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Restaurant Associate Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Location: Wind Crest by Erickson Senior Living Join our team as a Dining Associate in our ... Quality of life - most of our restaurant's team members are out before 9pm * PTO, volunteer hours ...

The Restaurant Associate is an entry level opportunity that is responsible for providing prompt, efficient, safe, and courteous quality food service to the guest. Cashier, customer service, retail ...

Restaurant Crew

Thornton, CO · On-site

$17.50 - $23.45/hr

The Restaurant Associate is an entry level opportunity that is responsible for providing prompt, efficient, safe, and courteous quality food service to the guest. Cashier, customer service, retail ...

The Restaurant Associate is an entry level opportunity that is responsible for providing prompt, efficient, safe, and courteous quality food service to the guest. Cashier, customer service, retail ...

Restaurant Crew

Centennial, CO · On-site

$16 - $21.44/hr

The Restaurant Associate is an entry level opportunity that is responsible for providing prompt, efficient, safe, and courteous quality food service to the guest. Cashier, customer service, retail ...

Restaurant Crew

Platteville, CO · On-site

$15 - $20.10/hr

The Restaurant Associate is an entry level opportunity that is responsible for providing prompt, efficient, safe, and courteous quality food service to the guest. Cashier, customer service, retail ...

Restaurant Crew

Arvada, CO · On-site

$16 - $21.44/hr

The Restaurant Associate is an entry level opportunity that is responsible for providing prompt, efficient, safe, and courteous quality food service to the guest. Cashier, customer service, retail ...

General Manager II

Denver, CO · On-site

$73K - $100K/yr

Brand Knowledge/Proficiency Assesses skill levels of restaurant associates and conducts and coordinates on-the-job and other training/education activities as necessary Embraces technology and ...

General Manager II

Denver, CO · On-site

$73K - $100K/yr

Brand Knowledge/Proficiency • Assesses skill levels of restaurant associates and conducts and coordinates on-the-job and other training/education activities as necessary • Embraces technology and ...

General Manager II

Denver, CO · On-site

$73K - $82K/yr

Ensures on-boarding and off-boarding of all restaurant associates, to include all activities related to compliance with proper badging requirements, orientation, OJT, and other company training ...

Brand Knowledge/Proficiency Assesses skill levels of restaurant associates and conducts and coordinates on-the-job and other training/education activities as necessary Embraces technology and ...

Restaurant Busser

Denver, CO · On-site

$16.27/hr

The purpose of a RESTAURANT BUSSER is to ensure that restaurant remains clean by quickly and ... Associate demonstrates a high QUALITY of work: * Demonstrates accuracy and thoroughness. * Monitors ...

Shift Manager II

Denver, CO · On-site

$15 - $19/hr

... associates within a defined individual or group of restaurants or points-of-sale Ensures compliance with all company adult beverage policies, and ensures all restaurant staff understand and follow AB ...

Shift Manager II JV Partner

Denver, CO · On-site

$15 - $19/hr

... associates within a defined individual or group of restaurants or points-of-sale Ensures compliance with all company adult beverage policies, and ensures all restaurant staff understand and follow AB ...

Shift Manager I

Denver, CO · On-site

$24.17 - $29.55/hr

Assists the AGM/GM in managing by supervising day-to-day activities of associates within a defined individual or group of restaurants or points-of-sale * Participates in the interview process ...

Shift Manager I

Denver, CO

$15 - $19/hr

... associates within a defined individual or group of restaurants or points-of-sale Participates in the interview process, provides input in hiring, recommends termination, advancement, promotion or any ...

Whether you have experience as a customer service associate, retail team member, cashier, restaurant server, kitchen lead, cook, prep cook, drive thru cashier or any other restaurant or service ...

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Restaurant Associate information

See Colorado salary details

$8

$16

$29

How much do restaurant associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for restaurant associate in Colorado is $16.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.12 and $16.44 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is Restaurant Associates a good company to work for?

Restaurant Associates offers roles such as restaurant associates in food service environments, typically providing entry-level positions with opportunities for advancement. The company is known for a structured work environment, competitive pay, and benefits, though experiences can vary by location and role. Prospective employees should research specific locations and review employee feedback for a comprehensive understanding.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Restaurant Associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Restaurant Associate, you need strong customer service skills, basic food safety knowledge, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with point-of-sale (POS) systems, food handling certifications, and kitchen equipment is typically required. Exceptional communication, teamwork, and the ability to stay calm under pressure help you stand out in this role. These skills ensure efficient service, customer satisfaction, and a smooth-running restaurant environment.

What is an associate at a restaurant?

A restaurant associate is an employee who performs various tasks such as serving customers, taking orders, handling payments, and maintaining cleanliness. They often work in fast-paced environments and may need good communication skills and knowledge of POS systems. The role can include positions like server, cashier, or busser, depending on the restaurant's structure.

What do Restaurant Associates do?

Restaurant Associates employees typically work in food service roles such as servers, cooks, dishwashers, or hosts in dining establishments. They are responsible for preparing, serving, and maintaining food and customer service standards, often requiring knowledge of food safety and customer interaction skills.

What is the difference between Restaurant Associate vs Food Service Worker?

AspectRestaurant AssociateFood Service Worker
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; food safety certification often preferredHigh school diploma or equivalent; food safety certification often required
Work EnvironmentRestaurants, cafes, fast food outletsRestaurants, cafeterias, catering services
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly used in hospitality and food service industryWidely used in food service establishments and institutional settings
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting customers, taking orders, maintaining cleanlinessPreparing food, serving customers, cleaning

Both roles involve customer service and food handling, but a Restaurant Associate typically focuses more on customer interaction and order management, while a Food Service Worker may have broader food preparation duties. The roles often overlap, but the title 'Restaurant Associate' is more common in retail and fast food chains, emphasizing customer service.

What is the 30/30/30 rule for restaurants?

The 30/30/30 rule in restaurants typically refers to a time management guideline where staff aim to greet customers within 30 seconds, take their order within 30 seconds of greeting, and serve the food within 30 minutes of ordering. It helps ensure efficient service and customer satisfaction. Restaurant associates should be familiar with such standards to maintain smooth operations.

What are Restaurant Associates?

Restaurant Associates are employees who support daily operations in a restaurant, including tasks like taking orders, serving food, preparing simple dishes, and ensuring customer satisfaction. They may also help with cleaning, stocking supplies, and assisting kitchen staff as needed. The role requires good communication skills, multitasking, and a friendly attitude to provide a positive dining experience for guests. Restaurant Associates are essential for maintaining a smooth and efficient service environment.

What are some typical challenges a Restaurant Associate might face during busy shifts, and how can they manage these effectively?

During peak hours, Restaurant Associates often encounter challenges such as handling multiple customer requests simultaneously, maintaining accuracy in orders, and ensuring quick service under pressure. Effective time management, clear communication with both kitchen staff and fellow associates, and staying organized are key strategies to manage these situations. Many restaurants provide training on multitasking and customer service to help associates excel during high-demand periods, and teamwork plays a crucial role in keeping operations smooth.
What are the most commonly searched types of Restaurant jobs in Colorado? The most popular types of Restaurant jobs in Colorado are:
What job categories do people searching Restaurant Associate jobs in Colorado look for? The top searched job categories for Restaurant Associate jobs in Colorado are:
What cities in Colorado are hiring for Restaurant Associate jobs? Cities in Colorado with the most Restaurant Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Restaurant Associate job openings in Colorado as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $33,671 per year, or $16.2 per hour.
Dining Associate

Dining Associate

Erickson Senior Living

Highlands Ranch, CO • On-site

$19 - $21/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Location:
Wind Crest by Erickson Senior Living
Job Description
Join our team as a Dining Associate in our Continuing Care department and play a key role in delivering excellent service to our residents. You'll ensure the dining room and pantry run smoothly, supporting our goal of providing a great dining experience.
Compensation: $19.00 - $21.00/hour, commensurate with experience
Bi -Weekly Pay
*Hiring for Full-time and Part-time schedules
What we offer
  • Quality of life - most of our restaurant's team members are out before 9pm
  • PTO, volunteer hours, and competitive benefits packages including medical, dental, vision for eligible team members, in accordance with applicable state law
  • 30% discount on food and drinks at on-site dining venues, plus additional healthy choice meal options at discounted prices!
  • A culture of diversity, inclusion, equity and belonging, which builds on our mission, vision and values
  • Growth Opportunities - grow with the company as we open new communities and expand on our existing ones!
  • Onsite medical centers, providing wellness visits and sick care for all team members over 18 years of age
  • 401k for all team members 18 and over with a company 3% match

How you will make an impact
  • Greet and welcome residents upon their arrival at the restaurant
  • Ensure the smooth operation of the restaurant by coordinating with seaters to help servers and kitchen staff work efficiently
  • Assist with preparation, stocking, serving, and post-meal clean-up
  • Ensure all residents receive adequate nutritional intake
  • Answer phones professionally and follow up on requests
  • Maintain cleanliness and sanitation in the front of the house and kitchen
  • Assist in training the wait staff

What you will need
  • Must be at least 18 years old
  • Minimum of 6 months of experience in a food service environment is preferred
  • Be able to lift and/or move objects weighing up to 50 pounds
  • Flexible with schedule, available to work some weekends and holidays
  • High School Diploma or GED

*Employer accepts applications on an ongoing basis
Please note that specific state regulations and requirements may be applicable. These regulations take precedence over the requirements outlined in the job description.
Wind Crest is a beautiful 84-acre continuing care retirement community located in Highlands Ranch, Colorado, just minutes from Denver. We're part of a growing national network of communities managed by Erickson Senior Living, one of the country's largest and most respected providers of senior living and health care. Wind Crest helps people live better lives by fulfilling our promises of a vibrant lifestyle, financial stability, and focused health and well-being services for those who live and work with us. As part of our team, you'll enjoy flexibility and work-life balance to meet your personal and professional goals, and we are committed to providing you with opportunities to learn and grow.
Erickson Senior Living, its affiliates, and managed communities are Equal Opportunity Employers and are committed to providing a workplace free of unlawful discrimination and harassment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, marital status, veteran status, mental or physical disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information or any other category protected by federal, state or local law.