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Food Prep Associate Jobs in Detroit, MI (NOW HIRING)

Cafe Associate

Novi, MI · On-site

$14.50 - $18/hr

We are seeking a motivated and customer-focused Café Associate to join our team. In this role, you ... Maintain a clean and organized workspace, including food prep areas, dining spaces, and equipment.

Cafe Associate

Novi, MI · On-site

$14.50 - $18/hr

We are seeking a motivated and customer-focused Café Associate to join our team. In this role, you ... Maintain a clean and organized workspace, including food prep areas, dining spaces, and equipment.

Cafe Associate

Clawson, MI · On-site

$14.50 - $17.75/hr

We are seeking a motivated and customer-focused Café Associate to join our team. In this role, you ... Maintain a clean and organized workspace, including food prep areas, dining spaces, and equipment.

Cafe Associate

Clawson, MI · On-site

$14.50 - $17.75/hr

We are seeking a motivated and customer-focused Café Associate to join our team. In this role, you ... Maintain a clean and organized workspace, including food prep areas, dining spaces, and equipment.

As a Part Time Store Associate you bring fun into our store! No 2 days are ever the same - a great ... Must be able/willing to perform all store functions (Stocking, Cashier, Food Prep, Etc.) BE PART OF ...

As a Part Time Store Associate you bring fun into our store! No 2 days are ever the same - a great ... Must be able/willing to perform all store functions (Stocking, Cashier, Food Prep, Etc.) BE PART OF ...

Cafe Associate

Clawson, MI · On-site

$14.50 - $17.75/hr

We are seeking a motivated and customer-focused Café Associate to join our team. In this role, you ... Maintain a clean and organized workspace, including food prep areas, dining spaces, and equipment.

Cafe Associate

Clawson, MI · On-site

$14.50 - $17.75/hr

We are seeking a motivated and customer-focused Café Associate to join our team. In this role, you ... Maintain a clean and organized workspace, including food prep areas, dining spaces, and equipment.

Prep

Southgate, MI · On-site

$12.50 - $15.75/hr

The Prep Cook completes basic food prepping tasks as directed by the Chef /Manager. Their main ... associate degree required. • At least one year of cooking experience. • Excellent kitchen ...

Prep

Roseville, MI · On-site

$13 - $16.25/hr

The Prep Cook completes basic food prepping tasks as directed by the Chef /Manager. Their main ... associate degree required. • At least one year of cooking experience. • Excellent kitchen ...

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Food Prep Associate information

See Detroit, MI salary details

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$15

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How much do food prep associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for food prep associate in Detroit, MI is $15.61, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.32 and $17.36 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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 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.

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 are the most commonly searched types of Food Prep jobs in Detroit, MI?

The most popular types of Food Prep jobs in Detroit, MI are:

What are popular job titles related to Food Prep Associate jobs in Detroit, MI?

For Food Prep Associate jobs in Detroit, MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Food Prep Associate jobs in Detroit, MI look for?

The top searched job categories for Food Prep Associate jobs in Detroit, MI are:

What cities near Detroit, MI are hiring for Food Prep Associate jobs?

Cities near Detroit, MI with the most Food Prep Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Food Prep Associate job openings in Detroit, MI 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, with an average salary of $32,478 per year, or $15.6 per hour.

Produce Prep Associate - Full Time

Nino Salvaggio International Marketplace

Bloomfield Township, MI • On-site

$14.75 - $18.25/hr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 10 days ago


Nino Salvaggio rating

5.8

Company rating: 5.8 out of 10

Based on 17 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Nino Salvaggio is currently looking for a Produce Prep Associate for our Bloomfield location.
RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Observe all Company policies and procedures, store rules, standards of conduct as outlined in the employee handbook and as directed by management.
  • Wash, cut, chop, weight, label, price produce prep selections per company procedures.
  • Maintain a neat, well-groomed personal appearance at all times and observe Company grooming and dress standards.
  • Work all scheduled shifts, following Company guidelines for attendance and punctuality.
  • Operate all necessary and authorized equipment according to Company policies, procedures and safety guidelines.
  • Perform stocking and other duties as assigned per sales volume and management direction.
  • Understanding and knowledge of the quality standards, prices, varieties, preparation methods, etc. of the various products/food products that are available in the department.
  • Handle any damaged and/or spoiled product according to company and department guidelines and assist in controlling the level of damaged goods.
  • Comply with safety and sanitation policies and procedures as outlined in the employee handbook, postings, and manuals, etc.
  • Comply with all state, county and local weights and measures laws and labeling requirements.
  • Notify management immediately of any safety or equipment issues or violations.
  • Properly handle, stock, prepare and display all necessary products.
  • Assist in training associates when necessary.
  • Other duties as assigned. 
QUALIFICATIONS:

  • High school diploma or G.E.D.  preferred, but not required.
  • Must have reliable transportation.
  • Must be able to work early mornings, nights and weekends.
  • Ability to work in extreme cold and wet and/or humid conditions.
  • Ability to work consistently in a 45° to 50º environment.
  • Ability to count, separate and weigh all types of products.
  • Must be able to use knives, box cutters, slicers*, bailers*, etc. as needed in the department. (*Must be 18 years old to use slicers, knives, etc.).
  • Must be able to stand and/or walk for 8 or more hour periods.
BENEFITS:

  • Employee discount
  • 401K match
If you are interested in this position, please follow the 2 step application process which includes a formal application after some initial questions.
EOE

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