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Food Service Associate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Food Service Associate

Rossville, GA · On-site

$11.50 - $15/hr

Food Service Associates should expect to be cross trained in multiple areas with varying responsibilities. Qualifications: * Must be 18 years of age or older * Food Service experience a plus, but not ...

Food Service Associate

Fort Oglethorpe, GA · On-site

$11.50 - $15/hr

Food Service Associates should expect to be cross trained in multiple areas with varying responsibilities. Qualifications: * Must be 18 years of age or older * Food Service experience a plus, but not ...

Food Service Associate

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$11.75 - $15.25/hr

Food Service Associates should expect to be cross trained in multiple areas with varying responsibilities. Qualifications: * Must be 18 years of age or older * Food Service experience a plus, but not ...

Food Service Associate

Chatsworth, GA · On-site

$12.50 - $16.25/hr

Food Service Associates should expect to be cross trained in multiple areas with varying responsibilities. Qualifications: * Must be 18 years of age or older * Food Service experience a plus, but not ...

Food Service Associate

Jonesborough, TN · On-site

$11.50 - $15/hr

Food Service Associates should expect to be cross trained in multiple areas with varying responsibilities. Qualifications: * Must be 18 years of age or older * Food Service experience a plus, but not ...

Food Service Associate

Powell, TN · On-site

$11.75 - $15.50/hr

Food Service Associates should expect to be cross trained in multiple areas with varying responsibilities. Qualifications: * Must be 18 years of age or older * Food Service experience a plus, but not ...

Food Service Associate

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$12 - $15.75/hr

Food Service Associates should expect to be cross trained in multiple areas with varying responsibilities. Qualifications: * Must be 18 years of age or older * Food Service experience a plus, but not ...

Food Service Associate

Oliver Springs, TN · On-site

$13.25 - $17.25/hr

Food Service Associates should expect to be cross trained in multiple areas with varying responsibilities. Qualifications: * Must be 18 years of age or older * Food Service experience a plus, but not ...

Food Service Associate

Athens, AL · On-site

$11.75 - $15.50/hr

Food Service Associates should expect to be cross trained in multiple areas with varying responsibilities. Qualifications: * Must be 18 years of age or older * Food Service experience a plus, but not ...

Food Service Associate

Crossville, TN · On-site

$12.75 - $16.50/hr

Food Service Associates should expect to be cross trained in multiple areas with varying responsibilities. Qualifications: * Must be 18 years of age or older * Food Service experience a plus, but not ...

Food Service Associate

Prestonsburg, KY · On-site

$15 - $19.50/hr

Food Service Associates should expect to be cross trained in multiple areas with varying responsibilities. Qualifications: * Must be 18 years of age or older * Food Service experience a plus, but not ...

Food Service Associate

Maryville, TN · On-site

$12.75 - $16.50/hr

Food Service Associates should expect to be cross trained in multiple areas with varying responsibilities. Qualifications: * Must be 18 years of age or older * Food Service experience a plus, but not ...

Food Service Associate

Newport, TN · On-site

$12 - $15.50/hr

Food Service Associates should expect to be cross trained in multiple areas with varying responsibilities. Qualifications: * Must be 18 years of age or older * Food Service experience a plus, but not ...

Food Service Associate

Cookeville, TN · On-site

$12 - $15.50/hr

Food Service Associates should expect to be cross trained in multiple areas with varying responsibilities. Qualifications: * Must be 18 years of age or older * Food Service experience a plus, but not ...

Food Service Associate

Maryville, TN · On-site

$11.50 - $15/hr

Food Service Associates should expect to be cross trained in multiple areas with varying responsibilities. Qualifications: * Must be 18 years of age or older * Food Service experience a plus, but not ...

Food Service Associate

Kodak, TN · On-site

$12 - $15.75/hr

Food Service Associates should expect to be cross trained in multiple areas with varying responsibilities. Qualifications: * Must be 18 years of age or older * Food Service experience a plus, but not ...

Food Service Associate

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$13.25 - $17.50/hr

Food Service Associates should expect to be cross trained in multiple areas with varying responsibilities. Qualifications: * Must be 18 years of age or older * Food Service experience a plus, but not ...

Food Service Associate

Cleveland, TN · On-site

$11.50 - $15/hr

Food Service Associates should expect to be cross trained in multiple areas with varying responsibilities. Qualifications: * Must be 18 years of age or older * Food Service experience a plus, but not ...

Food Service Associate

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$12 - $15.75/hr

Food Service Associates should expect to be cross trained in multiple areas with varying responsibilities. Qualifications: * Must be 18 years of age or older * Food Service experience a plus, but not ...

Food Service Associate

Dayton, TN · On-site

$12.25 - $16/hr

Food Service Associates should expect to be cross trained in multiple areas with varying responsibilities. Qualifications: * Must be 18 years of age or older * Food Service experience a plus, but not ...

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Food Service Associate information

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How much do food service associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for food service associate in the United States is $15.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.46 and $17.55 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 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 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.
What cities are hiring for Food Service Associate jobs? Cities with the most Food Service Associate job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Food Service jobs? The most popular types of Food Service jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Food Service Associate jobs? The top employers for Food Service Associate jobs are:
What states have the most Food Service Associate jobs? States with the most job openings for Food Service Associate jobs include:
Infographic showing various Food Service Associate job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 66% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,807 per year, or $15.8 per hour.
Food Service Associate

Food Service Associate

Food City

Rossville, GA • On-site

$11.50 - $15/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Food City rating

5.0

Company rating: 5.0 out of 10

Based on 630 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

97th of 114 rated grocery stores


Job description

Essential Job Functions:
  • Ensure efficient and courteous customer service at all times in support of the company mission to "Run the Best Store in Town!"
  • Maintain a positive attitude; create an atmosphere of friendliness and fun through flexibility and teamwork.
  • Generate a positive, friendly, and fun working environment with a customer first initiative by greeting and speaking to customers, provide prompt, courteous, and efficient customer service.
  • Prepare and produce "Quality" food & products to meet or exceed our customer & company expectations
  • Make sandwiches
  • Assist with Hot Bar
  • Slice meats and cheese
  • Serve food and drinks
  • Take telephone orders for food and specialty cakes
  • Keep workstation and area around workstation neat and clean (washing dishes, mopping, etc.)
  • Assist in making sure that all package products for self-service are in proper package with correct weights and ingredients
  • Follow company Food Safety program
  • Assist in stocking and proper rotation of products
  • Food Service Associates should expect to be cross trained in multiple areas with varying responsibilities.

Qualifications:
  • Must be 18 years of age or older
  • Food Service experience a plus, but not required
  • Ability to meet standard Physical, Mental, and Visual demands
  • Ability to understand and follow verbal and/or written instructions, perform routine and repetitive tasks and have constant contact/interaction with various levels of individuals on a daily basis
  • Ability to attend on-site work during scheduled shifts to adhere to company time and attendance policies

Benefits of working for Food City:
401(k) with company match, Employee Stock Ownership Plan, Weekly Pay Checks with Direct Deposit, Company paid Life and Disability Insurance, Medical Plan with wellness benefits, Dental Plan, Paid Holidays, Paid Vacations, Associate Offers, and so much more!
About Food City:
Food City is a privately held, family-owned company with a driving mission to 'run the best store in town.' Dedicated to giving back to the communities we serve, we encourage our associates to get involved with their local civic organizations. We consider our associates to be our greatest asset. Over 13% of the company is currently owned by our associates through our employee stock ownership plan, promoting tremendous pride in the services and products we provide. Whether your passion is baking, accounting, or trucking, Food City has a promising career opportunity for you. We offer flexible schedules to ensure our associates have ample time to spend with family and friends. If you're looking for a great career or the opportunity to try something different, consider becoming part of the Food City family.

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