Entry Level Food Service information
See Portland, OR salary details
$10.87 - $12.05
2% of jobs
$12.05 - $13.23
5% of jobs
$13.23 - $14.42
6% of jobs
$15.13 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$14.42 - $15.60
15% of jobs
The median wage is $16.78 / hr.
$15.60 - $16.78
19% of jobs
$16.78 - $17.96
20% of jobs
$18.37 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$17.96 - $19.14
14% of jobs
$19.14 - $20.32
9% of jobs
$20.32 - $21.51
4% of jobs
$21.51 - $22.69
3% of jobs
How much do entry level food service jobs pay per hour?
As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level food service in Portland, OR is $17.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.29 and $18.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
To get an entry level food service job with no experience, focus on creating a simple resume highlighting soft skills like communication and teamwork. Apply to local restaurants, cafes, or fast-food outlets, and be prepared to start with flexible hours or shifts. Demonstrating a positive attitude and willingness to learn can increase your chances of being hired without prior experience.
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.
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.
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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Food Service jobs in Portland, OR?
The most popular types of Food Service jobs in Portland, OR are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Food Service jobs in Portland, OR?
For Entry Level Food Service jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Food Service jobs in Portland, OR look for?
The top searched job categories for Entry Level Food Service jobs in Portland, OR are:
