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Food Prep Associate Jobs in Springfield, MO (NOW HIRING)

Prime, Inc.

Fire & Ice Line Cook

Springfield, MO · On-site

$18/hr

... food prep assignments. * Close the kitchen following all closing checklists provided by the Executive Chef. * Communicate clearly with managers, kitchen & front of the house associates. * Assist in ...

Prime, Inc.

Fire & Ice Line Cook

Springfield, MO · On-site

$18/hr

... food prep assignments. * Close the kitchen following all closing checklists provided by the Executive Chef. * Communicate clearly with managers, kitchen & front of the house associates. * Assist in ...

Chartwells HE

DISHWASHER (FULL TIME)

Springfield, MO · On-site

$17/hr

Washes worktables, walls, refrigerators, meat blocks and other food prep surfaces. * Removes trash ... Associate Shopping Program * Health and Wellness Programs * Discount Marketplace * Identity Theft ...

Compass Group

DISHWASHER (FULL TIME)

Springfield, MO · On-site

$18/hr

Washes worktables, walls, refrigerators, meat blocks and other food prep surfaces. * Removes trash ... Associate Shopping Program * Health and Wellness Programs * Discount Marketplace * Identity Theft ...

Compass Group

DISHWASHER

Springfield, MO · On-site

$18/hr

Washes worktables, walls, refrigerators, meat blocks and other food prep surfaces. * Removes trash ... Associate Shopping Program * Health and Wellness Programs * Discount Marketplace * Identity Theft ...

Compass Group

DISHWASHER

Springfield, MO · On-site

$17/hr

Washes worktables, walls, refrigerators, meat blocks and other food prep surfaces. * Removes trash ... Associate Shopping Program * Health and Wellness Programs * Discount Marketplace * Identity Theft ...

Compass Group

DISHWASHER (FULL TIME)

Springfield, MO · On-site

$17/hr

Washes worktables, walls, refrigerators, meat blocks and other food prep surfaces. * Removes trash ... Associate Shopping Program * Health and Wellness Programs * Discount Marketplace * Identity Theft ...

Chartwells HE

DISHWASHER (FULL TIME)

Springfield, MO · On-site

$18/hr

Washes worktables, walls, refrigerators, meat blocks and other food prep surfaces. * Removes trash ... Associate Shopping Program * Health and Wellness Programs * Discount Marketplace * Identity Theft ...

Compass Group

DISHWASHER

Springfield, MO · On-site

$18/hr

Washes worktables, walls, refrigerators, meat blocks and other food prep surfaces. * Removes trash ... Associate Shopping Program * Health and Wellness Programs * Discount Marketplace * Identity Theft ...

004 Price Cutter

Floral Associates

Ozark, MO · On-site

Floral Associate Part Time/Full Time - Store Entry Level Reports Directly to: Store Director ... Cleaning prep areas, the sales floor, and working to maintain dry floors to reduce accidents ...

088 Price Cutter

Liquor Associate

Greenfield, MO · On-site

This includes the sales floor and walk-in cooler -To keep sales floor and prep areas clean to ... Must be able to use knives and other sharp instruments utilized in the preparation of food items ...

052 Price Cutter

Liquor Associate

Springfield, MO · On-site

This includes the sales floor and walk-in cooler -To keep sales floor and prep areas clean to ... Must be able to use knives and other sharp instruments utilized in the preparation of food items ...

006 King Cash Saver

Liquor Associate

Ozark, MO · On-site

This includes the sales floor and walk-in cooler -To keep sales floor and prep areas clean to ... Must be able to use knives and other sharp instruments utilized in the preparation of food items ...

051 Price Cutter

Liquor Associate

Springfield, MO · On-site

This includes the sales floor and walk-in cooler -To keep sales floor and prep areas clean to ... Must be able to use knives and other sharp instruments utilized in the preparation of food items ...

055 Price Cutter

Liquor Associate

Nixa, MO · On-site

This includes the sales floor and walk-in cooler -To keep sales floor and prep areas clean to ... Must be able to use knives and other sharp instruments utilized in the preparation of food items ...

035 Price Cutter

Liquor Associate

Springfield, MO · On-site

This includes the sales floor and walk-in cooler -To keep sales floor and prep areas clean to ... Must be able to use knives and other sharp instruments utilized in the preparation of food items ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsFood Prep Associate JobsFood Prep Associate Jobs in Springfield, MO

Food Prep Associate information

See Springfield, MO salary details

$8

$14

$19

How much do food prep associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for food prep associate in Springfield, MO is $14.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.26 and $15.96 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 job categories do people searching Food Prep Associate jobs in Springfield, MO look for?

The top searched job categories for Food Prep Associate jobs in Springfield, MO are:

What cities near Springfield, MO are hiring for Food Prep Associate jobs?

Cities near Springfield, MO with the most Food Prep Associate job openings:

Food Prep Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Food Prep Associate job openings in Springfield, MO as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 66% Full Time, 31% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $29,842 per year, or $14.3 per hour.

FOOD SERVICE WORKER/CASHIER (FULL AND PART TIME)

Compass Group

Springfield, MO • On-site

$16/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago

Compass Group rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 1,099 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

350th of 500 rated business services

Job description

Location: Missouri State University

  • We are hiring immediately for full and part time FOOD SERVICE WORKER/CASHIER positions.
  • Address: Missouri State University-901 S National Shannon House R. Springfield, MO 65897 Note: online applications accepted only.
  • Schedule: Full Time Schedule: Sunday through Friday, no Saturdays; hours vary. More details upon interview.
  • Requirement: Prior food service and/or cashier experience preferred.
  • Pay Range:  $15.00 per hour to $16.00 per hour.

We Make Applying Easy!  Want to apply to this job via text messaging?  Text JOB to 75000 and search requisition ID number 1555042. 

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

Application Deadline: applications are accepted ongoing until all openings are filled for this position. If an applicant is declined due to the position being filled, they may still be considered for future opportunities and are always welcome to reapply.

Join our campus team where you are valued and empowered to make a difference. Enjoy competitive wages, benefits, and perks like Instapay through the One @Work app. Our careers are filled with purpose and encourage learning, growth, and meaningful impact. Apply today!

Job Summary


Summary:   Performs cashiering duties, including general food service work. Maintains sanitation standards in the preparation, service and dining room facilities.  
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. Distributes supplies, utensils and portable equipment.
  • Stores foods in designated areas in accordance with wrapping, dating, and food safety and rotation procedures.
  • Cleans work areas, equipment and utensils.
  • Ensures compliance with sanitation and safety requirements.
  • Uses 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.
  • Interacts with customers and resolves customer complaints in a friendly, service-oriented manner.
  • Relays relevant information to supervisor.
  • Performs sales transactions.
  • Enters sales into the cash register to ensure purchases are accurately recorded.
  • Makes change, accepts declining balance cards and other acceptable forms of payment.
  • Issues receipts to customers.
  • Follows standard procedures for issuing cash refunds.
  • Responsible for all assigned change funds and cash receipts, ensuring that cash drawer is in compliance with overage/shortage standards.
  • Replenishes condiments, beverages and general supplies while maintaining service area cleanliness.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

The Benefits

We are always looking for ways to invest in our people both inside and outside of work to help them achieve their full potential. Both full-time and part-time associates are eligible for the following benefits:

  • Opportunities for Training and Development
  • 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 Maryland, Washington State, 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_ChartwellsHED.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 may 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.

Our Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
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 Higher Ed maintains a drug-free workplace. 

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