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School Cafeteria Helper Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

TES Staffing

Cafeteria Monitor

Rochester, NY · On-site

$16/hr

Follow directions from Café Supervisors or School Admin staff to keep students safe and supervised. * Help keep the lunchroom tidy by sweeping floors, emptying trash bins, and wiping down tables.

TES Staffing

School Kitchen Aide

Greece, NY · On-site

$17/hr

Provide cafeteria coverage throughout the district * Prepare a variety of foods, including ... Make a meaningful difference by helping provide students with nutritious meals * Build valuable ...

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School Cafeteria Helper information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$5

$14

$18

How much do school cafeteria helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for school cafeteria helper in Rochester, NY is $14.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $14.95 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a school cafeteria helper?

School cafeteria helpers are staff members who assist in preparing and serving food to students and staff in a school cafeteria. Their responsibilities typically include setting up food stations, serving meals, cleaning tables, washing dishes, and ensuring the cafeteria remains clean and sanitary. They also help with food storage, inventory, and occasionally assist with basic food preparation under the supervision of a cafeteria manager or cook. By supporting the daily operations of the cafeteria, they help provide nutritious meals in a safe and welcoming environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a school cafeteria helper, and why are they important?

To thrive as a School Cafeteria Helper, you need basic food preparation skills, knowledge of food safety regulations, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with kitchen equipment, point-of-sale systems, and safe food handling certifications are typically required. Dependability, teamwork, and good communication help create a positive dining environment and support smooth operations. These skills ensure meals are prepared safely and efficiently while maintaining a welcoming atmosphere for students and staff.

What are some common challenges school cafeteria helpers face during busy meal times, and how can they effectively manage them?

School Cafeteria Helpers often experience high volumes of students during short meal periods, making time management and organization essential. Common challenges include maintaining food safety, keeping serving lines moving efficiently, and accommodating students with dietary restrictions. Effective helpers stay calm under pressure, communicate well with team members, and follow clear procedures for food preparation and sanitation. Teamwork and adaptability are key to ensuring all students are served quickly and safely.

What is the difference between School Cafeteria Helper vs School Cook?

AspectSchool Cafeteria HelperSchool Cook
CredentialsNone required or basic food service certificationsFood safety certifications, culinary training often preferred
Work EnvironmentSchool cafeterias, assisting with meal service and cleanupKitchen, preparing and cooking meals for students
Employer & Industry UsageSchool districts, educational institutionsSchool districts, educational institutions
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

While both roles work within school food service environments, School Cafeteria Helpers primarily assist with meal distribution and cleanup, requiring minimal certifications. School Cooks are responsible for preparing and cooking meals, often needing culinary skills and food safety certifications. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What are the most commonly searched types of School Cafeteria jobs in Rochester, NY?

The most popular types of School Cafeteria jobs in Rochester, NY are:

What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for School Cafeteria Helper jobs?

Cities near Rochester, NY with the most School Cafeteria Helper job openings:

School Cafeteria Helper jobs near you
Infographic showing various School Cafeteria Helper job openings in Rochester, NY as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,367 per year, or $14.6 per hour.

Food Service Helper: RAC- Chili - 10mths, 32.5 hrs

Rochester City School District

Rochester, NY • On-site

$14.50 - $17.75/hr

Full-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Rochester City School District rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 27 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

366th of 640 rated elementary and secondary schools

Job description

This is an entry level food service position involving performance of simple, routine, manual work in the preparation and serving of food in a cafeteria or other dining area. Employees of this class are also responsible for cleaning, kitchen equipment and utensils and non-disposable eating utensils, glassware, and china. Work is performed under direct and close supervision of a higher ranking food service employee.

Supervision of others is not a responsibility of this class. Does related work as required.There are no education or experience qualifications for this position.SPECIAL REQUIREMENT FOR APPOINTMENT IN SCHOOL DISTRICTS AND BOCES:Per Chapter 180 of the Laws of 2000, and by Regulations of the Commissioner of Education, to be employed in a position designated by a school district or BOCES as involving direct contact with students, a clearance for employment from the State Education Department is required.(All need not be performed in a given position. Other related activities may be performed although not listed.) Prepares ingredients for salads, sandwiches, and cold plates; Portions and garnishes all desserts, salads, and fruits for serving; Trims, washes and prepares vegetables; Sets up serving lines with condiments, hot and cold foods, and table services; Serves food from steam table or food line in cafeteria-style operation; Washes and sanitizes all pots, pans, and utensils; Cleans and dries silver, china, and glassware; Fills sugar bowls, salt and pepper shakers, and napkin holders, and holders for utensils and straws; Cleans dining tables of dirty dishes and trays in the absence of lunchroom aides; Washes and sanitizes dining room tables, chairs, and trays in the absence of lunchroom aides; Operates kitchen appliances and equipment; Advises students of well-balanced meals; Cleans kitchen and dining room area; Serves as cashier on student faculty food service line.FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS: Working knowledge of the principles of a balanced diet; working knowledge of the regulations of the National School Lunch Program and the Department of Health requirements; working knowledge of portion control; working knowledge of the proper methods of preparing and serving food; working knowledge of proper care and safe operation of kitchen equipment and appliances; working knowledge of the care and use of china, silver, glassware, and kitchen utensils; working knowledge of the operation of industrial dish washers and the use of associate detergents; working knowledge of use and application of cleaning supplies for appliances, equipment, and food preparation and serving work areas; ability to follow simple oral and written directions; ability to prepare and serve food with proper regard to sanitary principles; ability to receive and make correct change; ability to deal effectively with students, faculty, and other diners; willingness to perform routine low-skill work; dependability; health commensurate with the demands of the position.

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