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Restaurant Associate Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Restaurant Busser

Wayzata, MN · On-site

$12.50/hr

Sage associates execute unforgettable experiences and take pride in our communities. We set new standards in hospitality. The Perks: * Sage Hotel & Restaurant Discounts across the US * Paid vacation ...

Restaurant Busser

Wayzata, MN · On-site

$12.50/hr

Sage associates execute unforgettable experiences and take pride in our communities. We set new standards in hospitality. The Perks: * Sage Hotel & Restaurant Discounts across the US * Paid vacation ...

Sage associates execute unforgettable experiences and take pride in our communities. We set new standards in hospitality. The Perks: * Sage Hotel & Restaurant Discounts across the US * Paid vacation ...

Manages the day-to-day activities of associates within a defined individual or group of restaurants or points-of-sale Ensures company and branch diversity and inclusion philosophy is understood and ...

New

Restaurant Manager I Department: Operations Reports To: Unit General Manager Status: Exempt Date ... Advises concept manager to the performance of associates. * Ensure all employees are following the ...

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 ...

... of associates within a defined individual or group of restaurants or points-of-sale • Interviews job candidates, makes hiring, termination, advancement, promotion or any other status change ...

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 ...

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Restaurant Associate information

See Minnesota salary details

$8

$15

$27

How much do restaurant associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for restaurant associate in Minnesota is $15.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.26 and $15.29 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 Minnesota? The most popular types of Restaurant jobs in Minnesota are:
What are popular job titles related to Restaurant Associate jobs in Minnesota? For Restaurant Associate jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Restaurant Associate jobs in Minnesota look for? The top searched job categories for Restaurant Associate jobs in Minnesota are:
What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Restaurant Associate jobs? Cities in Minnesota with the most Restaurant Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Restaurant Associate job openings in Minnesota 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 $31,362 per year, or $15.1 per hour.

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Restaurant Server

We are seeking a friendly and attentive Restaurant Server to provide excellent service by taking orders, delivering food and beverages, and ensuring guests have an enjoyable dining experience. This role requires strong communication skills, a positive attitude, and the ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment. The ideal candidate is guest-focused and passionate about hospitality.

Key Responsibilities
  • You will be the attentive and friendly face of our hotel's restaurant, ensuring guests have an exceptional dining experience.
  • Your daily tasks will include taking orders, serving food and beverages, and maintaining a clean and organized dining area.
  • You will report to the Restaurant Supervisor or Restaurant Manager.
  • A career as a restaurant server can lead to opportunities in various roles within the hospitality industry, such as banquet server, bartender, or even food and beverage management positions.
Education & Experience

Hotel experience is always a plus! Applicants should have: 

  • A combination of education and experience.

What You’ll Need to Succeed
  • Eligible to work in the United States
  • Sufficient education and/or literacy needed to identify and read product labels and to communicate with guests about job-related needs.
  • Ability to sit, stand, bend, kneel, and lift as required—with or without reasonable accommodations
  • Availability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays if needed
  • A warm, professional demeanor that reflects HVMG’s Culture of Excellence by showing a warm smile, friendly personality, and positive attitude.

This position may require a varied schedule, including evenings, nights, weekends, and holidays.  Please share your scheduling needs.

Our Associates Love
  • Career growth opportunities across our nationwide portfolio
  • Flexible scheduling 
  • Access up to 40% of your earned wages before payday with PayActive
  • Paid Time Off (PTO) and Paid Holidays
  • Full healthcare benefits: medical, dental, and vision
  • 401(k) with guaranteed 4% match and no vesting period
  • Exclusive hotel and food & beverage discounts
About HVMG

Our Be Excellent culture is more than just words on a website -- we live and breathe it. As one associate said in an anonymous survey, "This is the best management company I've ever worked for. They walk the talk from the corporate office to the field."
We believe that the hotel business is one of the few industries in which successful career paths can start anywhere on the org chart. You control your destiny, and, if our executives are any indication, today's dishwasher can be tomorrow's Senior Vice President.

The above job description is not an exhaustive list of all the duties and responsibilities of the position, nor should it be construed as a contract.

HVMG  is an equal opportunity employer. We will not discriminate against employees or applicants for employment on any basis prohibited by federal, state, or local laws. This policy governs all aspects of employment, including selection, job assignment, compensation, promotion, discipline, termination, and access to benefits and training.