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Entry Level Food Service Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

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.

Food Runner

Washington, DC · On-site

$10 - $12/hr

All positions will initially be offered at the entry-level rate, with consideration for annual ... Perform serving, cleaning, or stocking duties in establishments, to facilitate customer service

Food Runner

Washington, DC · On-site

$10 - $12/hr

All positions will initially be offered at the entry-level rate, with consideration for annual ... Perform serving, cleaning, or stocking duties in establishments, to facilitate customer service

Food Runner

Washington, DC · On-site

$10 - $12/hr

All positions will initially be offered at the entry-level rate, with consideration for annual ... Perform serving, cleaning, or stocking duties in establishments, to facilitate customer service

Food Runner

Washington, DC · On-site

$10 - $12/hr

All positions will initially be offered at the entry-level rate, with consideration for annual ... Perform serving, cleaning, or stocking duties in establishments, to facilitate customer service

About this role We are hiring entry-level Financial Sales Consultants to join our remote team. In ... Any customer-facing role -- retail, hospitality, food service, tutoring * Student athletes or ...

About this role We're hiring entry-level Financial Sales Consultants for our remote team. You'll ... Any customer-facing role -- retail, hospitality, food service, tutoring * Student athletes or ...

Kitchen Staff

Gaithersburg, MD · On-site

$15.25 - $19.75/hr

Be of service and accommodate special requests whenever possible, with management approval, to ... Always Adhere to Food Handlers Safety guidelines including by not limited to the following: Keep ...

This entry-level position offers an excellent opportunity for individuals who are eager to learn ... Respond promptly to guest requests or inquiries and provide excellent customer service. * Clear ...

Shift Leader

Leesburg, 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 ...

Food Service Delivery: Promptly deliver food from the kitchen to the correct tables and seat ... Prior experience in hospitality or a similar entry-level role is preferred but often not required ...

Food Service Delivery: Promptly deliver food from the kitchen to the correct tables and seat ... Prior experience in hospitality or a similar entry-level role is preferred but often not required ...

... food service meet operational standards Adheres to and monitors employee compliance of the drive-in ... year entry level retail management experience required Experience running shifts without ...

... food service meet operational standards • Adheres to and monitors employee compliance of the ... year entry level retail management experience required. Experience running shifts without ...

Directs and assigns drive-in restaurant employees as needed to ensure all aspects of food service ... Minimum of six months of restaurant management experience (QSR) or one year entry level retail ...

Directs and assigns drive-in restaurant employees as needed to ensure all aspects of food service ... Minimum of six months of restaurant management experience (QSR) or one year entry level retail ...

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Entry Level Food Service information

See Washington, DC salary details

$10

$18

$24

How much do entry level food service jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level food service in Washington, DC is $18.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $19.86 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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?

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.

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 entry level food service?

To start working in entry level food service, you should look for job openings at local restaurants, cafes, or fast-food establishments and submit an application. Having a positive attitude, good communication skills, and basic food safety knowledge can improve your chances; some positions may require a food handler's permit or similar certification. Being flexible with shifts and willing to learn can also help you get started in this industry.

What are the most commonly searched types of Food Service jobs in Washington, DC?

The most popular types of Food Service jobs in Washington, DC are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Food Service jobs in Washington, DC?

For Entry Level Food Service jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Food Service jobs in Washington, DC look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Food Service jobs in Washington, DC are:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Food Service job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,220 per year, or $18.4 per hour.

Food Service Specialist- Concessions

University of Maryland

College Park, MD • On-site

$48K - $57K/yr

Full-time

PTO

Posted 9 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Assist in the planning and coordination of food service components.

  • Perform activities related to food preparation, presentation, and merchandising.

  • Help ensure quality, cost efficiency, and safe, sanitary conditions in food service operations.


University Of Maryland, Baltimore rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

265th of 630 rated colleges and universities


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: September 10, 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 Risks
Not Applicable to This Position
Department
VPSA-DS-Concessions
Worker 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 regarding disclosable background check information. 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 Notice
Resources
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