Fast Food and Counter Workers
Career Snapshot
Food service personnel provide customer service, prepare food, and clean... at a variety of food service venues ranging from quick food restaurants to hospitals and hotels. Counter attendants and baristas work in fast food restaurants, snack bars, cafeterias, movie theatres, and coffee shops, taking orders, processing payments, and serving food. They reheat basic foods and create salads or sandwiches. Counter attendants may also produce delicacies such as milkshakes and ice cream sundaes in addition to filling beverage requests. Bussers clean and set tables, remove dirty dishes, and keep serving areas stocked with trays, plates, and silverware in dining rooms and cafeterias. They may also be responsible for filling water glasses and distributing dishes to diners. Bartender assistants clean the bar's equipment and glasses. These workers spend the most of their time on their feet and frequently handle large trays. They are under pressure to serve clients promptly and effectively during busy eating periods. Slips and burns are common minor injuries. Workers frequently wear gloves, aprons, or nonslip shoes to decrease dangers. Part-time, seasonal, and early morning or late evening hours are frequent... particularly for fast food workers. Workers who serve alcohol must be at least 18 years old. The majority of food and beverage service professionals receive on-the-job training. There are no official academic prerequisites.