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Food Service Associate Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Compass Group

FOOD SERVICE UTILITY

Louisburg, NC · On-site

$10.22/hr

Associate Shopping Program * Health and Wellness Programs * Discount Marketplace * Identity Theft ... food service needs decline or cease). Any such periods during which you do not perform work on the ...

Canteen

FOOD SERVICE WORKER (FULL TIME)

Morrisville, NC · On-site

$14 - $17/hr

Previous food service and customer service experience is preferred. * Perks: 4-day workweek with no ... Associates at Canteen are offered many fantastic benefits. Full-time and part-time positions offer ...

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Compass Group

FOOD SERVICE UTILITY

Durham, NC · On-site

$16/hr

Morrison Living is hiring immediately for part time FOOD SERVICE UTILITY positions. * Location ... Retirement Plan, Associate Shopping Program, Health and Wellness Programs, Discount Marketplace ...

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All JobsFood Service Associate JobsFood Service Associate Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Food Service Associate information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$8

$13

$18

How much do food service associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for food service associate in Raleigh, NC is $13.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.88 and $15.48 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.
More about Food Service Associate jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Food Service jobs in Raleigh, NC? The most popular types of Food Service jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Food Service Associate jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Food Service Associate job openings:
Food Service Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Food Service Associate job openings in Raleigh, NC as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $28,966 per year, or $13.9 per hour.
Customer Service Associate - Earn Commissions

Customer Service Associate - Earn Commissions

Zips Car Wash

Durham, NC • On-site

$15/hr

Other

Posted 16 days ago

Zips Car Wash rating

3.6

Company rating: 3.6 out of 10

Based on 27 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

332nd of 335 rated vehicle maintenance

Job description

Why You'll Love This Job
Do you love interacting with people and making someone's day better?
Are you enthusiastic about helping others and looking for a customer service job where your attitude, effort, and personality truly matter? If so, our PartTime Customer Service Associate (CSA) position at ZIPS Car Wash, located at 1031 Martin Luther King Jr Pkwy, Durham, NC , is the perfect position for you - no car wash experience required!
You will bring joy to people's journeys by creating a positive and light-hearted atmosphere where people love to clean their cars. In this customer-focused setting, you will have the opportunity to make a significant impact while earning rewards for outstanding performance!
Pay: $15 / hour base pay + Bonus & Commission opportunities!
We reward great service, reliability, and teamwork. Total earnings may vary based on performance and schedule.

Rewards for YOU:
  • Competitive Hourly Pay
  • Incentive/Commission Pay
  • DailyPay. Get paid daily!
  • Flexible Scheduling; Morning & Evening Shifts Available
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Free Car Washes
  • Work outdoors in a highenergy, teamdriven environment where friendships, teamwork, and friendly competition make work enjoyable - rain or shine
Whether you're coming from retail, sales, food service, hospitality, or looking for a new customer service role, ZIPS Car Wash offers a fastpaced, rewarding job where you can grow, earn more, and feel good about the work you do.
Bring JOY to YOUR Journey and ap ply today for our part-time Customer Service Associate position - hiring decisions move fast!
Responsibilities
  • Welcome and engage with customers in a warm, friendly manner
  • Engage customers while selling and promoting our Unlimited Wash Club
  • Safely and efficiently load every vehicle with clear hand signals and a smile
  • Strive for customer satisfaction by ensuring a thorough and enjoyable wash for all guests
  • Maintain all aspects of the site to ensure it runs beautifully
Skills & Qualifications
  • 18 years of age or older
  • Positive attitude
  • Ability to work flexible hours including weekends and holidays

CSA_NCDUR_MartinLutherKing
Job number: 165059

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