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What does a Food Service Assistant do?

Photo of Brenna Goyette
Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Published 3 min read

A food service assistant is responsible for helping the chef with food preparation, cleaning the kitchen, and serving food.

Food Service Assistant job duties include:

  • Greet customers and take their orders.
  • Prepare food according to menu specifications.
  • Ensure that all food is prepared in a clean and sanitary manner.
  • Maintain a clean and organized work area.
  • Assist in the stocking of supplies and inventory.
  • Monitor food quality and freshness.
  • Report any problems or concerns to the supervisor.
  • Adhere to all safety and sanitation guidelines.
  • Provide excellent customer service at all times.

Food Service Assistant Job Requirements

Most food service assistant positions do not require any formal education, although some employers may prefer applicants with a high school diploma or equivalent. Certification is not typically required, but some food service assistants may choose to become certified through the National Restaurant Association. Previous experience working in a food service setting is also helpful, but not always required. The most important qualities for a food service assistant are a strong work ethic, good communication and interpersonal skills, and the ability to follow instructions.

Food Service Assistant Skills

  • Communication
  • Customer service
  • Food preparation
  • Food safety
  • Serving food
  • Cleaning
  • Organization
  • Multi-tasking
  • Time management
  • Attention to detail
  • Teamwork

Related: Top Food Service Assistant Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become a Food Service Assistant

A food service assistant is someone who helps with the preparation, serving, and clean up of food in a food service setting. There are many different types of food service assistants, from those who work in restaurants to those who work in hospitals. No matter what type of food service assistant you want to become, there are a few things you will need to do.

First, you will need to have a high school diploma or equivalent. Many food service assistants start out as dishwashers or prep cookers, so having a high school diploma will help you get ahead.

Second, you should consider getting a food handler's license. A food handler's license shows that you have the knowledge and skills necessary to safely handle food. This is especially important if you want to work in a restaurant setting.

Third, it is helpful to have some experience working with food. This could be anything from working in a fast food restaurant to volunteering in a soup kitchen. Any experience you have working with food will be helpful when you are applying for jobs as a food service assistant.

Fourth, when you are ready to apply for jobs, make sure your resume is up-to-date and includes any relevant experience you have working with food. You should also include any relevant education, such as a high school diploma or food handler's license.

Finally, be prepared for an interview by practicing your answers to common questions about your experience and qualifications. With these tips in mind, you will be on your way to becoming a food service assistant!

Related: Food Service Assistant Resume Example

Related: Food Service Assistant Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

Editorial staff

Photo of Brenna Goyette, Editor

Editor

Brenna Goyette

Expert Verified

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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