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Food Service Associate Jobs in Ames, IA (NOW HIRING)

Gilbert

Food Service Point of Sale Associate

Gilbert, IA · On-site

$13.25 - $17.25/hr

Food Service Director and Building Kitchen Manager Position Summary The High School Point of Sale Associate supports efficient meal service by operating the point of sale system, assisting students ...

New

Compass Group

FOOD SERVICE UTILITY

Ames, IA · On-site

$14.75 - $17.50/hr

* We are hiring immediately for a full time FOOD SERVICE UTILITY position. * Location : Ames ... With more than 16,000 associates in 4,300 schools, ranging from large public institutions to small ...

Compass Group

FOOD SERVICE WORKER/CASHIER

Ames, IA · On-site

$13.75 - $16.75/hr

Prior food service or cashier experience is preferred, but not required. * Pay Range: $15.00 per ... With more than 16,000 associates in 4,300 schools, ranging from large public institutions to small ...

Chartwells K12

FOOD SERVICE WORKER/CASHIER (PART TIME)

Ames, IA · On-site

$13.75 - $16.75/hr

Prior food service or cashier experience is preferred, but not required. * Pay Range: $15.00 per ... With more than 16,000 associates in 4,300 schools, ranging from large public institutions to small ...

Compass Group

FOOD SERVICE UTILITY (FULL TIME)

Ames, IA · On-site

$14.75 - $17.50/hr

* We are hiring immediately for a full time FOOD SERVICE UTILITY position. * Location : Ames ... With more than 16,000 associates in 4,300 schools, ranging from large public institutions to small ...

Compass Group

FOOD SERVICE WORKER/CASHIER (PART TIME)

Ames, IA · On-site

$13.75 - $16.75/hr

Prior food service or cashier experience is preferred, but not required. * Pay Range: $15.00 per ... With more than 16,000 associates in 4,300 schools, ranging from large public institutions to small ...

Chartwells K12

FOOD SERVICE UTILITY (FULL TIME)

Ames, IA · On-site

$14.75 - $17.50/hr

* We are hiring immediately for a full time FOOD SERVICE UTILITY position. * Location : Ames ... With more than 16,000 associates in 4,300 schools, ranging from large public institutions to small ...

Walmart

Food/Consumables Team Associate

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$15.50 - $28.50/hr

Opening, Morning Location Walmart Supercenter #892 1002 SE NATIONAL DR, ANKENY, IA, 50021, US Job Overview Food and Consumable associates are focused on two things: taking care of customers and ...

Walmart

Food/Consumables Team Associate

Boone, IA · On-site

$15 - $28/hr

Opening, Morning Location Walmart Supercenter #1389 1515 SE MARSHALL ST, BOONE, IA, 50036, US Job Overview Food and Consumable associates are focused on two things: taking care of customers and ...

Compass Group

FOOD UNIT LEAD

Ames, IA · On-site

$15.25 - $20.75/hr

Prior food service and supervisory experience is preferred. * Perks: Willing to train! * Pay Range ... With more than 16,000 associates in 4,300 schools, ranging from large public institutions to small ...

Chartwells K12

FOOD UNIT LEAD (FULL TIME)

Ames, IA · On-site

$15.25 - $20.75/hr

Prior food service and supervisory experience is preferred. * Perks: Willing to train! * Pay Range ... With more than 16,000 associates in 4,300 schools, ranging from large public institutions to small ...

New

Compass Group

FOOD UNIT LEAD (FULL TIME)

Ames, IA · On-site

$15.25 - $20.75/hr

Prior food service and supervisory experience is preferred. * Perks: Willing to train! * Pay Range ... With more than 16,000 associates in 4,300 schools, ranging from large public institutions to small ...

New

Compass Group

FOOD UNIT LEAD (FULL TIME)

Ames, IA · On-site

$15.25 - $20.75/hr

Prior food service and supervisory experience is preferred. * Perks: Willing to train! * Pay Range ... With more than 16,000 associates in 4,300 schools, ranging from large public institutions to small ...

New

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All JobsFood Service Associate JobsFood Service Associate Jobs in Ames, IA

Food Service Associate information

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How much do food service associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for food service associate in Ames, IA is $15.43, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.17 and $17.16 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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.
More about Food Service Associate jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Food Service jobs in Ames, IA?

The most popular types of Food Service jobs in Ames, IA are:

What cities near Ames, IA are hiring for Food Service Associate jobs?

Cities near Ames, IA with the most Food Service Associate job openings:

Food Service Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Food Service Associate job openings in Ames, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,092 per year, or $15.4 per hour.

Food Service Point of Sale Associate

Gilbert

Gilbert, IA • On-site

$13.25 - $17.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

High School Point of Sale Associate

Schedule: Monday through Friday, 10:45 a.m. to 1:15 p.m.
Hours: 2.5 hours per day
Reports To: Food Service Director and Building Kitchen Manager

Position Summary

The High School Point of Sale Associate supports efficient meal service by operating the point of sale system, assisting students, and maintaining a clean and well-stocked serving area. This position provides friendly, accurate, and confidential service to students and staff.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

  • Operate the high school point of sale system using Infinite Campus.
  • Accurately record student and staff meal transactions.
  • Follow all district procedures for reimbursable meals, account balances, and payment processing.
  • Maintain the confidentiality of student meal account and eligibility information.
  • Provide courteous and efficient service to students and staff.
  • Monitor and refill condiments, utensils, napkins, and other serving supplies.
  • Refill and maintain the salad bar throughout meal service.
  • Keep the point of sale station, condiment area, and salad bar clean and organized.
  • Follow food safety, sanitation, and health department requirements.
  • Communicate supply needs, equipment concerns, and point of sale issues to the kitchen manager or Nutrition Director.
  • Assist with light cleaning and meal service tasks as needed.
  • Perform additional duties as assigned.

Qualifications

  • High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
  • Basic computer and data entry skills.
  • Ability to learn and use the Infinite Campus point of sale system.
  • Strong customer service and communication skills.
  • Ability to work accurately in a fast-paced environment.
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality and interact positively with students and staff.
  • Previous food service, cashier, or school experience preferred but not required.

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to stand and move throughout the scheduled shift.
  • Ability to bend, reach, and perform repetitive hand movements.
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 25 pounds.
  • Ability to work safely around food, kitchen equipment, and cleaning products.

Terms of Employment

Employment is based on the district's school calendar and applicable board policies. The employee must comply with all district policies, food safety requirements, and Nutrition Department procedures.



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