What is a Food Services Assistant Job?
A food services assistant job is a position in the foodservice industry that involves assisting in food preparation, serving, and cleaning. The job can be found in a variety of settings, including restaurants, schools, hospitals, and retirement homes. Food services assistants play an integral role in ensuring that the foodservice operations run smoothly.
What Usually Do in This Position?
Food services assistants perform a variety of tasks depending on the setting in which they work. In a restaurant, they may be responsible for taking orders, preparing food, and serving customers. In a school or hospital, they may be responsible for preparing and serving food to students or patients.
They may also be responsible for cleaning and organizing the kitchen, washing dishes, and ensuring that all equipment is properly sanitized. In some cases, they may be required to help with food inventory and ordering supplies.
Top 5 Skills for Position
- Attention to detail
- Good communication skills
- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
- Ability to work well in a team
- Good time management skills
How to Become This Type of Specialist
To become a food services assistant, a high school diploma or equivalent is typically required. Some employers may prefer candidates with previous experience in a similar role. On-the-job training is typically provided to new hires.
In addition to formal education and training, individuals who wish to pursue a career as a food services assistant should possess excellent customer service skills, be able to work in a fast-paced environment, and have a strong work ethic.
Average Salary
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median hourly wage for food preparation and serving-related occupations was $11.63 in May 2020. However, this can vary depending on the specific job and location.
Roles and Types
Food services assistants can be found in a variety of settings, including:
- Restaurants
- Cafeterias
- Schools
- Hospitals
- Retirement homes
Within these settings, food services assistants may have different roles and responsibilities. For example, in a hospital, they may be responsible for preparing specialized diets for patients, while in a restaurant, they may be responsible for cooking and serving food to customers.
Locations with the Most Popular Jobs in USA
The foodservice industry is found in every state in the United States, but some areas have higher concentrations of jobs than others. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the top five states with the highest employment levels in the food preparation and serving-related occupations are:
- California
- Texas
- Florida
- New York
- Pennsylvania
What Are the Typical Tools?
Food services assistants typically use a variety of tools and equipment depending on their specific job duties. Some common tools and equipment include:
- Cutting boards and knives
- Pots and pans
- Food processors and blenders
- Ovens and stovetops
- Dishwashers and cleaning supplies
In Conclusion
Food services assistants play a crucial role in the foodservice industry. They are responsible for ensuring that food is prepared and served safely and efficiently. The job can be found in a variety of settings and typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent. The median hourly wage for food preparation and serving-related occupations is $11.63, but this can vary depending on the specific job and location.