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Entry Level Food Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Staff Management | SMX

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Entry Level Food Production Worker (Full-Time and Part-Time)

Geneva, IL · On-site

$16.50 - $18/hr

Join a fast-growing food production team in Geneva, IL. No experience needed - training is provided. Enjoy weekly pay, flexible schedules, and real opportunities to grow your career. Earn up to $18 ...

Kamehameha Schools

Cook

Campus, IL

$13.75 - $18.25/hr

Job Summary Entry level food service position responsible for general cleaning, washing, dish washing, loading/unloading, cafeteria and serving line set up, and prep assistance. Essential ...

Posted today

Just In Time Staffing LLC

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Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer

Elgin, IL · On-site

$65K - $82K/yr

Position: Entry- Level Manufacturing Engineer Job Type : Direct Hire Pay: $65,000 - $82,000 ... Support safety, quality, and food-safety compliance requirements. Qualifications Required

Culver's

Entry Level Manager

Evergreen Park, IL · On-site

$16 - $17/hr

Immediate Opening for a Highly Skilled Entry Level Manager Are you looking for a fun and loving ... Effectively run shifts to ensure great food quality and excellent guest service * Serve as a ...

Culver's

Entry Level Manager

Palos Heights, IL · On-site

$17 - $19/hr

Immediate Opening for a Highly Skilled Entry Level Manager Are you looking for a fun and loving ... Effectively run shifts to ensure great food quality and excellent guest service * Serve as a ...

Culver's

Entry Level Manager

Palos Heights, IL · On-site

$17 - $19/hr

Immediate Opening for a Highly Skilled Entry Level Manager Are you looking for a fun and loving ... Effectively run shifts to ensure great food quality and excellent guest service * Serve as a ...

Culver's

Entry Level Manager

Evergreen Park, IL · On-site

$16 - $17/hr

Immediate Opening for a Highly Skilled Entry Level Manager Are you looking for a fun and loving ... Effectively run shifts to ensure great food quality and excellent guest service * Serve as a ...

Archer Daniels Midland

Entry Level Lab Technician - Decatur, IL Job Summary Performs chemical and microbiological analysis ... Documents analytical results and laboratory activities, including food safety, product quality ...

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Entry Level Food information

What is an entry level food job?

Entry level food jobs are positions in the food industry that require little to no previous experience or specialized training. These roles often include tasks such as food preparation, serving, cashiering, dishwashing, and assisting cooks or chefs. People in these jobs typically work in restaurants, cafeterias, fast food outlets, or catering services, and they gain valuable experience that can help them advance to higher positions in the food service industry.

What does a typical day look like for someone in an entry level food service position?

A typical day in an entry-level food service role usually involves preparing basic food items, maintaining cleanliness in the kitchen or dining area, and assisting with customer service tasks such as taking orders or serving food. Employees often work as part of a team, collaborating closely with cooks, servers, and managers to ensure smooth operations. Entry-level staff are also responsible for following food safety protocols and may perform routine tasks like restocking supplies or handling simple cash register transactions. This role offers valuable experience in time management, teamwork, and customer interaction, laying the groundwork for future advancement in the food service industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in an entry level food service position, and why are they important?

To thrive in an entry-level food service role, basic food preparation skills, a high school diploma or equivalent, and an understanding of food safety standards are generally required. Familiarity with point-of-sale (POS) systems, kitchen equipment, and food handling certifications like ServSafe are often expected. Strong teamwork, time management, and customer service skills help individuals excel in fast-paced environments. These skills ensure efficient service, maintain health standards, and contribute to positive customer experiences in the food industry.

What is the difference between Entry Level Food vs Food Service Worker?

AspectEntry Level FoodFood Service Worker
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; food safety certification often preferredHigh school diploma or equivalent; food safety certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentRestaurants, cafeterias, catering servicesRestaurants, fast food outlets, cafeterias
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly used in hospitality and food production industriesWidely used in food service establishments and hospitality

Entry Level Food roles typically involve basic food preparation, cleaning, and customer service tasks. Food Service Worker positions are similar, focusing on serving customers, maintaining cleanliness, and supporting kitchen operations. Both roles require minimal experience and certifications, making them accessible entry points into the food industry. The main difference lies in specific job duties and work settings, but they often overlap in daily responsibilities.

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

The most popular types of Food jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Entry Level Food jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Entry Level Food job openings:

Entry Level Food jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Food job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 68% Full Time, and 32% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Entry Level Food Production Worker (Full-Time and Part-Time)

Staff Management | SMX

Geneva, IL • On-site

$16.50 - $18/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life

Re-posted yesterday

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Job description

Start as soon as this week! Join a fast-growing food production team in Geneva, IL. No experience needed - training is provided. Enjoy weekly pay, flexible schedules, and real opportunities to grow your career.


Earn up to $18.00/hour based on shift:

  • 1st Shift: 6:00 AM - 2:30 PM ($16.50/hr)
  • 2nd Shift: 2:00 PM - 10:30 PM ($17.50/hr)
  • 3rd Shift: 10:00 PM - 6:30 AM ($18.00/hr)

Weekly pay

Immediate openings on all shifts ¡Empleo disponible! Verificamos elegibilidad bajo E-verify


Perks & Benefits

  • Modern, high tech Environment
  • Weekly paychecks
  • Direct Deposit or Cash Card pay options
  • Medical / Dental Insurance
  • Life Insurance
  • Advancement Opportunities
  • $16.50 - $18.00 / Hour


Employment Type & Shifts

  • Part Time
  • Full Time
  • Temp to Hire
  • 1st Shift
  • 2nd Shift
  • 3rd Shift
  • Flex Scheduling


Job Responsibilities

As a Food Production Associate, you may:

  • Package and label food products
  • Supply and support production lines
  • Measure, weigh, and mix ingredients
  • Inspect products to ensure quality standards
  • Maintain a clean and safe work environment

You'll be trained to follow Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) to ensure food safety and quality.


What We're Looking For

  • Reliable and dependable team players
  • Able to stand for the duration of the shift
  • Able to lift up to 30 lbs
  • Must be 18+ years old
  • Willing to complete a background check

Note: To meet food safety standards, certain personal items (such as jewelry or artificial nails) must be removed during shifts.


Associate Requirements

  • Background Check
  • Able to Lift 30 pounds
  • Stand for Shift Duration
  • Must be at least 18 years old


The hourly rate for this position is anticipated between $16.50 - $18.00 per hour. This range is a good-faith estimate, based on the shift you work and other considerations permitted by law. An employee's pay history will not be a contributing factor where prohibited by local law. In addition to monetary compensation, we offer medical, dental, vision, life, and more. More details about benefits can be found at https://flimp.live/trueblueassociates#home.


Staff Management | SMX is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, sexual orientation, age, gender identification, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records in accordance with applicable law. Accommodations are available on request for candidates taking part in the selection process. If you require disability-related accommodation during the recruitment process, please contact your Recruiter or Employee Relations. TrueBlue, Inc. and its brands will consult with all applicants who request disability-related accommodation during the recruitment process to ensure that the accommodation provided takes into account the applicant's individual accessibility needs.


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Company Description

You deserve a job you can feel good about.

At Staff Management | SMX, we strengthen communities by creating opportunities that put people to work. As partners in our clients' distribution, fulfillment and manufacturing operations, we help place associates onsite along with a full support team.

Whether you’re an associate working on site, a field support team member or a corporate professional, you’ll be part of something important here at Staff Management | SMX. We take pride in what we do because what we do matters - to our families, our communities and each other.

We offer positions in the US and Canada and our recruiters are always near to help you. Visit our careers page to find the right opportunity for you!