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Cafeteria Associate Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Sarahbush

Food Service Associate

Vandalia, IL · On-site

$16.54 - $25.24/hr

Food Service Associate Under the direct supervision of the Nutritional Services Director or ... assist in cafeteria as needed - serving, cleaning, cashiering., Prepares and delivers items as ...

Sarah Bush Lincoln

Food Service Associate

Vandalia, IL · On-site

$16.54 - $25.24/hr

Food Service Associate Under the direct supervision of the Nutritional Services Director or ... assist in cafeteria as needed - serving, cleaning, cashiering., Prepares and delivers items as ...

Sarahbush

Food Service Associate

Vandalia, IL

$16.14 - $24.21/hr

Food Service Associate Under the direct supervision of the Nutritional Services Director or ... assist in cafeteria as needed - serving, cleaning, cashiering., Prepares and delivers items as ...

Sarah Bush Lincoln

Food Service Associate

Vandalia, IL · On-site

$16.14 - $24.21/hr

Food Service Associate Under the direct supervision of the Nutritional Services Director or ... assist in cafeteria as needed - serving, cleaning, cashiering., Prepares and delivers items as ...

The Cary Company

Customer Service Associate

Addison, IL · On-site

$45K - $55K/yr

Associate's or Bachelor's degree preferred * Proven experience in a customer service role a plus ... HRA & Cafeteria Plan * Seasonal Company-Sponsored Events * Work/Life Balance Initiatives

The Cary Company

Customer Service Associate

Addison, IL · On-site

$45K - $55K/yr

Associate's or Bachelor's degree preferred * Proven experience in a customer service role a plus ... HRA & Cafeteria Plan * Seasonal Company-Sponsored Events * Work/Life Balance Initiatives

The Cary Company

Customer Service Associate

Addison, IL · On-site

$14.50 - $20/hr

Associate's or Bachelor's degree preferred * Proven experience in a customer service role a plus ... HRA & Cafeteria Plan * Seasonal Company-Sponsored Events * Work/Life Balance Initiatives

Advocate Aurora Health

Cashier

Hazel Crest, IL · On-site

$18.85 - $28.30/hr

Coordinates daily cafeteria procedures as necessary 1)Secures & opens doors and equipment at off/on ... associate when available. Unique lifting/movement situations will be assessed on a case by case ...

Shopko Optical

Optical Sales Associate

Freeport, IL · On-site

$15 - $18.50/hr

Shopko Optical is seeking a Full-time Optical Sales Associate to join our team in Freeport, IL. On ... Voluntary/Cafeteria Offerings * Employee Assistance Program * On the Job Training & Certification

New

Fielmann USA

Optical Sales Associate

Machesney Park, IL · On-site

$18.50 - $25.90/hr

Shopko Optical is seeking a Full-time Optical Sales Associate to join our team in Machesney Park ... Voluntary/Cafeteria Offerings * Employee Assistance Program * On the Job Training & Certification

Fielmann USA

Optical Sales Associate

Round Lake Beach, IL · On-site

$19.50 - $27.30/hr

Shopko Optical is seeking a Full-time Optical Sales Associate to join our team in Round Lake Beach ... Voluntary/Cafeteria Offerings * Employee Assistance Program * On the Job Training & Certification

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All JobsCafeteria Associate JobsCafeteria Associate Jobs in Illinois

Cafeteria Associate information

See Illinois salary details

$13

$16

$20

How much do cafeteria associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for cafeteria associate in Illinois is $16.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $17.26 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a cafeteria associate?

Cafeteria Associates are staff members who work in cafeterias, often in schools, hospitals, or corporate settings, to help prepare, serve, and sometimes cook food. They are responsible for ensuring that food is served safely and efficiently, maintaining cleanliness in dining and kitchen areas, handling cash registers or payment systems, and providing customer service to patrons. Their role is essential for the smooth operation of food service in large institutions, and they often work as part of a team under the supervision of a cafeteria manager or supervisor.

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

To thrive as a Cafeteria Associate, you need basic food preparation skills, knowledge of food safety standards, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with point-of-sale (POS) systems, commercial kitchen equipment, and proper sanitation procedures is typically required. Strong teamwork, customer service, and time management abilities help individuals excel in this fast-paced environment. These skills ensure efficient service, customer satisfaction, and compliance with health regulations.

What are some common challenges faced by cafeteria associates, and how can they be managed effectively?

Cafeteria Associates often encounter challenges such as managing high customer volumes during peak meal times, maintaining cleanliness under tight schedules, and addressing diverse dietary needs. Effective time management and clear communication with team members can help in prioritizing tasks and ensuring smooth service. Additionally, being adaptable and following established food safety protocols are essential for delivering quality meals and a positive dining experience.

What is the difference between Cafeteria Associate vs Food Service Worker?

AspectCafeteria AssociateFood Service Worker
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; food safety certification often preferredHigh school diploma or equivalent; food safety certification often required
Work EnvironmentSchool cafeterias, cafeterias in institutionsRestaurants, cafeterias, catering services
Employer & IndustryEducational institutions, school districtsRestaurants, catering companies, institutional food services
Job DutiesServing students, cashiering, food prep, cleaningPreparing and serving food, cleaning, customer service

Both roles involve food service in institutional settings, often requiring similar certifications and skills. However, Cafeteria Associates primarily work in school environments serving students, while Food Service Workers may work in a broader range of food service settings like restaurants and catering. The core responsibilities overlap, but the work environment and specific duties differ slightly.

What are the most commonly searched types of Cafeteria jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Cafeteria jobs in Illinois are:

What are popular job titles related to Cafeteria Associate jobs in Illinois?

For Cafeteria Associate jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Cafeteria Associate jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Cafeteria Associate jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Cafeteria Associate jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Cafeteria Associate job openings:

Cafeteria Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cafeteria Associate job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 48% Full Time, and 52% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $33,825 per year, or $16.3 per hour.

PT Cafeteria - 4 hours per day

United Township High Sch District 30

East Moline, IL • On-site

$16.78/hr

Other

Retirement

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Position Type:
Support Staff/Cafeteria
Date Posted:
6/18/2026
Date Available:
08/03/2026
Closing Date:
Untill Filled
Part-time (4 hours per day) on student attendance days (177 days)
Eligible for IMRF pension
10 sick days per year
Entry-level wage for 2026-27 = $16.78 per hour
Attachment(s):
  • Job Description - PT Cafeteria
  • Notice of Vacancy - PT Cafeteria (4 hours)

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