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High School Cafeteria Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Oakland Schools

High School Cafeteria Helper

Oxford, MI · On-site

$16.55/hr

Oxford Community Schools Cafeteria Helper - 3.75 Hours Oxford High School 2026-27 School Year Primary Function : Provide students with a healthy, high quality nutritious lunch within the guidelines ...

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High School Cafeteria information

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How much do high school cafeteria jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for high school cafeteria in the United States is $14.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.50 and $15.87 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between High School Cafeteria vs School Cook?

AspectHigh School CafeteriaSchool Cook
CredentialsFood service experience, possibly a food handler's permitFood safety certification, culinary skills
Work EnvironmentSchool cafeteria, large-scale food service settingKitchen or cafeteria, preparing meals for students
Employer & IndustrySchool district, educational sectorSchool or educational institution
Job FocusOverseeing meal service, managing cafeteria operationsCooking, meal preparation, food safety

High School Cafeteria staff typically oversee the entire meal service process and manage cafeteria operations, while School Cooks focus on preparing and cooking meals. Both roles require food safety knowledge and experience in food service environments, but their responsibilities differ in scope and daily tasks.

How to get a job at a high school cafeteria?

To get a job at a high school cafeteria, applicants should check the school's employment opportunities, often posted on the school district's website or in person. Typically, positions require completing an application, passing a background check, and sometimes obtaining food safety or sanitation certifications. Prior experience in food service or customer service can be beneficial, and flexible scheduling is common for cafeteria roles.

What is a high school cafeteria worker?

High school cafeteria workers are staff members responsible for preparing, serving, and sometimes planning meals for students and faculty in a high school setting. Their duties often include cooking, portioning food, cleaning the kitchen and dining areas, and ensuring that food safety and nutrition standards are met. They play a vital role in providing balanced meals to support students’ health and academic performance. Additionally, they may handle cashier duties and interact with students to create a welcoming cafeteria environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a high school cafeteria worker?

To thrive as a High School Cafeteria Worker, you need basic food preparation skills, knowledge of safe food handling procedures, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with kitchen equipment, point-of-sale (POS) systems, and sometimes a food handler’s certification are typically required. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and good communication help create a positive dining environment for students and staff. These skills and qualities are important to ensure food safety, efficiency, and a supportive atmosphere in a busy school cafeteria.

What are some common challenges faced by high school cafeteria staff, and how can they be managed?

High school cafeteria staff often encounter challenges such as managing large volumes of students in short meal periods, accommodating a variety of dietary needs, and maintaining strict food safety standards. Effective teamwork and clear communication with both colleagues and students are essential to ensure smooth service. Staying organized and adaptable helps staff handle unexpected situations, such as last-minute menu changes or supply shortages, while maintaining a positive and supportive environment for students.
What cities are hiring for High School Cafeteria jobs? Cities with the most High School Cafeteria job openings:
What states have the most High School Cafeteria jobs? States with the most job openings for High School Cafeteria jobs include:
High School Cafeteria jobs near you

High School Cafeteria Manager

Danville Community School Corporation

Danville, IN • On-site

$16.25 - $20/hr

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Position Type:
Food Service/Manager
Date Posted:
7/28/2026
Location:
Danville Community High School
CAFETERIA MANAGER
A skilled and detail-oriented Food Service Manager oversees the daily operations of our cafeteria, each school in DCSC has a cafeteria manager. This position is responsible for supervising a team of 5 to 12 employees, ensuring efficient meal service, managing inventory and food orders, and maintaining compliance with nutrition and safety regulations. Each cafeteria serves approximately 150-250 breakfasts and 500-700 lunches daily, offering scratch-cooked meals, fresh fruits, fresh vegetables, salads, sandwiches, wraps, and personal pizzas made daily at the MS and HS.
The Food Service Manager does not create the menu but is responsible for managing and executing it as provided. Ordering and properly storing all incoming dry storage goods, freezer item, all beverages and fresh produce. This role also involves extensive meal prepping for scratch-cooked meals, such as lasagna, chicken pot pie, peanut butter bars, as well as preparing freshly cooked chicken for salads. Additionally, the manager must complete 10 hours of professional training annually and have a strong knowledge of computer programs such as menu logic for production records, and the POS system used daily.
Key Responsibilities:
Staff Management & Leadership:
• Supervise, train, and schedule 5 (SE) to 11 (HS) cafeteria employees.
• Maintain a positive and efficient work environment.
• Ensure staff adhere to food safety, sanitation, and customer service standards.
• Conduct performance evaluations and staff training as needed.
Meal Preparation & Scratch Cooking:
• Oversee meal prepping and cooking from scratch, including dishes like lasagna, hash brown casserole, granola, croutons and peanut butter bars.
• Ensure proper preparation of raw chicken for use in salads and raw beef in other menu items.
• Monitor portion control and minimize food waste.
• Ensure high-quality and consistent food presentation.
Menu Management & Compliance:
• Implement and manage the provided school menu.
• Maintain accurate production records for all meals served.
• Understand menu logic to ensure proper substitutions and adherence to nutrition standards.
• Ensure compliance with USDA regulations, health codes, and school nutrition guidelines.
• Maintain records such as temperature logs, production reports, and compliance documents.
Financial, Inventory, Ordering & Food Safety:
• Monitor food inventory and place timely orders to prevent shortages.
• Work with vendors to procure quality ingredients while staying within budget.
• Track and document inventory levels, usage, and waste.
• Ensure proper food storage, handling, and preparation in accordance with food safety regulations.
• Must do daily deposits of any money taken in during the day.
Professional Development & Training:
• Complete 10 hours of professional training per year as required for school food service managers.
• Stay updated on changes in school nutrition policies and best practices.
Customer Service & School Community Engagement:
• Provide excellent service to students, staff, and faculty.
• Address concerns regarding food quality, make the correct food for allergies, or dietary needs.
• Foster a welcoming and inclusive cafeteria environment.
Qualifications:
• Previous experience in food service management, preferably in a school or institutional setting.
• Strong background in scratch cooking, meal prepping, and food safety.
• Knowledge of school nutrition guidelines, inventory management, and menu logic.
• Proficiency in production records and POS systems.
• Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
• Ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment.
• Basic computer skills for ordering, record-keeping, and financial notifications.
• ServSafe Certification
Work Schedule:
• Monday Friday, following the school calendar. It is possible to be needed work the school breaks for meal prepping, catching up on paperwork and cleaning kitchen and summer break for our SFSP program.
  • Monitor and oversee freezer and cooler temperatures (have notifications on phone) to make sure they maintain the correct temperature for storage and help take corrective measures if needed.

Reach out to Valerie Preecs vpreecs@danville.k12.in.us with questions.

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