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Food Prep Associate Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Wash and prep produce and chicken for production into salads and wraps, assemble all prep items ... associate, crew, team member, food service, worker, part time, part-time, p/t, full time ...

Wash and prep produce and chicken for production into salads and wraps, assemble all prep items ... associate, crew, team member, food service, worker, part time, part-time, p/t, full time ...

Kitchen Associate

Aurora, IL · On-site

$14 - $18/hr

Kitchen Associate Factor_ a brand of HelloFresh is seeking a Kitchen Associate. Team Members are ... Perform cold food prep (chopping, slicing, portioning) * Portion ingredients into individual food ...

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Food Prep Associate information

What is a food prep associate?

Food Prep Associates are workers responsible for preparing ingredients and assisting with basic cooking tasks in restaurants, cafeterias, or other food service establishments. Their duties often include washing, chopping, and measuring ingredients, maintaining cleanliness in the kitchen, and following food safety procedures. They support chefs and cooks to ensure efficient meal preparation and service. This role is essential for keeping kitchen operations running smoothly and safely.

What are some common challenges food prep associates face during busy meal times?

Food Prep Associates often experience high-pressure situations during peak meal times, such as lunch and dinner rushes. Managing time efficiently, keeping workstations organized, and maintaining food safety standards can be challenging when orders are coming in quickly. Effective communication with kitchen staff and front-of-house teams is crucial to ensure orders are accurate and timely. Adapting to changing priorities and staying calm under pressure are essential skills for success in this fast-paced environment.

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

To thrive as a Food Prep Associate, you need basic culinary skills, knowledge of food safety, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, food handling certifications (like ServSafe), and inventory systems is often required. Attention to detail, time management, teamwork, and a positive attitude are standout soft skills in this role. These skills ensure efficient, safe, and high-quality food preparation in a fast-paced environment, directly impacting customer satisfaction and operational success.

What is the difference between Food Prep Associate vs Kitchen Helper?

AspectFood Prep AssociateKitchen Helper
ResponsibilitiesPreparing ingredients, assembling dishes, following recipesAssisting with basic kitchen tasks, cleaning, and supporting cooks
CredentialsHigh school diploma often preferred; food safety certificationsMinimal formal credentials; on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentCommercial kitchens, restaurants, catering servicesSimilar settings, often in fast-paced kitchens
Industry UsageCommonly used in restaurants and food serviceOften used interchangeably with Food Prep Associate in entry-level roles

While both roles support kitchen operations, Food Prep Associates focus more on preparing ingredients and assembling dishes, whereas Kitchen Helpers assist with basic tasks and cleaning. The roles often overlap, but Food Prep Associates typically require some food safety knowledge and specific prep skills, making them slightly more specialized.

How to become a food prep associate?

To become a food prep associate, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and some experience in food handling or kitchen work. Basic skills include knowledge of food safety practices, ability to follow instructions, and familiarity with kitchen tools and equipment. Some employers may require food safety certifications such as ServSafe.

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

The most popular types of Food Prep jobs in Illinois are:

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

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

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

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

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Food Prep Associate jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Food Prep Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Food Prep Associate job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 24% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Food Service Associate

Kelley Williamson Company

Huntley, IL • On-site

$15 - $18/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago


Job description

Job Type
Full-time, Part-time
Description
Company: Kelley's Market
Location: Huntley
Address: 10111 RTE 47, Huntley IL 60142
Position: Food Service Associate
Reports To: Station Manager
About Kelley's Market
Join a company with deep roots and big opportunities! Since 1926, Kelley's Market has been serving Northern Illinois and Southern Wisconsin as a family-owned convenience store chain. As an ExxonMobil distributor, we're continuously growing and innovating to meet our customers' needs with new products, services, and technology. We pride ourselves on offering top-quality products underscored with outstanding service-and that starts with our team.
What You'll Do
The Food Service Associate plays a key role in helping us deliver top-quality food and an outstanding customer experience. This position is responsible for maintaining a clean, organized, and well-stocked food-service environment while serving customers in a friendly and efficient manner. The Food Service Associate may receive guidance and direction from Lead team members and reports directly to the Assistant Manager(s) and Station Manager. You will:
Deliver Outstanding Food & Service
• Prepare, assemble, and serve fresh food and beverages that meet brand and safety standards
• Provide fast, friendly, and courteous service that creates positive guest experiences
• Operate food prep equipment and POS systems accurately and safely
• Stay current on menu offerings, pricing, and promotions to assist customers and support sales
Keep Our Food Areas Clean & Safe
• Maintain cleanliness of all food service areas including prep stations, counters, equipment, dining areas, and restrooms
• Restock and rotate food items, condiments, utensils, and beverages using FIFO practices
• Follow all food safety, handling, and sanitation procedures in compliance with company and health department guidelines
• Alert management to any food safety concerns, equipment issues, or supply shortages
Support Smooth Operations
• Complete assigned tasks including temperature logs, equipment cleaning, and station checklists
• Accurately process transactions at the register and maintain proper cash handling
• Maintain accurate timekeeping and communicate shift updates or concerns to leadership
• Take ownership of daily routines and contribute to a smooth-running food service experience
Work as Part of Our Team
• Collaborate effectively with team members and take direction from leadership
• Uphold all safety and security procedures in food prep and customer interaction
• Contribute to a positive team culture that values cleanliness, quality, and fast service
What We Offer
Competitive Compensation
• The hiring range for this position is $15 to $18 per hour and may be based on education, work experience, knowledge, skills and certifications.
Comprehensive Benefits
• Medical & Dental (BlueCross), Vision (EyeMed)
• Flexible Savings Account (FSA)
• Voluntary Life and AD&D
• Voluntary Short-Term Disability
• 401(k) Plan with Annual Matching
Time Off & Work-Life Balance
• Vacation Time
• Personal Time
• Illinois Paid Leave
• Six Paid Holidays
Additional Perks
• Employee discounts on store products
• Clean, modern, and well-maintained work environment
• Opportunities for advancement within our growing organization
*Benefit eligibility may vary based on position, hours worked, and length of employment. Select benefits may not be eligible until specific milestones have been met. Consult with your Hiring Manager for more information.
Ready to make a real difference with your leadership skills? Apply today to join the Kelley Williamson team!
Requirements
What's Required:
• Must be at least 16 years of age. In select market(s), hiring age may be 18+.
• Ability to provide excellent customer service in a fast-paced retail/food-service environment.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Basic math skills and the ability to handle cash and operate a point-of-sale (POS) system accurately.
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Ability to lift up to 30 lbs frequently and up to 50 lbs occasionally, and to stand for extended periods.
Preferred Experience:
• Prior experience in a convenience store, gas station, or retail environment.
• Prior experience in a fast-food or QSR environment.
• Experience handling cash and completing shift reports or basic bookkeeping tasks.
Salary Description
$15-18 Per Hour