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Cafeteria Associate Jobs in Romeoville, IL (NOW HIRING)

Chartwells K12

HELPER COOK (FULL TIME)

Downers Grove, IL · On-site

$16 - $20.50/hr

... the cafeteria happier and healthier than they came in, by serving food kids love to eat and creating custom dining programs. With more than 16,000 associates in 4,300 schools, ranging from large ...

Compass Group

SR. CAFE MANAGER- CHICAGO, IL

Chicago, IL · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

We have over 284,000 US associates who work in award-winning restaurants, corporate cafes ... Job Summary This individual is responsible for the overall cafeteria operations from open to close.

ATC Chicago

Paraprofessional Educator

Tinley Park, IL · On-site

$25/hr

... associate degree (or higher) at a regionally accredited institution of higher education or ... the cafeteria, schoolyard, specials, hallways, on field trips, and/or during before and after ...

ATC Chicago

Paraprofessional Educator

Tinley Park, IL · On-site

$25/hr

... associate degree (or higher) at a regionally accredited institution of higher education or ... the cafeteria, schoolyard, specials, hallways, on field trips, and/or during before and after ...

Choicehotels

Steward - Radisson Blu Aqua Chicago

Chicago, IL · On-site

$15.50 - $21/hr

... for cafeteria and Food and Beverage Department Maintains levels of stewarding stock, makes ... All associates must realize this fact and be aware that at all times it may be necessary to move ...

The Cary Company

Account Manager

Addison, IL · On-site

$48K - $60K/yr

Bachelor's or Associate's degree preferred. * Experience: Previous customer service or sales ... HRA * Cafeteria Plan * Seasonal company sponsored events * Work/Life Balance * Childcare ...

The Cary Company

Account Manager

Addison, IL · On-site

$48K - $60K/yr

Bachelor's or Associate's degree preferred. * Experience: Previous customer service or sales ... HRA * Cafeteria Plan * Seasonal company sponsored events * Work/Life Balance * Childcare ...

Choicehotels

Restaurant Manager

Chicago, IL

$60K - $75K/yr

Enjoy a complimentary meal in the associate cafeteria during your shift * Free Parking Day 1: * Paid Vacation and Sick Time * 8 Paid Holidays * Paid Bereavement * Paid Floating Holidays 1st of the ...

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All JobsCafeteria Associate JobsCafeteria Associate Jobs in Romeoville, IL

Cafeteria Associate information

See Romeoville, IL salary details

$14

$17

$21

How much do cafeteria associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for cafeteria associate in Romeoville, IL is $17.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.15 and $18.12 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 cities near Romeoville, IL are hiring for Cafeteria Associate jobs?

Cities near Romeoville, IL with the most Cafeteria Associate job openings:

Cafeteria Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cafeteria Associate job openings in Romeoville, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,590 per year, or $17.1 per hour.

HELPER COOK (FULL TIME)

Chartwells K12

Downers Grove, IL • On-site

$16 - $20.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago

Chartwells School Dining Services rating

5.5

Company rating: 5.5 out of 10

Based on 230 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

52nd of 68 rated caterers

Job description

  • We are hiring immediately for full time HELPER COOK positions.
  • Location: Community High School District - 4436 Main Street, Downers Grove, IL 60515. Note: online applications accepted only.
  • Schedule: Full time schedule; Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 2:00 pm. More details upon interview.
  • Requirement: Prior experience with pizza cooking.
  • Perks: Wil train, no nights or weekends!
  • Pay Range:  $16.50 per hour to $18.50 per hour.
    *Internal Employee Referral Bonus Available

We Make Applying Easy! Want to apply to this job via text messaging? Text JOB to 75000 and search requisition ID number 1559947.

The advertised program is a conversational recruiting assistant that helps you apply to jobs with Compass Group. Message frequency varies. Message and data rates may apply. Text STOP to opt out or HELP for help. Terms and conditions: http://olivia.paradox.ai/moSkg


Diversity of thought and inclusion for all is what drives our success - we invite you to start your journey with us today!


Chartwells K12's goal is to make sure students leave the cafeteria happier and healthier than they came in, by serving food kids love to eat and creating custom dining programs. With more than 16,000 associates in 4,300 schools, ranging from large public institutions to small charter and private schools, Chartwells K12 is built on decades of food, education and operational experience driven by top culinary, nutrition, wellness, and sustainability talent. For more information, visit www.ChartwellsK12.com.

Job Summary


Summary: Learns to assists in the preparation and cooking of various food items prior to being considered a qualified, skilled cook. Maintains food safety and sanitation standards in the preparation and kitchen areas.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Learns to read menu to estimate food requirements. Orders food from supplier or procures it from storage.
  • Prepares and cooks food in accordance with company production records and standardized recipes.
  • Learns to adjust thermostat controls to regulate temperature of ovens, broilers, grills, roasters and steam kettles.
  • Helps measure and mix ingredients according to recipes using a variety of kitchen utensils and equipment.
  • Bakes, roasts, broils and steam meats, fish, vegetables and other foods under guidance. Adds seasoning to food during mixing or cooking under the instruction of others.
  • Tests food by tasting, smelling and piercing to determine that it is cooked.
  • Carves meat, portions food on serving plates, and adds gravies, sauces and garnishes to fill orders as directed.
  • Washes, peels, cuts and shreds fruits and vegetables and fruits.
  • Butchers chicken, fish and shellfish as directed.
  • Bakes bread, rolls, cakes and pastry as course of instruction permits.
  • Maintains work area and equipment. Follows principles of sanitation and safety in handling food and equipment.
  • Interacts with customers and coworkers in a courteous, efficient and friendly manner.
  • Ensures compliance with company service standards and inventory and cash control procedures.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Associates at Chartwells K-12 are offered many fantastic benefits.

Both full-time and part-time positions offer the following benefits to associates:

  • Retirement Plan
  • Associate Shopping Program
  • Health and Wellness Programs
  • Discount Marketplace
  • Identity Theft Protection
  • Pet Insurance
  • Voluntary Benefits, including Critical Illness Insurance, Accident Insurance, Hospital Indemnity Insurance, Legal Services, and Choice Auto and Home Program

In addition, full-time positions also offer the following benefits to associates:

  • Medical
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Life Insurance/AD
  • Disability Insurance
  • Commuter Benefits
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)

Associates may also be eligible for paid and/or unpaid time off benefits in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. For positions in Washington State, Maryland, or to be performed Remotely, click here or copy/paste the link below for paid time off benefits information.

https://www.compass-usa.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/2023_WageTransparency_ChartwellsK12.pdf

Because this position requires you to perform services in an educational facility, there may be periods when the Company does not require you to perform work (such as winter and summer breaks when food service needs decline or cease). Any such periods during which you do not perform work on the Company’s behalf will be unpaid and deemed a temporary layoff. However, depending on business needs, you may be required to work year-round, potentially at a different location during break periods. Business needs may vary from year to year. 

About Compass Group: Achieving leadership in the foodservice industry

Compass Group is an equal opportunity employer.  At Compass, we are committed to treating all Applicants and Associates fairly based on their abilities, achievements, and experience without regard to race, national origin, sex, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other classification protected by law.
 

Qualified candidates must be able to perform the essential functions of this position satisfactorily with or without a reasonable accommodation. Disclaimer: this job post is not necessarily an exhaustive list of all essential responsibilities, skills, tasks, or requirements associated with this position. While this is intended to be an accurate reflection of the position posted, the Company reserves the right to modify or change the essential functions of the job based on business necessity.

Certain positions may require Florida Level 2 background screening. Details: https://info.flclearinghouse.com/ 

Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis.

Chartwells K-12 maintains a drug-free workplace.

What Chartwells School Dining Services employees say

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Chartwells School DIning Services logo

About Chartwells School DIning Services

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Chartwells K12's goal is to make sure students leave the cafeteria happier and healthier than they came in, by serving food kids love to eat and creating custom dining programs. With more than 16,000 associates in 4,300 schools, ranging from large public institutions to small charter and private schools, Chartwells K12 is built on decades of food, education and operational experience driven by top culinary, nutrition, wellness, and sustainability talent. For more information, visit www.ChartwellsK12.com.

Industry

Food services and drinking places

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Oak Park, MI, US

View All Chartwells School DIning Services Jobs