Explore This Path

Helper--Food Service

💰 Earn $34K-$39K

📚 No Degree Required

⏱️ 0–6 Month Training

📈 6.3% Job Growth

Ideal for those who love a fast-paced, customer-focused environment.
Enhance dining experiences by ensuring clean, well-prepared tables.
Unique chance to interact with diverse patrons and improve service skills.

What Helper--Food Services DoFacilitate food service. Clean tables; remove dirty dishes; replace soiled table linens; set tables; replenish supply of clean linens, silverware, glassware, and dishes; supply service bar with food; and serve items such as water, condiments, and coffee to patrons.

Run cash registers.
Serve ice water, coffee, rolls, or butter to patrons.
Scrape and stack dirty dishes and carry dishes and other tableware to kitchens for cleaning.
Wipe tables or seats with dampened cloths or replace dirty tablecloths.
Set tables with clean linens, condiments, or other supplies.

Helper--Food Services Education, Salary, and Growth

Minimum EducationNone

Career ProspectsExcellent (Increasing by 5% or more)

Training TimeLess than 6 months

Job Openings99,600 Annually

Median Earnings

$35,790 in California

$32,670 Nationally

$25K

$50K

$75K

$100K

$125K

$150K

$175K

$200K

$225K

$250K

Only you can decide how much you need to earn — but knowing what it actually costs to live in your area can help. The Family Budget Calculator can guide you.

Is This Career Right For You?

YOU Like

Relating with or serving others
Using data or completing tasks
Working with my hands

you value

Having support
Having freedom
Personal relationships

you are skilled in

Speaking
Monitoring
Reading Comprehension
Active Listening
Social Perceptiveness
Service Orientation

Go Deeper: Helper--Food Services Explained

Helper--Food ServiceExplore career pathways, key skills, and what each role has to offer.

How Do You Train for This Career?

Learn about the education and training paths that can lead to this career — and what to expect from each one.

Workforce Development ProgramA workforce development program typically enhances participants' opportunities to succeed in the workforce through employment skill-building, career counseling, connections to employers, and pathways to high-demand and high-wage jobs.

🎓 Skills-Focused

⏱️ Finish in 6 months - 2 years

Associate's DegreeAn associate's degree typically provides graduates with foundational knowledge and skills for entry-level jobs in the graduate's industry, or serves as a stepping stone towards further education.

🎓 College

⏱️ Finish in 2-3 years

Vocational SchoolA vocational school typically equips students with specialized skills and practical training in specific trades or occupations, enhancing their employability and providing direct pathways to relevant careers.

🎓 Skills-Focused

⏱️ Finish in 6 months - 2 years

ApprenticeshipAn apprenticeship typically offers a combination of hands-on training and classroom instruction, leading to practical skills, industry-specific knowledge, and the potential for long-term employment in a specific trade or profession.

🎓 Paid Work

⏱️ Finish in 2-5 years

find training near you

Find local programs, apprenticeships, or degrees to start your path.

Location

Enter your location to see training near you

What Is the Hospitality & Care Industry?