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Food Service Associate Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

SSA Group

Food Service Associate

Loxahatchee, FL · On-site

$15 - $17/hr

Food Service Associate Who are we: For more than 50 years, SSA has partnered with cultural attractions to design the hospitality experience journey, freeing our partners to remain mission-focused. We ...

SunStop

Food Service Associate

Panama City Beach, FL · On-site

We are seeking enthusiastic and customer-focused individuals to join our team as Food Service Associates in our Deli department. In this role, you will play a key part in delivering an exceptional ...

SunStop

Food Service Associate

Tallahassee, FL · On-site

$12 - $15.75/hr

We are seeking enthusiastic and customer-focused individuals to join our team as Food Service Associates in our Deli department. In this role, you will play a key part in delivering an exceptional ...

SunStop

Food Service Associate

White Springs, FL · On-site

$12 - $15.50/hr

We are seeking enthusiastic and customer-focused individuals to join our team as Food Service Associates in our Deli department. In this role, you will play a key part in delivering an exceptional ...

SunStop

Food Service Associate

Lake City, FL · On-site

$10 - $13/hr

We are seeking enthusiastic and customer-focused individuals to join our team as Food Service Associates in our Deli department. In this role, you will play a key part in delivering an exceptional ...

SunStop

Food Service Associate

Ponce De Leon, FL · On-site

$12 - $15.75/hr

We are seeking enthusiastic and customer-focused individuals to join our team as Food Service Associates in our Deli department. In this role, you will play a key part in delivering an exceptional ...

SunStop

Food Service Associate

Mexico Beach, FL

$11.75 - $15.25/hr

We are seeking enthusiastic and customer-focused individuals to join our team as Food Service Associates in our Deli department. In this role, you will play a key part in delivering an exceptional ...

SunStop

Food Service Associate

Defuniak Springs, FL

$11.50 - $15/hr

We are seeking enthusiastic and customer-focused individuals to join our team as Food Service Associates in our Deli department. In this role, you will play a key part in delivering an exceptional ...

SunStop

Food Service Associate

Niceville, FL · On-site

$13 - $17/hr

We are seeking enthusiastic and customer-focused individuals to join our team as Food Service Associates in our Deli department. In this role, you will play a key part in delivering an exceptional ...

SunStop

Food Service Associate

Tallahassee, FL · On-site

$12 - $15.75/hr

We are seeking enthusiastic and customer-focused individuals to join our team as Food Service Associates in our Deli department. In this role, you will play a key part in delivering an exceptional ...

SunStop

Food Service Associate

Defuniak Springs, FL · On-site

$12 - $15.50/hr

We are seeking enthusiastic and customer-focused individuals to join our team as Food Service Associates in our Deli department. In this role, you will play a key part in delivering an exceptional ...

SunStop

Food Service Associate

Lake City, FL

$10 - $13/hr

We are seeking enthusiastic and customer-focused individuals to join our team as Food Service Associates in our Deli department. In this role, you will play a key part in delivering an exceptional ...

SunStop

Food Service Associate

Marianna, FL · On-site

$10 - $13.25/hr

We are seeking enthusiastic and customer-focused individuals to join our team as Food Service Associates in our Deli department. In this role, you will play a key part in delivering an exceptional ...

SunStop

Food Service Associate

Defuniak Springs, FL

$11.50 - $15/hr

We are seeking enthusiastic and customer-focused individuals to join our team as Food Service Associates in our Deli department. In this role, you will play a key part in delivering an exceptional ...

SunStop Stores

Food Service Associate

Wildwood, FL · On-site

$12 - $15.75/hr

We are seeking enthusiastic and customer-focused individuals to join our team as Food Service Associates in our Deli department. In this role, you will play a key part in delivering an exceptional ...

SunStop Stores

Food Service Associate

Panama City Beach, FL · On-site

$12.50 - $16.25/hr

We are seeking enthusiastic and customer-focused individuals to join our team as Food Service Associates in our Deli department. In this role, you will play a key part in delivering an exceptional ...

SunStop Stores

Food Service Associate

Crestview, FL · On-site

$11.75 - $15.50/hr

We are seeking enthusiastic and customer-focused individuals to join our team as Food Service Associates in our Deli department. In this role, you will play a key part in delivering an exceptional ...

SunStop Stores

Food Service Associate

Tallahassee, FL · On-site

$12 - $15.75/hr

We are seeking enthusiastic and customer-focused individuals to join our team as Food Service Associates in our Deli department. In this role, you will play a key part in delivering an exceptional ...

SunStop Stores

Food Service Associate

Ponce De Leon, FL · On-site

$12 - $15.75/hr

We are seeking enthusiastic and customer-focused individuals to join our team as Food Service Associates in our Deli department. In this role, you will play a key part in delivering an exceptional ...

SunStop

Food Service Associate

Branford, FL

$11.75 - $15.25/hr

We are seeking enthusiastic and customer-focused individuals to join our team as Food Service Associates in our Deli department. In this role, you will play a key part in delivering an exceptional ...

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All JobsFood Service Associate JobsFood Service Associate Jobs in Florida

Food Service Associate information

See Florida salary details

$6

$11

$15

How much do food service associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for food service associate in Florida is $11.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $10.05 and $13.12 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.

What does a food service associate do?

A food service associate prepares, serves, and maintains food and beverages in settings such as restaurants, cafeterias, or catering events. They often handle customer orders, ensure cleanliness, and follow safety and hygiene standards, sometimes using tools like POS systems. Good communication skills and attention to detail are important for this role.

What are food service associates?

Food service associates are professionals who work in settings such as restaurants, cafeterias, hospitals, and other food service establishments. Their primary duties include preparing and serving food, maintaining cleanliness in dining areas, handling cash registers, and providing customer service. They play a vital role in ensuring customers have a positive dining experience and that food safety standards are met. The position may also involve restocking supplies, assisting with inventory, and adhering to health and safety regulations.

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 is the highest paying food service job?

The highest paying food service jobs are often managerial roles such as restaurant general managers or executive chefs, with salaries exceeding $60,000 annually. These positions typically require extensive experience, leadership skills, and sometimes certifications in culinary arts or hospitality management.

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.

How to get a food service job with no experience?

Food service associates can often find entry-level positions that do not require prior experience. Highlighting customer service skills, a positive attitude, and willingness to learn on your resume can improve your chances; some employers also offer on-the-job training. Obtaining a food handler's permit or certification may be required in some areas.
More about Food Service Associate jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Food Service jobs in Florida? The most popular types of Food Service jobs in Florida are:
What cities in Florida are hiring for Food Service Associate jobs? Cities in Florida with the most Food Service Associate job openings:
Food Service Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Food Service Associate job openings in Florida as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $24,517 per year, or $11.8 per hour.
Food Service Associate

Food Service Associate

SSA Group

Loxahatchee, FL • On-site

$15 - $17/hr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 16 days ago

SSA Group rating

5.5

Company rating: 5.5 out of 10

Based on 64 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

507th of 728 rated retailers

Job description

Join the Team at Lion Country Safari - Now Hiring Food Service Associates!
Lion Country Safari is seeking motivated Food Service Associates for a great summer job opportunity. This is an exciting chance for individuals who enjoy guest service, working in a fast-paced environment, and being part of a fun team at one of South Florida's most unique attractions.
We offer flexible daytime schedules, a supportive team culture, growth opportunities, and the chance to gain valuable experience in hospitality.
Food Service Associate
Who are we:
For more than 50 years, SSA has partnered with cultural attractions to design the hospitality experience journey, freeing our partners to remain mission-focused.
We bring together admissions, culinary, and retail with innovation and human connection to shape a seamless guest journey.
Our focus is on people, innovation, and operational intelligence as a means to create special moments with lasting impact. We call it 452 Hospitality, the foundation of how we serve our partners and their communities.
Position Title: Food Service Associate
Reports to: Food Service Supervisor (if applicable) and/or Food Service Operations Manager(s)
Responsibilities
  • Live out 452 Hospitalityby delivering warm, welcoming, and memorable experiences for every guest and client.

  • Supports restaurant prep (FOH and line) for daily operation.
  • Meets daily quick service, food service, safety and quality, availability, merchandising and guest service standards.
  • Participates in safety logs including food temperatures, rotation and waste as necessary.
  • Ensures proper uniform, hygiene, hand-washing and glove use with self.
  • Maintains a SSAfe work environment by abiding to all SSAFETY rules.
  • Follows through daily prep and items lists, as assigned.
  • Actively helps to support operation in assigned role, supporting holes as necessary.
  • Actively and efficiently responds to guest and client feedback, with report to the supervisor to ensure that any potential complaints are mitigate against further occurrence.
  • Communicates up to the Restaurant Supervisor and/or Food Operations Manager in regard to any issues seen with daily service or quality.
  • Remains knowledgeable of all menu items, prices and specials for sharing with guests.
  • Perform other tasks as deemed necessary.
  • Maintains a clean, safe and organized work environment.
  • Uphold and demonstrate a complete understanding of company policies and procedures.
  • Responsibly geared towards presenting a clean and welcome experience for guests through upholding sanitation requirements.

Job Requirements
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
  • Exceptional problem solving/decision making skills combined with the ability to be organized.
  • Demonstrates the ability to remain flexible in a fast-paced environment.
  • Ideal candidate is a team player, personable, professional, upbeat and energetic, and takes initiative.
  • Physical ability to stand for extended periods and to move and handle boxes (10-35lbs) as necessary to operation, which entails lifting, and perform all functions as set forth above.
  • Ability to work varied hours/days, including nights, weekends and holidays, as needed.

IDEA + Belonging
  • Promote an inclusive & supportive approach within the Brand team, with networking continuing at all units.
  • Focuses on removing barriers and empowering growth and opportunity for team members at all levels.
  • Leads by example through Sustainability/Conservation efforts; displays knowledge of efforts in business application as well as giving adequate opportunity for teaching to unit staff as necessary.
  • Engages with SSA/Unit in driving community effort through engagement activities and focus. On opportunities of giving back.

Previous Experience
  • None Required

This is by no means an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, skills, duties, requirements, efforts or working conditions associated with this job description. SSA Group reserves the right to revise the job description or to require that other or different tasks are performed when circumstances change (i.e. emergencies, changes in personnel, workload, rush jobs or technological developments)
SSA Group, LLC. is an equal opportunity employer. We embrace diversity and equal opportunity through our commitment to building a team that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. The more inclusive we are, the better our work will be.
Compensation and Benefits
  • Eligible for overtime pay.
  • On-Demand Pay Program: Get access to a portion of earned wages before payday.
  • Meal Plan & Employee Discounts at applicable locations.
  • Participation in a 401(k) program with a 15% company match (must be 21 years or older, eligible after one year of employment with 1,000 hours worked, available to enroll during Open Enrollment Periods).
  • Tuition Discount through Partnership College.
  • Up to 8 hours of Bereavement Leave
  • Holiday pay of1.5x the regular rateis provided for hours worked on Christmas Day and Thanksgiving Day
  • Paid sick leave is provided in accordance with applicable state and local laws. Accrual rates, caps, and usage rules vary by location.

Locations include: Arizona, California, Chicago, Pittsburgh, Connecticut, Illinois, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Mexico, New York, Rhode Island, Washington, D.C.. Colorado: Employees accrue 1 hour of paid sick leave for every 30 hours worked, up to 48 hours per year, under the Healthy Families and Workplaces Act (HFWA). Maryland: Employees accrue at least 1 hour of paid sick and safe leave for every 30 hours worked, up to 40 hours per year, as required under the Maryland Healthy Working Families Act. Washington: Employees accrue 1 hour of paid sick leave for every 40 hours worked, in accordance with the Seattle Paid Sick and Safe Time.
SSA Holdings and its affiliated companies, including SSA Group, A&F Souvenir, Cinchio Solutions, and Behavioral Essentials, are equal opportunity employers. We are committed to diversity and inclusion in our hiring practices and welcome applicants from all backgrounds. A diverse team strengthens our collective impact.
All California Residents: By submitting your job application, you agree you have reviewed the SSA Group California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) Candidate and Employee Privacy Notice ("Notice").
San Francisco Residents: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records. Please see the "Fair Chance Ordinance - Know Your Rights" document for more information. By submitting your job application, you agree you have reviewed the "Fair Chance Ordinance - Know Your Rights" document.
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