Food service workers
perform customer service,
food preparation, and cleaning duties…
in food service establishments
from fast food restaurants
to hospitals and hotels.
Counter attendants and baristas take orders,
process payments, and serve food
at fast food restaurants, snack bars,
cafeterias, movie theaters,
and coffee shops.
They heat simple food items
and assemble salads or sandwiches.
Counter attendants also fill beverage orders
and may prepare specialties,
such as milkshakes
and ice cream sundaes.
Dining room and cafeteria attendants,
also called bussers, clean and set tables,
remove dirty dishes,
and keep serving areas stocked with trays,
dishes, and silverware.
They may also fill water glasses
and distribute dishes to diners.
Bartender helpers clean bar equipment
and glasses.
These workers spend most of the time
on their feet and often carry heavy trays.
During busy dining periods,
they are under pressure
to serve customers quickly and efficiently.
Minor injuries such as slips and burns
are common.
To reduce risks,
workers often wear gloves, aprons,
or nonslip shoes.
Part-time work, seasonal work,
and early morning or late evening hours
are common… especially for fast food workers.
Workers serving alcohol
generally must be 18 years of age or older.
Most food and beverage service workers
receive short-term, on-the-job training.
There are no formal educational requirements.