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Food Preparation Workers

  • Bright Outlook
  • Numerous Job Openings

Perform a variety of food preparation duties other than cooking, such as preparing cold foods and shellfish, slicing meat, and brewing coffee or tea.

What you’d do

  • 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.

Skills that matter

  • Active Listening
  • Service Orientation
  • Time Management
  • Coordination
  • Speaking
  • Critical Thinking

How to get there

Little to some preparation: usually a high school diploma or GED, though some jobs do not need one

Also called

  • Cook
  • Deli Clerk (Delicatessen Clerk)
  • Dietary Aide
  • Food Service Worker (FSW)
  • Cook Aide
  • Diet Aide

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