Food and beverage serving and related workers
🤍 Save CareerFood and beverage serving and related workers play a vital role in the US economy, with 5.0 million professionals employed nationwide. The median annual salary is $31,040, with projected growth of 5% through 2034 (Faster than average).
💰 Salary Range
📈 Growth Outlook
moderate — 5% projected growth🤖 AI Automation Risk
AI may assist but is unlikely to replace this role.
🤖AI Impact Deep Dive: Food and beverage serving and related workers
🔬 AI Impact Deep Dive: Food and beverage serving and related workers
AI Collaboration Score
Measures how much AI tools are used as collaborative assistants in this role (0% = no AI involvement, 100% = AI-intensive workflow)
🔮 Future Outlook
The core of this occupation involves physical labor, such as clearing tables, carrying heavy trays, and cleaning, which are difficult to automate with current robotics. However, AI is increasingly handling digital peripheral tasks like order-taking via kiosks or voice-AI drive-thrus and managing reservations, which reduces the need for human staff in front-of-house roles.
Analysis based on Microsoft "Working with AI" research (2025), O*NET task data v30.2, and Bureau of Labor Statistics occupational projections. Updated March 2026.
🌅A Day in the Life
🌟Career Outlook & Getting Started
Why It's Promising
With 5% projected growth and a median salary of $31,040, this career offers steady prospects. The large employment base (5.0M jobs) means abundant opportunities across the country.
How to Get Started
Entry typically requires no formal educational credential. Start by exploring relevant AP courses in high school, gaining hands-on experience through internships or volunteering, and connecting with professionals in the field.
Who Is It For
Anyone interested in food and beverage serving and related workers who wants to build a rewarding career in this field.
🎓Majors & Top Schools
❓Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Food and beverage serving and related workers make in 2026?▼
The median salary for a Food and beverage serving and related workers is $31,040 per year. Entry-level positions start around $18,624, while experienced professionals can earn up to $49,664 depending on location, specialization, and industry.
How do I become a Food and beverage serving and related workers?▼
Entry typically requires no formal educational credential. Start by exploring relevant AP courses in high school, gaining hands-on experience through internships or volunteering, and connecting with professionals in the field. The typical education requirement is no degree required.
What degree do you need to be a Food and beverage serving and related workers?▼
Most Food and beverage serving and related workers positions require no degree required. However, some professionals enter the field through alternative paths like bootcamps, certifications, or self-directed learning.
What AP courses should I take to become a Food and beverage serving and related workers?▼
Check PathLeap for personalized AP course recommendations for Food and beverage serving and related workers. The right AP courses depend on your target college major and career specialization.
What does a Food and beverage serving and related workers do on a daily basis?▼
As a food and beverage serving and related worker, your day involves a mix of specialized tasks that require both expertise and adaptability. You work with colleagues, clients, or patients depending on the setting, applying your training to solve real-world problems.
Is Food and beverage serving and related workers a good career in 2026?▼
With 5% projected growth and a median salary of $31,040, this career offers steady prospects. The large employment base (5.0M jobs) means abundant opportunities across the country. Job growth is projected at 5%, which is declining. The median salary of $31,040 also positions it competitively in the job market.
Will AI replace Food and beverage serving and related workerss?▼
Food and beverage serving and related workers has an AI automation risk score of 30/100 (Low). AI will change how this work is done, but the core skills remain valuable. Professionals who learn to work with AI tools will have a significant advantage.
What kind of person makes a good Food and beverage serving and related workers?▼
Anyone interested in food and beverage serving and related workers who wants to build a rewarding career in this field. Success in this role also depends on continuous learning and adaptability, especially as the field evolves with new technology and industry trends.
Is Food and beverage serving and related workers Right for You?
Take our career quiz to see how Food and beverage serving and related workers matches your personality. Get personalized AP course recommendations and see what similar students are exploring.
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