Costco Deli Associate (Duties, Is It A Good Job, Pay, Hours, + More)

Costco Deli’s deli associates perform many support functions that you may not be aware of, and if you’re looking to apply for the position, you may wonder what the job entails.

Therefore, keep reading this article to learn more about what I learned on this topic!

What is a Costco Deli Associate In [currentyear]?

Costco Deli Associates work in the deli department and perform many functions like preparing food, greeting customers, and stocking shelves. They also oversee food safety procedures in stores. Deli associates must be certified in proper food handling procedures before hire and continue to learn on the job. Additionally, starting pay is $15/hr as of [currentyear].

Keep reading to find out more useful facts and tips regarding the Costco deli associate job!

What are the Duties of a Costco Deli Associate?

At Costco, deli associates work within the deli department. They perform various support functions throughout each day, such as:

  • Greet deli customers and take orders
  • Slice meats and cheeses for sandwiches and salads
  • Assist with preparing party trays
  • Stock shelves
  • Manage and report inventory
  • Order fresh supplies as needed
  • Disinfect meal prep areas
  • Clean up after customers
  • Arrange displays
  • Assemble takeout orders
  • Arrange and bake pizzas

As demanded, deli associates may likewise be called for to staff other understaffed areas within the store if they have been instructed in the area.  

What Skills Do I Need to Have to Be a Costco Deli Associate?

At Costco, associates must be at least 18 and high school graduates or have a comparable degree (ex. a GED).

In order to work in food service at Costco, you must also have a level 1 food safety certification before your first day of employment.

For example, candidates can consider this online course provided by the First Principles Program, which explains the basics of the following:

  • Foodborne illnesses
  • Food handling time and temperature
  • Personal hygiene
  • Preventing food contamination
  • Proper cleaning and sanitizing procedures
  • Common problems and solutions with food

Is the Costco Deli Associate Job an Easy Job to Get For Someone With No Experience?

If you’re applying for the deli associate job at Costco, you don’t need to have previous experience, as you’ll be working with people who will teach you everything you need to know.

Before you can begin working as a deli associate, you will take the certification course that teaches many food safety topics.

Because of this introductory training and ongoing on-the-job training, this position is an excellent entry-level position for anyone, even if they have absolutely no prior food handling experience.

How Much are Costco Deli Associates Paid?

How Much are Costco Deli Associates Paid?

As with other jobs at Costco, you can expect a very generous hourly salary as a deli associate at Costco. According to Glassdoor, entry-level deli associates at Costco earn around $15/ hour on average.

This is a great job to get started in, but if you’re looking for something that’s more of a career, and you want to work your way up.

What Hours and Shifts are Available For Costco Deli Associates to Work?

In this position, you can work either full-time or part-time. The job’s flexibility makes it attractive to workers who want to learn more about food service roles or may still be in school.

Do Costco Deli Associates Work On Weekends and Holidays?

Since the deli sees an increase in orders during the holiday seasons and weekends, workers have a greater need during these times. As a result, this is an excellent opportunity if you need to pick up an extra shift.

How Do I Apply For a Job as a Deli Associate at Costco?

To apply for a job as a Costco deli associate, the applicant will need to fill out a short application form online and submit it.

To begin the application process, visit Costco’s career website. For your convenience, applicants can find job descriptions for all available jobs at Costco locations on this website.

After reviewing the deli associate job description, applicants can apply by clicking on the link at the bottom of the page.

First, applicants must choose a location they would like to work in by selecting the state, city, and zip code, and then selecting the job opening.

Next, it will take applicants to the applicant portal main screen. If the applicant has previously applied for a job at Costco, they can sign in with their prior login information or Google login.

If they’re a new applicant, they must set up a new applicant profile by providing your contact information, education, and employment history, and complete the application process afterward.

Once the applicant profile has been completed, you can apply for review, and the hiring managers will contact you for an interview if they think you’re a fit for the job.

Do I Need to Pass a Drug Test Before I Can Be Hired as a Deli Associate at Costco?

Before any new employee can begin working at Costco, it will require them to pass a drug test that screens for marijuana, amphetamines, opiates, and phencyclidine.

Is the Costco Deli Associate Position a Good Job?

Since the Costco deli associate job is an entry-level position at Costco, there is much room for growth and is a position that offers a lot of flexibility and pays well.

If you want to learn more about other Costco jobs, you can also read our posts on Costco cashier assistant, Costco baker, and Costco inventory auditor.

Conclusion

At Costco, the deli associate position is a great way to introduce yourself to the foodservice industry. Workers have flexible work schedules, room for growth, opportunities to learn on the job, and industry-leading pay.

If you enjoy working with food and have experience with customer service, the Costco deli associate job is an excellent opportunity for you. 

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Marques Thomas

Marques Thomas graduated with a MBA in 2011. Since then, Marques has worked in the retail and consumer service industry as a manager, advisor, and marketer. Marques is also the head writer and founder of QuerySprout.com.

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