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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

Chicago, IL · On-site

$17.50 - $28.25/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

Edmonds, WA · On-site

$13.25 - $18.25/hr

Responsible for preparation of all food items for the restaurant. Duties & Responsibilities: * Must follow proper placement of food items into pots per BP specifications * Chopping all food related ...

Food Preparer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$14.25 - $19.50/hr

Responsible for preparation of all food items for the restaurant. Duties & Responsibilities: * Must follow proper placement of food items into pots per BP specifications * Chopping all food related ...

Food Preparer

Chicago, IL

$17.50 - $28.25/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

Washington, NC · On-site

$15 - $17/hr

We are now hiring food preparers at Huckle Burger! Duties may include cooking, cleaning, prepping, and following checklists. Responsibilities: * Primarily cooking, prepping, and cleaning work ...

Food Preparer

Anchorage, AK · On-site

$17.50/hr

Responsible for preparing, assembling and packing raw and/or cooked food items in accordance with specifications and USDA/FDA/HACCP standards. Performs job duties in a timely manner to ensure smooth ...

Food Preparer

Boston, MA · On-site

$17.50/hr

Responsibilities include preparing and cooking raw food items for airlines in a timely manner and in accordance with company, FDA, and airline standards and regulations. One (1) or more years ...

Food Preparer

Washington, NC · On-site

$15 - $17/hr

We are now hiring food preparers at Huckle Burger! Duties may include cooking, cleaning, prepping, and following checklists. Responsibilities: * Primarily cooking, prepping, and cleaning work ...

Food Preparer

Miami, FL · On-site

$16/hr

The Food Service employees prepare the meals according to airline specifications by cutting, chopping, wrapping, and assembling dishes and meals. They also set up food carts for the airlines with all ...

Food Preparer

Edmonds, WA

$13.25 - $18.25/hr

Responsible for preparation of all food items for the restaurant. Duties & Responsibilities: * Must follow proper placement of food items into pots per BP specifications * Chopping all food related ...

Food Preparer - $18.00/HR | Airline Catering | Portland, OR Location : Portland, OR 97218 (Portland International Airport Area) Full-Time | Immediate Openings | Weekly Pay Food Service employees ...

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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, Part-time

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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Food Preparer information

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How much do food preparer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 13, 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 the highest paying job for a cook?

The highest paying jobs for cooks typically include executive chefs, head chefs, or culinary directors in high-end restaurants, hotels, or private clubs, with salaries often exceeding $70,000 annually. These roles usually require extensive experience, leadership skills, and culinary certifications. Specialized cuisines or management positions tend to offer higher compensation within the culinary field.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Jobs that can pay $2,000 a day typically include high-level roles such as specialized surgeons, senior corporate executives, or successful entrepreneurs. These positions often require extensive experience, advanced skills, or significant responsibility, and may involve long hours or high stress. Freelance consultants or contractors in certain industries can also reach this level with high-value projects or clients.

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 Food Preparers?

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 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.

What is a food preparer?

A food preparer is a worker responsible for preparing ingredients and dishes in restaurants, cafeterias, or catering services. They typically follow recipes, maintain hygiene standards, and may use kitchen tools and equipment. This role often requires knowledge of food safety and proper handling procedures.

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 average salary for a food preparer?

The average salary for a food preparer typically ranges from $20,000 to $30,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and the type of establishment. Entry-level positions may pay closer to minimum wage, while experienced food preparers in higher-end settings can earn more. Skills such as food safety and knife handling can influence earning potential.
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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full 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

$12 - $16.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 20 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