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Food Service Associate Jobs in Ridgeland, MS (NOW HIRING)

Child Nutrition Staff (Current)

Jackson, MS ยท On-site

$12.25 - $16/hr

Ambition Prep Food Service Associate Ambition Preparatory Charter School is deeply committed to ensuring that every student in grades K-8 receives the high-quality education they deserve. Our mission ...

FOOD SERVICE WORKER

Pearl, MS ยท On-site

$12.50 - $15.25/hr

With more than 16,000 associates in 4,300 schools, ranging from large public institutions to small ... food service needs decline or cease). Any such periods during which you do not perform work on the ...

FOOD SERVICE WORKER

Raymond, MS ยท On-site

$13.25 - $16.25/hr

With more than 16,000 associates in 4,300 schools, ranging from large public institutions to small ... food service needs decline or cease). Any such periods during which you do not perform work on the ...

Previous food service experience is preferred but not required. * Pay Range: $13.00 per hour to $15 ... Retirement Plan, Associate Shopping Program, Health and Wellness Programs, Discount Marketplace ...

FOOD SERVICE WORKER

Flowood, MS ยท On-site

$14.50/hr

Previous food service experience is preferred. * Fixed Pay Rate: $14.50 per hour Make a difference ... Retirement Plan, Associate Shopping Program, Health and Wellness Programs, Discount Marketplace ...

FOOD SERVICE WORKER (FULL TIME)

Raymond, MS

$13.25 - $16.25/hr

With more than 16,000 associates in 4,300 schools, ranging from large public institutions to small ... food service needs decline or cease). Any such periods during which you do not perform work on the ...

FOOD SERVICE WORKER (FULL TIME)

Pearl, MS

$12.50 - $15.25/hr

With more than 16,000 associates in 4,300 schools, ranging from large public institutions to small ... food service needs decline or cease). Any such periods during which you do not perform work on the ...

FOOD SERVICE WORKER (FULL TIME)

Pearl, MS ยท On-site

$12.50 - $15.25/hr

With more than 16,000 associates in 4,300 schools, ranging from large public institutions to small ... food service needs decline or cease). Any such periods during which you do not perform work on the ...

FOOD SERVICE WORKER (FULL TIME)

Raymond, MS ยท On-site

$13.25 - $16.25/hr

With more than 16,000 associates in 4,300 schools, ranging from large public institutions to small ... food service needs decline or cease). Any such periods during which you do not perform work on the ...

FOOD SERVICE WORKER (FULL TIME)

Raymond, MS ยท On-site

$13.25 - $16.25/hr

With more than 16,000 associates in 4,300 schools, ranging from large public institutions to small ... food service needs decline or cease). Any such periods during which you do not perform work on the ...

FOOD SERVICE WORKER (FULL TIME)

Pearl, MS

$13 - $15.75/hr

With more than 16,000 associates in 4,300 schools, ranging from large public institutions to small ... food service needs decline or cease). Any such periods during which you do not perform work on the ...

FOOD SERVICE UTILITY

Raymond, MS ยท On-site

$14/hr

Unidine is hiring immediately for Full Time FOOD SERVICE UTILITY position. * Location : Riggs Manor ... Retirement Plan, Associate Shopping Program, Health and Wellness Programs, Discount Marketplace ...

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Food Service Associate information

See Ridgeland, MS salary details

$7

$13

$17

How much do food service associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for food service associate in Ridgeland, MS is $13.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.20 and $14.62 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Food Service jobs in Ridgeland, MS?

The most popular types of Food Service jobs in Ridgeland, MS are:

What cities near Ridgeland, MS are hiring for Food Service Associate jobs?

Cities near Ridgeland, MS with the most Food Service Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Food Service Associate job openings in Ridgeland, MS as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, and 21% Part Time. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $28,490 per year, or $13.7 per hour.

Food Service Associate

DICKERSON TRANSPORTATION GROUP

Pickens, MS โ€ข On-site

$11.75 - $15.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Do you have a passion to serve others in your community? Are you organized and able to maintain a clean environment? Do you have experience prepping for or preparing large quantities of food items? Are you willing to learn? You could be our next rising star!

Our Food Services Associate works in one of our convenience and fuel retailing locations. We offer competitive pay (DOE), shift differential, bonus incentives, benefits such as medical insurance, paid time off (+ more!) and an opportunity to grow and develop with our company. If you are willing to learn, value serving others, and enjoys maintaining a safe & healthy environment, we welcome and encourage you to join our team!

At Dickerson Petroleum, Inc. we are a fast growing, privately owned company operating in Mississippi with a commitment to keep our customers and communities going! We will do this by focusing on solutions, maintaining commitment to our people and customers, and ensuring on-time delivery of goods and services. Our customers refuel with us through a fresh cup of coffee, a hot meal, clean restrooms, and quality fuel!

Job Summary:

As a Food Service Associate, you prepare quality food items adhering to recipes, quantities, and prep food & health safety standards. maintain the cleanliness, sanitization, and maintenance of all internal and external store areas creating a healthy and safe environment for customers and associates. You will also stock merchandise throughout the store.

Duties & Responsibilities:

  • Prepare and cook for high volume food service.
  • Perform a versatile cooking skillset (frying, roasting, grilling, sauteing, braising, baking, steaming, etc.).
  • Capable of preparing a variety of food genres (Italian, Mexican, Chinese, American, Southern, etc.)
  • Utilize basic math for portioning and food waste management.
  • Ensure proper quantity and quality of meals are ready at service time
  • Demonstrate safe and proficient knife skills
  • Perform equipment sanitation and maintenance where applicable
  • Maintain high sanitary, hygienic conditions in both the work area and self.
  • Perform proper labeling and storage of food products
  • Maintains proper recordkeeping, as applicable.
  • Perform all tasks safely and assume ownership for Customer and Associate safety in accordance with safety, environmental, and company policies and procedures.
  • Monitor supply of products and communicate order requests to Manager.
  • Reports any safety or other problems immediately to the manager or assistant manager.
  • Performs other related duties as assigned.

Core Competencies:

Commitment to People

  • Good verbal communication and active listening skills + Positive Attitude!
  • Passion to maintain a safe and healthy environment for customers and associates.
  • Service-oriented by being willing to help others and anticipate customer needs.
  • Mentoring co-workers and new hires.

Focus on Solutions

  • Knowledgeable about the companys products, preparation methods, safety procedures, and standards for rotating and stocking products.
  • Concentrate your efforts on the more important priorities and can attend to a broader range of activities.
  • Enjoy working hard and seize more opportunities than others.

On-Time Delivery

  • Reports to work at scheduled time.
  • Value time and use your time effectively and efficiently.
  • Get more done in less time.
  • Pursue everything with energy, drive and being results oriented.

Education & Experience:

  • High school diploma or equivalent preferred, but not required.
  • Experience in food handling and preparation preferred.
  • Comprehend and perform basic mathematical skills.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

  • None

Essential Physical Requirements:

  • Must have adequate vision, speech, hearing, and physical ability to perform essential job duties.
  • Must be able to have full body rotation/mobility, i.e., bending, stooping, twisting, and reaching for stocking and maintaining supplies, etc.
  • Must be able to lift and carry a minimum of 20 pounds constantly and up to 40 pounds occasionally.
  • Must be able to stand and walk for the duration of the shift.
  • Must be able to push and pull products as needed.
  • Must be able to handle equipment used for in kitchen and preparation areas.
  • Must have full hand usage to prepare food in a safe manner.
  • May need to work nights, weekends, and holidays on a rotating basis.
  • Ability to perform repetitive movements over long periods of time.

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Equal Opportunity Employer/Disabled/Veterans.