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Food Prep Associate Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Compass Group

FOOD SERVICE WORKER (PART TIME)

Grimes, IA · On-site

$14.75 - $18/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

With more than 16,000 associates in 4,300 schools, ranging from large public institutions to small ... Performs prep work such as washing, peeling, cutting and seeding fruits and vegetables. * Weighs ...

Kraft Heinz

Bag Prep 3rd Shift-1

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$22.08/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Bag Prep-3rd Shift: 9:30pm-6:00am Location: Kraft Heinz - Cedar Rapids 4601 C Street SW Cedar ... associates. 100% Food Service, 4 bag soup lines, 1 tub line, 18 Kettles, 5 Filling lines, and 4 ...

Chartwells K12

FOOD SERVICE WORKER/CASHIER (PART TIME)

Ames, IA · On-site

$13.75 - $16.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

With more than 16,000 associates in 4,300 schools, ranging from large public institutions to small ... Performs prep work such as washing, peeling, cutting and seeding fruits and vegetables. Weighs and ...

Compass Group

FOOD SERVICE WORKER/CASHIER (PART TIME)

Ames, IA · On-site

$13.75 - $16.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

With more than 16,000 associates in 4,300 schools, ranging from large public institutions to small ... Performs prep work such as washing, peeling, cutting and seeding fruits and vegetables. Weighs and ...

Compass Group

FOOD SERVICE WORKER/CASHIER (PART TIME)

Ames, IA · On-site

$13.75 - $16.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

With more than 16,000 associates in 4,300 schools, ranging from large public institutions to small ... Performs prep work such as washing, peeling, cutting and seeding fruits and vegetables. Weighs and ...

Compass Group

FOOD SERVICE WORKER (PART TIME)

Davenport, IA

$17.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Performs prep work such as washing, peeling, cutting and seeding fruits and vegetables. * Weighs ... Retirement Plan, Associate Shopping Program, Health and Wellness Programs, Discount Marketplace ...

Crothall Healthcare

FOOD SERVICE WORKER (PART TIME)

Davenport, IA · On-site

$17.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Performs prep work such as washing, peeling, cutting and seeding fruits and vegetables. * Weighs ... Retirement Plan, Associate Shopping Program, Health and Wellness Programs, Discount Marketplace ...

Compass Group

FOOD SERVICE WORKER (PART TIME)

Davenport, IA · On-site

$17.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Performs prep work such as washing, peeling, cutting and seeding fruits and vegetables. * Weighs ... Retirement Plan, Associate Shopping Program, Health and Wellness Programs, Discount Marketplace ...

Compass Group

FOOD SERVICE WORKER (FULL AND PART TIME)

Winterset, IA · On-site

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

With more than 16,000 associates in 4,300 schools, ranging from large public institutions to small ... Performs prep work such as washing, peeling, cutting and seeding fruits and vegetables. * Weighs ...

Compass Group

FOOD SERVICE WORKER (FULL AND PART TIME)

Winterset, IA

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

With more than 16,000 associates in 4,300 schools, ranging from large public institutions to small ... Performs prep work such as washing, peeling, cutting and seeding fruits and vegetables. * Weighs ...

Chartwells K12

FOOD SERVICE WORKER (FULL AND PART TIME)

Winterset, IA · On-site

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

With more than 16,000 associates in 4,300 schools, ranging from large public institutions to small ... Performs prep work such as washing, peeling, cutting and seeding fruits and vegetables. * Weighs ...

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Food Prep Associate information

What are some common challenges food prep associates face during busy meal times?

Food Prep Associates often experience high-pressure situations during peak meal times, such as lunch and dinner rushes. Managing time efficiently, keeping workstations organized, and maintaining food safety standards can be challenging when orders are coming in quickly. Effective communication with kitchen staff and front-of-house teams is crucial to ensure orders are accurate and timely. Adapting to changing priorities and staying calm under pressure are essential skills for success in this fast-paced environment.

How to become a food prep associate?

To become a food prep associate, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and some experience in food handling or kitchen work. Basic skills include knowledge of food safety practices, ability to follow instructions, and familiarity with kitchen tools and equipment. Some employers may require food safety certifications such as ServSafe.

What is the difference between Food Prep Associate vs Kitchen Helper?

AspectFood Prep AssociateKitchen Helper
ResponsibilitiesPreparing ingredients, assembling dishes, following recipesAssisting with basic kitchen tasks, cleaning, and supporting cooks
CredentialsHigh school diploma often preferred; food safety certificationsMinimal formal credentials; on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentCommercial kitchens, restaurants, catering servicesSimilar settings, often in fast-paced kitchens
Industry UsageCommonly used in restaurants and food serviceOften used interchangeably with Food Prep Associate in entry-level roles

While both roles support kitchen operations, Food Prep Associates focus more on preparing ingredients and assembling dishes, whereas Kitchen Helpers assist with basic tasks and cleaning. The roles often overlap, but Food Prep Associates typically require some food safety knowledge and specific prep skills, making them slightly more specialized.

What is a food prep associate?

Food Prep Associates are workers responsible for preparing ingredients and assisting with basic cooking tasks in restaurants, cafeterias, or other food service establishments. Their duties often include washing, chopping, and measuring ingredients, maintaining cleanliness in the kitchen, and following food safety procedures. They support chefs and cooks to ensure efficient meal preparation and service. This role is essential for keeping kitchen operations running smoothly and safely.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a food prep associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Food Prep Associate, you need basic culinary skills, knowledge of food safety, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, food handling certifications (like ServSafe), and inventory systems is often required. Attention to detail, time management, teamwork, and a positive attitude are standout soft skills in this role. These skills ensure efficient, safe, and high-quality food preparation in a fast-paced environment, directly impacting customer satisfaction and operational success.
What are the most commonly searched types of Food Prep jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Food Prep jobs in Iowa are:
What job categories do people searching Food Prep Associate jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Food Prep Associate jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Food Prep Associate jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Food Prep Associate job openings:
Food Prep Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Food Prep Associate job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, and 29% Part Time. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution.

FOOD SERVICE WORKER (PART TIME)

Compass Group

Grimes, IA • On-site

$14.75 - $18/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago

Compass Group rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 1,088 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

345th of 491 rated business services

Job description

  • We are hiring immediately for part time FOOD SERVICE WORKER positions.
  • Location: Dallas Center Grimes - 2405 West 1st Street, Grimes, IA 50111. Note: online applications accepted only.
  • Schedule: Part time schedules; Monday through Friday, 7:00 AM to 2:00 PM. More details upon interview. 
  • Requirement: Prior food service experience is required. 
  • Pay Range:  $15.00 per hour to $17.00 per hour.
    *Internal Employee Referral Bonus Available

We Make Applying Easy! Want to apply to this job via text messaging? Text JOB to 75000 and search requisition ID number 1540458.

The advertised program is a conversational recruiting assistant that helps you apply to jobs with Compass Group. Message frequency varies. Message and data rates may apply. Text STOP to opt out or HELP for help. Terms and conditions: http://olivia.paradox.ai/moSkg


Diversity of thought and inclusion for all is what drives our success - we invite you to start your journey with us today!


Chartwells K12's goal is to make sure students leave the cafeteria happier and healthier than they came in, by serving food kids love to eat and creating custom dining programs. With more than 16,000 associates in 4,300 schools, ranging from large public institutions to small charter and private schools, Chartwells K12 is built on decades of food, education and operational experience driven by top culinary, nutrition, wellness, and sustainability talent. For more information, visit www.ChartwellsK12.com.

Job Summary


Summary:  Prepares, presents and serves food as needed. 
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Performs prep work such as washing, peeling, cutting and seeding fruits and vegetables.
  • Weighs and measures designated ingredients.
  • Carries pans, kettles and trays of food to and from work stations, stove and refrigerator in accordance with safety standards.
  • Stores food in designated areas following wrapping, dating, food safety and rotation procedures.
  • Cleans work areas, equipment and utensils.
  • Distributes supplies, utensils and portable equipment.
  • Utilizes approved food recipes and production standards to ensure proper quality, serving temperatures and standard portion control.
  • Serves customers in a friendly, efficient manner following outlined steps of service.
  • Resolves customer concerns and relays relevant information to supervisor.
  • Ensures compliance with company service standards and inventory and cash control procedures.
  • Assures compliance with all sanitation and safety requirements.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Associates at Chartwells K-12 are offered many fantastic benefits.

Both full-time and part-time positions offer the following benefits to associates:

  • Retirement Plan
  • Associate Shopping Program
  • Health and Wellness Programs
  • Discount Marketplace
  • Identity Theft Protection
  • Pet Insurance
  • Voluntary Benefits, including Critical Illness Insurance, Accident Insurance, Hospital Indemnity Insurance, Legal Services, and Choice Auto and Home Program

In addition, full-time positions also offer the following benefits to associates:

  • Medical
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Life Insurance/AD
  • Disability Insurance
  • Commuter Benefits
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)

Associates may also be eligible for paid and/or unpaid time off benefits in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. For positions in Washington State, Maryland, or to be performed Remotely, click here or copy/paste the link below for paid time off benefits information.

https://www.compass-usa.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/2023_WageTransparency_ChartwellsK12.pdf

Because this position requires you to perform services in an educational facility, there may be periods when the Company does not require you to perform work (such as winter and summer breaks when food service needs decline or cease). Any such periods during which you do not perform work on the Company's behalf will be unpaid and deemed a temporary layoff. However, depending on business needs, you may be required to work year-round, potentially at a different location during break periods. Business needs may vary from year to year. 

About Compass Group: Achieving leadership in the foodservice industry

Compass Group is an equal opportunity employer.  At Compass, we are committed to treating all Applicants and Associates fairly based on their abilities, achievements, and experience without regard to race, national origin, sex, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other classification protected by law.
 

Qualified candidates must be able to perform the essential functions of this position satisfactorily with or without a reasonable accommodation. Disclaimer: this job post is not necessarily an exhaustive list of all essential responsibilities, skills, tasks, or requirements associated with this position. While this is intended to be an accurate reflection of the position posted, the Company reserves the right to modify or change the essential functions of the job based on business necessity.

Certain positions may require Florida Level 2 background screening. Details: https://info.flclearinghouse.com/ 

Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis.

Chartwells K-12 maintains a drug-free workplace.

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