If you’re on the hunt for a job in the USA that comes with visa sponsorship, you might want to consider a position as a food counter attendant. These roles could be your pathway to working in the States.
This article breaks down all the essential information about food counter attendant jobs across America, covering the different roles available, salary expectations, the specifics of visa sponsorship, and a step-by-step guide on how to apply.
What Is a Food Counter Attendant?
Folks working at food counters can be found in spots like cafeterias, fast-food joints, coffee houses, and food courts. They’re responsible for taking orders, handing out the food, dealing with the money, and keeping the eating area tidy. These gigs call for some basic people skills, the ability to be on your feet a lot, and a generally pleasant demeanor.
Key Responsibilities of Food Counter Attendants
- Greet customers and answer questions about the menu.
- Take orders accurately and process payments.
- Prepare simple food items (e.g., salads, sandwiches, coffee).
- Maintain cleanliness of counters, tables, and equipment.
- Restock supplies like napkins, utensils, and condiments.
Also Apply: Restaurant Jobs in USA with Visa Sponsorship
Why Food Counter Attendant Jobs Offer Visa Sponsorship
A lot of U.S. employers are having a hard time finding people to fill entry-level jobs in the food service industry. This is because many employees leave their jobs after a short time, and there’s often a big need for workers during certain times of the year.
To deal with this, some companies bring in workers from other countries by paying for their visas. Here are some of the visas these companies typically use:
- H-2B Visa: This visa is for temporary workers who aren’t involved in farming.
- J-1 Visa: This visa is for people who come to the U.S. as part of an exchange program to receive training.
- EB-3 Visa: This visa is for people who want to permanently move to the U.S. for a job.
Industries That Help With Visas
- Fast-food chains (e.g., McDonald’s, Subway).
- Hotels and resorts.
- Theme parks (e.g., Disney World, Universal Studios).
- Corporate cafeterias.
Food Counter Attendant Salary and Visa Sponsorship Chances
Below is a table showing average salaries and visa sponsorship opportunities:
| Workplace | Average Hourly Pay | Visa Sponsorship Chance |
|---|---|---|
| Fast-Food Restaurants | 10–10–14 | High (H-2B common) |
| Coffee Shops | 12–12–16 (+ tips) | Medium |
| Hotels/Resorts | 13–13–18 | High (Seasonal demand) |
| Corporate Cafeterias | 15–15–20 | Low (EB-3 possible) |
Salaries vary by state. For example, workers in California or New York earn 20% more than the national average.
Benefits of Being a Food Counter Attendant in the U.S.
- A Stepping Stone to Staying in the U.S.
Certain visas, such as the EB-3, might let you apply for a Green Card down the line, after you’ve spent some years working in the country. - Good Pay and Extra Cash from Tips
The minimum wage in a lot of U.S. states is higher than in many other places. Plus, if you’re working in a coffee shop or a hotel, tips can really add to your earnings. - Picking Up New Skills
You’ll get better at dealing with customers, managing your time, and speaking English.
Things That Might Be Tough
- Visa Rules Can Be Tricky
H-2B visas aren’t permanent (they last up to 3 years), and getting an EB-3 visa approved can take ages. - It Can Be Physically Taxing
Expect to be on your feet a lot, and you’ll likely have to work weekends and holidays. - You’ll Need to Know Some English
Basic English is a must so you can talk to customers.
How to Increase Your Chances of Getting a Job
- Get a Food Handler’s Certificate: Most states want you to take this short online course (it’s usually 2-3 hours long).
- Show Off Your Customer Service Experience: Any experience counts, even if you didn’t get paid for it (like volunteering).
- Keep Your Resume Simple and to the Point: Focus on skills like working as a team, handling money, and keeping things clean.