How much does a Food Service Attendant make?
Food service attendants play a crucial role in the hospitality industry. They help make dining experiences enjoyable for customers. The job involves tasks like setting up tables, serving food, and clearing dishes. This position is accessible and offers competitive pay. Many attendants can earn a stable income with room for growth.
The average yearly salary for a food service attendant is around $36,522. Salaries can vary based on experience, location, and the type of establishment. Entry-level positions start at about $23,344 per year. As attendants gain experience, their earnings can increase. Top earners make around $56,380 annually. Some attendants also receive tips, which can add to their income. With dedication and hard work, there are opportunities to advance and earn more.
What are the highest paying cities for a Food Service Attendant?

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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $56,446
In Seattle, working as a food service attendant offers a dynamic environment with numerous restaurants and cafes. Major employers include Starbucks and various local eateries. The city's diverse food scene provides diverse experiences.
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Pittsburgh, PA
Average Salary: $46,315
In Pittsburgh, food service attendants have the chance to work in a vibrant culinary scene. With popular chains like Chipotle and Panera Bread, the city provides varied job opportunities. The community's love for hearty meals adds to the job's appeal.
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Anchorage, AK
Average Salary: $45,592
Anchorage provides a unique experience for food service attendants. With its cold climate, the job includes handling a range of seafood at popular spots like Simon & Seafort. The city's close-knit community adds a personal touch to the work.
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $44,576
In Portland, food service attendants enjoy working in a city known for its food trucks and artisanal eateries. Working for companies like Voodoo Doughnuts or local diners offers a taste of the city's food culture. The laid-back vibe makes for a pleasant work atmosphere.
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Bend, OR
Average Salary: $43,454
Bend offers a more laid-back environment for food service attendants. Working at places like Deschutes Brewery or local cafes means enjoying the outdoors and the city's vibrant community. The slower pace provides a rewarding experience.
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Spokane, WA
Average Salary: $41,163
Spokane combines a small-town feel with city opportunities. Food service attendants can work in local diners and cafés, enjoying a mix of the two. The city's friendly environment makes for a pleasant job experience.
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Buffalo, NY
Average Salary: $38,669
Buffalo offers a rich food culture for food service attendants. Working in places like Anchor Bar or other local joints means enjoying Buffalo's famous wings and other local delicacies. The city's down-to-earth charm adds to the job experience.
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Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $38,613
Chicago presents a bustling food scene for food service attendants. Working at spots like Giordano's or local diners provides a taste of the city's famous deep-dish pizza. The fast-paced environment offers plenty of opportunities.
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Lubbock, TX
Average Salary: $34,821
In Lubbock, food service attendants can enjoy a mix of local and chain restaurants. Working in places like Whataburger or local eateries offers a taste of the city's Texan roots. The welcoming community adds to the job's appeal.
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Tucson, AZ
Average Salary: $34,317
Tucson offers a vibrant food scene for food service attendants. Working at popular spots like U-Haul or local diners provides a taste of the city's diverse cuisine. The warm climate makes for a pleasant work environment.
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What are the best companies a Food Service Attendant can work for?

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Providence
Average Salary: $50,285
Providence offers competitive salaries for Food Service Attendants. They run hospitals across several states in the U.S. Working at Providence means you may find positions in states like Alaska, California, Montana, Oregon, and Washington.
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UPMC
Average Salary: $46,437
UPMC provides good compensation for Food Service Attendants. This company operates in Pennsylvania and New York. Working here could place you in cities like Pittsburgh and Harrisburg.
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Luminis Health
Average Salary: $41,313
Luminis Health offers attractive salaries for Food Service Attendants. This company runs medical facilities in Maryland. It provides positions in cities like Annapolis and Bowie.
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St Mary's Healthcare Amsterdam
Average Salary: $36,511
St Mary's Healthcare Amsterdam provides competitive pay for Food Service Attendants. They operate in Amsterdam, New York. Working here means you’ll be in a vibrant community.
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Jubitz Corporation
Average Salary: $35,500
Jubitz Corporation offers salaries for Food Service Attendants. They have locations in several states, including Colorado and Ohio. You might find opportunities in cities like Denver and Cincinnati.
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Kwik Trip, Inc.
Average Salary: $35,438
Kwik Trip, Inc. offers good pay for Food Service Attendants. They operate across Wisconsin and Minnesota. You could work in cities like Madison and Minneapolis.
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Covenant Health
Average Salary: $35,348
Covenant Health provides competitive salaries for Food Service Attendants. They operate in Texas. Positions may be available in cities like Lubbock and Amarillo.
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AVI Foodsystems
Average Salary: $30,786
AVI Foodsystems offers salaries for Food Service Attendants. This company operates nationwide. Positions are available across various states in the U.S.
How to earn more as a Food Service Attendant?
In the food service industry, the role of a Food Service Attendant can open pathways to greater earnings through dedication and skill development. Improving earnings in this field often hinges on a combination of factors that demonstrate commitment and proficiency. Below are several actionable strategies to help boost income as a Food Service Attendant.
First, expanding one's skill set through additional training can lead to higher pay. Many employers value attendants who are trained in more complex tasks, such as operating kitchen equipment or handling specialized food preparation duties. Learning these skills can make a candidate more versatile and valuable. Next, demonstrating a strong work ethic can lead to recognition and promotions. Attending work regularly and being reliable helps build a solid reputation. Furthermore, taking initiative and showing a willingness to learn new tasks or responsibilities can impress managers and supervisors, paving the way for higher-paying opportunities. Effective communication with coworkers and customers is another key factor. Building positive relationships with both can create a more harmonious work environment and lead to better job opportunities. Lastly, seeking roles in higher-end establishments or during peak hours can result in increased earnings. These positions often offer higher wages or tips due to increased demand.
Consider these elements when seeking to increase earnings in food service. Each step taken towards professional development and strong performance can lead to a brighter career path with more financial rewards.
- Expand skills through additional training
- Demonstrate a strong work ethic
- Take initiative in tasks and responsibilities
- Build effective communication with coworkers and customers
- Seek higher-paying roles and peak hours



