The American dining scene is booming! Recent data from the National Restaurant Association reveals impressive growth, with food service sales climbing from $632 billion in 2012 to a staggering $898 billion in 2022. Projections indicate this thriving industry is well on its way to hitting the $1 trillion mark this year. This robust growth naturally fuels a significant demand for skilled and dedicated individuals to fill Food Service Jobs across the nation.
In 2022, the food service sector employed approximately 13.9 million people, highlighting its role as a major employer. Looking ahead, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) forecasts a continued expansion in this field, anticipating an addition of around half a million food service jobs between 2022 and 2032. When factoring in the need to replace workers who leave the sector, the annual average job openings in food service are projected to be an impressive 2.6 million through 2032.
To celebrate National Food Service Employee Day on September 25th, let’s delve into some specific food service occupations that are expected to grow significantly between 2022 and 2032, based on the number of annual job openings. Notably, none of these promising careers require more than a high school diploma or equivalent, making them accessible paths for many individuals seeking stable and rewarding employment.
Fast Food and Counter Workers: The Front Lines of Food Service
Fast food and counter workers are the friendly faces you often encounter at limited-service restaurants, cafeterias, and snack bars. These essential food service professionals are responsible for taking customer orders, preparing or fetching menu items, and processing payments efficiently. Their tasks also include heating food and assembling quick and tasty salads and sandwiches.
Number of Jobs (2022): 3,410,100
Projected Growth (2022-32): 1.5% (As fast as average)
Annual Average Job Openings (2022-32): 789,300
Restaurant Cooks: Culinary Artists in Every Eatery
Restaurant cooks are the heart of any dining establishment, expertly preparing a diverse range of dishes, typically made to order for hungry patrons. Beyond cooking, some restaurant cooks also take on responsibilities such as ordering supplies and managing stock, showcasing their versatility in food service operations.
Number of Jobs (2022): 1,361,200
Projected Growth (2022-32): 20.4% (Much faster than average)
Annual Average Job Openings (2022-32): 252,400
First-Line Supervisors of Food Preparation and Serving Workers: Leading the Team
First-line supervisors play a crucial leadership role in food service, overseeing and coordinating teams of food preparation and serving workers. They ensure smooth operations, maintain quality standards, and guide their teams to deliver excellent customer service.
Number of Jobs (2022): 1,221,700
Projected Growth (2022-32): 4.9% (Faster than average)
Annual Average Job Openings (2022-32): 188,900
Bartenders: Crafting Drinks and Experiences
Bartenders are skilled professionals who mix and serve alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, either directly to customers at the bar or through wait staff. They are not only drink makers but also often contribute to the ambiance and customer experience in food service settings.
Number of Jobs (2022): 641,300
Projected Growth (2022-32): 3.3% (As fast as average)
Annual Average Job Openings (2022-32): 113,500
Dining Room and Cafeteria Attendants and Bartender Helpers (Bus Staff): Supporting Seamless Service
Dining room and cafeteria attendants, along with bartender helpers—often collectively known as bus staff—provide essential support to waiters, waitresses, and bartenders. Their responsibilities include cleaning and setting tables, clearing dishes, and restocking service areas with necessary supplies, ensuring efficient and smooth customer flow. They may also assist in bringing food from the kitchen, serving water, and providing condiments.
Number of Jobs (2022): 459,200
Projected Growth (2022-32): 4.2% (As fast as average)
Annual Average Job Openings (2022-32): 89,100
Institutional and Cafeteria Cooks: Feeding Communities
Cooks in institutions and cafeterias work in diverse settings like schools, businesses, hospitals, and other organizations. They typically prepare meals in large quantities based on pre-set menus, catering to the needs of a large number of people. These food service professionals also often accommodate special dietary needs and customize meals when required.
Number of Jobs (2022): 434,500
Projected Growth (2022-32): 2.1% (As fast as average)
Annual Average Job Openings (2022-32): 66,600
Driver/Sales Workers: Delivering Meals on the Go
Driver/sales workers play a vital role in the food service ecosystem by delivering takeout orders from restaurants directly to customers’ doors. This segment of food service jobs has grown significantly with the rise of food delivery services.
Number of Jobs (2022): 541,000
Projected Growth (2022-32): 7.7% (Faster than average)
Annual Average Job Openings (2022-32): 62,500
Food Servers (Non-Restaurant): Bringing Food Beyond Traditional Settings
Food servers in non-restaurant environments extend food service beyond traditional eateries. They deliver room service in hotels, meals in hospitals, and even serve customers at drive-in movie theaters as carhops, showcasing the diverse applications of food service skills.
Number of Jobs (2022): 258,600
Projected Growth (2022-32): 3.1% (As fast as average)
Annual Average Job Openings (2022-32): 43,700
Chefs and Head Cooks: Leading Culinary Excellence
Chefs and head cooks are at the pinnacle of food preparation, responsible for overseeing the daily culinary operations in restaurants and various other food service establishments. They bring creativity, expertise, and leadership to kitchen environments.
Number of Jobs (2022): 174,400
Projected Growth (2022-32): 5.3% (Faster than average)
Annual Average Job Openings (2022-32): 22,000
The food service industry offers a wide array of career opportunities for individuals with diverse skills and interests. From entry-level positions to leadership roles, food service jobs provide pathways for growth and stability in a dynamic and ever-evolving sector. With millions of projected job openings annually, now is an opportune time to explore the rewarding possibilities within the food service industry.
