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Employment in food preparation and serving related occupations is projected to grow 7 percent from 2019 to 2029, faster than the average for all occupations, and gain about 1 million jobs. Population and income growth are expected to result in greater consumer demand for food at a variety of dining places, including restaurants and grocery stores.
Food preparation and serving related occupations is the lowest paid occupational group, with a median annual wage of $24,220 in May 2019.
OCCUPATION | JOB SUMMARY | ENTRY-LEVEL EDUCATION ![]() |
2019 MEDIAN PAY ![]() |
|
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Bartenders |
Bartenders mix drinks and serve them directly to customers or through wait staff. |
No formal educational credential | $23,680 |
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Chefs and Head Cooks |
Chefs and head cooks oversee the daily food preparation at restaurants and other places where food is served. |
High school diploma or equivalent | $51,530 |
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Cooks |
Cooks prepare, season, and cook a wide range of foods. |
See How to Become One | $26,360 |
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Food and Beverage Serving and Related Workers |
Food and beverage serving and related workers perform a variety of customer service, food preparation, and cleaning duties in eating and drinking establishments. |
No formal educational credential | $23,000 |
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Food Preparation Workers |
Food preparation workers perform many routine tasks under the direction of cooks, chefs, or food service managers. |
No formal educational credential | $24,800 |
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Waiters and Waitresses |
Waiters and waitresses take orders and serve food and beverages to customers in dining establishments. |
No formal educational credential | $22,890 |
Last Modified Date: Tuesday, September 1, 2020