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Food Service Associate Jobs in Federal Way, WA (NOW HIRING)

Compass Group

FOOD SERVICE COMMISSARY

Renton, WA · On-site

$23.57/hr

Associates at Fresh & Ready Food Group are offered many fantastic benefits. Full-time and part-time ... Legal Services, and Choice Auto and Home Program Full-time positions also offer the following ...

Compass Group

FOOD UNIT LEAD

Renton, WA · On-site

$23.57/hr

Provides quality customer service by providing one-on-one attention to detail. * Oversees and ... Associates at Fresh & Ready Food Group are offered many fantastic benefits. Full-time and part-time ...

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All JobsFood Service Associate JobsFood Service Associate Jobs in Federal Way, WA

Food Service Associate information

See Federal Way, WA salary details

$10

$17

$23

How much do food service associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for food service associate in Federal Way, WA is $17.61, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.05 and $19.62 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.
More about Food Service Associate jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Food Service jobs in Federal Way, WA? The most popular types of Food Service jobs in Federal Way, WA are:
What cities near Federal Way, WA are hiring for Food Service Associate jobs? Cities near Federal Way, WA with the most Food Service Associate job openings:
Food Service Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Food Service Associate job openings in Federal Way, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,637 per year, or $17.6 per hour.

CASHIER/FOOD SERVICE WORKER (FULL TIME)

Compass Group

Seattle, WA

$30/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago

Compass Group rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 1,088 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

344th of 488 rated business services

Job description

Location: Seattle University

  • We are hiring immediately for a full time CASHIER/FOOD SERVICE WORKER position.
  • Address: 901 12th Avenue, Seattle, WA 98122. Note: online applications accepted only.
  • Schedule: Full time schedule; Monday through Thursday, 12:00 pm to 9:00 pm. More details upon interview.
  • Requirement: Prior food service experience is required.
  • Perks: Shoe stipend, shift meal, and orca card!
  • Pay Range:  $26.05 per hour to $30.00 per hour.

We Make Applying Easy!  Want to apply to this job via text messaging?  Text JOB to 75000 and search requisition ID number 1553571. 

The advertised program is a conversational recruiting assistant that helps you apply to jobs with Compass Group. Message frequency varies. Message and data rates may apply. Text STOP to opt out or HELP for help. Terms and conditions: http://olivia.paradox.ai/moSkg

Application Deadline: applications are accepted ongoing until all openings are filled for this position. If an applicant is declined due to the position being filled, they may still be considered for future opportunities and are always welcome to reapply.

Join our campus team where you are valued and empowered to make a difference. Enjoy competitive wages, benefits, and perks like Instapay through the One @Work app. Our careers are filled with purpose and encourage learning, growth, and meaningful impact. Apply today!

Job Summary


Summary:  Operates Point of Sale system, assists the Chef, prepares coffee, and keeps the coffee and cashier stations clean.  
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Helps prepare foods such as meats, vegetables, baked goods and desserts. Also helps prepare catering orders.
  • Performs cashier duties using the POS system.
  • Perform general cleaning duties; removes trash and garbage to designated areas.
  • Provides service in all retail areas, including cashiering and line serving.
  • Cashiers according to established procedures, maintaining cash accuracy with receipts. Makes deposits at the end of each shift.
  • Inventories and restocks supplies and food products.
  • Sets up serving line, ensuring temperatures are taken, recorded and within acceptable ranges; notifies cooks if food temperatures are not within acceptable limits.
  • Serves hot and cold items to customers.
  • Sets up items for purchase on daily basis.
  • Keeps refrigerator stocked and product rotated using the first in, first out rule.
  • Stocks pantries with correct par levels of food items on a daily basis. Records replenished amounts on floor stock form for each unit. Records refrigerator temperatures on floor stock form daily.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

The Benefits

We are always looking for ways to invest in our people both inside and outside of work to help them achieve their full potential. Both full-time and part-time associates are eligible for the following benefits:

  • Opportunities for Training and Development
  • Retirement Plan
  • Associate Shopping Program
  • Health and Wellness Programs
  • Discount Marketplace
  • Identity Theft Protection
  • Pet Insurance
  • Voluntary Benefits, including Critical Illness Insurance, Accident Insurance, Hospital Indemnity Insurance, Legal Services, and Choice Auto and Home Program


In addition, full-time positions also offer the following benefits to associates:

  • Medical
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Life Insurance/AD
  • Disability Insurance
  • Commuter Benefits
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)

Associates may also be eligible for paid and/or unpaid time off benefits in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. For positions in Maryland, Washington State, or to be performed Remotely, click here or copy/paste the link below for paid time off benefits information.

https://www.compass-usa.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/2023_WageTransparency_ChartwellsHED.pdf

Because this position requires you to perform services in an educational facility, there may be periods when the Company does not require you to perform work (such as winter and summer breaks when food service needs decline or cease). Any such periods during which you do not perform work on the Company’s behalf may be unpaid and deemed a temporary layoff. However, depending on business needs, you may be required to work year-round, potentially at a different location during break periods.  Business needs may vary from year to year.

Our Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
Compass Group is an equal opportunity employer.  At Compass, we are committed to treating all Applicants and Associates fairly based on their abilities, achievements, and experience without regard to race, national origin, sex, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other classification protected by law. 
 

Qualified candidates must be able to perform the essential functions of this position satisfactorily with or without a reasonable accommodation. Disclaimer: this job post is not necessarily an exhaustive list of all essential responsibilities, skills, tasks, or requirements associated with this position. While this is intended to be an accurate reflection of the position posted, the Company reserves the right to modify or change the essential functions of the job based on business necessity.

Certain positions may require Florida Level 2 background screening. Details: https://info.flclearinghouse.com/

Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis. 

Chartwells Higher Ed maintains a drug-free workplace. 

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