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Food Prep Associate Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Round1

Food & Beverage Associate

Woodbridge, VA · On-site

$16 - $17.75/hr

Washes and dries dishes, glasses, and other cooking/food prep utensils. * Conducts all opening and closing procedures. (Opens and closes cash tills, kitchen cleaning, etc.). * Manages food and ...

New

Logan's Roadhouse

Prep

Manassas, VA · On-site

$13.25 - $16.75/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 ...

Compass Group

FOOD SERVICE UTILITY

Waldorf, MD · On-site

$15.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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

Restaurant Associates

PREP COOK (PART TIME)

Washington, DC · On-site

$22.05/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Previous prep cooking experience is required. * Fixed Pay Rate: $22.05 per hour. We Make Applying ... food supply. * Resolves customer concerns. * Performs other duties as assigned. Associates at ...

Compass Group

FOOD SERVICE UTILITY

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$15.25 - $18.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Washes worktables, walls, refrigerators, meat blocks and other food prep surfaces. * Removes trash ... Associates at Bon Appétit are offered many fantastic benefits. Full-time and part-time positions ...

Compass Group

FOOD SERVICE UTILITY

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$22.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Washes worktables, walls, refrigerators, meat blocks and other food prep surfaces. * Removes trash ... Associates at Eurest are offered many fantastic benefits. Full-time and part-time positions offer ...

Compass Group

FOOD SERVICE UTILITY

Vienna, VA · On-site

$18/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Washes worktables, walls, refrigerators, meat blocks and other food prep surfaces. * Removes trash ... Associates at Eurest are offered many fantastic benefits. Full-time and part-time positions offer ...

Compass Group

FOOD SERVICE UTILITY

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$18/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Our passionate team of associates is fully committed to delivering exceptional foodservice ... Washes worktables, walls, refrigerators, meat blocks and other food prep surfaces. * Removes trash ...

Compass Group

FOOD SERVICE UTILITY (PART TIME)

Washington, DC · On-site

$18.40/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We asked some of our associates why they love working for Touchpoint. Click here to see what they ... Washes worktables, walls, refrigerators, meat blocks and other food prep surfaces. * Removes trash ...

Posted today

Compass Group

FOOD SERVICE UTILITY (FULL TIME)

Waldorf, MD · On-site

$15.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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

Compass Group

FOOD SERVICE UTILITY (FULL TIME)

Waldorf, MD · On-site

$15.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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

Compass Group

FOOD SERVICE UTILITY (PART TIME)

Washington, DC · On-site

$18.40/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We asked some of our associates why they love working for Touchpoint. Click here to see what they ... Washes worktables, walls, refrigerators, meat blocks and other food prep surfaces. * Removes trash ...

Posted today

Compass Group

FOOD SERVICE UTILITY (FULL TIME)

Vienna, VA · On-site

$18/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Washes worktables, walls, refrigerators, meat blocks and other food prep surfaces. * Removes trash ... Associates at Eurest are offered many fantastic benefits. Full-time and part-time positions offer ...

Compass Group

FOOD SERVICE UTILITY

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$18/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Become part of Restaurant Associates, the industry's leading provider of dining and event catering ... Washes worktables, walls, refrigerators, meat blocks and other food prep surfaces. * Removes trash ...

Unidine

FOOD SERVICE UTILITY (FULL TIME)

Waldorf, MD · On-site

$15.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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

Compass Group

FOOD SERVICE UTILITY

College Park, MD · On-site

$18/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Washes worktables, walls, refrigerators, meat blocks and other food prep surfaces. * Removes trash ... Associates at CulinArt are offered many fantastic benefits. Both full-time and part-time positions ...

Compass Group

FOOD SERVICE UTILITY

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$18.20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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

FOOD SERVICE UTILITY

Washington, DC · On-site

$25.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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

FOOD SERVICE UTILITY (FULL TIME)

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$22.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Washes worktables, walls, refrigerators, meat blocks and other food prep surfaces. * Removes trash ... Associates at Eurest are offered many fantastic benefits. Full-time and part-time positions offer ...

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All JobsFood Prep Associate JobsFood Prep Associate Jobs in Washington, DC

Food Prep Associate information

See Washington, DC salary details

$10

$17

$23

How much do food prep associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for food prep associate in Washington, DC is $17.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.24 and $19.86 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 popular job titles related to Food Prep Associate jobs in Washington, DC? For Food Prep Associate jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Food Prep Associate jobs in Washington, DC look for? The top searched job categories for Food Prep Associate jobs in Washington, DC are:
Food Prep Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Food Prep Associate job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 69% Full Time, 30% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,158 per year, or $17.9 per hour.

Dishwasher / Kitchen Prep - Senior Living | Part-Time

Foundry Commercial

Severna Park, MD • On-site

$17.06 - $20.64/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Part-Time Dishwasher / Kitchen Prep - Senior Living
Spring Arbor Senior Living of Severna Park
345 Ritchie Hwy, Severna Park, MD 21146
Starting at $16.59/hour - Higher Pay Based on Experience
Same-Day Pay Available
Join a Team That Helps Make Every Meal Special
Do you enjoy staying active, working in a fast-paced environment, and being part of a team? Spring Arbor Senior Living of Severna Park is looking for a dependable Dishwasher / Kitchen Prep team member to support our Dining Services department.
Behind every great meal is a dedicated kitchen team. As a Dishwasher / Kitchen Prep Associate, you'll play an important role in providing a clean, safe, and welcoming dining experience for our residents.
No late-night restaurant hours-just meaningful work serving seniors in a supportive community.
Schedule
Part-Time
  • Various weekdays
  • Every other weekend required
  • Rotating shifts as scheduled
  • Some holidays required

Why You'll Love Working Here
Competitive Pay
Same-Day Pay Options
Medical, Dental & Vision Benefits (Eligible Associates)
401(k) Retirement Plan
Supplemental Insurance Options
Supportive Team Environment
Opportunities for Growth & Advancement
♥ Meaningful Work That Makes a Difference
What You'll Do
As a Dishwasher / Kitchen Prep Associate, you will:
  • Wash and sanitize dishes, cookware, utensils, trays, and kitchen equipment
  • Operate and maintain commercial dishwashing equipment safely
  • Assist the culinary team with food preparation and kitchen support as needed
  • Set up and break down dining areas before and after meal service
  • Bus tables and assist with maintaining a clean dining room
  • Keep the kitchen, dish room, and food preparation areas clean and organized
  • Follow all food safety, sanitation, and infection control guidelines
  • Work closely with the Dining Services team to provide an exceptional dining experience for residents

What We're Looking For
• Must be at least 18 years old
• Six months of food service, restaurant, hospitality, kitchen, or dishwasher experience preferred
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
• Dependable with strong attention to cleanliness and organization
• Team-oriented with a positive attitude
• Ability to safely operate kitchen equipment and follow sanitation procedures
• Successfully complete required background screening
Why Spring Arbor?
At Spring Arbor, every role matters. Our Dining Services team helps create one of the most important parts of our residents' day-a welcoming meal shared with friends and neighbors.
If you're looking for a rewarding position with a supportive team, consistent hours, and the opportunity to make a difference every day, we'd love to meet you.
Apply today and become part of the Spring Arbor family!
Conveniently Located Near
We're hiring candidates from Severna Park, Annapolis, Pasadena, Arnold, Glen Burnie, Millersville, Crofton, Odenton, Riviera Beach, Lake Shore, and throughout Anne Arundel County.
Allegro Living, LLC serves as the parent company of Allegro Management Company and Spring Arbor Management Company, uniting decades of senior living expertise under one trusted name. Formed through the 2025 merger of two well-established brands, Allegro Living is building a premier senior living platform defined by inspired lifestyles, compassionate care, and meaningful regional reach. The only thing we're missing is YOU!
Equal Employment Opportunity & Non-Discrimination
Allegro Living provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.

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