Hospitality & Tourism
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 Breakdown
Food Preparation Workers
Average
$19,000
ANNUAL
Entry Level
$15,000
ANNUAL
Mid Level
$20,500
ANNUAL
Expert Level
$26,000
ANNUAL
Projected Jobs
Food Preparation Workers
17,350
Projected job openings through 2028
Sample Career Roadmap
Food Preparation Workers
Degree Recommendations
Top Expected Tasks
Food Preparation Workers
01
Clean and sanitize work areas, equipment, utensils, dishes, or silverware.
02
Store food in designated containers and storage areas to prevent spoilage.
03
Portion and wrap the food, or place it directly on plates for service to patrons.
04
Take and record temperature of food and food storage areas, such as refrigerators and freezers.
05
Prepare a variety of foods, such as meats, vegetables, or desserts, according to customers' orders or supervisors' instructions, following approved procedures.
06
Place food trays over food warmers for immediate service, or store them in refrigerated storage cabinets.
07
Package take-out foods or serve food to customers.
08
Stock cupboards and refrigerators, and tend salad bars and buffet meals.
09
Operate cash register, handle money, and give correct change.
10
Keep records of the quantities of food used.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
Food Preparation Workers
Common knowledge, skills & abilities needed to get a foot in the door.
KNOWLEDGE
Customer and Personal Service
KNOWLEDGE
Administration and Management
KNOWLEDGE
Public Safety and Security
KNOWLEDGE
Food Production
KNOWLEDGE
English Language
SKILL
Active Listening
SKILL
Speaking
SKILL
Social Perceptiveness
SKILL
Coordination
SKILL
Service Orientation
ABILITY
Near Vision
ABILITY
Oral Expression
ABILITY
Arm-Hand Steadiness
ABILITY
Manual Dexterity
ABILITY
Information Ordering
Related Careers
Hospitality & Tourism
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