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Cafe Assistant Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Bacoa

Social Service Manager - AgeGuide

Barrington, IL · On-site

Start new caregiver groups and Memory Café's * Assist with data entry for the AgeGuide.Title IIIE.Caregivers Resources * Assist with reporting. * Assist with vendor invoices. * Provide Information ...

Bean Sprouts Café

Cafe Team Member

Naperville, IL · On-site

$15 - $16/hr

Take orders, receive payments, and assist guests * Prepare food and beverages * Maintain a clean and sanitized dining area and front of house * Any additional tasks needed to run the day-to-day café ...

Glen Ellyn Public Library

Cafe Attendant

Glen Ellyn, IL · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

INTERACTION With Assistant Director, Cafe Manager, Cafe staff, other staff, and the public Requirements: KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES REQUIRED * Skilled in using everyday technology such as ...

Ferrero

Nutella Cafe - Cafe Associate

Chicago, IL · On-site

$16.60 - $18/hr

Join the team at the Nutella Café Chicago as we prepare for our exciting reopening this June! W ... tools to assist with reviewing candidate applications. These tools are used solely to support ...

Ferrero

Nutella Cafe - Cafe Associate

Chicago, IL · On-site

$16.60 - $18/hr

Join the team at the Nutella Café Chicago as we prepare for our exciting reopening this June! W ... tools to assist with reviewing candidate applications. These tools are used solely to support ...

Ferrero

Nutella Cafe - Cafe Associate

Chicago, IL · On-site

$16.60 - $18/hr

No previous cafe or restaurant experience? No problem - we'll provide training . If you enjoy ... tools to assist with reviewing candidate applications. These tools are used solely to support ...

Monarch Landing

Cafe Attendant

Naperville, IL · On-site

$16/hr

Explain menu items and confidently answer questions. * Assist with assigned food preparation and ensure food is handled and stored safely. * Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary café ...

Life Care Companies, LLC

Cafe Attendant

Naperville, IL · On-site

$16/hr

Explain menu items and confidently answer questions. * Assist with assigned food preparation and ensure food is handled and stored safely. * Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary café ...

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All JobsCafe JobsCafe Assistant JobsCafe Assistant Jobs in Chicago, IL

Cafe Assistant information

See Chicago, IL salary details

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How much do cafe assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for cafe assistant in Chicago, IL is $15.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.41 and $16.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a cafe assistant do?

A cafe assistant supports the daily operations of a cafe or coffee shop. As a cafe assistant, your job duties may include taking food and beverage orders, stocking pastry displays and other inventory, and cleaning the facility. You may also make simple drinks and be trained to use an espresso machine. Although there are minimal qualifications to become a cafe assistant, you need strong customer service, communication, and multi-tasking skills, as well as attention to detail. Employers typically provide on-the-job training in this entry-level role, which can help you gain valuable career experience in the service industry.

What does a cafe assistant do?

A Cafe Assistant is responsible for supporting the daily operations of a cafe, which includes tasks such as serving customers, preparing and serving food and drinks, handling payments, and maintaining cleanliness in the dining and kitchen areas. They often assist with restocking supplies, setting up tables, and ensuring that customers have a pleasant dining experience. Good communication and customer service skills are essential for this role, as Cafe Assistants frequently interact with customers and work as part of a team.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a cafe assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cafe Assistant, you generally need experience in food preparation, basic food hygiene knowledge, and strong customer service skills, often supported by a food safety certificate. Familiarity with point-of-sale (POS) systems, coffee machines, and inventory management tools is typically required. Excellent communication, teamwork, and the ability to remain calm under pressure help you stand out in this role. These skills are crucial for delivering efficient service, maintaining food safety standards, and ensuring a positive customer experience in a busy cafe environment.

What are some common challenges faced by cafe assistants and how can they be managed effectively?

Cafe Assistants often encounter challenges such as handling busy rush hours, maintaining excellent customer service under pressure, and balancing multiple tasks like operating the register, preparing drinks, and restocking supplies. Effective time management, strong communication skills, and teamwork are crucial in overcoming these challenges. Many cafes provide training and encourage a supportive environment, where staff members help each other during peak periods, making it easier to manage high workloads and provide a positive customer experience.

What is the difference between Cafe Assistant vs Barista?

AspectCafe AssistantBarista
CredentialsNone required, some experience helpfulFood safety certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentGeneral cafe duties, customer servicePreparing coffee, espresso, and beverages
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in cafes, restaurants, cateringPrimarily in coffee shops and specialty cafes
Search & Comparison IntentLooking for general cafe support rolesInterested in coffee preparation skills

While both roles work in cafes, a Cafe Assistant provides general support including customer service and cleaning, whereas a Barista specializes in coffee and beverage preparation. The roles often overlap, but Baristas typically require specific coffee-making skills and certifications. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right position based on their skills and interests.

How to get a cafe assistant job with no experience?

To get a cafe assistant job with no experience, focus on demonstrating good communication skills, a positive attitude, and a willingness to learn. Highlight any customer service or teamwork experience on your resume, and consider volunteering or taking short training courses to build relevant skills. Employers often value reliability and enthusiasm, especially for entry-level positions.
More about Cafe Assistant jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Cafe jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Cafe jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What job categories do people searching Cafe Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Cafe Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Cafe Assistant jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Cafe Assistant job openings:

Cafe Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cafe Assistant job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $31,868 per year, or $15.3 per hour.

Sub Cafe - All schools

Cedar Lake, IN • On-site

Hanover Community School Corporation
Motion Picture and Video Production • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about Hanover Community School Corporationexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

Substitute Cafe Assist
All Schools in District has openings
Job Duties:  Prepare and serve food, clean kitchen, operate cash register, and filling stock - Fills in when there are shortages or call offs from the cafeteria staff
Qualifications:
High School Diploma or GED.  Must also have good, moral character and ethical code.  The ability to communicate effectively with children.  Demonstrate adequate verbal and written language skills and serve as a role model for adults and students.  Can take direction and has organizational skills.  Is self-directed and loves children and young adults. 
Starting salary - $13.50
Hours - 3.5 - 5.75 hours per day  
Application Deadline:  Until filled
Application Submission:  Apply online at http://www.applitrack.com/hanover/onlineapp
 















   

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