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Food Service Associate Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

NucoreVision (NVI)

Food Service Associate

Fort Belvoir, VA · On-site

$16.50 - $17.41/hr

The Food Service Associate supports cafeteria and kitchen operations by preparing meal items, setting up serving lines, restocking supplies, cleaning equipment, and assisting customers and staff. The ...

Royal Farms

Customer Service Associate

Hyattsville, MD · On-site

$15 - $19/hr

This includes food service preparation, point-of-sale transactions, housekeeping duties, and general store upkeep. The Customer Service Associate plays a key role in delivering an exceptional ...

Royal Farms

Customer Service Associate

Greenbelt, MD · On-site

$15 - $19/hr

This includes food service preparation, point-of-sale transactions, housekeeping duties, and general store upkeep. The Customer Service Associate plays a key role in delivering an exceptional ...

Royal Farms

Customer Service Associate

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$13.50 - $19/hr

This includes food service preparation, point-of-sale transactions, housekeeping duties, and general store upkeep. The Customer Service Associate plays a key role in delivering an exceptional ...

Royal Farms

Customer Service Associate

Silver Spring, MD · On-site

$18 - $19/hr

This includes food service preparation, point-of-sale transactions, housekeeping duties, and general store upkeep. The Customer Service Associate plays a key role in delivering an exceptional ...

Royal Farms

Customer Service Associate

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$13.50 - $19/hr

This includes food service preparation, point-of-sale transactions, housekeeping duties, and general store upkeep. The Customer Service Associate plays a key role in delivering an exceptional ...

Royal Farms

Customer Service Associate

Gaithersburg, MD · On-site

$18 - $19/hr

This includes food service preparation, point-of-sale transactions, housekeeping duties, and general store upkeep. The Customer Service Associate plays a key role in delivering an exceptional ...

Royal Farms

Customer Service Associate

Oxon Hill, MD · On-site

$15 - $19/hr

This includes food service preparation, point-of-sale transactions, housekeeping duties, and general store upkeep. The Customer Service Associate plays a key role in delivering an exceptional ...

Compass Group

FOOD SERVICE WORKER

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$21.76/hr

* We are hiring immediately for a FOOD SERVICE WORKER position. * Location : Patent Trade Office ... Associates at Eurest are offered many fantastic benefits. Full-time and part-time positions offer ...

Compass Group

FOOD SERVICE WORKER

Washington, DC · On-site

$18.50/hr

Requirement : Prior food service experience preferred. * Fixed Pay Rate: $18.50 per hour. If ... We asked some of our associates why they love working for Touchpoint. Click here to see what they ...

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All JobsFood Service Associate JobsFood Service Associate Jobs in Reston, VA

Food Service Associate information

See Reston, VA salary details

$9

$16

$21

How much do food service associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for food service associate in Reston, VA is $16.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.99 and $18.27 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 Reston, VA? The most popular types of Food Service jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Food Service Associate jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Food Service Associate job openings:
Food Service Associate jobs near you
Food Service Associate

Food Service Associate

Meriwether Godsey, Inc.

Washington, DC • On-site

$20.35/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Meriwether Godsey is seeking a Full-Time Food Service Associate at a coeducational, private day school in beautiful Northwest Washington, DC.


  • Full-time
  • Monday-Friday, 6 am-2:30 pm
  • $20.35


What the Food Service Associate will do:

  • Greet customers with a positive and friendly attitude
  • Transport food and supplies to the cafeteria: assist in the set-up, maintenance, breakdown of the cafeteria, food serving, and beverage areas.
  • Serves and replenishes food from food counters and steam tables.
  • Keep dining room areas and assigned kitchen areas neat and organized
  • Clean and sanitize work areas, dining tables, chairs, and equipment throughout and after meal periods
  • Maintain cleanliness and sanitation of other kitchen areas by following daily and weekly cleaning assignments
  • Inspects workstations for compliance with service standards.
  • Participates in regular safety meetings, safety training, and hazard assessments.

What the Food Service Associate will need:

  • Must be able to pass an FBI background check
  • High School Diploma or Equivalent
  • Excellent communication and good organizational skills
  • Flexibility: ability to switch between locations and job duties
  • ServSafe Food Handler Certification preferred.
  • Reliable Transportation


What the Food Service Associate will get:

  • Competitive Pay, Uniforms, Meals, Training, Mentorship, and Benefits (Health, Dental, Vision, etc.)


Meriwether Godsey offers significant opportunities for growth and career advancement. The work environment is fast-paced, team-oriented, and high-energy. You’ll be surrounded by people who are passionate about what they do. Interested in learning more? Visit our About Us Page

Enjoy a people and food-focused environment where you have the opportunity to make a difference every day and advance your career. Help Meriwether Godsey set the standard for hospitality in the Metro DC market!

Meriwether Godsey is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to fostering an inclusive, equitable workplace.

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