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Food Service Associate Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Food Service Associate II - PRN

Coos Bay, OR · On-site

$13.25 - $17.25/hr

Food Service Associate II To provide outstanding customer service for cafeteria operations and prepares grilled and fried foods, following standardized recipes. SKILLS AND ABILITIES * Proficient in ...

Food Service Associate II - PRN

Coos Bay, OR · On-site

$13.25 - $17.25/hr

Food Service Associate II To provide outstanding customer service for cafeteria operations and prepares grilled and fried foods, following standardized recipes. SKILLS AND ABILITIES * Proficient in ...

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Food Service Associate information

See Oregon salary details

$9

$16

$22

How much do food service associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for food service associate in Oregon is $16.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $18.56 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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Food Service jobs in Oregon? The most popular types of Food Service jobs in Oregon are:
What cities in Oregon are hiring for Food Service Associate jobs? Cities in Oregon with the most Food Service Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Food Service Associate job openings in Oregon as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,687 per year, or $16.7 per hour.
Food Service Associate II - Full Time

Food Service Associate II - Full Time

Bay Area Hospital

Coos Bay, OR • On-site

$13.25 - $17.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 12 hours ago


Bay Area Hospital rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

37th of 1,023 rated hospitals


Job description

Time Type:
Full time
Hours per Pay Period:
80
Shift:
As Assigned
Minimum:
Depending on Experience
Maximum:
Depending on Experience(This represents the rate for an individual with significant experience in this job)
Department:
Food and Nutrition
Current Bay Area Hospital Employee: If you are a current Bay Area Hospital employee, please apply through the Workday internal career site.
The future looks bright at Bay Area Hospital, and we are always searching for quality people to join our team. We offer a great atmosphere, competitive pay, a wide array of benefits, and many growth opportunities for our employees.
Job Description:
Food Service Associate II
To provide outstanding customer service for cafeteria operations and prepares grilled and fried foods, following standardized recipes.
SKILLS AND ABILITIES
  • Proficient in portioning, and garnishing
  • Knowledge of First in First out (FIFO) method of inventory control
  • Maintains regular, consistent and punctual attendance at the assigned job location
  • Proficiently operates knives, scales, thermometers, portion control device, coffee makers, yogurt machine, broiler, steam table, pizza oven, grill, deep fryer, french fry warmer, pizza display case, cash register, computer, telephone, calculator
  • Understands cash handling process and use of cash register

EDUCATION/CERTIFICATIONS/LICENSES/DEGREES (
  • Able to read, write legibly, and converse in the English language
  • Able to add, subtract, multiply and divide
  • Must have or be able to obtain an Oregon Food Handler or Food Manager Certification or ServSafe Certification within 30 days of hire
  • High school graduate or equivalent preferred
  • Oregon State Driver's license preferred

EXPERIENCE
  • Six (6) months experience in food services
  • Previous experience frying and grilling foods preferred

GENERAL INFORMATION
Union Affiliation: UFCW
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this position. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities and job skills required.
PHYSICAL/MENTAL/ENVIRONMENTAL REQUIREMENTS
  • Able to stand, walk, stoop, reach, push, pull, and bend frequently
  • May be required to lift up to 50 pounds
  • Must wear protective clothing as required
  • Ability to communicate effectively
  • Work may be done in uncomfortably high temperature and humidity, sometimes on wet surfaces

Compensation Grade:
UFCW
Compensation Grade Profile:
U030
Bay Area Hospital is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
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