Cafeteria Helper Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the bustling world of food service, the role of cafeteria helpers is more crucial than ever.

With the continuous need for efficient and hospitable service, the demand for diligent individuals who can manage, assist, and ensure a smooth cafeteria operation has significantly increased.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a cafeteria helper?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to grasp the essence of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply interested in the intricacies of cafeteria operations,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable cafeteria helper job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Cafeteria Helper Duties and Responsibilities

Cafeteria Helpers play a key role in the day-to-day operations of cafeterias and dining facilities, assisting in food preparation, maintaining cleanliness, and serving customers.

Their tasks range from basic food preparation to customer service and janitorial tasks.

Cafeteria Helpers are primarily responsible for aiding the smooth functioning of the cafeteria, with daily duties and responsibilities including:

• Assist in the preparation of meals by washing, peeling, and cutting vegetables and fruits
• Help in serving food to students and staff in a safe and efficient manner
• Perform cleaning tasks such as sweeping and mopping floors, washing dishes and utensils, and maintaining the cleanliness of the cafeteria area
• Restock food items, utensils, and napkins as needed
• Collect and dispose of garbage and waste in designated areas
• Maintain food safety and sanitation standards in food preparation and serving
• Assist in taking inventory and notifying cafeteria manager of low stock
• Handle customer queries and complaints in a polite and efficient manner

 

Cafeteria Helper Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated Cafeteria Helper to assist in various duties within our school cafeteria.

The Cafeteria Helper will be responsible for preparing and serving nutritious meals to students, maintaining cleanliness, and adhering to safety protocols.

The ideal candidate is a team player who can effectively manage tasks in a fast-paced environment.

 

Responsibilities

• Assist in meal preparation and serving food to students
• Maintain cleanliness and hygiene in the kitchen and dining area
• Help in unloading and storing food and supplies
• Ensure compliance with health and food safety regulations
• Perform dishwashing and trash disposal duties
• Assist in inventory management and notify superiors when supplies are low
• Handle cash transactions and manage cash register, if needed
• Provide excellent customer service to students and staff

 

Qualifications

• Previous experience in a cafeteria or food service environment preferred
• Knowledge of basic food preparation and serving techniques
• Ability to maintain cleanliness and sanitation in the kitchen
• Good communication and customer service skills
• Ability to handle cash transactions accurately
• Physical stamina to be on feet for extended periods and lift heavy items
• Basic math skills for inventory and cash management
• High school diploma or equivalent

 

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Free meals during working hours
• Job training and development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Cafeteria Helper
• Work Environment: School Cafeteria. This role requires standing for extended periods and lifting heavy items.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Cafeteria Manager or Food Service Director.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $20,000 minimum to $30,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Cafeteria Helper Do?

Cafeteria Helpers typically work in school cafeterias, corporate food services, or any other establishments where food is served on a large scale.

They assist with food preparation, including washing, peeling, and cutting fruits and vegetables, or setting up ingredients for cooks.

They may also be responsible for cooking simple dishes such as sandwiches or salads.

A significant part of their role involves maintaining cleanliness and hygiene in the cafeteria.

This includes cleaning tables, counters, utensils, and equipment, as well as disposing of the trash properly.

Cafeteria Helpers also assist in serving food to customers, ensuring the correct portion sizes are given, and that the food service line is stocked and replenished as needed.

They also assist in the storage and rotation of food supplies, and may participate in taking inventory of supplies.

In some cases, Cafeteria Helpers also interact with customers, answering queries about the menu, and sometimes processing payments.

Their ultimate goal is to ensure that the cafeteria operations run smoothly, and that the customers enjoy a clean, orderly, and pleasant dining experience.

 

Cafeteria Helper Qualifications and Skills

A competent Cafeteria Helper should have the qualifications and skills that are necessary for the role, including:

• Customer service skills to ensure a positive dining experience for all customers
• Food preparation skills to assist in the preparation of meals and snacks
• Knowledge of food safety regulations and standards to ensure all food is stored and prepared in a safe manner
• Physical stamina and strength, as the role often involves standing for extended periods, lifting heavy kitchen equipment and supplies
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment to serve meals quickly and efficiently
• Teamwork skills to work cooperatively with other staff members in the kitchen and cafeteria
• Attention to detail to accurately follow recipes and meal plans, and to maintain cleanliness in the kitchen and dining areas
• Communication skills to effectively interact with coworkers, school staff, and students

 

Cafeteria Helper Experience Requirements

Cafeteria Helpers generally start off with minimal or no experience, often gaining the necessary skills and knowledge through on-the-job training.

Many employers offer such training to new hires, teaching them the basics of food preparation, safety, and sanitation.

Those who have previously worked in a kitchen environment, such as a restaurant or a fast food establishment, may have an advantage.

Prior experience in handling food preparation tools, understanding kitchen safety protocols, and managing high-paced work could prove beneficial in this role.

Candidates with 1-2 years of experience may have developed better communication skills, understanding of portion control, and an ability to work efficiently in a team.

They may have also gained the ability to effectively follow recipes and adhere to dietary restrictions.

Those with over 3 years of experience often have a robust understanding of kitchen operations, including inventory management and quality control.

They may be ready to take on more complex tasks like assisting with meal planning or training new cafeteria helpers.

Candidates with more than 5 years of experience may have significant leadership skills and be prepared for roles such as Cafeteria Supervisor or Kitchen Manager.

Their extensive experience will often reflect their ability to manage teams, oversee operations, and ensure a high standard of food safety and sanitation.

 

Cafeteria Helper Education and Training Requirements

Cafeteria Helpers typically require a high school diploma or equivalent.

While formal education beyond high school is not typically required, a certificate or diploma in food service or a related field can be beneficial.

On-the-job training is commonly provided to new cafeteria helpers.

This training usually covers food safety, sanitation procedures, and the operation of kitchen equipment.

Knowledge of basic cooking techniques and safe food handling practices is important.

Therefore, some employers might prefer candidates who have previous experience in a food service role.

Additionally, most states require food service workers, including Cafeteria Helpers, to hold a food handler’s permit or similar certification.

This certification generally requires completion of a course and passing an exam on food safety and handling.

Further, some Cafeteria Helpers might choose to pursue additional training or certification in nutrition, dietary planning, or specialized cooking techniques to improve their skills and career prospects.

 

Cafeteria Helper Salary Expectations

The average wage for a Cafeteria Helper is approximately $11.61 (USD) per hour.

However, this wage can vary based on factors such as experience, location, and the specifics of the employing institution.

 

Cafeteria Helper Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Cafeteria Helper need?

Cafeteria Helpers should have good communication skills to interact effectively with staff and students.

They should also have good physical stamina to handle the lifting and moving of supplies and equipment.

Other skills include attention to cleanliness and hygiene, basic cooking skills, and the ability to follow procedures and guidelines.

 

Do Cafeteria Helpers need a degree?

Cafeteria Helpers typically do not require a degree, but a high school diploma or equivalent is usually preferred.

However, having a food handler’s certificate or training in food safety and hygiene is often beneficial.

 

What should you look for in a Cafeteria Helper resume?

A Cafeteria Helper’s resume should highlight any experience they have in food service or cafeteria environments.

Look for a history of handling food safely and maintaining clean workspaces.

Experience in customer service can also be an asset, as this role often requires interacting with people.

 

What qualities make a good Cafeteria Helper?

A good Cafeteria Helper is reliable, punctual, and works well in a team.

They should have good attention to detail to ensure food safety guidelines are followed.

They also need to be friendly and patient, as they often interact with students of different ages.

In addition, good physical stamina is important as the job can be physically demanding.

 

What is the role of a Cafeteria Helper in a school?

Cafeteria Helpers in a school are responsible for assisting in the preparation and serving of meals to students.

They also help with cleaning duties, ensuring that the cafeteria is clean and sanitary.

Other duties include maintaining food and supply inventory, operating kitchen equipment, and adhering to food safety regulations.

They often work under the direction of a cafeteria manager or cook.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve offered you a glimpse into the life of a cafeteria helper.

Surprise, surprise?

It’s not just about serving food.

It’s about nourishing the community, one meal at a time.

With our dependable cafeteria helper job description template and practical examples, you’re primed to get started.

But why halt your journey here?

Delve further with our job description generator. It’s your secret weapon for producing meticulously-detailed listings or polishing your resume to a high shine.

Keep this in mind:

Every tray of food is a part of a larger cause.

Let’s nurture that community spirit. Together.

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