NOC 2021 · 65201 · TEER 5
NOC 65201: Food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations
Official NOC 2021, Job Bank and IRCC data · checked 21 October 2026
Food counter attendants and food preparers prepare, heat and finish cooking simple food items and serve customers at food counters. Kitchen helpers, food service helpers and dishwashers clear tables, clean kitchen areas, wash dishes, and perform various other activities to assist workers who prepare or serve food and beverages. They are employed by restaurants, cafés, hotels, fast food outlets, cafeterias, hospitals and other establishments.
TEER
TEER 5
Usually needs short-term work demonstration and no formal education
Median wage (Canada)
$16.55 / hour
Job Bank, 2023-2024
High-wage tier (from 3 Nov 2026)
Not on the list
No high-wage CRS points
Express Entry categories
None
General and program draws only
Express Entry
How NOC 65201 counts for Express Entry
- Federal Skilled Worker: not eligibleNeeds 1 year of continuous skilled (TEER 0–3) work in the last 10 years and 67 points on the FSW grid.
- Canadian Experience Class: not eligibleNeeds 1 year of skilled (TEER 0–3) work in Canada in the last 3 years.
- Federal Skilled Trades: not eligibleNeeds 2 years of work in an eligible trade group in the last 5 years, plus a job offer or a Canadian certificate of qualification.
High-wage CRS points
NOC 65201 is not one of IRCC's 186 high-wage occupations, so Canadian work or a job offer in it earns no high-wage points. Your usual Canadian work-length points still count.
See all 186 high-wage occupationsCategory-based draws
NOC 65201 is not on any of IRCC's 2026 occupation categories. You can still be invited through general, program-specific or French-language draws.
IRCC category listsDuties
Main duties
This group performs some or all of the following duties:
- Food counter attendants and food preparers
- Take customers' orders
- Clean, peel, slice and trim foodstuffs using manual and electric appliances
- Use deep fryer, grill, oven, dispensers and other equipment to prepare fast food items such as sandwiches, hamburgers, fries, salads, ice cream dishes, milkshakes and other beverages
- Portion, assemble, and wrap food or place it directly on plates for service to patrons, and package take-out food
- Use equipment to prepare hot beverages such as coffee and tea specialties
- Serve customers at counters or buffet tables
- Stock refrigerators and salad bars and keep records of the quantities of food used
- May receive payment for food items purchased.
- Kitchen helpers
- Wash and peel vegetables and fruit
- Wash work tables, cupboards and appliances
- Remove trash and clean kitchen garbage containers
- Unpack and store supplies in refrigerators, cupboards and other storage areas
- Sweep and mop floors, and perform other duties to assist cook and kitchen staff.
- Food service helpers
- Clear and clean tables and trays in eating establishments
- Bring clean dishes, flatware and other items to serving areas and set tables
- Replenish condiments and other supplies at tables and in serving areas
- Remove dishes before and after courses
- Perform other duties such as scraping and stacking dishes, carrying linen to and from laundry area and running errands.
- Dishwashers
- Wash dishes, glassware, flatware, pots and pans using dishwasher or by hand
- Place dishes in storage area
- Scour pots and pans, and may clean and polish silverware.
For Express Entry, your experience must match the lead statement and most of these duties, not only the job title.
Job titles
Example job titles
- bartender helper
- bus boy/girl
- cafeteria counter attendant
- cook's helper
- dishwasher
- fast-food preparer
- food counter attendant
- food preparer
- food service helper
- ice cream counter attendant
- kitchen helper
- salad bar attendant
- sandwich maker
All 69 job titles in NOC 65201
- airline food assembler
- bar helper
- barista
- bartender helper
- bus boy/girl
- cafeteria counter attendant
- cafeteria helper
- cafeteria worker
- cafeteria-buffet attendant
- camp cook's helper
- camp lunchroom attendant
- caterer helper
- cook's helper
- counterperson - food services
- dessert maker
- dessert preparer
- dietary aide
- dining room assistant
- dining room attendant
- dishwasher
- dishwashing machine attendant
- donut shop attendant
- donut shop clerk
- donut shop counter clerk
- doughnut shop attendant
- doughnut shop clerk
- doughnut shop counter clerk
- drive-in food service attendant
- expediter - food services
- fast-food preparer
- fast-food service attendant
- fish and chips preparer
- food and beverage service runner assistant
- food and beverage services attendant
- food assembler - fast food
- food concession worker
- food counter attendant
- food preparer
- food runner
- food service attendant
- food service counter attendant
- food service helper
- food service worker
- hospital meal attendant
- hospital tray carrier
- hot dog vendor
- ice cream counter attendant
- ice cream vendor
- kitchen helper
- logging camp cook's helper
- lunchroom counter attendant
- lunchroom counterman/woman
- popcorn vendor
- pot washer
- restaurant counter attendant
- salad and sandwich maker
- salad bar attendant
- salad maker
- sandwich artist
- sandwich maker
- sandwich, salad and dessert maker
- silverware cleaner
- snack bar attendant
- steam table attendant - food services
- steward - Canadian Armed Forces
- street food vendor
- sushi preparer
- take-out attendant - fast food
- tray carrier attendant - hospital
Requirements
Employment requirements
- Some secondary school education is usually required.
- On-the-job training is provided.
Additional information
- There is considerable mobility among jobs in this unit group.
- Movement into other occupations within food preparation and service, such as cook or waiter, is possible with further training and experience.
Wages
Wages for NOC 65201 in Canada
Low, median and high wages per hour in Canadian dollars, from ESDC Job Bank's 2025 wage data.
| Region | Low | Median | High | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Canada | $15.00 | $16.55 | $21.50 | Labour Force Survey, 2023-2024 |
| Newfoundland and Labrador | $16.00 | $16.00 | $22.00 | Labour Force Survey, 2023-2024 |
| Prince Edward Island | $16.50 | $16.50 | $20.98 | Labour Force Survey, 2023-2024 |
| Nova Scotia | $16.50 | $16.50 | $18.77 | Labour Force Survey, 2023-2024 |
| New Brunswick | $15.65 | $15.65 | $21.00 | Labour Force Survey, 2023-2024 |
| Quebec | $16.10 | $16.50 | $21.75 | Labour Force Survey, 2023-2024 |
| Ontario | $17.60 | $17.60 | $21.00 | Labour Force Survey, 2023-2024 |
| Manitoba | $16.00 | $16.00 | $18.50 | Labour Force Survey, 2023-2024 |
| Saskatchewan | $15.35 | $15.35 | $20.19 | Labour Force Survey, 2023-2024 |
| Alberta | $15.00 | $16.00 | $20.00 | Labour Force Survey, 2023-2024 |
| British Columbia | $17.85 | $17.85 | $23.00 | Labour Force Survey, 2023-2024 |
| Nunavut | $19.00 | $25.90 | $30.00 | Labour Force Survey, 2023-2024 |
Provinces with too little data are not shown. Wages vary by city and employer; see Job Bank for regional figures.
Job outlook
Job outlook by province, 2025–2027
Job Bank rates the 3-year outlook as good or very good in Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia.
GoodPrince Edward Island
The employment outlook will be Good for food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations (NOC 65201) in Prince Edward Island for the 2025-2027 period.
The following factors contributed to this outlook:
Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
High employee turnover in this occupation could lead to additional employment opportunities.
The prospect for employment in this occupation is good as there continues to be a shortage of workers and unfilled vacancies in the province. Employers rely on the Temporary Foreign Worker program to fill temporary jobs/vacancies in this occupation when qualified Canadian labour is not available. Employment opportunities are expected primarily from a high labour turnover rate, which can be explained by challenging working conditions and a young and mobile labour force.
Here are some key facts about food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations in Prince Edward Island:
Approximately 1,750 people work in this occupation.
Food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations mainly work in the following sectors:
Food services and drinking places (NAICS 722): 71%
Hospitals (NAICS 622): 10%
Nursing and residential care facilities (NAICS 623): 9%
The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:
Full-time workers: 52% compared to 84% for all occupations
Part-time workers: 48% compared to 16% for all occupations
41% of food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations work all year, while 59% work only part of the year, compared to 59% and 41% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 36 weeks compared to 41 weeks for all occupations.
Less than 5% of food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations are self-employed compared to an average of 13% for all occupations.
The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
Men: 28% compared to 51% for all occupations
Women: 72% compared to 49% for all occupations
The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
no high school diploma: 31% compared to 11% for all occupations
high school diploma or equivalent: 41% compared to 28% for all occupations
apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: less than 5% compared to 11% for all occupations
college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 15% compared to 25% for all occupations
bachelor's degree: 6% compared to 17% for all occupations
university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: less than 5% compared to 8% for all occupations
GoodNova Scotia
The employment outlook will be Good for food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations (NOC 65201) in Nova Scotia for the 2025-2027 period.
The following factors contributed to this outlook:
Employment growth will lead to a few new positions.
A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
High employee turnover in this occupation could lead to additional employment opportunities.
The labour shortages that plagued the food services sector in recent years has eased considerably for some positions like food counter attendants. Even so, the large size of this occupation and regular turnover mean that opportunities occur regularly in most communities in the province.
Prospects are good for individuals looking for work as a food counter attendant, however some conditions of employment may be a deterrent to applicants, such as long or irregular hours and seasonality.
Here are some key facts about food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations in Nova Scotia:
Approximately 10,250 people work in this occupation.
Food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations mainly work in the following sectors:
Food services and drinking places (NAICS 722): 73%
Nursing and residential care facilities (NAICS 623): 8%
Hospitals (NAICS 622): 6%
The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:
Full-time workers: 49% compared to 82% for all occupations
Part-time workers: 51% compared to 18% for all occupations
39% of food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations work all year, while 61% work only part of the year, compared to 62% and 38% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 36 weeks compared to 42 weeks for all occupations.
Less than 5% of food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations are self-employed compared to an average of 11% for all occupations.
The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
Men: 33% compared to 51% for all occupations
Women: 67% compared to 49% for all occupations
The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
no high school diploma: 27% compared to 10% for all occupations
high school diploma or equivalent: 46% compared to 27% for all occupations
apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: 6% compared to 12% for all occupations
college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 11% compared to 22% for all occupations
bachelor's degree: 8% compared to 20% for all occupations
university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: less than 5% compared to 10% for all occupations
ModerateNewfoundland and Labrador
The employment outlook will be Moderate for food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations (NOC 65201) in Newfoundland and Labrador for the 2025-2027 period.
The following factors contributed to this outlook:
Employment is expected to remain relatively stable.
Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
High employee turnover in this occupation could lead to additional employment opportunities.
Experience is preferred but not necessary in this occupation, which is commonly staffed by students and workers under 25 years of age. Part-time opportunities are typically available, and employee turnover will also result in job openings. Those with a willingness to work shifts or weekends may be preferred for many opportunities.
Here are some key facts about food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations in Newfoundland and Labrador:
Approximately 4,300 people work in this occupation.
Food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations mainly work in the following sectors:
Food services and drinking places (NAICS 722): 74%
Hospitals (NAICS 622): 9%
The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:
Full-time workers: 50% compared to 83% for all occupations
Part-time workers: 50% compared to 17% for all occupations
38% of food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations work all year, while 62% work only part of the year, compared to 56% and 43% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 34 weeks compared to 40 weeks for all occupations.
Less than 5% of food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations are self-employed compared to an average of 8% for all occupations.
The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
Men: 34% compared to 51% for all occupations
Women: 66% compared to 49% for all occupations
The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
no high school diploma: 24% compared to 11% for all occupations
high school diploma or equivalent: 48% compared to 27% for all occupations
apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: 8% compared to 17% for all occupations
college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 11% compared to 23% for all occupations
bachelor's degree: 7% compared to 14% for all occupations
university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: less than 5% compared to 7% for all occupations
ModerateNew Brunswick
The employment outlook will be Moderate for food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations (NOC 65201) in New Brunswick for the 2025-2027 period.
The following factors contributed to this outlook:
Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
High employee turnover in this occupation could lead to additional employment opportunities.
The level of travel activity continues to increase due to a surge in domestic tourism, which has led to greater employment demand.
There is some seasonality associated with this occupation and job prospects are better during the summer months.
Food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations may be required to work evenings, weekends, and holidays, so flexibility is an asset.
Depending on the region, some roles may require that candidates are competent in both French and English.
Candidates must typically complete a food safety course.
Here are some key facts about food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations in New Brunswick:
Approximately 7,100 people work in this occupation.
Food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations mainly work in the following sectors:
Food services and drinking places (NAICS 722): 76%
Nursing and residential care facilities (NAICS 623): 7%
Hospitals (NAICS 622): 5%
The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:
Full-time workers: 47% compared to 84% for all occupations
Part-time workers: 53% compared to 16% for all occupations
39% of food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations work all year, while 61% work only part of the year, compared to 62% and 38% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 36 weeks compared to 42 weeks for all occupations.
Less than 5% of food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations are self-employed compared to an average of 10% for all occupations.
The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
Men: 33% compared to 52% for all occupations
Women: 67% compared to 48% for all occupations
The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
no high school diploma: 31% compared to 11% for all occupations
high school diploma or equivalent: 48% compared to 30% for all occupations
apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: 5% compared to 12% for all occupations
college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 11% compared to 23% for all occupations
bachelor's degree: less than 5% compared to 16% for all occupations
university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: less than 5% compared to 7% for all occupations
ModerateManitoba
The employment outlook will be Moderate for food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations (NOC 65201) in Manitoba for the 2025-2027 period.
The following factors contributed to this outlook:
Employment growth will lead to a few new positions.
Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
High employee turnover in this occupation could lead to additional employment opportunities.
Demand for this occupation is driven by consumer spending, tourism, and high employee turnover.
Key trends in this occupation include automation of routine tasks using self-service kiosks, QR coded menus, and mobile ordering apps.
Advanced automation and artificial intelligence (AI) such as robotic fry cooks and AI -enabled coffee machines, and automated inventory management are also increasing.
Delivery-centred ghost kitchens eliminate the role of counter attendants.
Here are some key facts about food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations in Manitoba:
Approximately 12,450 people work in this occupation.
Food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations mainly work in the following sectors:
Food services and drinking places (NAICS 722): 69%
Nursing and residential care facilities (NAICS 623): 8%
Hospitals (NAICS 622): 7%
The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:
Full-time workers: 41% compared to 81% for all occupations
Part-time workers: 59% compared to 19% for all occupations
41% of food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations work all year, while 59% work only part of the year, compared to 65% and 35% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 36 weeks compared to 43 weeks for all occupations.
Less than 5% of food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations are self-employed compared to an average of 12% for all occupations.
The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
Men: 33% compared to 53% for all occupations
Women: 67% compared to 47% for all occupations
The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
no high school diploma: 27% compared to 12% for all occupations
high school diploma or equivalent: 46% compared to 31% for all occupations
apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: 6% compared to 12% for all occupations
college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 10% compared to 17% for all occupations
bachelor's degree: 9% compared to 20% for all occupations
university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: less than 5% compared to 8% for all occupations
ModerateSaskatchewan
The employment outlook will be Moderate for food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations (NOC 65201) in Saskatchewan for the 2025-2027 period.
The following factors contributed to this outlook:
Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
High employee turnover in this occupation could lead to additional employment opportunities.
Labour shortages and above average turnover rates may improve job opportunities for this occupation in the near term.
Use of food delivery services may negatively affect the number of people going to local establishments.
With many restaurants typically sourcing 30 to 35 per cent of their products from the States, tariffs may impact already thin profit margins of restaurant operators and limit hiring opportunities for this occupation.
Here are some key facts about food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations in Saskatchewan:
Approximately 10,550 people work in this occupation.
Food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations mainly work in the following sectors:
Food services and drinking places (NAICS 722): 68%
Hospitals (NAICS 622): 11%
Nursing and residential care facilities (NAICS 623): 7%
The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:
Full-time workers: 41% compared to 81% for all occupations
Part-time workers: 59% compared to 19% for all occupations
41% of food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations work all year, while 59% work only part of the year, compared to 65% and 35% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 36 weeks compared to 43 weeks for all occupations.
Less than 5% of food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations are self-employed compared to an average of 16% for all occupations.
The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
Men: 34% compared to 53% for all occupations
Women: 66% compared to 47% for all occupations
The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
no high school diploma: 26% compared to 11% for all occupations
high school diploma or equivalent: 47% compared to 33% for all occupations
apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: less than 5% compared to 15% for all occupations
college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 10% compared to 17% for all occupations
bachelor's degree: 10% compared to 18% for all occupations
university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: less than 5% compared to 7% for all occupations
ModerateAlberta
The employment outlook will be Moderate for food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations (NOC 65201) in Alberta for the 2025-2027 period.
The following factors contributed to this outlook:
Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
High employee turnover in this occupation could lead to additional employment opportunities.
The accommodation and food services industry had the highest job vacancy rate among industries in the province over the first half of 2025, indicating that there are employment opportunities going unfilled.
Population growth should improve the demand for this occupation. However, restaurants remain sensitive to the discretionary spending of consumers, which is dependent on economic conditions.
Food service employers are having an increasingly difficult time recruiting and retaining employees at all levels, meaning that hiring requirements may be more flexible, at least over the near-term.
Employment opportunities for this occupation are moderate, as economic uncertainty may curb discretionary spending and population growth is expected to slow down over the next few years.
Here are some key facts about food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations in Alberta:
Approximately 43,500 people work in this occupation.
Food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations mainly work in the following sectors:
Food services and drinking places (NAICS 722): 76%
Nursing and residential care facilities (NAICS 623): 6%
The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:
Full-time workers: 42% compared to 80% for all occupations
Part-time workers: 57% compared to 20% for all occupations
36% of food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations work all year, while 64% work only part of the year, compared to 61% and 39% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 34 weeks compared to 42 weeks for all occupations.
Less than 5% of food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations are self-employed compared to an average of 15% for all occupations.
The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
Men: 36% compared to 53% for all occupations
Women: 64% compared to 47% for all occupations
The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
no high school diploma: 24% compared to 10% for all occupations
high school diploma or equivalent: 48% compared to 28% for all occupations
apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: less than 5% compared to 13% for all occupations
college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 11% compared to 19% for all occupations
bachelor's degree: 10% compared to 21% for all occupations
university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: less than 5% compared to 9% for all occupations
ModerateNorthwest Territories
The employment outlook will be Moderate for food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations (NOC 65201) in Northwest Territories for the 2025-2027 period.
The following factors contributed to this outlook:
Employment growth will lead to a few new positions.
Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
High employee turnover in this occupation could lead to additional employment opportunities.
Most job opportunities in this occupation are in the Yellowknife area.
Employers in Yellowknife have struggled to fill vacancies in this occupation in 2025.
In the Northwest Territories, this occupation can be employed to support the workforce in industrial settings, such as at mining camps.
From 2021-2040, 202 job openings are forecast for food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations in the Northwest Territories (
Government of Northwest Territories, May 2023
).
Here are some key facts about food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations in Northwest Territories:
Approximately 250 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
Food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations mainly work in the following sectors:
Tourism & Culture (NAICS 51, 71-72): 71%
Health care and social services (NAICS 62): 10%
Wholesale and Retail Trade (NAICS 41, 44-45): 8%
The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:
Full-time workers: 50% compared to 88% for all occupations
Part-time workers: 50% compared to 12% for all occupations
35% of food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations work all year, while 65% work only part of the year, compared to 71% and 28% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 32 weeks compared to 44 weeks for all occupations.
The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
Men: 49% compared to 52% for all occupations
Women: 51% compared to 48% for all occupations
The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
no high school diploma: 50% compared to 17% for all occupations
high school diploma or equivalent: 31% compared to 26% for all occupations
apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: 9% compared to 12% for all occupations
college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 6% compared to 18% for all occupations
bachelor's degree: less than 5% compared to 17% for all occupations
university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: less than 5% compared to 9% for all occupations
LimitedQuebec
The employment outlook will be Limited for food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations (NOC 65201) in Quebec for the 2025-2027 period.
The following factors contributed to this outlook:
Employment growth will lead to a few new positions.
Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
Employment in this occupation depends on trends influencing the food service sector, in particular fast food, where most jobs in this occupational group are located. This industry is characterized by a competitive business environment and low profit margins, resulting in high turnover. However, some positions are found in more stable environments, such as cafeterias in hospitals, schools or corporate institutions.
The recent population growth, driven by immigration, and an improved tourism outlook are contributing to expanding the food services clientele. However, in the context of the rising cost of living and economic uncertainty, consumers tend to reduce non-essential spending and favour more affordable options, such as take-out meals or limited-service counters. This development could foster employment in fast-food restaurants, at the expense of full-service restaurants and drinking places, which would be favourable to this occupation.
On the contrary, increased use of kiosks and mobile applications could reduce demand for counter services.
Here are some key facts about food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations in Quebec:
Approximately 80,700 people work in this occupation.
Food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations mainly work in the following sectors:
Food services and drinking places (NAICS 722): 68%
Hospitals (NAICS 622): 6%
Nursing and residential care facilities (NAICS 623): 5%
The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:
Full-time workers: 43% compared to 82% for all occupations
Part-time workers: 56% compared to 18% for all occupations
37% of food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations work all year, while 63% work only part of the year, compared to 62% and 38% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 34 weeks compared to 43 weeks for all occupations.
Less than 5% of food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations are self-employed compared to an average of 12% for all occupations.
The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
Men: 41% compared to 52% for all occupations
Women: 59% compared to 48% for all occupations
The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
no high school diploma: 34% compared to 12% for all occupations
high school diploma or equivalent: 35% compared to 19% for all occupations
apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: 10% compared to 19% for all occupations
college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 15% compared to 22% for all occupations
bachelor's degree: less than 5% compared to 17% for all occupations
university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: less than 5% compared to 11% for all occupations
LimitedOntario
The employment outlook will be Limited for food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations (NOC 65201) in Ontario for the 2025-2027 period.
The following factors contributed to this outlook:
Employment growth will lead to a few new positions.
Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
High employee turnover in this occupation could lead to additional employment opportunities.
What Types of Employers Are Out There?
Majority employed in restaurants, especially limited-service eating places
Health care, mainly nursing and residential care facilities are also key employers
What are the Main Trends Affecting Employment?
Employee turnover should result in some job openings, as this is an entry-level occupation with a younger workforce and a high degree of part-time work
However, consumer spending in restaurants is expected to be constrained due to economic uncertainty
There could also be a fair amount of competition for jobs given weaker hiring activities by employers
Investments in new nursing and long-term care facilities in Ontario could create some opportunities
Here are some key facts about food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations in Ontario:
Approximately 145,000 people work in this occupation.
Food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations mainly work in the following sectors:
Food services and drinking places (NAICS 722): 74%
Nursing and residential care facilities (NAICS 623): 8%
The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:
Full-time workers: 37% compared to 81% for all occupations
Part-time workers: 63% compared to 19% for all occupations
37% of food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations work all year, while 63% work only part of the year, compared to 63% and 37% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 34 weeks compared to 43 weeks for all occupations.
Less than 5% of food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations are self-employed compared to an average of 15% for all occupations.
The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
Men: 35% compared to 52% for all occupations
Women: 65% compared to 48% for all occupations
The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
no high school diploma: 27% compared to 9% for all occupations
high school diploma or equivalent: 44% compared to 25% for all occupations
apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: less than 5% compared to 8% for all occupations
college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 14% compared to 22% for all occupations
bachelor's degree: 9% compared to 24% for all occupations
university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: less than 5% compared to 13% for all occupations
LimitedBritish Columbia
The employment outlook will be Limited for food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations (NOC 65201) in British Columbia for the 2025-2027 period.
The following factors contributed to this outlook:
Employment growth will lead to a few new positions.
Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
Consumer spending and behavior influence establishments and services.
Institutions, like hospitals, care homes, and school and business cafeterias provide a more stable demand.
The food services industry is characterized by entry-level positions and high employee turnover.
Key trends for this occupation include contactless ordering and payment, artificial intelligence (AI) used to analyze data for and inventory management and waste reduction, kitchen automation for repetitive tasks, and delivery-centred ghost kitchens.
Here are some key facts about food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations in British Columbia:
Approximately 55,300 people work in this occupation.
Food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations mainly work in the following sectors:
Food services and drinking places (NAICS 722): 77%
The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:
Full-time workers: 39% compared to 78% for all occupations
Part-time workers: 61% compared to 22% for all occupations
34% of food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations work all year, while 66% work only part of the year, compared to 61% and 39% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 34 weeks compared to 42 weeks for all occupations.
Less than 5% of food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations are self-employed compared to an average of 17% for all occupations.
The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
Men: 35% compared to 52% for all occupations
Women: 65% compared to 48% for all occupations
The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
no high school diploma: 26% compared to 8% for all occupations
high school diploma or equivalent: 47% compared to 28% for all occupations
apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: less than 5% compared to 13% for all occupations
college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 10% compared to 17% for all occupations
bachelor's degree: 9% compared to 22% for all occupations
university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: less than 5% compared to 12% for all occupations
LimitedNunavut
The employment outlook will be Limited for food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations (NOC 65201) in Nunavut for the 2025-2027 period.
The following factors contributed to this outlook:
Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
There are several unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
High employee turnover in this occupation could lead to additional employment opportunities.
Job opportunities in this occupation are spread throughout Nunavut.
In Nunavut, this occupation can be employed to support the workforce in industrial settings, such as at mining camps.
Here are some key facts about food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations in Nunavut:
Approximately 100 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
Food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations mainly work in the following sectors:
Tourism & Culture (NAICS 51, 71-72): 71%
Health care and social services (NAICS 62): 10%
Wholesale and Retail Trade (NAICS 41, 44-45): 8%
The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:
Full-time workers: 63% compared to 87% for all occupations
Part-time workers: 38% compared to 13% for all occupations
38% of food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations work all year, while 63% work only part of the year, compared to 72% and 28% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 32 weeks compared to 44 weeks for all occupations.
The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
Men: 43% compared to 51% for all occupations
Women: 56% compared to 49% for all occupations
The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
no high school diploma: 65% compared to 37% for all occupations
high school diploma or equivalent: 17% compared to 22% for all occupations
apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: 5% compared to 11% for all occupations
college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 13% compared to 15% for all occupations
bachelor's degree: n/a
university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: n/a
Source: ESDC Job Bank, 3-year employment outlooks 2025–2027 (released December 2025).
Provinces
Provincial Nominee Programs
A provincial nomination adds 600 CRS points. Most provinces run occupation-targeted draws or in-demand lists, and some accept TEER 4 and 5 occupations that Express Entry does not.
Provincial lists change often, sometimes between draws. We check whether NOC 65201 is being targeted by any province as part of a consultation.
Similar occupations
Related NOC codes
Classified elsewhere
If your duties fit one of these better, use that code instead.
Same occupation group
Food support occupations
- 65200 Food and beverage servers
- 65202 Meat cutters and fishmongers - retail and wholesale
Questions
NOC 65201: common questions
What is the NOC code for food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations?
What TEER category is NOC 65201?
Is NOC 65201 eligible for Express Entry?
Is NOC 65201 a high-wage occupation for Express Entry?
Is NOC 65201 eligible for category-based Express Entry draws?
What is the median wage for NOC 65201 in Canada?
Classification
Where it sits in NOC 2021
- 6Sales and service occupationsBroad Category
- 65Sales and service support occupationsMajor Group
- 652Support occupations in food, accommodation and tourismSub-major Group
- 6520Food support occupationsMinor Group
- 65201Food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations
Enquiry
Is NOC 65201 your occupation? Ask us about your options.
Tell us your duties, experience and language scores. We will confirm your NOC code and the Canadian routes that fit.
Sources: Statistics Canada, NOC 2021 Version 1.0, Job Bank wages (2025), Job Bank outlooks 2025–2027 and IRCC. Contains information licensed under the Open Government Licence – Canada. Checked 21 October 2026.
NOC 2026 is due from Statistics Canada in December 2026. IRCC still uses NOC 2021 codes, and this page will show any change once IRCC switches.
This page is general information, not immigration advice. It is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Government of Canada, IRCC or ESDC.
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