1

Food Preparer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Food Preparer

Beckley, WV · On-site

$12 - $16.25/hr

A food preparer is responsible for the food served to guests each day. Preparers oversee the setup and takedown of the buffet, as well as maintain the dining space, ensure food is available, and ...

Food Preparer

Beckley, WV · On-site

$12 - $16.25/hr

A food preparer is responsible for the food served to guests each day. Preparers oversee the setup and takedown of the buffet, as well as maintain the dining space, ensure food is available, and ...

Food Preparer

Boston, MA · On-site

$19.10/hr

Follows recipes and/or product directions for proper food preparation * Transfers supplies and equipment between storage and work areas by hand or cart * Prepares appropriate equipment for cooking

Food Preparer

Charlotte, NC · On-site

$19.75/hr

The Food Preparer is responsible the preparing various food products; ensuring proper food handling procedures are followed; arranging necessary supplies and equipment between storage and work areas ...

Food Preparer

New Orleans, LA · On-site

$11.50 - $15.75/hr

A Food Preparer prepares and packs meals for various airlines. Main Duties and Responsibilities: * Assembles equipment and food components according to airline specifications following procedures and ...

$1000 RETENTION BONUS over 120 days $400 at 60 days $600 at 120 days In addition, we have an ATTENDANCE INCENTIVE BONUS POTENTIAL The Food Service employees prepare the meals according to airline ...

Food Preparer

Kenner, LA · On-site

$20/hr

A Food Preparer prepares and packs meals for various airlines. Main Duties and Responsibilities: * Assembles equipment and food components according to airline specifications following procedures and ...

Food Preparer

New Orleans, LA · On-site

$11.50 - $15.75/hr

A Food Preparer prepares and packs meals for various airlines. Main Duties and Responsibilities: * Assembles equipment and food components according to airline specifications following procedures and ...

Food Preparer

Houston, TX · On-site

$11.50 - $15.75/hr

Parboiling food, reducing sauces and starting first steps in various dishes * Cleaning dishes, washing cooking utensils and cookware, taking out the trash and sanitizing kitchen * Adhering to all ...

Food Preparer 1

Columbia Falls, MT · On-site

$11 - $15/hr

The Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) has a Food Preparer career opportunity within the Montana Veterans Home, Columbia Falls, MT. The Montana Veterans' Home (MVH ...

Cold Food Preparer

Anderson, SC · On-site

$10.50 - $14.25/hr

RESPONSIBILITIES • Prepares and assembles food items needed for assigned station. • Cleans, chops, slices, grates or grinds fruits, vegetables, meats, and cheese needed for production. Prepares ...

$11 - $15.25/hr

The Food Service Worker is responsible to prepare meals, nourishments, and snacks for residents with mental health disorders in a State of long-term care facility. Under the direction of the Food ...

Food Preparer 1

Columbia Falls, MT · On-site

$11 - $15/hr

The Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) has a Food Preparer career opportunity within the Montana Veterans Home, Columbia Falls, MT. The Montana Veterans' Home (MVH ...

Food Preparer 1

Columbia Falls, MT · On-site

$11 - $15/hr

The Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) has a Food Preparer career opportunity within the Montana Veterans Home, Columbia Falls, MT. The Montana Veterans' Home (MVH ...

Food Preparer 1

Lewistown, PA · On-site

$10.75 - $14.75/hr

The Food Service Worker is responsible to prepare meals, nourishments, and snacks for residents with mental health disorders in a State of long-term care facility. Under the direction of the Food ...

Food Preparer 1

Lewistown, PA · On-site

$10.75 - $14.75/hr

The Food Service Worker is responsible to prepare meals, nourishments, and snacks for residents with mental health disorders in a State of long-term care facility. Under the direction of the Food ...

Food Preparer, Per Diem

Moses Lake, WA

$12.50 - $17.25/hr

The Food Preparer is responsible for providing friendly, courteous service to visitors and employees. Assists in preparation of all foods for patients and personnel. Capable of operating a cash ...

Food Preparer, Per Diem

Moses Lake, WA · On-site

$12.50 - $17.25/hr

The Food Preparer is responsible for providing friendly, courteous service to visitors and employees. Assists in preparation of all foods for patients and personnel. Capable of operating a cash ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Food Preparer information

See salary details

$9

$14

$18

How much do food preparer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for food preparer 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.

What is a food preparer?

Food Preparers are workers in the food service industry who are responsible for preparing ingredients and basic dishes before they are cooked or served. Their duties often include washing, chopping, and measuring ingredients, assembling simple foods like salads or sandwiches, and ensuring that kitchen areas remain clean and organized. Food Preparers play a vital role in supporting chefs and cooks by streamlining kitchen operations and helping maintain food safety standards. They typically work in restaurants, cafeterias, hospitals, and other establishments where food is served.

What are some common challenges faced by food preparers in a busy kitchen environment?

Food preparers often face challenges such as managing time efficiently during peak hours, maintaining strict food safety and sanitation standards, and adapting to sudden changes in menu orders. Working in a fast-paced kitchen can require multitasking and staying organized while handling repetitive tasks. Collaboration with cooks, servers, and other staff is also essential to ensure smooth workflow and consistent meal quality.

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

To thrive as a Food Preparer, you need basic food safety knowledge, attention to detail, and the ability to follow recipes and instructions, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with kitchen equipment, food handling procedures, and, in some cases, a food handler's certification are typically required. Strong teamwork, reliability, and time management help you excel in busy kitchen environments. These skills ensure that food is prepared efficiently, safely, and to quality standards, supporting overall kitchen operations.

What is the difference between Food Preparer vs Food Service Worker?

AspectFood PreparerFood Service Worker
CredentialsNone required or basic food handling certificationsFood handler permits often required
Work EnvironmentRestaurants, cafeterias, cateringFast food, cafeterias, restaurants
Employer UsageFood establishments preparing ingredientsServing customers, maintaining cleanliness
Common Search IntentFood prep duties, recipes, kitchen tasksCustomer service, serving, cleaning

Food preparers focus on preparing ingredients and dishes in kitchens, while food service workers handle customer service and serving. Both roles are essential in food establishments, often overlapping but with distinct responsibilities.

How to become a food preparer?

To become a food preparer, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and may complete on-the-job training or food safety courses. Basic skills in food handling, cleanliness, and time management are important, and some employers may require food safety certification such as ServSafe.
More about Food Preparer jobs

What cities are hiring for Food Preparer jobs?

Cities with the most Food Preparer job openings:

Who are the top companies hiring for Food Preparer jobs?

The top employers for Food Preparer jobs are:

What states have the most Food Preparer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Food Preparer jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Food Preparer jobs?

For Food Preparer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Food Preparer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 69% Full Time, and 31% 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 Preparer

VP Management

Beckley, WV • On-site

$12 - $16.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

A food preparer is responsible for the food served to guests each day. Preparers oversee the setup and takedown of the buffet, as well as maintain the dining space, ensure food is available, and provide any other guest services. They help with seating, delivering food and drinks to guests, manage the buffet, and clean tables in between guests.

Duties:

  • Keep work area clean
  • Keep all products stocked to ensure they are consistently available to all guests
  • Throw out all outdated product
  • Make sure coffee is fresh and kept full for the duration of your shift
  • Make sure tables and chairs are kept clean during opening and at closing
  • Sweep floor of dining area at closing
  • Sweep and mop serving area at closing
  • Wash and put away all dishes and utensils that were used
  • Sweep and mop kitchen at closing
  • Once a week wipe down both sides of both sets of sliding doors
  • Keep counters wiped down as you go
  • Make sure all food is wrapped or sealed if not being used immediately
  • Do table touches with the guests during meals to ensure they have received satisfactory service
  • Wash your hands
  • Wear gloves when handling food, or anything that involves food
  • Take trash out when full and at the end of your shift