How much does a Food Service Aide make?
Food Service Aides play a vital role in the food industry. They help prepare and serve meals in restaurants, cafeterias, and other food service settings. The average yearly salary for a Food Service Aide is around $33,140. This means that, on average, someone in this role can expect to earn this amount each year.
The salary for Food Service Aides can vary based on experience and location. Those with more experience often earn higher salaries. For example, the top 10% of earners in this field make over $44,000 a year. Here is a breakdown of the salary distribution:
- 10% earn less than $22,000
- 25% earn between $22,000 and $29,000
- 50% earn between $29,000 and $34,000
- 75% earn between $34,000 and $41,000
- 90% earn less than $46,000
What are the highest paying cities for a Food Service Aide?

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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $47,446
In San Francisco, working as a Food Service Aide offers a dynamic environment with diverse dining options. Employees often find jobs in upscale restaurants and trendy cafes. Companies like Yelp and various hotel chains provide excellent opportunities.
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Vallejo, CA
Average Salary: $45,214
Vallejo presents a vibrant food scene with a mix of local eateries and larger chains. Food Service Aides here enjoy a community-focused atmosphere. Local businesses and larger establishments offer a range of experiences.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $45,054
Seattle's food culture is rich and varied, making it a great place for Food Service Aides. The city's love for coffee and seafood creates a lively work environment. Companies like Starbucks and various local restaurants offer diverse opportunities.
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Modesto, CA
Average Salary: $44,642
Modesto offers a welcoming environment for Food Service Aides. The city's family-friendly nature extends to its dining options. Working in local diners and cafes provides a comfortable and supportive atmosphere.
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Salinas, CA
Average Salary: $44,341
Salinas boasts a strong agricultural influence, which shapes its food service industry. Food Service Aides here enjoy a close-knit community feel. Local farms and restaurants create a unique and rewarding work environment.
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Riverside, CA
Average Salary: $44,176
Riverside provides a diverse range of dining experiences for Food Service Aides. The city's growing population supports a variety of restaurants and cafes. Working here offers a chance to be part of a thriving food scene.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $43,428
San Jose's tech industry brings a vibrant and fast-paced environment for Food Service Aides. The city's diverse dining options range from casual eateries to upscale restaurants. Companies like Google and various local businesses offer exciting opportunities.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $43,379
Los Angeles offers a dynamic and diverse food scene for Food Service Aides. The city's entertainment industry influences its dining options, creating a lively work environment. Working in LA provides a chance to be part of a bustling culinary hub.
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New Haven, CT
Average Salary: $40,789
New Haven presents a charming and historic food scene for Food Service Aides. The city's university presence adds to its vibrant dining culture. Local eateries and cafes offer a welcoming and engaging work environment.
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Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $40,148
Santa Rosa offers a relaxed and welcoming environment for Food Service Aides. The city's focus on quality dining provides a pleasant work atmosphere. Local restaurants and wineries create a unique and enjoyable experience for employees.
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What are the best companies a Food Service Aide can work for?

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Sutter Health
Average Salary: $59,851
Sutter Health offers rewarding Food Service Aide jobs across its many hospitals and clinics in California. These positions provide essential support in patient care and dining services. Locations include Sacramento, San Francisco, and the Bay Area.
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Highline Public Schools
Average Salary: $49,458
Highline Public Schools provides Food Service Aide jobs in various schools throughout the district. These roles focus on preparing meals for students and maintaining a clean dining environment. The company operates in cities like Des Moines, Burien, and Federal Way.
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Kaiser Permanente
Average Salary: $48,781
Kaiser Permanente offers Food Service Aide jobs in its medical facilities across the West Coast. These positions involve serving food to patients and staff, ensuring a pleasant dining experience. Locations include California, Oregon, and Washington.
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Northwell Health
Average Salary: $45,751
Northwell Health provides Food Service Aide jobs in its hospitals and clinics in New York. These roles focus on providing quality meals to patients and staff. The company operates in areas like Long Island, Queens, and Manhattan.
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NYC Health + Hospitals
Average Salary: $45,311
NYC Health + Hospitals offers Food Service Aide jobs in its many hospitals across New York City. These positions are vital in ensuring patients and staff receive nutritious meals. Locations include Manhattan, Brooklyn, and the Bronx.
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Commonwealth of Massachusetts
Average Salary: $45,039
The Commonwealth of Massachusetts provides Food Service Aide jobs in its state-run facilities. These roles focus on meal preparation and service in various locations across the state. Locations include Boston, Worcester, and Springfield.
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IKEA
Average Salary: $43,728
IKEA offers Food Service Aide jobs in its stores nationwide. These roles involve serving food in the in-store restaurants. The company operates in cities like Los Angeles, Chicago, and New York.
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NMS
Average Salary: $42,789
NMS provides Food Service Aide jobs in its facilities across the country. These roles focus on meal preparation and service in various locations. Locations include Texas, Florida, and California.
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Advocate Aurora Health
Average Salary: $42,618
Advocate Aurora Health offers Food Service Aide jobs in its hospitals and clinics in Illinois and Wisconsin. These positions involve serving food to patients and staff. Locations include Chicago, Milwaukee, and Madison.
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Adient One LLC.
Average Salary: $41,273
Adient One LLC. provides Food Service Aide jobs in its facilities across the United States. These roles focus on meal preparation and service in various locations. Locations include Michigan, Ohio, and Indiana.
How to earn more as a Food Service Aide?
A Food Service Aide can take several steps to increase their earnings. By focusing on these key areas, one can enhance their skills and value in the workplace. This, in turn, can lead to higher pay and better job opportunities.
First, gaining experience in different areas of food service can open up more earning potential. Working in various roles, such as kitchen prep, serving, and dishwashing, provides a well-rounded skill set. This versatility makes an aide more valuable to employers. Second, obtaining certifications in food safety and handling can lead to higher wages. These certifications show a commitment to quality and safety, which are highly valued in the industry.
Additionally, developing strong customer service skills can lead to better tips and higher evaluations. Being friendly, efficient, and attentive to customers can result in more generous tips. It can also lead to promotions and raises. Another factor is taking on extra responsibilities, such as managing shifts or training new staff. These roles often come with higher pay. Finally, seeking out positions in higher-end restaurants or hotels can lead to better wages. These establishments often offer higher pay to attract skilled workers.
By focusing on these areas, a Food Service Aide can increase their earning potential and advance their career.
Here are five factors to consider:
- Gain experience in different food service roles.
- Obtain certifications in food safety and handling.
- Develop strong customer service skills.
- Take on extra responsibilities, such as managing shifts or training new staff.
- Seek positions in higher-end restaurants or hotels.



