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Restaurant Associate Jobs in Worcester, MA (NOW HIRING)

Benchmark

Restaurant Server

Waltham, MA

$12/hr

We are committed to creating an environment where associates are respected, supported, and ... Servers are the face of our restaurant and responsible for our customers' experiences. Food server ...

Red Heat Tavern

Restaurant Manager

Milford, MA · On-site

$60K - $85K/yr

Associate degree in hospitality, restaurant management, or equivalent experience in restaurant operations * Strong leadership skills and a solid understanding of day-to-day restaurant operations

Red Heat Tavern

Restaurant Manager

Westborough, MA · On-site

$60K - $85K/yr

Associate degree in hospitality, restaurant management, or equivalent experience in restaurant operations * Strong leadership skills and a solid understanding of day-to-day restaurant operations

Apex Entertainment

Restaurant Manager

Marlborough, MA · On-site

Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Hospitality, Restaurant Management, Business, or related field preferred. * Minimum 3-5 years of progressive restaurant or entertainment food service management ...

APEX Entertainment

Restaurant Manager

Marlborough, MA · On-site

Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Hospitality, Restaurant Management, Business, or related field preferred. * Minimum 3-5 years of progressive restaurant or entertainment food service management ...

Apex Entertainment

Restaurant Manager

Marlborough, MA · On-site

$55K - $65K/yr

Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Hospitality, Restaurant Management, Business, or related field preferred. * Minimum 3-5 years of progressive restaurant or entertainment food service management ...

APEX Entertainment

Restaurant Manager

Marlborough, MA · On-site

Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Hospitality, Restaurant Management, Business, or related field preferred. * Minimum 3-5 years of progressive restaurant or entertainment food service management ...

Burtons Grill & Bar

Restaurant Manager

Framingham, MA · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Associate degree in hospitality, restaurant management, or equivalent experience in restaurant operations * Strong leadership skills and a solid understanding of day-to-day restaurant operations

Burtons Grill & Bar

Restaurant Manager

Shrewsbury, MA · On-site

$65K - $80K/yr

Associate degree in hospitality, restaurant management, or equivalent experience in restaurant operations * Strong leadership skills and a solid understanding of day-to-day restaurant operations

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All JobsRestaurant Associate JobsRestaurant Associate Jobs in Worcester, MA

Restaurant Associate information

See Worcester, MA salary details

$8

$15

$28

How much do restaurant associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for restaurant associate in Worcester, MA is $15.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.45 and $15.58 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 Worcester, MA? The most popular types of Restaurant jobs in Worcester, MA are:
What job categories do people searching Restaurant Associate jobs in Worcester, MA look for? The top searched job categories for Restaurant Associate jobs in Worcester, MA are:
What cities near Worcester, MA are hiring for Restaurant Associate jobs? Cities near Worcester, MA with the most Restaurant Associate job openings:
Restaurant Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Restaurant Associate job openings in Worcester, MA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 64% Full Time, 32% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,952 per year, or $15.4 per hour.

Associate - Dunkin Donuts (Sturbridge, MA) (Part-Time)

Applegreen US

Sturbridge, MA • On-site

$13.50 - $16.75/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

POSITION TITLE: TEAM MEMBER
DEPARTMENT: DUNKIN DONUTS
REPORTS TO: GENERAL MANAGER
FLSA: NON-EXMEPT / HOURLY
POSITION SUMMARY:
Applegreen USA is in a rapid growth phase and is seeking to recruit a Team Member for one of our Dunkin Donuts locations.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Adhere to schedule and arrive ready to work on time and hold themselves accountable for their responsibilities throughout their shift.
  • Holds the Guest as their highest priority and is responsive to their needs and requests.
  • Adhere to Brand standards and systems, delivering quality food and beverage to each guest.
  • Maintain a clean and neat workstation; complete thorough cleaning of guest areas as directed.
  • Complete all required training and support the training of other team members.
  • Effectively execute restaurant standards and marketing initiatives.
  • Follow all procedures related to cash, cleanliness, food safety, and restaurant safety & security.
  • Comply with all restaurant and brand policies.

ESSENTIAL SKILLS, EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS:
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Excellent interpersonal and organizational skills
  • Excellent time management skills and ability to work across all shifts.
  • Experience providing outstanding customer service.
  • Must be able to fluently speak/read English.
  • Capable of counting money and making change
  • Able to operate restaurant equipment (minimum age requirements may apply)
  • Guest Focus - anticipate and understand guests' needs and exceed their expectations.
  • Ability to traverse all parts of the restaurant quickly.
  • Follow DD uniform and grooming standards and policies.
  • Frequent standing for extended periods of time
  • Must be able to lift 25-50 pounds at times.
  • Must be at least sixteen (16) years of age.
  • Ability to remain calm in a fast-paced environment.
  • Ability to work flexible hours. Open availability to work weekends and holidays and varying shifts at times

Apply