Fresh Food Associate information
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$10.21 - $11.28
3% of jobs
$11.28 - $12.35
7% of jobs
$12.35 - $13.42
8% of jobs
$13.55 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$13.42 - $14.49
15% of jobs
The median wage is $15.31 / hr.
$14.49 - $15.56
16% of jobs
$15.56 - $16.63
16% of jobs
$17.25 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$16.63 - $17.70
9% of jobs
$17.70 - $18.77
8% of jobs
$18.77 - $19.84
9% of jobs
$19.84 - $20.91
3% of jobs
How much do fresh food associate jobs pay per hour?
As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for fresh food 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.
Fresh Food Associates are retail employees who specialize in handling, preparing, and stocking fresh food products such as produce, bakery items, meats, and dairy in grocery stores or supermarkets. Their main responsibilities include ensuring food safety and quality, assisting customers with their selections, and maintaining cleanliness and organization in the fresh food departments. They may also be responsible for labeling products, rotating stock, and providing information about ingredients or preparation methods. These roles require attention to detail, good customer service skills, and knowledge of food safety regulations.
To thrive as a Fresh Food Associate, you need knowledge of food safety, basic math skills, and experience in handling perishable goods, usually supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with point-of-sale (POS) systems, inventory management software, and food handling certifications are commonly required. Outstanding customer service, attention to detail, and strong teamwork skills help you excel in this role. These abilities ensure high-quality food presentation, customer satisfaction, and compliance with safety standards in a fast-paced retail environment.
Fresh Food Associates often face challenges such as managing inventory turnover, monitoring expiration dates, and adhering to strict food safety standards. They need to regularly inspect products for freshness, rotate stock, and promptly remove items that are no longer suitable for sale. Working efficiently during busy periods while ensuring displays remain attractive and compliant with health regulations is key to success in this role.
What are the most commonly searched types of Fresh Food jobs?
The most popular types of Fresh Food jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Fresh Food Associate jobs?
The top employers for Fresh Food Associate jobs are:
