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Restaurant Associate Jobs in Silver Spring, MD (NOW HIRING)

As a member of our restaurant foods team, you are at the heart of helping people make great meals ... Associates, Cooks, Pharmacy Technicians, Retail Associates, Stockers, Overnight Workers, Food ...

Executive Chef

Washington, DC · On-site

$85K - $105K/yr

Bonus Plan Become part of Restaurant Associates, the industry's leading provider of dining and event catering for some of the nation's most prestigious museums, performing arts centers and ...

Restaurant Crew

Sterling, VA

$14.50 - $19.43/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 ...

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

Sterling, VA · On-site

$14.50 - $19.43/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

Glen Burnie, MD · 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

Fairfax, VA

$14.50 - $19.43/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 ...

Catering Manager

Washington, DC · On-site

$80K - $85K/yr

Become part of Restaurant Associates, the industry's leading provider of dining and event catering for some of the nation's most prestigious museums, performing arts centers and corporations! Voted ...

Restaurant Crew

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$14.50 - $19.43/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

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$14.50 - $19.43/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

Centreville, VA · On-site

$14.50 - $19.43/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

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$14.50 - $19.43/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

Sterling, VA · On-site

$14.50 - $19.43/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

Sterling, VA · On-site

$14.50 - $19.43/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 ...

Carryout

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$15/hr

Serve as first point of contact for carryout customers and potential customers who call the restaurant * Take orders over phone; monitor online orders, delivery orders; ensuring accuracy * Input ...

Executive Chef

Poolesville, MD · On-site

$110K - $125K/yr

Bonus Plan, Sign On Bonus, Relocation Package Become part of Restaurant Associates, the industry's leading provider of dining and event catering for some of the nation's most prestigious museums ...

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Restaurant Associate information

See Silver Spring, MD salary details

$8

$15

$29

How much do restaurant associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for restaurant associate in Silver Spring, MD is $15.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.93 and $16.15 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 Silver Spring, MD? The most popular types of Restaurant jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:
What job categories do people searching Restaurant Associate jobs in Silver Spring, MD look for? The top searched job categories for Restaurant Associate jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:
What cities near Silver Spring, MD are hiring for Restaurant Associate jobs? Cities near Silver Spring, MD with the most Restaurant Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Restaurant Associate job openings in Silver Spring, MD 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 $33,103 per year, or $15.9 per hour.
Restaurant Foods Associate

Restaurant Foods Associate

Wegmans Food Markets

Columbia, MD • On-site

$16.50 - $17/hr

Full-time

This job post has expired 2 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Wegmans Food Markets rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 830 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

4th of 120 rated grocery stores


Job description

Location:
8855 McGaw Road Columbia, MD 21045
Availability Requirement for this role:
Morning, afternoon, evening (includes weekends).
Age Requirement:
Must be 18 years or older
Time Type:
Full time
Pay Range:
$16.50 - $17 / hour
Why Work Here
Working at Wegmans provides opportunities to grow, flexible scheduling, incredible benefits, and the experience of working for a company with a reputation you can be proud of.
Job Description:
Our customers choose Wegmans for the freshest ingredients, delicious meal options, and the helpful people in our stores. As a member of our restaurant foods team, you are at the heart of helping people make great meals easy. In this role, you'll help educate our customers about the exceptional ingredients and products we offer and work as part of a team to create high quality products. If you have a passion for food and enjoy working in a fast-paced environment, then this could be the role for you!
What You'll Do
  • Cut, prepare, and serve a variety of hot and cold food items
  • Prepare, package and assemble meals
  • Build relationships with customers and provide incredible service by addressing their needs in a timely and effective manner
  • Use effective and proper procedures for food preparation, storage, rotation, stocking, and merchandising

What Wegmans Food Markets employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Wegmans Food Markets logo

About Wegmans Food Markets

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Wegmans Food Markets, situated in Rochester, NY, US, is a widely recognized name in the retail grocery industry. The company was founded in 1916 by Walter Wegman as Rochester Fruit and Vegetable Company and has since been providing a diverse series of high-quality grocery products. It is built on the mission of “helping families live healthier, better lives through food.” Core values of caring, high standards, making a difference, respect, and empowerment drive the firm to uphold its quality, bringing every meal an opportunity for happiness. Wegmans has been celebrated with multiple accolades and was named the best grocery chain in the U.S. by Food & Wine in 2020.

Industry

Food and beverage stores

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Rochester, NY, US

Year founded

1916