Food Preparation and Serving Related Workers, All Other
This category covers food preparation and serving workers not classified elsewhere, including roles like food runners, kitchen assistants, and specialized food service positions. These workers operate in restaurants, catering facilities, institutional kitchens, and other food service establishments where they support food preparation, plating, and service operations.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against food preparation and serving related workers, all other and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves standing for extended periods while preparing ingredients, assembling plates, or delivering food to customers. Workers might wash dishes and equipment, stock supplies, assist cooks with prep work, clear tables, or handle basic food handling tasks. Shifts often include peak service times requiring quick coordination with kitchen and front-of-house staff, with responsibilities varying based on the specific establishment and role.
Who this work suits
You thrive in fast-paced environments and work well as part of a team. You're detail-oriented about food safety and presentation, reliable in showing up on time, and willing to take on whatever tasks keep service running smoothly in a busy food service setting.
What it takes
Who is hiring
Openings right now
- Assistant Food Preparation Specialist · Supreme Court of the United States · Washington, District of Columbia · $51957–$67543
Openings are read from employers’ own career pages and public job boards and change daily. Search all openings (free account) to filter by distance, pay and how well you qualify.
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nebraska | $34,850 | $46,170 | $61,470 | — |
| Hawaii | $35,710 | $43,540 | $64,150 | 410 |
| Oregon | $37,050 | $39,080 | $47,360 | 600 |
| Illinois | $33,290 | $38,880 | $45,230 | 2,720 |
| District of Columbia | $38,580 | $38,580 | $38,580 | 40 |
| New Hampshire | $33,630 | $38,210 | $42,860 | 370 |
| Indiana | $25,880 | $38,160 | $38,400 | — |
| Arizona | $35,440 | $37,600 | $40,240 | 1,060 |
| Maryland | $35,220 | $37,500 | $40,070 | 3,540 |
| Utah | $32,530 | $37,180 | $44,450 | 290 |
| California | $35,410 | $36,910 | $43,290 | 30,730 |
| Tennessee | $29,480 | $36,640 | $38,530 | 2,670 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Culinary Foundations — World Association of Master Chefs
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against food preparation and serving related workers, all other and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 35-9099.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.