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Food Preparation Worker Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Huddle House

Food Preparation Worker

Sylva, NC · On-site

$10.25 - $14/hr

Food Preparation Worker Food Preparation Worker Responsibilities: * Working effectively with the kitchen team, and complying with company procedures and food safety policies. * Preparing workstation ...

Huddle House

Food Preparation Worker

Franklin, NC · On-site

$10.50 - $14.25/hr

Food Preparation Worker Food Preparation Worker Responsibilities: * Working effectively with the kitchen team, and complying with company procedures and food safety policies. * Preparing workstation ...

Huddle House

Food Preparation Worker

Sylva, NC · On-site

$10.25 - $14/hr

Food Preparation WorkerFood Preparation Worker Responsibilities: * Working effectively with the kitchen team, and complying with company procedures and food safety policies. * Preparing workstation ...

Huddle House

Food Preparation Worker

Franklin, NC · On-site

$10.50 - $14.25/hr

Food Preparation WorkerFood Preparation Worker Responsibilities: * Working effectively with the kitchen team, and complying with company procedures and food safety policies. * Preparing workstation ...

Wetzel's Pretzels

Food preparation worker

Franklin, TN · On-site

$11.50 - $16/hr

Free fresh food and drinks * Opportunity to work in a fun, team-oriented environment * No experience necessary - we provide training * Opportunity to grow Requirements: * Reliable and positive ...

MSE Branded Foods

Food Preparers

Wichita, KS · On-site

$14 - $15/hr

The food preparation worker will wash, peel, slice, trim, chop, and grate fruit and vegetables and measure, weigh, and mix various ingredients. The food preparation worker will cut, slice, and grind ...

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Food Preparation Worker information

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$9

$14

$18

How much do food preparation worker jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for food preparation worker in the United States is $14.13, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.54 and $15.87 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to become a food preparation worker?

To become a food preparation worker, typically no formal education is required, but a high school diploma or equivalent is preferred. On-the-job training is common, and skills such as food safety, cleanliness, and ability to work quickly are important. Some employers may require food safety certifications, which can be obtained through short training courses.

What are some typical challenges food preparation workers face during busy meal periods, and how can they manage them?

During peak meal times, Food Preparation Workers often face fast-paced environments where multitasking and maintaining accuracy are essential. Managing time efficiently, staying organized, and communicating clearly with kitchen staff can help minimize stress and errors. Staying aware of food safety standards and maintaining a clean workspace, even under pressure, are also critical to success in this role.

What is a food preparation worker?

Food Preparation Workers are employees who assist in preparing ingredients and performing basic tasks to help cooks and chefs in restaurants, cafeterias, and other food service establishments. Their responsibilities typically include washing, peeling, and cutting fruits and vegetables, preparing salads, weighing and measuring ingredients, and keeping work areas clean and organized. While they do not usually cook the main dishes, their work is essential to ensure that meals are prepared efficiently and safely.

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

To thrive as a Food Preparation Worker, you need basic food handling knowledge, attention to detail, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with kitchen equipment, food safety protocols, and sometimes a food handler's certification are typically required. Strong time management, teamwork, and the ability to follow instructions are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills ensure safe, efficient, and high-quality food preparation in fast-paced kitchen environments.

What is the difference between Food Preparation Worker vs Kitchen Helper?

AspectFood Preparation WorkerKitchen Helper
CredentialsNone typically required; on-the-job trainingNone required; often entry-level
Work EnvironmentCommercial kitchens, restaurants, cafeteriasSimilar settings, often assisting in food prep
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in food service, hospitality, healthcareUsed interchangeably in many establishments
Job DutiesPreparing ingredients, basic cooking tasksAssisting with food prep, cleaning, setup

Both Food Preparation Workers and Kitchen Helpers work in similar environments, assisting with food prep and maintaining cleanliness. The main difference is that Food Preparation Workers often perform more specific food prep tasks, while Kitchen Helpers focus on supporting overall kitchen operations. Both roles typically require minimal formal credentials and are essential in food service settings.

More about Food Preparation Worker jobs
What cities are hiring for Food Preparation Worker jobs? Cities with the most Food Preparation Worker job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Food Preparation Worker jobs? The top employers for Food Preparation Worker jobs are:
What states have the most Food Preparation Worker jobs? States with the most job openings for Food Preparation Worker jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Food Preparation Worker jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Food Preparation Worker jobs are:
What are popular job titles related to Food Preparation Worker jobs? For Food Preparation Worker jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Food Preparation Worker jobs near you
Infographic showing various Food Preparation Worker job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, and 28% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $29,393 per year, or $14.1 per hour.

Food Preparation Worker

Huddle House

Sylva, NC • On-site

$10.25 - $14/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 24 days ago

Huddle House rating

4.2

Company rating: 4.2 out of 10

Based on 30 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

20th of 20 rated casual dining restaurants

Job description

Food Preparation Worker
Food Preparation Worker Responsibilities:
  • Working effectively with the kitchen team, and complying with company procedures and food safety policies.
  • Preparing workstation with required ingredients and equipment, and keeping station sanitary and organized throughout the shift.
  • Preparing ingredients following recipes and guidelines.
  • Steaming vegetables and other basic cooking responsibilities.
  • Ensuring ingredients are tagged, date-labeled, covered, stored, and rotated effectively.
  • Overseeing food levels and restocking items on time.
  • Keeping utensils and equipment clean and sanitary.
  • Establishing stock levels at end of shift and capturing information on standardized stock sheets.
  • Removing trash and clearing storage bins.
Food Preparation Worker Requirements:
  • High school diploma, GED, or a suitable alternative.
  • Excellent understanding of food preparation fundamentals.
  • Ability to follow recipes.
  • Sound understanding of food allergies and foodborne illnesses.
  • Basic mathematical skills.
  • Proficient knife handling skills.
  • Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
  • Available to work shifts, on public holidays, and over weekends.

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