Overall employment of food and beverage serving and related workers is projected to grow 10 percent from 2014 to 2024, faster than the average for all occupations. Employment growth, however, will vary by occupation (see table below for details).
As a growing population continues to dine out, purchase take-out meals, or have food delivered, more restaurants, particularly fast-food and casual dining restaurants, are expected to open. In response, more food and beverage serving workers, including fast-food workers, will be required to serve customers.
In addition, nontraditional food service operations, such as those inside grocery stores and cafeterias in hospitals and residential care facilities, will serve more prepared meals. Because these workers are essential to the operation of a food-serving establishment, they will continue to be in demand.
Job Prospects
Job opportunities for food and beverage serving and related workers will be excellent because many workers leave the occupation each year, resulting in a large number of job openings.
Workers with related work experience and excellent customer-service skills should have the best job opportunities at upscale restaurants. Still, those seeking positions at these establishments will face strong competition because the prospect of higher tips attracts many applicants.
Food and Beverage Serving and Related Workers
Percent change in employment, projected 2014-24
Food and beverage serving and related workers
10%
Food preparation and serving related occupations
7%
Total, all occupations
7%
Note: All Occupations includes all occupations in the U.S. Economy. Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections program