Food preparation workers
SOC Code: 35-2021Also known as:
Cafeteria Aide, Carver, Caterer, Caterer Helper, Catering Assistant
Median Annual Salary
$34,220
-3.4% growth (2024-2034)
148K
Openings/Year
903K
Current Jobs
What Food preparation workers Do
Perform a variety of food preparation duties other than cooking, such as preparing cold foods and shellfish, slicing meat, and brewing coffee or tea.
💰 Salary
$34,220
Median annual wage (2024)
📈 Job Growth
-3.4%
Decline
🎓 Education
No formal educational credential
Typical entry-level requirement
🚀 Annual Openings
148K
Projected average per year
📚 On-the-Job Training
Short-term on-the-job training
Expected training period
Employment Projections (2024-2034)
Current Employment (2024)
902,700
Projected Employment (2034)
871,800
Related Careers
Cooks, institution and cafeteria
$36,450 •
+2.0% growth
Cooks, restaurant
$36,830 •
+14.9% growth
Cooks, short order
$35,620 •
-5.6% growth
Fast food and counter workers
$30,480 •
+6.1% growth
Butchers and meat cutters
$38,960 •
+1.0% growth
Top Skills Required
Active Listening
Service Orientation
Time Management
Speaking
Coordination
Daily Tasks & Responsibilities
- Clean and sanitize work areas, equipment, utensils, dishes, or silverware.
- Assist cooks and kitchen staff with various tasks as needed, and provide cooks with needed items.
- Take and record temperature of food and food storage areas, such as refrigerators and freezers.
- Carry food supplies, equipment, and utensils to and from storage and work areas.
- Remove trash and clean kitchen garbage containers.
- Store food in designated containers and storage areas to prevent spoilage.
- Weigh or measure ingredients.
- Vacuum dining area and sweep and mop kitchen floor.
- Inform supervisors when equipment is not working properly and when food and supplies are getting low, and order needed items.
- Wash, peel, and cut various foods, such as fruits and vegetables, to prepare for cooking or serving.
Technology & Tools
📚 Entry-Level Education
No formal educational credential
Most common requirement
🎯 Recommended Education
High School Diploma
O*NET recommended level
College Rankings
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much do food preparation workers make?
The median annual salary for food preparation workers is $34,220.
What education do food preparation workers need?
Most food preparation workers positions require a no formal educational credential.
Is becoming food preparation workers a good career choice?
Food preparation workers is projected to see -3.4% job growth from 2024 to 2034,
which reflects some decline in the field. With approximately 148,000 job openings expected annually,
there are good opportunities for those entering the field.
What are the best colleges for food preparation workers?
The best colleges offer strong programs in related fields with experienced faculty and industry connections.
What other job titles are similar to food preparation workers?
Food preparation workers may also be known as: Cafeteria Aide, Carver, Caterer, Caterer Helper, Catering Assistant, Chicken and Fish Butcher, Coffee Brewer, Coffee Maker, Cold Meat Cook, Cook, Cook Aide, Crew Mess Attendant, Culinary Worker, Deli Clerk (Delicatessen Clerk), Deli Slicer (Delicatessen Slicer), Diet Aide, Dietary Aide, Dishwasher, Expo (Expeditor), Food Expeditor (Food Expo).
These titles often refer to similar roles with varying responsibilities or specializations.