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Food Production Associate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Food Production Associate

Durham, NC · On-site

$12.75 - $17.50/hr

Food Service Associate Summary * Level I Perform a variety of routine and intermediate tasks in the preparation of foodstuffs; interpret recipes, cook and assemble large quantities of food for ...

Food Production Associate

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$13 - $17.50/hr

Food Service Associate Summary * Level I Perform a variety of routine and intermediate tasks in the preparation of foodstuffs; interpret recipes, cook and assemble large quantities of food for ...

Food Production Associate

Jarratt, VA · On-site

$12.25 - $16.75/hr

Will adhere to proper manufacturing methods to sustain Food Safety and Quality expectations. * Will ... Must work as a team player, ensuring product specifications are attained in a safe and efficient ...

Food Production Associate

Jarratt, VA

$12.25 - $16.75/hr

Will adhere to proper manufacturing methods to sustain Food Safety and Quality expectations. * Will ... Must work as a team player, ensuring product specifications are attained in a safe and efficient ...

Food Production Associate

Leland, NC · On-site

$11.50 - $15.50/hr

Cook and prepare delicious, high-quality food, the way you would serve your family or your best friend. * Thrive in a fast-paced, high-energy atmosphere. * Implement proper quality assurance and food ...

Food Production Associate

Forrest City, AR · On-site

$12.75 - $17.50/hr

Must work as a team player, ensuring product specifications are attained in a safe and efficient manner and communicate well with other team members. * Assist other departments as assigned by ...

Food Production Associate

Forrest City, AR · On-site

$12.75 - $17.50/hr

Must work as a team player, ensuring product specifications are attained in a safe and efficient manner and communicate well with other team members. * Assist other departments as assigned by ...

Food Production Associate

Petersburg, VA · On-site

$13 - $17.75/hr

Must work as a team player, ensuring product specifications are attained in a safe and efficient manner and communicate well with other team members. * Assist other departments as assigned by ...

Food Production Associate

Petersburg, VA · On-site

$13 - $17.75/hr

Must work as a team player, ensuring product specifications are attained in a safe and efficient manner and communicate well with other team members. * Assist other departments as assigned by ...

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Food Production Associate information

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How much do food production associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for food production associate in the United States is $15.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.74 and $17.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Food Production Associates?

Food Production Associates are workers who assist in the preparation, packaging, and quality control of food products in manufacturing or processing facilities. Their responsibilities often include operating machinery, following recipes or production guidelines, maintaining cleanliness and safety standards, and monitoring products for quality. They play a key role in ensuring that food items are produced efficiently and meet health and safety regulations before reaching consumers.

What are some common challenges faced by Food Production Associates, and how can they be managed?

Food Production Associates often encounter challenges such as maintaining strict hygiene standards, meeting high production quotas, and adapting to fast-paced work environments. Successfully managing these challenges involves following proper safety protocols, staying organized, and collaborating effectively with team members. Open communication with supervisors and ongoing training also help associates stay updated on best practices and regulations, ensuring a smooth workflow and product quality.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Food Production Associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Food Production Associate, you need knowledge of food safety standards, attention to detail, and basic math skills, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with food processing equipment, HACCP protocols, and inventory management systems is typically required. Strong teamwork, time management, and communication skills help individuals excel in fast-paced environments. These abilities ensure efficient, safe, and high-quality food production that meets regulatory and company standards.

What is the difference between Food Production Associate vs Food Processing Worker?

AspectFood Production AssociateFood Processing Worker
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require food safety certificationsHigh school diploma or equivalent; often requires food safety training
Work EnvironmentFactories, production lines, food manufacturing plantsFood processing facilities, manufacturing plants, packaging lines
Employer & Industry UsageFood manufacturing companies, processing plantsFood processing companies, packaging facilities
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between a Food Production Associate and a Food Processing Worker lies in their specific roles within food manufacturing. Food Production Associates typically focus on assembling, packaging, and quality checks on production lines, while Food Processing Workers may be involved in more specialized processing tasks. Both roles require similar credentials and work environments, and they are often used interchangeably in the industry. Understanding these distinctions can help job seekers find the right position aligned with their skills and career goals.

What cities are hiring for Food Production Associate jobs? Cities with the most Food Production Associate job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Food Production jobs? The most popular types of Food Production jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Food Production Associate jobs? The top employers for Food Production Associate jobs are:
What states have the most Food Production Associate jobs? States with the most job openings for Food Production Associate jobs include:
Infographic showing various Food Production Associate job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 65% Full Time, and 34% Part Time. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,967 per year, or $15.4 per hour.
Food Production Associate

Food Production Associate

Duke University

Durham, NC • On-site

$12.75 - $17.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago


Duke University rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 54 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

435th of 534 rated colleges and universities


Job description

At Duke Health, we're driven by a commitment to compassionate care that changes the lives of patients, their loved ones, and the greater community. No matter where your talents lie, join us and discover how we can advance health together.
About Duke Raleigh Hospital, A Campus of Duke University Hospital
Pursue your passion for caring with the Duke Raleigh Campus in Raleigh, North Carolina. With 204-beds, it is the third largest of the four Duke Health hospitals and offers a comprehensive array of services, including cancer, cardiovascular, neuroscience, advanced gastrointestinal, and wound healing care.
Food Service Associate
Summary
  • Level I Perform a variety of routine and intermediate tasks in the preparation of foodstuffs; interpret recipes, cook and assemble large quantities of food for hospital cafeterias and/or patient food service.
  • Level II Perform a wide variety of intermediate and complex tasks in the preparation of foodstuffs; interpret recipes, cook and assemble large quantities of food for hospital cafeterias and/or patient food service; assume lead worker duties as directed.

Work Performed
  • Level I -Assemble ingredients to prepare foods according to standard recipes; measure, weigh, portion and label according to established guidelines; read and interpret instructions.
  • Set up and prepare supplies and equipment for daily food preparation to include ovens, ranges, grills, fryers, broilers and steam units.
  • Operate and monitor proper functioning of equipment to include blenders, meat slicers, mixers and choppers; follow all safety procedures for using equipment and chemicals; clean and sanitize equipment after use.
  • Prepare food items according to instructions and recognized safe food handling practices; monitor and observe food during the cooking process; regulate temperatures and/or timing of cooked foods.
  • Detect and report improperly prepared food or food that does not meet standards.
  • Assist in the care and maintenance of work areas and alert supervisors to problems and needs as they arise.
  • Level II -Perform all of the duties and responsibilities of Level I
  • Prepare entrees, casseroles, special dishes and complex food items requiring multiple steps and sequences during preparation.
  • Read, interpret, and review instructions for possible errors relating to specified quantities, ingredients, proportions or mixtures; refer inaccuracies to supervisor.
  • Take appropriate corrective action for improper functioning of equipment.
  • Assist supervisor in training employees; provide instructions and guidance as needed; assumes lead responsibility for assigned work as directed.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
  • Level I - Ability to read and write English
  • Ability to understand and follow instructions, to interpret recipes, to use fractions to modify proportions and to mix, measure and/or prepare ingredients.
  • Ability to demonstrate safe food handling practices and to follow safety procedures for using equipment and chemicals.
  • Level II - Same as Level I plus willingness to learn new skills (ie. computer)
  • Ability to review recipes and instructions for possible errors relating to specified quantities, ingredients, proportions or mixtures.
  • Ability to troubleshoot equipment malfunctions.
  • Ability to provide instructions and train other employees

Level Characteristics
  • Level II Involves more complex preparations of foodstuffs and more review for possible errors. Serves as lead worker and trainer of other employees as directed.

Minimum Qualifications
Education
N/A
Experience
  • Level I Work requires one year institutional food preparation experience.
  • Level II Work requires two years institutional food preparation experience.

Degrees, Licensures, Certifications
N/A
Duke is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to providing employment opportunity without regard to an individual's age, color, disability, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy and pregnancy related conditions), sexual orientation or military status.
Duke aspires to create a community built on collaboration, innovation, creativity, and belonging. Our collective success depends on the robust exchange of ideas-an exchange that is best when the rich diversity of our perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences flourishes. To achieve this exchange, it is essential that all members of the community feel secure and welcome, that the contributions of all individuals are respected, and that all voices are heard. All members of our community have a responsibility to uphold these values.
Essential Physical Job Functions:
Certain jobs at Duke University and Duke University Health System may include essential job functions that require specific physical and/or mental abilities. Additional information and provision for requests for reasonable accommodation will be provided by each hiring department.

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About Duke University

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Duke is regarded as one of America's leading research universities. Located in Durham, North Carolina, Duke is positioned in the heart of the Research Triangle, which is ranked annually as one of the best places in the country to work and live. Duke has more than 15,000 students who study and conduct research in its 10 undergraduate, graduate, and professional schools. With about 40,000 employees, Duke is the third largest private employer in North Carolina, and it now has international programs in more than 150 countries.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools and hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Durham, NC, US