How to hire a cafeteria server

How to hire a cafeteria server, step by step

Here's a step-by-step cafeteria server hiring guide:

• Step 1: Identify your hiring needs
• Step 2: Create an ideal candidate profile
• Step 3: Make a budget
• Step 4: Write a cafeteria server job description
• Step 5: Post your job
• Step 6: Interview candidates
• Step 7: Send a job offer and onboard your new cafeteria server
• Step 8: Go through the hiring process checklist

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1. Identify your hiring needs

   Before you post your cafeteria server job, you should take the time to determine what type of worker your business needs. While certain jobs definitely require a full-time employee, it's sometimes better to find a cafeteria server for hire on a part-time basis or as a contractor.

   Determine employee vs contractor status

   Is the person you're thinking of hiring a US citizen or green card holder?

   Yes

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   A cafeteria server's background is also an important factor in determining whether they'll be a good fit for the position. For example, cafeteria servers from different industries or fields will have radically different experiences and will bring different viewpoints to the role. You also need to consider the candidate's previous level of experience to make sure they'll be comfortable with the job's level of seniority.

   This list presents cafeteria server salaries for various positions.

   Type of Cafeteria Server	Description	Hourly rate
   Cafeteria Server	Food and beverage serving and related workers perform a variety of customer service, food preparation, and cleaning duties in restaurants, cafeterias, and other eating and drinking establishments.	$11-17
   Concession Worker	A concession worker is responsible for selling foods, beverages, and other concession items in various public events. Concession workers' duties include promoting products to guests, preparing their food orders, operating cash the register and processing payments, and maintaining the sanitary standards on the concession area... Show more	$9-16
   Food Server	A Food Server specializes in helping customers attain a pleasant dining experience while ensuring to meet all food handling and health regulation standards. Most of the responsibilities revolve around greeting customers and directing them to comfortable seats, responding to their inquires and taking their orders, and courteously suggesting options... Show more	$8-16

   Show more

2. Create an ideal candidate profile

   Common skills:

   • Clean Kitchen
   • Quality Customer Service
   • Portion Control
   • Food Products
   • Service Line
   • Kitchen Equipment
   • Prep Food

   Responsibilities:

   • Manage event reservations and party requests, inform customers about upcoming events and specials.
   • Establish a positive relationship with co-workers and managers through a solid work ethic, positive attitude, punctuality and dependability.
   • Develop credibility and confidence with VIP guests by maintaining confidentiality and complying with company standards.

3. Make a budget

   Including a salary range in your cafeteria server job description is a great way to entice the best and brightest candidates. A cafeteria server salary can vary based on several factors:

   • Location. For example, cafeteria servers' average salary in south carolina is 40% less than in north dakota.
   • Seniority. Entry-level cafeteria servers earn 38% less than senior-level cafeteria servers.
   • Certifications. A cafeteria server with a few certifications under their belt will likely demand a higher salary.
   • Company. Working for a prestigious company or an exciting start-up can make a huge difference in a cafeteria server's salary.

   Average cafeteria server salary

   $14.27hourly

   $29,674 yearly

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   Entry-level cafeteria server salary

   $23,000 yearly salary

   Updated December 13, 2025

4. Writing a cafeteria server job description

   A job description for a cafeteria server role includes a summary of the job's main responsibilities, required skills, and preferred background experience. Including a salary range can also go a long way in attracting more candidates to apply, and showing the first name of the hiring manager can also make applicants more comfortable. As an example, here's a cafeteria server job description:

   Cafeteria server job description example

   Northern Light Mercy Hospital
   
   Department: Food and Nutrition Services
   
   Position is located: Mercy Fore River
   
   Work Type: Full Time
   
   FTE: 40 Hours Weekly
   
   Work Schedule: No Hours Assigned
   
   Summary:
   
   Under the direct supervision of the Director of Food Services the Cafeteria Supervisor directs and coordinates the day-to-day activities of the Cafeteria and ensures timely, efficient and sanitary service of all food items. This position coordinates with the production staff to promptly meet changing needs, ensures a smooth workflow throughout the cafeteria, and prevents run-out of food items. The Supervisor supports and collaborates with the Director of Food Services and Sous Chef to ensure customer service standards are met and to oversee cafeteria activities. May have on-call responsibility. The incumbent may have access to highly confidential patient, employee and/or Mercy proprietary information, and must handle & protect the information in accordance with hospital & system policies, HIPAA requirements and the highest level of ethical standards. The incumbent is responsible for reporting all security events, potential events, or other security risks to the organization. The incumbent is responsible for participation in and completion of all patient safety initiatives appropriate to the position, and conducts all job responsibilities according to the Mission and Values of Mercy Hospital.
   
   Responsibilities:
   
   1. Production responsibilities at assigned location
   
   • Exercises independent judgment in effectively allocating and delegating work of Cafeteria staff at their assigned shift, with accountability if such delegated work is not accomplished accurately and in a timely manner. Sets priorities for their assigned shifts.
   
   • Participates in and oversees the daily activities related to the service line to ensure timely and efficient daily preparation of food service items.
   
   • Fulfills the function of the Service Assistant as needed. Prepares food items; serves prepared food; cleans equipment, seating and counter areas in a timely manner; stocks paper and dry goods; and prevents run-outs by informing production staff in advance of needs.
   
   • Assist kitchen Supervisor and provides coverage as needed.
   
   • Under the guidance of the Director and Head Chef, coordinates daily activities of the Cafeteria Service Assistants to maximize productivity, quality and customer service standards.
   
   • Assists with adherence to all applicable city, state, and federal safety and sanitation codes.
   
   • Assists with ensuring appropriate levels of cleanliness, portion control standards, food temperatures and other department standards according to established protocols.
   
   • Provides on-the job training for Service Assistants and uses independent judgment in identifying training needs.
   
   • Participates in the hiring process as required and uses independent judgment to recommend hiring decisions.
   
   • Participates in the evaluation procedure by providing input to Director on staff performance as required.
   
   • Communicates effectively and positively to promote professional interactions among all staff.
   
   • Performs all duties of a Service Assistant as required.
   
   2. Planning/Organizing/Scheduling for the assigned location
   
   • Participates in Food Service Quality Assurance and Quality Improvement projects.
   
   • With guidance from the Director and in cooperation with the Sous Chef and Kitchen Supervisor, schedules Cafeteria staff.
   
   • Provides training to new staff, including on-the-job training and provides on-going on-the-job training to all staff.
   
   • In cooperation with the Kitchen Supervisor and Director, schedules and performs monthly Cafeteria staff meetings.
   
   • Assists with tracking and accounting of costs charged from Food Services to other in-hospital accounts.
   
   • Tracks and maintains inventories and par stock of items.Orders as needed through Central Supply.
   
   • Promotes a high level of effective communication with Director and with other Food Services management and staff as needed. Serves as primary communication point between Cafeteria staff, Production, Food Services management and other staff as needed.
   
   • Under the guidance and supervision of the Director, updates the Cafeteria Price Book.
   
   3. Oversight of Staff at assigned location
   
   • Uses independent judgment in providing insight into staff adherence to department policies, customer service standards, teamwork, proper appearance, attendance, job performance, safe food handling and safety issues. Participates in the evaluation process by providing input on the performance of Cafeteria staff.
   
   • Exercises independent judgment in recommending disciplinary actions for staff when required.
   
   • Participates in the interview process of new hires as required and exercises independent judgment in recommending hiring decisions.
   
   • Direct multiple activities to meet deadlines with competing priorities.
   
   • Demonstrates a high level of analytical and problem solving skills to anticipate problems, and identify and implement positive solutions in a fast paced, high volume environment.
   
   • Acts as closing MOD (Manager on Duty) as necessary.
   
   4. Computer and Cash Control Responsibilities at assigned location
   
   • Oversees daily cash control procedures.
   
   • Directs staff in proper cash handling procedures.
   
   • With guidance from the Assistant Manager Food & Beverage and the Executive Chef, instructs staff on proper costing and portion control and oversees daily adherence to these standards.
   
   5. Sanitation and Maintenance of Standards for assigned location
   
   • Regularly participates in in-service training sessions and meetings as required and communicates information back to staff.
   
   • Ensures cleanliness of the Cafeteria area, and correct food temperatures on the serving line.
   
   • Instructs staff on and ensures adherence to all applicable city, state, and federal safety and sanitation codes for food service.
   
   • Reports defective or unsafe equipment or conditions immediately to the Manager on Duty or appropriate authority.
   
   • Takes appropriate steps to ensure a safe and sanitary environment for Cafeteria staff and customers.
   
   6. Performs additional duties as required or assigned.
   
   Competencies and skills:
   
   Essential:
   
   * 5+ years of relative work experience required.
   
   * Behaves with Integrity and Builds Trust: Acts consistently in line with the core values, commitments and rules of conduct. Leads by example and tells the truth. Does what they say they will, when and how they say they will, or communicates an alternate plan.
   
   * Cultivates Respect: Treats others fairly, embraces and values differences, and contributes to a culture of diversity, inclusion, empowerment and cooperation.
   
   * Demonstrates Adaptability: Learns quickly when facing a new problem or unfamiliar task; is flexible in their approach with changing priorities and ambiguity. Manages change effectively and does not give up during adversity. Capable of changing one's behavioral style and/or views in order to attain a goal. Absorbs new information readily and puts it into practice effectively.
   
   * Effectively Communicates: Listens, speaks and writes appropriately, using clear language. Communication methods are fitting to the message(s), audience, and situation and follow-ups are regular and timely. Shows that important (non-) verbal information is absorbed and understood and asks further questions to clarify when necessary. Expresses ideas and views clearly to others and has ability to adjust use of language to the audiences' level.
   
   * Exercises Sound Judgment & Decision Making: Understands and processes complex information, which allows for appropriate and accountable conclusions. Does not react too quickly or slowly. Balances facts, goals, and potential approaches taking the appropriate criteria into account. Makes active decisions and commits oneself by communicating confidently and respectfully.
   
   * Fosters Accountability: Creates and participates in a work environment where people hold themselves and others accountable for processes, results and behaviors. Takes appropriate ownership not only of successes but also mistakes and works to correct them in a timely manner. Demonstrates understanding that we all work as a team and the quality and timeliness of work impacts everyone involved.
   
   * Practices Compassion: Exhibits genuine care for people and is available and ready to help; displays a deep awareness of and strong willingness to relieve the suffering of others.
   
   Credentials:
   
   Education:
   
   Essential:
   
   * High School Diploma/General Educational Development (GED)
   
   Education equivalent experience:
   
   Essential:
   
   * Post-secondary training in culinary arts is preferred.
   
   Working conditions:
   
   Essential:
   
   * Lifting, moving and loading less than 20 pounds.
   
   * Lifting, moving and loading 20 to 30 pounds.

   Copy this example

   

5. Post your job

   To find the right cafeteria server for your business, consider trying out a few different recruiting strategies:

   • Consider internal talent. One of the most important sources of talent for any company is its existing workforce.
   • Ask for referrals. Reach out to friends, family members, and current employees and ask if they know or have worked with cafeteria servers they would recommend.
   • Recruit at local colleges. Attend job fairs at local colleges to recruit cafeteria servers who meet your education requirements.
   • Social media platforms. LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter now have more than 3.5 billion users, and you can use social media to reach potential job candidates.

   Post your job online:

   • Post your cafeteria server job on Zippia to find and recruit cafeteria server candidates who meet your exact specifications.
   • Use field-specific websites.
   • Post a job on free websites.

6. Interview candidates

   Recruiting cafeteria servers requires you to bring your A-game to the interview process. The first interview should introduce the company and the role to the candidate as much as they present their background experience and reasons for applying for the job. During later interviews, you can go into more detail about the technical details of the job and ask behavioral questions to gauge how they'd fit into your current company culture.

   You should also ask about candidates' unique skills and talents to see if they match the ideal candidate profile you developed earlier. Candidates good enough for the next step can complete the technical interview.

   The right interview questions can help you assess a candidate's hard skills, behavioral intelligence, and soft skills.

7. Send a job offer and onboard your new cafeteria server

   Once you've found the cafeteria server candidate you'd like to hire, it's time to write an offer letter. This should include an explicit job offer that includes the salary and the details of any other perks. Qualified candidates might be looking at multiple positions, so your offer must be competitive if you like the candidate. Also, be prepared for a negotiation stage, as candidates may way want to tweak the details of your initial offer. Once you've settled on these details, you can draft a contract to formalize your agreement.

   It's also important to follow up with applicants who do not get the job with an email letting them know that the position is filled.

   Once that's done, you can draft an onboarding schedule for the new cafeteria server. Human Resources should complete Employee Action Forms and ensure that onboarding paperwork is completed, including I-9s, benefits enrollment, federal and state tax forms, etc. They should also ensure that new employee files are created for internal recordkeeping.

8. Go through the hiring process checklist

   • Determine employee type (full-time, part-time, contractor, etc.)
   • Submit a job requisition form to the HR department
   • Define job responsibilities and requirements
   • Establish budget and timeline
   • Determine hiring decision makers for the role
   • Write job description
   • Post job on job boards, company website, etc.
   • Promote the job internally
   • Process applications through applicant tracking system
   • Review resumes and cover letters
   • Shortlist candidates for screening
   • Hold phone/virtual interview screening with first round of candidates
   • Conduct in-person interviews with top candidates from first round
   • Score candidates based on weighted criteria (e.g., experience, education, background, cultural fit, skill set, etc.)
   • Conduct background checks on top candidates
   • Check references of top candidates
   • Consult with HR and hiring decision makers on job offer specifics
   • Extend offer to top candidate(s)
   • Receive formal job offer acceptance and signed employment contract
   • Inform other candidates that the position has been filled
   • Set and communicate onboarding schedule to new hire(s)
   • Complete new hire paperwork (i9, benefits enrollment, tax forms, etc.)

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