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Food Service Associate Jobs in Arkansas (NOW HIRING)

We are looking for passionate Deli/Food Service employees who love working with food and taking ... Provide responsive communication with store management and fellow associates * Safely and ...

We are looking for passionate Deli/Food Service employees who love working with food and taking ... Provide responsive communication with store management and fellow associates * Safely and ...

FOOD SERVICE WORKER

Malvern, AR · On-site

$13 - $16/hr

With more than 16,000 associates in 4,300 schools, ranging from large public institutions to small ... food service needs decline or cease). Any such periods during which you do not perform work on the ...

FOOD SERVICE WORKER

Blytheville, AR · On-site

$13.50 - $16.50/hr

With more than 16,000 associates in 4,300 schools, ranging from large public institutions to small ... food service needs decline or cease). Any such periods during which you do not perform work on the ...

With more than 16,000 associates in 4,300 schools, ranging from large public institutions to small ... food service needs decline or cease). Any such periods during which you do not perform work on the ...

With more than 16,000 associates in 4,300 schools, ranging from large public institutions to small ... food service needs decline or cease). Any such periods during which you do not perform work on the ...

FOOD SERVICE WORKER

Searcy, AR · On-site

$13 - $15.75/hr

With more than 16,000 associates in 4,300 schools, ranging from large public institutions to small ... food service needs decline or cease). Any such periods during which you do not perform work on the ...

With more than 16,000 associates in 4,300 schools, ranging from large public institutions to small ... food service needs decline or cease). Any such periods during which you do not perform work on the ...

With more than 16,000 associates in 4,300 schools, ranging from large public institutions to small ... food service needs decline or cease). Any such periods during which you do not perform work on the ...

FOOD SERVICE WORKER

Heber Springs, AR · On-site

$12.75 - $15.50/hr

With more than 16,000 associates in 4,300 schools, ranging from large public institutions to small ... food service needs decline or cease). Any such periods during which you do not perform work on the ...

FOOD SERVICE WORKER

Brookland, AR · On-site

$14.25 - $17.50/hr

With more than 16,000 associates in 4,300 schools, ranging from large public institutions to small ... food service needs decline or cease). Any such periods during which you do not perform work on the ...

FOOD SERVICE WORKER

Hot Springs, AR · On-site

$12.25 - $14.75/hr

With more than 16,000 associates in 4,300 schools, ranging from large public institutions to small ... food service needs decline or cease). Any such periods during which you do not perform work on the ...

FOOD SERVICE WORKER

Star City, AR · On-site

$13.25 - $16.25/hr

With more than 16,000 associates in 4,300 schools, ranging from large public institutions to small ... food service needs decline or cease). Any such periods during which you do not perform work on the ...

FOOD SERVICE WORKER

Hot Springs, AR · On-site

$12.25 - $14.75/hr

With more than 16,000 associates in 4,300 schools, ranging from large public institutions to small ... food service needs decline or cease). Any such periods during which you do not perform work on the ...

FOOD SERVICE WORKER

Trumann, AR · On-site

$14.25 - $17.50/hr

With more than 16,000 associates in 4,300 schools, ranging from large public institutions to small ... food service needs decline or cease). Any such periods during which you do not perform work on the ...

FOOD SERVICE WORKER

Hot Springs, AR · On-site

$12.25 - $14.75/hr

With more than 16,000 associates in 4,300 schools, ranging from large public institutions to small ... food service needs decline or cease). Any such periods during which you do not perform work on the ...

Prior food service experience is preferred. * Perks: Will train! * Fixed Pay Rate: $15.00 per hour ... Associates at Fresh Ideas are offered many fantastic benefits: • Medical • Dental • Vision ...

Prior food service experience preferred. * Perks: Willing to train! * Pay Range: $14.00 per hour to ... Associates at Fresh Ideas are offered many fantastic benefits: • Medical • Dental • Vision ...

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Showing results 1-20

Food Service Associate information

See Arkansas salary details

$7

$13

$17

How much do food service associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for food service associate in Arkansas is $13.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.15 and $14.52 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

AspectFood Service AssociateFood Service Worker
CredentialsNone required or basic food safety certificationTypically similar; may require food safety training
Work EnvironmentRestaurants, cafeterias, cateringRestaurants, cafeterias, fast food outlets
Employer UsageCommonly used in healthcare, schools, and hospitalityWidespread in food service establishments
Job DutiesCustomer service, food prep, servingFood prep, serving, cleaning

Both roles involve food handling and customer service, often with overlapping duties. The term "Food Service Associate" is frequently used in healthcare and institutional settings, emphasizing customer interaction and food service tasks, while "Food Service Worker" is more common in fast food and casual dining environments. Understanding these distinctions helps job seekers target the right opportunities in the food service industry.

How to get a food service associate job with no experience?

To get a food service associate job with no experience, focus on demonstrating a positive attitude, good communication skills, and a willingness to learn. Entry-level positions often do not require prior experience, but having a basic understanding of food safety and customer service can improve your chances. Volunteering or completing short training programs can also help build relevant skills and improve your resume.

What is a food service associate?

A food service associate usually works in a school, park, or within a business center to ensure the food served meets health safety codes. Your daily duties include greeting guests, answering questions, and providing quality customer service. In this career, companies expect you to understand proper cash handling procedures and the ability to work a register. A food service associate must prepare food with health and safety standards in mind. For food service associates working in a school, you must understand the health needs of children and work within those restraints. A job as a food service associate can lead to a fulfilling career in the culinary arts.

What are some common challenges a food service associate might face during busy meal periods, and how can they effectively manage them?

During peak meal times, Food Service Associates often face challenges such as long lines, high customer volume, and the need to maintain quality service under pressure. Effective time management, clear communication with team members, and staying organized at the workstation are crucial for handling these busy periods. Being proactive, such as prepping ingredients in advance and anticipating customer needs, can also help ensure smooth service and customer satisfaction.

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

To thrive as a Food Service Associate, you need basic food preparation skills, knowledge of food safety regulations, and preferably a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with point-of-sale (POS) systems, kitchen equipment, and food handling certifications like ServSafe are typically required. Excellent customer service, teamwork, and strong communication skills help you stand out in this role. These skills and qualities ensure efficient operations, customer satisfaction, and compliance with health standards in food service environments.

What are the most commonly searched types of Food Service jobs in Arkansas?

The most popular types of Food Service jobs in Arkansas are:

What cities in Arkansas are hiring for Food Service Associate jobs?

Cities in Arkansas with the most Food Service Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Food Service Associate job openings in Arkansas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $27,128 per year, or $13 per hour.

Deli/Food Service Associate

Buc-ee's

Benton, AR

$25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago


Buc-ee's rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 161 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 47 rated convenience stores


Job description

Overview

$25.00 * Medical * Dental * Vision * 3 Weeks Paid Time Off * 401k 100% Match up to 6%

Buc-ee's Is Coming to Benton AR Opening August 2026!

We are looking for passionate Deli/Food Service employees who love working with food and taking care of our customers' needs. If you have experience in high volume, fast paced restaurants, and loved every minute of it, this is the place for you. We are looking for quick learners who are willing to work in a variety of stations, preparing a multitude offoodtypes. Our employees work with BBQ, baked goods, sandwiches and tacos, jerky, and many other foods. You have to be quick on your feet, quick with a smile, and love working with people.

The essential job functions include, but are not limited to:

  • $25 / hour

  • Develop culinary skills as you prep bakery offerings, jerky, fudge, BBQ, and other restaurant menu items

  • Prepare Buc-ee's unique food service menu offerings to prescribed recipes and maintain confidentiality

  • Adhere to all Company culinary recipes and measurements

  • Follow health, safety, and sanitation guidelines for all products

  • Guarantee safe food handling

  • Competent use of various Menu Ordering Kiosks, Kitchen Management System, and transaction devices

  • Maintain a clean workstation while quickly executing orders for customers

  • Provide responsive communication with store management and fellow associates

  • Safely and effectively use a wide variety of kitchen equipment and appliances to include, but not limited to, floor mixer, slicers, ovens, sharp knives, and fryers

  • Professionally interact with team members and customers

  • All employees may be required to perform duties outside their normal responsibilities as needed

  • Work weekends and holidays as needed

  • Work a rotating schedule that may alternate between day and night as needed

  • Regular and prompt attendance

  • Employee must be able to perform essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation

The position requirements include, but are not limited to:

  • High school diploma or equivalent preferred

  • Restaurant or retail experience preferred, kitchen line cook, busser, server, expediter, service staff experience a plus!

  • Prolonged walking or standing for 8 hours or more

  • Frequent bending, stooping, crouching, climbing reaching, balancing, pushing, pulling (e.g. product or material weighing 40 lbs. or more)

Joining our team puts you on a path where opportunity for advancement is available.

Buc-ee's, Ltd. is an Equal Opportunity Employer


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