Food Service Workers

Explore this work by getting part-time or summer work as a dining room attendant, counter worker, or waiter at a restaurant, grill, or coffee shop with a casual atmosphere. Volunteer opportunities that combine some type of food service and interaction with the public may also be available in your area. Meals on Wheels, shelters serving meals, and catering services are all sources to consult for volunteering opportunities.

Dealing with the public is a large aspect of food service work, so get experience in this area. If you are unable to find a food service position, get a part-time or summer job as a store clerk, cashier, or other worker directly involved with the public.

Talk with food service workers about their careers. Suggested interview questions include: What made you want to enter this career? What type of tools and equipment do you use to do your work? What do you like most and least about your job? How did you train for this field? What are some key skills for success? What advice would you give to young people about preparing for the field and being successful on the job? Perhaps you could even job-shadow food service workers to learn even more about the field. Ask your school counselor to help arrange these learning opportunities.