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Food Service Associate Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Food Service Associate

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$13.75 - $17.75/hr

Hot and cold food production for retail services. Maintains sanitary and organized environment. Practices and abides by food codes and applicable regulatory and accrediting agency requirements to ...

Food Service Associate

Des Moines, IA

$13.75 - $17.75/hr

Hot and cold food production for retail services. Maintainssanitaryand organized environment. Practices and abides by food codes and applicable regulatory and accrediting agency requirements to ...

Food Service Associate

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$13.75 - $17.75/hr

Hot and cold food production for retail services. Maintains sanitary and organized environment. Practices and abides by food codes and applicable regulatory and accrediting agency requirements to ...

Food Service Associate

Des Moines, IA

$13.75 - $17.75/hr

Hot and cold food production for retail services. Maintainssanitaryand organized environment. Practices and abides by food codes and applicable regulatory and accrediting agency requirements to ...

Food Service Associate

West Des Moines, IA · On-site

$13.75 - $18/hr

Experience in restaurant or food service operations preferred. Proof of completion of Mandatory Reporter abuse training for child and dependent adult abuse within three (3) months of hire. Hours:

Food Service Associate

West Des Moines, IA · On-site

$13.75 - $18/hr

Experience in restaurant or food service operations preferred. Proof of completion of Mandatory Reporter abuse training for child and dependent adult abuse within three (3) months of hire. Hours:

Food Service Associate

West Des Moines, IA · On-site

$13.75 - $18/hr

Experience in restaurant or food service operations preferred. Proof of completion of Mandatory Reporter abuse training for child and dependent adult abuse within three (3) months of hire. Hours:

Food Service Associate

West Des Moines, IA · On-site

$13.75 - $18/hr

Experience in restaurant or food service operations preferred. Proof of completion of Mandatory Reporter abuse training for child and dependent adult abuse within three (3) months of hire. Hours:

Food Service Associate

West Des Moines, IA · On-site

$13.75 - $18/hr

Ability to read and write. • Experience in restaurant or food service operations preferred. • Proof of completion of Mandatory Reporter abuse training for child and dependent adult abuse within ...

Food Service Associate

West Des Moines, IA · On-site

$13.75 - $18/hr

Experience in restaurant or food service operations preferred. Proof of completion of Mandatory Reporter abuse training for child and dependent adult abuse within three (3) months of hire. Hours:

Food Service Associate

Des Moines, IA

$13.75 - $17.75/hr

Hot and cold food production for retail services. Maintainssanitaryand organized environment. Practices and abides by food codes and applicable regulatory and accrediting agency requirements to ...

Food Service Associate

West Des Moines, IA · On-site

$13.75 - $18/hr

Ability to read and write. • Experience in restaurant or food service operations preferred. • Proof of completion of Mandatory Reporter abuse training for child and dependent adult abuse within ...

Food Service Associate

Des Moines, IA

$13.75 - $17.75/hr

Hot and cold food production for retail services. Maintainssanitaryand organized environment. Practices and abides by food codes and applicable regulatory and accrediting agency requirements to ...

Food Service Associate

West Des Moines, IA · On-site

$13.75 - $18/hr

Ability to read and write. • Experience in restaurant or food service operations preferred. • Proof of completion of Mandatory Reporter abuse training for child and dependent adult abuse within ...

Food Service Associate

West Des Moines, IA · On-site

$13.75 - $18/hr

Ability to read and write. · Experience in restaurant or food service operations preferred. · Proof of completion of Mandatory Reporter abuse training for child and dependent adult abuse within ...

Food Service Associate

West Des Moines, IA

$13.75 - $18/hr

Experience in restaurant or food service operations preferred. Proof of completion of Mandatory Reporter abuse training for child and dependent adult abuse within three (3) months of hire. Hours:

Food Service Associate PRN

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$13.75 - $17.75/hr

Hot and cold food production for retail services. Maintains sanitary and organized environment. Practices and abides by food codes and applicable regulatory and accrediting agency requirements to ...

Food Service Associate PRN

Des Moines, IA

$13.75 - $17.75/hr

Hot and cold food production for retail services. Maintainssanitaryand organized environment. Practices and abides by food codes and applicable regulatory and accrediting agency requirements to ...

Food Service Associate PRN

Des Moines, IA

$13.75 - $17.75/hr

Hot and cold food production for retail services. Maintainssanitaryand organized environment. Practices and abides by food codes and applicable regulatory and accrediting agency requirements to ...

Food Service Associate PRN

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$13.75 - $17.75/hr

Hot and cold food production for retail services. Maintainssanitaryand organized environment. Practices and abides by food codes and applicable regulatory and accrediting agency requirements to ...

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Showing results 1-20

Food Service Associate information

See Iowa salary details

$8

$14

$19

How much do food service associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for food service associate in Iowa is $14.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.64 and $16.49 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 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 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 Iowa? The most popular types of Food Service jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Food Service Associate jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Food Service Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Food Service Associate job openings in Iowa as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,815 per year, or $14.8 per hour.
Food Service Associate

Food Service Associate

Trinity Health

Des Moines, IA • On-site

$13.75 - $17.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago


Trinity Health rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 348 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

592nd of 865 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Employment Type:
Full timeShift:
Rotating Shift
Description:
POSITION PURPOSE
Requisitions supplies and replenishes inventory. Hot and cold food production for retail services. Maintains sanitary and organized environment. Practices and abides by food codes and applicable regulatory and accrediting agency requirements to provide safe food to our customers. Serves customers in a professional manner with great customer service.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Knows, understands, incorporates, and demonstrates the Trinity Health Mission, Vision, and Values in behaviors, practices, and decisions.
Hot and cold food production for retail sales.
Sliced fruit, vegetables, desserts, meats for retail production and sales.
Sets up for café sales- stock food and paper products.
Checks food temperatures frequently throughout shift. Documents temperatures on applicable forms. Notifies Supervisor immediately of any food out of compliance.
Monitors temperature of freezers, refrigeration, dishwasher and heating units throughout shift. Documents temperatures on appropriate forms. Notifies Supervisor immediately of any food out of compliance.
Maintain refrigeration units in clean orderly condition, compliant with food codes and regulatory agencies.
Requisitions, transports and replenishes foods and supplies to replenish the inventory in the café.
Inspects items for integrity. Rotates stock, disposes of outdated products or less than optimum quality or correct temperature.
Properly wraps, labels, dates food items.
Portions and packages cold food items; stocks and cleans refrigerated display cases inside and out.
Makes coffee, juice and smoothies; replenishes and cleans beverage-dispensing machines and areas.
Maintains a clean and sanitary work area, the café serving and seating area, and equipment.
Pushes food carts, racks and dish bins.
May cook at the grill, fryer, or sandwich grill.
Deep cleans refrigerators, counter tops and cupboards, tile, and entire café serving and seating areas including microwaves, tables, chairs and tray return. Cleans and sanitizes utensils and equipment.
Maintains signage daily.
Uses standardized and non-standardized recipes and ingredients to prepare, create, and process foods.
Assists in other areas as requested.
Other duties as needed and assigned by the manager.
Maintains a working knowledge of applicable Federal, State, and local laws and regulations, Trinity Health's Organizational Integrity Program, Standards of Conduct, as well as other policies and procedures in order to ensure adherence in a manner that reflects honest, ethical, and professional behavior.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
High school diploma or GED preferred.
Knowledge of several subjects in order to prepare reports, perform calculations and/or deal effectively with other people. Ability to read and write.
Must be comfortable operating in a collaborative, shared leadership environment.
Must possess a personal presence that is characterized by a sense of honesty, integrity, and caring with the ability to inspire and motivate others to promote the philosophy, mission, vision, goals, and values of Trinity Health.
PHYSICAL AND MENTAL REQUIREMENTS AND WORKING CONDITIONS
PHYSICAL ACTIVITY REQUIREMENTS: (Constant = 67-100% of workday, Frequent = 34-66% of workday, Occasional = 33% or less of workday)
CONSTANT:
  • Standing: Particularly for sustained period of time.

  • Walking: Moving about on foot to accomplish tasks, particularly for long distances.

  • Talking: Expressing or exchanging ideas by means of the spoken word. Those activities in which they must convey detailed or important spoken instructions to other workers accurately or quickly.

  • Hearing: Perceiving the nature of sounds at normal range. Ability to receive detailed information through oral communication.

  • Lifting: Raising trays of portioned menu items or pans of food at heights from 4" to 61" above floor level to place in display cases or on steam tables and lift milk and juice cases to 2.

  • Repetitive motions: Substantial movements (motions) of the wrists, hands and/or fingers to move food objects, dishes, utensils to procedural positions.

  • 3" to 48" above floor level to fill display cases.

  • Reaching: Extending hand(s) and arm(s) in any direction.

FREQUENT:
  • Pushing: Using upper extremities to press against food carts, racks and bins with steady force in order to thrust forward, downward or outward.

  • Pulling: Using upper extremities to exert force in order to draw, drag, haul or tug objects in a sustained motion such as carts, racks and dish bins.

  • Grasping: Applying pressure to scoops, spoons, dishes with fingers and palms to move object from position to position.

  • Climbing: Stepping up onto and standing on stools to reach overhead to make coffee.

  • Stooping: Bending body downward and forward by bending spine at the waist

  • Crouching: Bending the body downward and forward by bending the leg and spine to obtain objects or clean lower areas.

PHYSICAL DEMAND REQUIREMENTS:
  • Medium work: Exerting up to 40 pounds maximum infrequently and/or up to 25 pounds frequently to lift or move objects about and requiring prolonged walking/standing.

VISUAL ACUITY REQUIREMENTS:
  • Reading menus and recipes.

  • Calculating amounts of food and supplies to requisition.

  • Using proper measuring tools for portion control

INTELLECTUAL/EMOTIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
  • Adaptability to performing repetitive work or to performing continuously the same work, according to set procedures, sequence or pace.

  • Adaptability to performing under stress when confronted with emergency, critical or unusual situations, or situations in which working speed and sustained attention are important aspects of the job.

  • Adaptability to performing a variety of duties, often changing from one task to another of a different nature without loss of efficiency or composure.

  • Adaptability to dealing with people beyond giving and receiving instructions.

  • Ability to maintain both a high standard of courtesy and cooperation in dealing with co-workers, patients, and visitors and satisfactory job performance despite the stress of a hospital work environment.

  • Must be able to set and organize one's own work priorities and adapt to them as they change frequently. Must be able to work concurrently on a variety of tasks/projects in an environment that may be stressful with individuals having diverse personalities and work styles.

  • Must possess the ability to comply with Trinity Health policies and procedures.

  • Must be able to travel to the various Trinity Health sites as needed.

WORKING CONDITIONS:
  • The worker is subject to noise. There is sufficient noise at times to cause the worker to raise voice in order to be heard above the ambient noise level.

  • The worker is subject to food spills and wet spots on floor surfaces.

  • The worker is subject to inside environmental conditions: protection from weather conditions but not necessarily from temperature changes.

  • The worker is subject to cleaning products such as vinegar, detergent, bleach and household cleaners.

  • The worker is subject to steam from steam table, hot oil from fryer, hot water from coffee urns.

Our Commitment
Rooted in our Mission and Core Values, we honor the dignity of every person and recognize the unique perspectives, experiences, and talents each colleague brings. By finding common ground and embracing our differences, we grow stronger together and deliver more compassionate, person-centered care. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by federal, state, or local law.

What Trinity Health employees say

Pay

Benefits

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About Trinity Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Trinity Health Ann Arbor is a 537 -bed teaching hospital located on 340 acre campus. Recognized by IBM Watson as a Top 100 Hospital and #1 Teaching Hospital, Trinity Health Ann Arbor has been a leading health care provider for more than 100 years. Trinity Health has received numerous local and national awards in recognition of our leadership, quality outcomes, and clinical excellence.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Livonia, MI, US