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Food Service Associate Jobs in Waterloo, ON (NOW HIRING)

As a Food Services Associate , reporting to the Chef Manager, you will perform a variety of customer service based tasks within the food services function. This position requires excellent customer ...

Welcome to Gordon Food Service! We are excited that you are thinking about opportunities with us, and wehave an amazing story to share. Here's a quick glance of who we are and the impact you could ...

Production Cook

Waterloo, ON · On-site

CA$19.72/hr

Perform and complete daily cleaning duties, as outlined on cleaning sheets * Assist Food Services Associates at Fresh Food Company stations, as needed * Assist Culinary Lead Hand or Culinary Manager ...

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Food Service Associate information

See Waterloo, ON salary details

$7

$11

$14

How much do food service associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for food service associate in Waterloo, ON is $11.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $9.86 and $13.45 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 Waterloo, ON?

The most popular types of Food Service jobs in Waterloo, ON are:

What cities near Waterloo, ON are hiring for Food Service Associate jobs?

Cities near Waterloo, ON with the most Food Service Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Food Service Associate job openings in Waterloo, ON as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $24,468 per year, or $11.8 per hour.

Food Service Associate

Dexterra Group

Waterloo, ON

Full-time, Part-time

Medical

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

Company Description

WHO ARE WE?

Dexterra Group is a fast-growing, financially strong, publicly listed company (TSX:DXT). We have a far-reaching presence across the entire continent North America with hundreds of full-time and part-time opportunities at any given time. We aim to provide our people with more than just a job – we offer fulfilling opportunities in a culture that promotes stability, diversity and inclusion, camaraderie, employee recognition, work-life balance, and doing what you love. For over 75 years, the companies that began independently, and now form Dexterra Group, have been dedicated to serving North American clients to create and manage built environments that play a vital role in our economy and our local communities. And, that’s something we’re truly proud of. Work That Matters, People Who Care.

Job Description

WHAT'S THE JOB?

At Dana Hospitality, we create exceptional customer experiences that make our clients shine. Powered by passionate people, we bring the right teams with the right skills together to turn problems into solutions and challenges into moments of ingenuity.

As a Food Services Associate, reporting to the Chef Manager, you will perform a variety of customer service based  tasks within the food services function. This position requires excellent customer service skills and attention to detail.  Growth opportunities are possible for the right candidate.

Your work will include:

  • Prepare items and assume responsibilities for any job task associated with an assigned service station
  • Adhere to all required health and safety regulations and procedures while preparing food including:
    • Using proper techniques when using the tools, supplies, and equipment provided (i.e. knives, ovens, cleaning materials)
    • Wearing and correctly using proper personal protective equipment (i.e. non-slip shoes, cut-resistant gloves)
    • Complying with FoodSafe and/or ServeSafe standards including the recording of all time temperature sensitive food items 
  • Maintain the cleanliness of the work area, including equipment, kitchen, and dining area. Clean dishes and cutlery manually or with the dishwasher
  • Remain an ambassador of goodwill, ethics, and great client relations at all times on behalf of Dana Hospitality 
  • Provide exceptional customer service at all times, supporting an environment that strives to create exceptional culinary experiences•
  • Maintains speed of service standards
  • Listens to customers (internal and external) and responds professionally to all questions and concerns, directing concerns to further levels of management as needed
Qualifications

WHO ARE WE LOOKING FOR?

  • Minimum1-2 years’ experience in the hospitality / food service industry
  • Food Safety certification   
  • WHMIS test (Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System)
  • Great Customer Service
  • Professional and Punctual 
  • Quick learner and able to work on your own.

Additional Information

WHAT’S IN IT FOR YOU?

  • Benefits start on day one
  • Work-life balance
  • Competitive Wages 
  • Extended health benefits.
  • Excellent Growth opportunities. 
  • Whereas other companies are downsizing, we are growing!
  • Be #1 on day 1 by joining an industry leader
  • A true ability to leave your mark and not just be a cog in a giant machine

Dexterra Group is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion. We are pleased to consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veterans’ status, Indigenous status, or any other legally protected factors. Disability-related accommodations during the application process are available upon request.