Food preparation and serving related occupations encompass a variety of roles in the food industry. Common job descriptions include preparing ingredients, cooking food, serving customers, cleaning work areas, operating cash registers, taking orders, and ensuring food safety standards are met. Specific positions within this category include cooks, food preparation workers, servers, bartenders, baristas, hosts/hostesses, and more.
This income data is sourced from the May 2023 Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) survey. The dataset is updated annually.
Annual Pay Distribution | Salary |
|---|---|
10th percentile | $17,860.00 |
25th percentile | $21,380.00 |
median (50th percentile) | $25,840.00 |
75th percentile | $30,550.00 |
90th percentile | $36,770.00 |
Hourly Pay Distribution | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|
10th percentile | $8.59 |
25th percentile | $10.28 |
median (50th percentile) | $12.42 |
75th percentile | $14.69 |
90th percentile | $17.68 |
Food preparation and serving related occupations typically do not have strict educational requirements beyond a high school diploma or equivalent, although some positions may require additional certifications such as food handling certificates. These roles often emphasize on-the-job training and hands-on experience more than formal education. While a high school diploma is beneficial, it is not always a prerequisite for entry into these positions. Training for food preparation and serving related occupations usually involves learning on the job from experienced staff or supervisors. This can include understanding food safety regulations, proper cooking techniques, customer service skills, and specific procedures relevant to a particular establishment. Many individuals in this field gain proficiency through practical experience and gradually take on more responsibilities as they become familiar with the role.