Cafeteria Substitutes

Mississippi Department of Employment Security; Hattiesburg (MS); On-site; USD 17,000 - 22,000; Full time

Job summary

The Mississippi Department of Employment Security is seeking a school cafeteria assistant to support daily food service operations, including meal preparation, serving, and maintaining safe, welcoming dining areas.

You will work with cafeteria staff to prepare USDA-reimbursable meals, assist with cooking and baking, operate kitchen equipment, and handle cashiering duties while ensuring high standards of cleanliness and food safety.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED preferred.
• Ability to read recipes and follow instructions.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and serve USDA-reimbursable meals and à la carte items.
• Assist in cooking, baking, and assembling food such as sandwiches, salads, and entrees.
• Operate and clean kitchen equipment (e.g., slicers, mixers, ovens).
• Perform cashiering duties: receive payments, make change, and track meal counts.
• Maintain cleanliness and sanitation of food prep areas, serving lines, and dining spaces.
• Follow food safety protocols and personal hygiene standards.
• Store and handle food items properly, including leftovers and inventory.
• Collaborate with cafeteria staff and support student assistants when assigned.
• Comply with local, state, and federal nutrition regulations.

Skills

Teamwork

Communication

Math

Cashier

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Job description

Support the daily operations of the school cafeteria by preparing, serving, and maintaining food service areas in accordance with USDA guidelines and district policies. Ensure a clean, safe, and welcoming environment for students and staff.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare and serve USDA-reimbursable meals and à la carte items
• Assist in cooking, baking, and assembling food such as sandwiches, salads, and entrees
• Operate and clean kitchen equipment (e.g., slicers, mixers, ovens)
• Perform cashiering duties: receive payments, make change, and track meal counts
• Maintain cleanliness and sanitation of food prep areas, serving lines, and dining spaces
• Follow food safety protocols and personal hygiene standards
• Store and handle food items properly, including leftovers and inventory
• Collaborate with cafeteria staff and support student assistants when assigned
• Comply with local, state, and federal nutrition regulations

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED preferred
• Prior food service experience is a plus but not required
• Ability to read recipes and follow instructions
• Basic math skills for inventory and cashiering
• Strong communication and teamwork skills