Food preparation workers work under the supervision of cooks, chefs, and foodservice managers to complete routine food preparation tasks such as slicing meats and vegetables, brewing beverages like tea and coffee, and preparing cold foods like salads. Food preparation workers are often employed in places like restaurants, hotels, grocery stores, and school and hospital cafeterias. Many of them work shifts during early mornings, late evenings, weekends, and holidays. About half of all food preparation workers are part-time employees. Many food preparation positions are considered entry-level, so previous experience and formal education may not be required for these employees. Depending on the type of environment they work in, most food preparation workers earn anywhere from $9 to $11 hourly. In the next ten years, employment of food preparation workers is expected to grow by just 4 percent.
Median Pay: $19,300 per year
Required Education: Less than high school
Required Experience: None
Job Outlook: 4%
—Katie Heil
