ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Cafeteria Associate Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

The Cary Company

Customer Success 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 Success 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

Advocate Aurora Health

Cashier

Hazel Crest, IL

$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 ...

New

S&C Electric Company

Food Service -Part-Time

Chicago, IL · On-site

$18.50/hr

Delivering food &/or supplies to the Building 6 Cafeteria and meeting rooms and returning/cleaning up supplies at the appropriate time using appropriate tools/personnel carrier. * Handling and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsCafeteria Associate JobsCafeteria Associate Jobs in Chicago, IL

Cafeteria Associate information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$14

$17

$21

How much do cafeteria associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for cafeteria associate in Chicago, IL is $17.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $18.32 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do lunch ladies get paid?

In North Carolina, cafeteria associates or lunch ladies typically earn an hourly wage ranging from $10 to $14, depending on experience and school district. Salaries may vary based on factors such as location, union agreements, and whether the position is part-time or full-time.

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 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 Cafeteria Associates?

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 jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Cafeteria associates typically do not earn $4,000 a week; such high earnings are uncommon in this role. Jobs that can pay this amount without a degree often include skilled trades like commercial truck driving, sales, real estate, or entrepreneurship, which may require specialized skills, certifications, or experience. These roles often involve high commissions, bonuses, or overtime to reach that income level.

What is a cafeteria job description?

A cafeteria associate's job description includes preparing and serving food and beverages, maintaining cleanliness in dining and kitchen areas, and providing customer service to students or staff. The role often requires good communication skills, the ability to follow safety and sanitation standards, and may involve operating kitchen equipment or cash registers.

What is a cafe assistant job role?

A cafeteria associate or cafe assistant is responsible for preparing and serving food and beverages, maintaining cleanliness, and providing customer service in a food service environment. They often handle cash registers, stock supplies, and follow health and safety regulations to ensure a clean and efficient operation.

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 are the most commonly searched types of Cafeteria jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Cafeteria jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What job categories do people searching Cafeteria Associate jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Cafeteria Associate jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Cafeteria Associate jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Cafeteria Associate job openings:
Cafeteria Associate jobs near you

Cook - Staff Cafeteria

165 Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana, LLC

Gary, IN

$15 - $18.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Our team members are the key to our company’s success, and their health and well-being, as well as that of their families, is very important to us. We offer a comprehensive benefits package that allows our team members stay healthy, plan for their future and maintain a healthy work-life balance. Benefits may vary with employment status.  To see our fill list of Team Member Benefits please visit our career site: www.gotoworkhappy.com/benefits

Job Description:

POSITION SUMMARY:

The incumbent in this position is responsible for properly preparing any and all foods listed on the respective menu/ n an assigned kitchen outlet/s.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

(These functions are intended as a general illustration of the work performed in this job classification and are not all inclusive for this position)

  • Creates an atmosphere that induces guests to make Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana their choice for gaming entertainment; responsible for actively building and retaining guest relations and acts as a mentor to team members in order to provide superior guest service.
  • Prepares foods that are based on company standards and recipes. Ensures that all plates or pans served are aesthetically appealing and cooked to the specifications of HRCNIN.
  • Keeps workstation neat and clean.
  • Assists co-workers to ensure efficient operation of the kitchen.
  • Ensures cleanliness of working area; reports all equipment for safety failures, hazardous areas and accidents.
  • Ensures the proper storing of any foods, including those from a previous function.
  • Ensures that items are fully stocked, and equipment is in good working condition.
  • Ensures the proper closing down of workstations.
  • Assists with other duties at special events or parties and assisting where necessary to include but not limited to carving, cooking, set up and or teardown stations or work areas or other duties as assigned.
  • Attend and participate in meetings, completing follow-up as assigned.
  • Assist other cooks during the food cooking and assembly process.
  • Clean up before shift ends.
  • Clean and sanitize all work areas based on Food Safety rules and regulations, together with HRCNIN standards
  • Clean up before shift ends.
  • Clean food preparation areas as determined by company policy.
  • Perform work regularly and predictably.
  • Responsible for cleaning and sanitizing work and public spaces.
  • On occasion may perform duties for special events/ parties.
  • Other duties as assigned.

NON-ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

  • Attend seminars when needed.

EDUCATION AND /OR EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:

(Related education and experience may be interchangeable on a year for year basis)

This knowledge and these abilities are typically acquired through a High School Diploma or Equivalent. A culinary apprenticeship, an associate degree from a culinary institution or an equivalent with some industry experience is preferred.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS: (Licenses, Certifications, Testing, etc):

  • Must obtain and maintain all licenses / certifications per Federal, State, and Indiana Gaming Commission.
  • Must successfully pass background check.
  • Must successfully pass drug screening.
  • Must be at least twenty-one (21) years of age.
  • Must be able to work holidays and weekends, as well as flexible shifts.

KNOWLEDGE OF:

  • Food, food product, food preparation, etc.
  • Standard safety and sanitation practices for food and beverage service.
  • How to prepare stocks, soups, mother sauces, and all varieties of meat including veal, pork, beef, lamb, poultry, game, and seafood.

ABILITY TO:

  • Be flexible to work varying shifts and time schedules as needed.
  • Communicate effectively with all levels of employees and guests.
  • Use all equipment associated with the position, including, but not limited to, choppers, slicers, mixers and grinders.