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Retail

Food Preparation Worker

Perform a variety of food preparation duties other than cooking, such as preparing cold foods and shellfish, slicing meat, and brewing coffee or tea.

Annual openings

2,441

Median wage

$38,960

Typical education

Education not reported

Growth 2026–2032

+3%

Median wage source: Colorado BLS OEWS (2025).

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Career requirements

What does this career require?

Explore education, required qualifications, voluntary credentials and employer preferences for this role. Check the details to see which apply.

Typical education

Education not reported

Credential requirement

No certification is required or expected for this job.

Work experience

This is an entry-level role so no experience is required.

Is this work a fit?

What the work actually feels like

How people in this career tend to spend their time, the interests it draws on, and a look at a typical day.

Automation exposure

High exposure

Many tasks are repeatable, so technology could reshape the day-to-day over time.

A typical day

  1. Clean and sanitize work areas, equipment, utensils, dishes, or silverware.
  2. Assist cooks and kitchen staff with various tasks as needed, and provide cooks with needed items.
  3. Take and record temperature of food and food storage areas, such as refrigerators and freezers.
  4. Carry food supplies, equipment, and utensils to and from storage and work areas.
  5. Remove trash and clean kitchen garbage containers.
  6. Store food in designated containers and storage areas to prevent spoilage.
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