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School Cafeteria Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Full time cafeteria worker*

Amory, MS ยท On-site

$10.25 - $13/hr

TITLE SCHOOL CAFETERIA WORKER POSITION TYPE Non-Exempt PRIMARY FUNCTION Perform the different cafeteria duties in an efficient, clean and friendly manner in which students are served nutritious meals.

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School Cafeteria information

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$8

$14

$19

How much do school cafeteria jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for 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 a school cafeteria worker?

School cafeteria workers are staff members responsible for preparing, serving, and sometimes planning nutritious meals for students and faculty in educational institutions. They ensure food safety, maintain clean kitchen and dining areas, and may also handle inventory and cash transactions. Their role is important in supporting student health and providing a positive dining experience at school.

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

School cafeteria staff often face challenges such as managing time efficiently during busy lunch periods, adhering to strict food safety and nutritional guidelines, and accommodating students with special dietary needs. Effective communication and teamwork are essential for handling these demands, as is staying organized and proactive about food preparation. Continuous training and openness to feedback can also help staff adapt to changing menus or regulations, ensuring a positive and safe environment for students.

What is the difference between School Cafeteria vs School Cook?

AspectSchool CafeteriaSchool Cook
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; food safety certifications often preferredHigh school diploma or equivalent; food safety certifications often required
Work EnvironmentSchool cafeterias, large kitchens, serving studentsSchool kitchens, food preparation areas, cooking stations
Employer & IndustrySchool districts, educational institutionsSchool districts, educational institutions
Job FocusOverseeing cafeteria operations, managing food service staff, ensuring meal servicePreparing, cooking, and serving meals to students

The main difference between a School Cafeteria and a School Cook is that the School Cafeteria typically refers to the overall food service operation within a school, including management and supervision, while the School Cook focuses on preparing and cooking meals. Both roles require similar certifications and work in the same environment, but their responsibilities differ in scope and focus.

How to get a job at a school cafeteria?

To get a job at a school cafeteria, applicants typically need to complete an application process, which may include an interview and background check. Prior experience in food service or customer service can be helpful, and some positions require food safety certifications. Availability during school hours and the ability to work in a team are also important factors.

What cities are hiring for School Cafeteria jobs?

Cities with the most School Cafeteria job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of School Cafeteria jobs?

The most popular types of School Cafeteria jobs are:

What states have the most School Cafeteria jobs?

States with the most job openings for School Cafeteria jobs include:

Infographic showing various School Cafeteria job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $29,912 per year, or $14.4 per hour.

School Cafeteria

Dekalb, IL โ€ข On-site

$18/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

Position Type:
Support Staff/Cafeteria Cook
Date Posted:
7/27/2026
Location:
District
District:
Indian Creek Shabbona #425
FY25-26 School Year
Qualifications Required:*Superior work habits and ethics
  • Sanitation certificate preferred (Required if full time)
  • Ability to work independently and as a team member
  • Ability to work with administration, faculty, students and parents
  • Excellent communication skills (written & verbal)
  • Ability to perform duties as outlined

Contingent Upon: Board approval
Benefits available on our website
Submit Application/Resume/Letters to:
Jane May, Food Services Director: jane.may@ictwolves.com
Re: Cafeteria position PT
Indian Creek CUSD 425
Indian Creek CUSD #425, Shabbona, IL
GENERAL FOOD SERVICE WORKER JOB DESCRIPTION
INDIAN CREEK CUSD 425
M-F 10:00 am - 4:00 pm
SCOPE:The primary duty of the general food service worker is perform the tasks necessary to ensure the cafeteria runs smoothly and efficiently. (Although employees normally have a routine, they may be asked to perform other tasks as the need arises. General food service workers will perform any of these cafeteria tasks when necessary.)
ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
1. To perform one or more regular tasks:
a. Serving
b. Dish room
c. Cashier
d. Cook
e. Clean up duties
2. Produce an excellent quality and quantity of work
3. Wear clothing of a work or uniform type material, including hairnets, and hard shoes
4. Practice excellent personal hygiene
5. Comply with Illinois State Board of Education, Illinois Department of Public Health and
U.S.D.A. rules and regulations covering school feeding programs
6. Have excellent relationships as a team member with other employees
7. Practice superior work habits
8. Maintain a very positive attitude
9. Maintain excellent attendance and promptness
10. Maintain a high level of personal fitness
11. Use sound judgment
12. Be adaptable
13. Support the head cook, food service director, and the feeding programs in such a way as to assure success
14. Perform other duties necessary to the position as assigned by his/her Supervisor or
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
1. Superior work habits and ethics
2. Excellent communication skills - written and verbal
3. Illinois Sanitation Certification preferred
4. Ability to work independently (self-motivated) and as a team member
5. Ability to work well with administration, faculty, students and parents
6. Ability to perform duties as outlined
ESSENTIAL PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
1. Must be able to lift, push or pull objects up to 40-60 pounds on a regular and repetitive basis.
2. Must be able to speak, hear, see, write, walk, climb, stand, stoop, kneel, bend, twist, turn, push, pull and reach (above head and below knees) on a regular and repetitive basis.
3. Tasks require extensive use of hands including repetitive gripping, grasping, lifting and manipulation of equipment necessary to perform duties.
Work Remotely
  • No

Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $18.00 per hour
Benefits:
  • Dental insurance
  • Flexible schedule
  • Health insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Vision insurance

Shift:
  • Day shift

Work Location: In person