1

Usda Helper Jobs in Sumter, SC (NOW HIRING)

Childcare Cook

Columbia, SC · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

Follows daily menu that incorporates USDA, licensing and/or health department regulations ... We operate more than 100 schools across 7 states, helping children build a solid educational and ...

Childcare Cook

Columbia, SC · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

Follows daily menu that incorporates USDA, licensing and/or health department regulations ... We operate more than 100 schools across 7 states, helping children build a solid educational and ...

Childcare Cook

Columbia, SC · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

Follows daily menu that incorporates USDA, licensing and/or health department regulations ... We operate more than 100 schools across 7 states, helping children build a solid educational and ...

Usda Helper information

See Sumter, SC salary details

$7

$14

$19

How much do usda helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for usda helper in Sumter, SC is $14.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.64 and $15.43 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a USDA Helper?

USDA Helpers are support staff who assist with various tasks in programs managed by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). Their responsibilities can include helping with food distribution, data entry, paperwork, customer service, and fieldwork in agricultural or food safety programs. They often provide essential support to inspectors, specialists, or program managers to ensure smooth operations. The exact duties may vary depending on the USDA division and location.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a USDA Helper?

To thrive as a USDA Helper, you typically need a basic understanding of agricultural procedures, attention to detail, and physical stamina, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with food safety standards, inspection tools, and data entry systems is commonly required. Strong teamwork, reliability, and effective communication are important soft skills for collaborating with inspectors and staff. These skills ensure compliance with USDA regulations, maintain food safety, and support smooth daily operations.

What are some common challenges faced by a USDA Helper when working in food inspection environments?

As a USDA Helper, one frequent challenge is adapting to fast-paced food processing environments while maintaining strict adherence to safety and sanitation standards. The role often requires standing for extended periods, working in cold or wet conditions, and communicating effectively with inspectors, plant staff, and supervisors. Balancing efficiency with accuracy is crucial, as errors can impact food safety and regulatory compliance. Strong attention to detail and good teamwork skills help overcome these challenges and ensure smooth daily operations.

What is the difference between Usda Helper vs Farm Worker?

AspectUsda HelperFarm Worker
Required CredentialsBasic training, sometimes certifications in agriculture or safetyNone typically required, on-the-job training common
Work EnvironmentRural farms, USDA facilities, outdoor settingsOutdoor farm fields, agricultural sites
Employer & Industry UsageUSDA programs, government-funded farms, agricultural support rolesPrivate farms, agricultural companies, labor agencies
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles supporting USDA initiativesSeeking farm labor or manual agricultural work

The USDA Helper typically assists with USDA-related agricultural tasks, often involving support roles in government-funded projects, requiring basic training. Farm Workers focus on manual labor in farm fields, with minimal formal credentials. Both roles operate in outdoor farm environments but differ in employer type and specific responsibilities.

Infographic showing various Usda Helper job openings in Sumter, SC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $29,141 per year, or $14 per hour.

Childcare Cook

Sunshine House

Columbia, SC • On-site

$16 - $19/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

Childcare Cook / Bus Driver 

Love making a difference? You'll fit right in. 

There's something truly special about knowing you're shaping a child's future. When you join The Sunshine House family, you're not just taking a job-you're making an impact.  

Now is a great time to join our team.  For 50 years, The Sunshine House has been nurturing young minds and helping children thrive. And we'd love for you to be a part of our next 50 years! 

Learn more about our 50-year legacy of love & learning: https://youtu.be/0geByoV9ZVY 

 
 

Compensation & Pay Range: $16 - $19 per hour 

Candidates with previous experience cooking or working in early childhood education may qualify for higher pay within the range. Regular increases are considered with stellar performance, and years of service.  

 
Now Hiring at: 3011 Broad River Road Columbia, SC 29210

Cook Responsibilities: 
What's it like to be a cook at our school? 

  • Prepares and distributes meals/snacks for children and staff according to guidelines and provided menus. 
  • Follows daily menu that incorporates USDA, licensing and/or health department regulations. 
  • Ensures safe food preparations and proper sanitation methods are used and maintains a safe kitchen/pantry area. 
  • Maintains inventory of food and supplies. 
  • Must be willing to work in the classroom to cover breaks.  

Driver Responsibilities:

What's it like to be a daycare bus driver at our school?

  • Ensure a safe, healthy, and nurturing environment.
  • Transport children to/from school in a 14-passenger minibus.
  • Complete safety checks and drills.

Requirements

This might be the perfect fit for you! 

  • Work experience in cooking and/or food preparation for large group food service, preferably in a childcare center, preferred. ServSafe certification preferred. 
  • At least 21-years-old. 
  • Valid driver's license with a clean driving record required.
  • High school diploma or equivalent required. 
  • Previous experience working in licensed childcare a plus. 
  • Ability to pass background checks & health assessments. 
  • Ability to lift up to 30 lbs.  

Benefits

Why You'll Love Working at The Sunshine House: 
Our team is our family. You invest in our children, and we invest in you! 

Competitive Pay:The pay range is just the starting point. Our hiring managers carefully consider your experience, credentials, & education and complete annual salary evaluations. Ask about how we support advancement (like tuition reimbursement) that may increase your pay.  

  • Discounted childcare  
  • Same day pay available 
  • Unlimited growth opportunities  
  • Referral bonus 
     

Fantastic Benefits Package:You have lots of choices for health, dental, vision, and other benefits such as AFLAC. Choices afford you control over how you'd like to receive your healthcare, and how much you want to pay for it.  

  • Affordable Blue Cross Blue Shield plans 
  • Company-paid life insurance  
  • 401K retirement plan 
  • Employee wellness program 
     

Work-Life Balance:Your paid time off starts accruing from day one. And the longer you stay with the company, the more time off you earn - including 7 paid holidays. 

  • Monday-Friday schedule 
  • Employee discounts on major brands like Verizon  
  • Paid birthday holiday

Education Supports:All required professional development is paid. Interested in continuing your education? We pay for the CDA program and support TEACH.  

  • Paid trainings & professional development 
  • Up to 95% FREE tuition for CDA, associate's, bachelor's or master's programs with the TEACH program. Eligible bonuses could push the amount of funding to over 100%. 

 
About The Sunshine House: 
For 50 years, The Sunshine House has provided high-quality early education and childcare for children from 6 weeks to 12 years old. We operate more than 100 schools across 7 states, helping children build a solid educational and social foundation while having fun. Learn more at www.sunshinehouse.com. 
 

Hear From Our Happy Teammates: 

 "I love coming to work every day because I truly enjoy my job, my coworkers, and the wonderful children we serve!" - Columbia, SC 

 "Sunshine House is a supportive and welcoming environment where we work together to provide the best care for our little ones." - Stockbridge, GA 

 "My supervisors have always supported my growth here. It's one of the best work environments I've ever experienced!" - Little Elm, TX 

Join our team today and start a rewarding career in early childhood education! 

 
The Sunshine House is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.  

The Sunshine House prides itself on closely following state and federal laws designed to keep you protected. Follow the links below to learn about Discrimination, FMLA, and Polygraph protections. Information on additional employee rights can be found posted at each school. 

Discrimination Information 

FMLA Information 

Polygraph Test Information