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Food Service Associate Jobs in Portland, ME (NOW HIRING)

Compass Group

FOOD SERVICE WORKER

Saco, ME · On-site

$17.50/hr

* We are hiring immediately for a full time FOOD SERVICE WORKER position. * Location : Thornton ... Our passionate team of associates is fully committed to delivering exceptional foodservice ...

Compass Group

FOOD SERVICE WORKER

Portland, ME · On-site

$17/hr

Unidine is hiring immediately for part time FOOD SERVICE WORKER positions. * Location : The Cedars ... Retirement Plan, Associate Shopping Program, Health and Wellness Programs, Discount Marketplace ...

Albertsons

Food Service Clerk

Bath, ME · On-site

$15 - $17.25/hr

As a Food Service Clerk, no one day is ever the same. You are someone who prides themselves on ... associates gives you energy Smiling and making others smile is your favorite You are eager ...

Albertsons

Food Service Clerk

Bath, ME · On-site

$15 - $17.25/hr

As a Food Service Clerk, no one day is ever the same. You are someone who prides themselves on ... associates gives you energy • Smiling and making others smile is your favorite • You are eager ...

Compass Group

FOOD SERVICE WORKER (FULL TIME)

Saco, ME · On-site

$17.50/hr

* We are hiring immediately for a full time FOOD SERVICE WORKER position. * Location : Thornton ... Our passionate team of associates is fully committed to delivering exceptional foodservice ...

Compass Group

FOOD SERVICE WORKER (FULL TIME)

Saco, ME · On-site

$17.50/hr

* We are hiring immediately for a full time FOOD SERVICE WORKER position. * Location : Thornton ... Our passionate team of associates is fully committed to delivering exceptional foodservice ...

Albertsons

Food Service Clerk

Portland, ME · On-site

$15.25 - $17.50/hr

You agree that food is central to all our lives ... Helping customers and fellow associates gives you energy. * Smiling and making others smile is your ...

Unidine

FOOD SERVICE WORKER (PART TIME)

Portland, ME · On-site

$17/hr

Unidine is hiring immediately for part time FOOD SERVICE WORKER positions. * Location : The Cedars ... Retirement Plan, Associate Shopping Program, Health and Wellness Programs, Discount Marketplace ...

Walmart

Food/Consumables Team Associate

Scarborough, ME · On-site

$17 - $30/hr

Mid-Shift, Closing Location Walmart Supercenter #1788 500 GALLERY BLVD, SCARBOROUGH, ME, 04074, US Job Overview Food and Consumable associates are focused on two things: taking care of customers and ...

Walmart

Food/Consumables Team Associate

Auburn, ME · On-site

$16 - $29/hr

Mid-Shift, Closing Location Walmart Supercenter #1868 100 MOUNT AUBURN AVE, AUBURN, ME, 04210, US Job Overview Food and Consumable associates are focused on two things: taking care of customers and ...

Cumberland Farms

Retail Sales Associate

Bath, ME

$8 - $8.50/hr

Retail or food service experience preferred. Keys to Success: * A Successful Customer Service Associate is friendly, enthusiastic, energetic and -willing to learn and develop a career with Cumberland ...

Cumberland Farms

Retail Sales Associate

Woolwich, ME · On-site

$8 - $8.50/hr

Retail or food service experience preferred. Keys to Success: * A Successful Customer Service Associate is friendly, enthusiastic, energetic and -willing to learn and develop a career with Cumberland ...

Cumberland Farms

Retail Sales Associate

Biddeford, ME · On-site

$9 - $9.50/hr

Retail or food service experience preferred. Keys to Success: * A Successful Customer Service Associate is friendly, enthusiastic, energetic and -willing to learn and develop a career with Cumberland ...

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All JobsFood Service Associate JobsFood Service Associate Jobs in Portland, ME

Food Service Associate information

See Portland, ME salary details

$9

$15

$21

How much do food service associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for food service associate in Portland, ME is $15.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.61 and $17.74 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.

More about Food Service Associate jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Food Service jobs in Portland, ME?

The most popular types of Food Service jobs in Portland, ME are:

What cities near Portland, ME are hiring for Food Service Associate jobs?

Cities near Portland, ME with the most Food Service Associate job openings:

Food Service Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Food Service Associate job openings in Portland, ME as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,206 per year, or $16 per hour.

Food Service Director

Healthcare Services Group, Inc.

Kennebunk, ME • On-site

$68K - $75K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago

Healthcare Services Group rating

5.0

Company rating: 5.0 out of 10

Based on 480 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

233rd of 256 rated facilities management

Job description

Overview
Role: Food Service Director / Dining Services Director
Join Healthcare Services Group (HCSG) as a Food Service Director, leading the dining department at a long-term care facility. At HCSG, we are passionate about positively impacting the communities we serve. If you share our commitment to excellence and enhancing customer and resident experiences, join us and make a difference!
Pay Rate
USD $68,000.00 - USD $75,000.00 /Yr.
Available Benefits for All Employees
  • Comprehensive Benefits Package - Medical, Dental, and Vision
  • Free Telemedicine Services on Day 1*
  • Paid Holidays & Vacation
  • 401 (k)
  • Get paid when you need it with PNC EarnedIt
  • Financial Wellness Support from PNC Workplace Banking
  • Free Prescription Discount Program
  • Employee Assistance Programs
  • Training & Development Opportunities
  • Employee Recognition Programs
  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan
  • Nationwide Transfer Opportunities

Benefits Link
Click here for more benefits information
or copy this link: https://go-internal.hcsgcorp.com/l/1036773/2025-07-02/5xbpsq/1036773/17514637576MrQym5A/Employee_Benefits_for_Job_Descriptions__7_.pdf
*Not available in AR.
Responsibilities
The Department Manager oversees the food service program at a single site, ensuring high food quality standards, inventory management, food safety, and customer service. This role requires adherence to facility menus, federal, state, and local regulations, and HCSG policies to consistently provide quality dining services.
  • Lead and support the food service team to meet quality and safety standards.
  • Maintain accurate records of income, expenditures, food supplies, personnel, and equipment while using HCSG computer software..
  • Conduct staff training, quality control, and in-service sessions; perform roles of dietary aide, cook, and dishwasher as needed.
  • Communicate directives from client managers, building occupants, and administrators to HCSG staff effectively.
  • Use protective gear, ensure safe mixing and use of cleaning solutions, and report equipment needs or malfunctions promptly.
  • Follow infection control, universal precautions, and handwashing procedures to maintain a sanitary environment.
  • Maintain consistent attendance, punctuality, and timely completion of tasks.
  • Represent HCSG positively through courteous and cooperative interactions with supervisors, co-workers, client staff, residents, and guests.
  • All other duties as assigned.

Qualifications
  • Associate's degree or higher in food service management or hospitality, including food service or restaurant management coursework preferred.
  • Two years of experience in quantity food production/service and personnel supervision preferred.
  • Certified Dietary Manager (CDM) certification preferred (or as required by state and county law).
  • Must obtain Food Protection Manager (FPM) within the first 14 days of employment
  • Must obtain Food Service Manager (FSM) and Long-Term Care Food Service (LTC-FSM) certifications within the first 60 days of employment.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Maintain a positive attitude and effectively communicate with building occupants, administration, and HCSG leadership to perform daily tasks.
  • Compliance with COVID-19 vaccination policies
  • Must be able to lift/carry a maximum of 50 pounds, push/pull a maximum of 50 pounds, stand, sit, bend and walk for extended periods.
  • Must be able to perform routine, repetitive tasks continuously.
  • Must be able to work around food and cleaning products.
  • Basic computer skills with the ability to maintain records and complete reports as required, including web-based reporting.
  • May be required to complete an approved sanitation and safety course.
  • Residency within the service area required

Ready to Join Us?
If you're looking for a role where you can lead with passion, drive positive change, and be part of a supportive and dedicated team, apply now and start making a difference at HCSG!
Additional Pay Information
Offered hourly rates for this position are determined based on applicant qualifications, experience, education, and the specific needs, aspects, operational considerations, and requirements of the facility serviced.
EEO Statement
HCSG is proud to be an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We encourage employees to bring their authentic, original, and best selves to work for a culturally inclusive team. We offer equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetics, ethnicity, pregnancy status, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status, political opinions or affiliations, veteran status, or other legally protected classes. HCSG also complies with applicable state and local laws and federal law requirements that govern nondiscrimination in every location where we operate.

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