable accommodations may be provided. Why Join Us • Entry-level opportunity in a healthcare environment • Training provided • Supportive team and leadership • ...

August Healthcare at Leewood

Dietary Aide

Annandale, VA · On-site

$13.50 - $17/hr

... food service environments Reasonable accommodations may be provided. Why Join Us • Entry-level opportunity in a healthcare environment • Training provided • Supportive team and leadership • ...

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Entry Level Food Service information

What are entry level food service jobs?

Entry level food service jobs are positions in the food industry that require little to no previous experience. These jobs often include roles such as cashier, server, dishwasher, host, or fast food worker. Employees in these positions are responsible for tasks like taking orders, preparing food, cleaning, and providing customer service. Entry level food service jobs are a great way to gain experience, learn important skills, and start a career in hospitality or the restaurant industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Food Service worker, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Food Service worker, you typically need basic food safety knowledge, attention to cleanliness, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with point-of-sale systems, kitchen equipment, and food handling certifications such as ServSafe are often required. Strong teamwork, communication, and customer service skills help you work efficiently and provide a positive dining experience. These skills are essential for maintaining food quality, ensuring customer satisfaction, and adhering to health and safety regulations.

How to get a food service job with no experience?

Entry level food service jobs often do not require prior experience; applicants should focus on demonstrating good communication skills, a positive attitude, and a willingness to learn. Completing a food handler's certification can improve chances and shows responsibility. Applying to local restaurants, cafes, or fast-food outlets and being flexible with shifts can also increase opportunities.

Does Chick-fil-A pay $20 an hour?

Entry level food service positions at Chick-fil-A typically pay around minimum wage, which varies by location and may be below $20 an hour. Higher wages may be available for experienced or supervisory roles, but starting pay for entry-level positions generally does not reach $20 an hour.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level food service workers, and how can they be overcome?

Entry level food service workers often face challenges such as adapting to a fast-paced environment, managing multiple tasks simultaneously, and providing excellent customer service under pressure. To overcome these challenges, it's important to communicate clearly with your team, stay organized, and remain calm during busy periods. Many employers also provide training and mentoring to help new employees build confidence and learn best practices quickly.

How to start working in food service?

To start working in food service, you should look for entry-level positions such as server, cashier, or cook, which often require a high school diploma or equivalent. Applying in person or online, preparing a resume highlighting customer service skills, and obtaining any necessary food safety certifications can improve your chances. Flexibility with shifts and a positive attitude are also important for entry-level roles.

Where would you start as an entry level job in the food industry?

Entry level food service jobs typically include positions such as cashier, server, dishwasher, or food prep worker. These roles often require basic customer service skills, the ability to work in a fast-paced environment, and sometimes food safety certifications like ServSafe. They provide foundational experience for advancing in the food industry.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Entry level food service jobs typically do not pay $4,000 a week; such high earnings are uncommon without advanced skills or experience. High-paying roles that can reach this level often involve specialized trades, sales, or entrepreneurial ventures, but they usually require experience, certifications, or business ownership rather than entry-level positions.
What are the most commonly searched types of Food Service jobs in Washington? The most popular types of Food Service jobs in Washington are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Food Service jobs in Washington? For Entry Level Food Service jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Food Service jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Food Service jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Entry Level Food Service jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Entry Level Food Service job openings:
Entry Level Food Service jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Food Service job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution.

Food Service Specialist- Concessions

Umd

College Park, MD • On-site

$48K - $57K/yr

Full-time

PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Job Description Summary & Additional Information

Organizational Summary Statement:

Under general supervision, functions as a specialist or entry level manager responsible for providing assistance in the planning and coordination of one or more components of a food service operation. Performs activities pertaining to food preparation and presentation, merchandising, calculation of food and labor costs, scheduling and employee relations. Assists in ensuring quality, cost efficient food preparation and the maintenance of safe and sanitary conditions.

Preferences:

ServSafe and TIPS certification preferred


Licenses/ Certifications:

  • Must have or obtain a driver's license valid in Maryland with less than 5 points.

  • Must have or obtain a Prince George's County Maryland Health Department Food Service Manager Certification and TIPS (or equivalent certification) and State of Maryland Fire Marshall approved crowd management certification. All must be obtained within 90 days of hire and maintained throughout employment.

  • After the job offer, but before hire, must pass a DOT physical and Drug Test arranged by the University and be able to maintain the DOT physical certification and pass random drug testing throughout employment.

Physical Demands

This is an essential position and the incumbent must report to work when the campus is closed due to weather or other emergency situations. Must be able to work a variable schedule including weekends, nights, evenings, and holidays. Annual leave will not be granted for specific periods including the weeks preceding and right after the start of each semester, Football Weekends, Maryland Day, Family Weekend or special events. Must have the manual dexterity to operate equipment with or without accommodation and to lift up to 15 pounds regularly. The University of Maryland is a non-smoking campus.
Must be able to lift 40 pounds on a regular basis and up to 75 pounds occasionally and stand, walk and work on feet for long periods of time. Must be able to work in extreme weather, humidity and temperature conditions including regularly working between 40 degrees and 90 degrees for extended periods and, from 15 below zero degrees to 40 degrees and from 90 degrees to 110 degrees for short periods of time.

Best Consideration Date: N/A

Posting Close Date: July 20, 2026

Open Until Filled: N/A

Minimum Qualifications

EDUCATION: High School Diploma or GED.

EXPERIENCE: Five years progressively responsible experience in commercial or institutional food service, two years of which must have been in a lead or supervisory capacity.

OTHER:

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES:

Thorough knowledge and understanding of the principles and methods in large scale food preparation and service. Thorough knowledge of and skill in the application of procedures and standards of quality and quantity food selection, food preservation, food preparation, meal service, and portion control. Thorough knowledge of and skill in the use of food service equipment and materials. General knowledge of federal, state, and local health and sanitation regulations applicable to food service activities. Skill in providing guidance to food service personnel. Ability to organize and coordinate the work of food service operations and to control workload to assure quality service; to supervise and instruct food service personnel; to prepare and maintain records and reports; to communicate effectively both orally and in writing; to work in irritating environments and adverse temperature conditions; to lift, transport and stock food service supplies, materials and equipment.

OTHER:

Except for qualifications established by law, additional related experience and formal education in which one has gained the knowledge, skills, and abilities required for full performance of the work of the job class may be substituted for the education or experience requirement on a year-for-year basis with 30 college credits being equivalent to one year of experience.

CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT:

Candidates selected for employment may be subject to medical inquiries and/or medical examinations to determine ability to perform the job. Safe Food Handling and Sanitation Certification may be required.

Job RisksNot Applicable to This PositionDepartmentVPSA-DS-ConcessionsWorker Sub-Type Staff Contractual (C2) (Fixed Term)Salary Range$48,138.00 - $57,766.00
Benefits Summary

For more information on Staff Contractual C2 benefits, select this link.

Background Checks

Offers of employment are contingent on completion of a background check. Information reported by the background check will not automatically disqualify anyone from employment. Before any adverse decision, the finalist will have an opportunity to provide information to the University regardingdisclosablebackground checkinformation. The University reserves the right to rescind the offer of employment or otherwise decline or terminate employment if the information reported by the background check is deemed incompatible with the position, regardless of when the background check is completed.

Employment Eligibility

The successful candidate must complete employment eligibility verification (on Form I-9) by presenting documents that establish identity and work authorization within the timeframe required by federal immigration law, and where applicable, to demonstrate renewed employment authorization. Failure to complete employment eligibility verification or reverification within the timeframe set forth by law may result in suspension or termination of employment.

EEO Statement

The University of Maryland, College Park is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment. Please read the University's Equal Employment Opportunity Statement of Policy.

Title IX Non-Discrimination NoticeResources

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