Jobs in USA
Food Counter Attendant Vacancies in USA
Food counter attendants are personnel who prepare, cook, and serve food over the counter to customers. They usually work in restaurants, cafes, hospitals, school cafeterias, and any organization that needs help with food handling. Let’s quickly see how to become one in the US, the work benefits, and how to apply for the Job role.
Duties of a Food Counter Attendant in the US
Food counter attendants work in food service companies and are usually in close proximity to the customers. Here are some of the things expected of them:
- Take customer’s orders and attend to them cordially.
- Get, package or serve customers’ orders over the counter or at their table.
- Receive payment for the food ordered after serving or sorting orders.
- Take note of food stock and quantity used, and inform the management of what needs to be restocked.
- Use different food equipment such as ovens, dispensers, grills, coffee machines, etc.
- Work hand-in-hand and communicate well with the kitchen staff to ensure correct orders.
- Practice safe food handling from the preparation process to the delivery stage.
- Keep the work and cooking area clean and safe to prevent food contamination or poisoning.
- Setting the table for customers.
- Clearing and cleaning out tables to prepare for the next customer.
Top Cities For Food Counter Attendant Jobs in the US
The food service industry in the US is a very broad one and it offers numerous opportunities for people interested in it. Likewise, good counter attendants play a big role in the US industry across each state and city. Here are some cities that are best suitable for people who want to work in this industry:
1. San Antonio
San Antonio is a city in Texas with a rich culinary history and a thriving tourism scene. Due to this, the demand for fast food has been on the rise, and the city has responded with a variety of fast food restaurants. For someone who wants to work as a food counter attendant in San Antonio, you can expect a salary range of $34,000 per annum. The cost of living in San Antonio is quite low, which makes the salary worth it.
2. South Amboy
New Jersey is one of the states in the US that offer the highest number of food service companies, of which the city of South Amboy is not excluded. South Amboy in New Jersey has a different fast-food chain and diners, giving you lots of options. A food counter attendant in South Amboy makes up to $35,000 a year.
3. Oregon City
Located near Portland, Oregon City offers excellent opportunities for food counter attendants with good pay. Since there’s a mix of chain restaurants and independent eateries, there is a consistent need for food counter attendants. Regarding salary, you can make up to $33,000 per annum as a food counter attendant in Oregon.
4. Fort Worth
Also, in Texas, a role as a food counter attendant in Fort Worth offers a salary ranging between $30,000 and $33,000 annually. Its thriving food service industry makes it a great place to look for jobs. From food trucks to cafeterias, there are many opportunities for food counter attendants. Since it’s in Texas, the low cost of living makes it suitable, especially for foreign nationals who want to save up on living expenses.
5. Tulsa, Oklahoma
Tulsa is popularly known for its fast-food chains, eateries, and food trucks. The salary expectation of a food counter attendant in Tulsa starts from $30,000 per year, although it is quite low. Oklahoma, being one of the most affordable cities in the US, complements it.
6. Cleveland
If you want a stable job in the food service industry, you should check for Jobs in Cleveland. Cleaveland, Ohio, has a good food and hospitality scene that offers job security. From food courts to casual dining spots across the city, there’s a suitable job to go around. You can expect a salary of $32,000 per year.
7. Andover
Andover’s location in Massachusetts makes it suitable for food counter attendants. It offers one of the highest salaries on this list, $35,000 per year, so if you want a good food service job market with good pay, then you should give Andover a try.
8. Boston
Here’s another city in Massachusetts that offers high salaries for food counter attendants. This is because Boston is the center of attraction, and it has an excellent food service industry. Likewise, the city of Boston is populated by students, professionals, and tourists who rely on food service. There are lots of opportunities in fast-food spots, high-end restaurants, hotels, and lots more. Regarding the salary, you can expect an annual salary range of $36,540.
9. Portland
With a food counter attendant salary of $33,000 per year, Portland is one of the cities in Oregon that offers diverse dining options. This makes it a stronghold in the food service industry. Since there are many food chains in the city, there’s an increasing need for food counter attendants.
10. Chicago
If we are mentioning a city that houses many fast-food restaurants, then Chicago, Illinois, will definitely make the list. It houses pizza spots, burger chains, chicken and chips chains, and lots more. This provides a great opportunity for food counter attendants looking to work in the city. You can expect a salary range of $33,000 to $37,000 annually.
Skills and Qualifications Needed to Work as a Food Counter Attendant in the US
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Previous work experience in food service
- Food handling certification (in some cases)
- Excellent customer service
- Great communication skills
- Experience in processing payment and handling payment options, whether by cash or card.
Why You Should Work as a Food Counter Attendant in the US
If you’re looking for an entry job either as a citizen or foreign national, getting a food counter attending role is a great start. Likewise, it’s a great option for anyone looking for a part-time role for some extra cash. Here are some of the benefits of working as a food counter attendant in the US.
1. High Job Availability
Food is important and a must-have, which is why the food industry won’t be going anywhere anytime soon. It’s not surprising that the food industry is one of the largest employers in the US, as it offers consistent openings now and then. Food counter attendants are needed in coffee shops, fast-food chains, casual restaurants, and high-end diners. With lots of food service companies across the US, finding jobs as a food counter attendant is really easy.
2. No Formal Education is Needed
Working as a food counter attendant is one of those roles that does not require having a degree or certification. Although having a certification in food handling might be a leverage, it’s usually not a major prerequisite. All you need to function in this role effectively is the ability to learn on the job so you can attend to customers well.
3. Employee Discount
Discounts on food and beverages are one of the privileges of working in the food service industry. Depending on your place of work, you can even get a free meal during work shifts. Some company food chains also offer special discounts for employees, which might also extend to their families.
4. Flexible Work Schedule
A Food Counter Attendant job is perfect for people needing flexibility in their work hours, such as students who combine study and work. Since many of these food chains operate all day, they offer morning, afternoon, night, and weekend shifts. You can talk to your manager about what works best for you. If necessary, you can also swap shifts with your colleagues while helping each other.
5. Tips from Work
Customers tend to tip food counter attendants, especially those who offer amazing customer service. Although food counter attendants earn their pay hourly, they can make some extra cash from tips. Many food service companies now integrate tip jars and even offer digital tipping options for customers who would love to tip workers.
Types of US Visa Suitable for Food Counter Attendants
The H-2B visa is the most suitable US visa for Food Counter Attendants, as it allows foreign workers to take temporary, non-agricultural jobs, including food service roles. For students looking forward to work in the US, you can apply for the F-1, M-1, or J-1 visa.
How to Apply as a Food Counter Attendant in the US
If you’re applying from the US, you can apply Physically or online. For those applying outside of the US, you can search and apply online via platforms like Indeed, LinkedIn, Glassdoor, etc; ensure the site you’re applying through is safe. When applying for jobs as a food counter attendant, ensure your resume highlighting what you have to offer is ready. For foreigners applying via the H-2B visa, go for employers who are willing to sponsor your Visa. Some companies organize interviews; in that case, you must prepare ahead for the interview. Once hired, complete all expected training and get ready to work.
