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Food Prep Associate Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Schulte

Cook/Dish/Food Prep

Chesterton, IN · On-site

$13.50 - $17/hr

Free Telemedicine and Virtual Mental Health care access for All Associates starting day one ... Prepares food according to specifications for breakfast, lunch, dinner and banquets * Maintains ...

Schulte Companies

Cook/Dish/Food Prep

Chesterton, IN

$13.50 - $17/hr

Free Telemedicine and Virtual Mental Health care access for All Associates starting day one ... Prepares food according to specifications for breakfast, lunch, dinner and banquets * Maintains ...

Schulte Companies

Cook/Dish/Food Prep

Chesterton, IN · On-site

$13.50 - $17/hr

Free Telemedicine and Virtual Mental Health care access for All Associates starting day one ... Prepares food according to specifications for breakfast, lunch, dinner and banquets * Maintains ...

Schulte Companies

Cook/Dish/Food Prep

Chesterton, IN

$13.50 - $17/hr

Free Telemedicine and Virtual Mental Health care access for All Associates starting day one ... Prepares food according to specifications for breakfast, lunch, dinner and banquets * Maintains ...

Chick-fil-A

Kitchen Salad Prep Team Member

Elmhurst, IL · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

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 ...

Chick-fil-A

Kitchen Salad Prep Team Member

Elmhurst, IL · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

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 ...

Schulte

Cook/Food Prep/Dish Steward

Chesterton, IN · On-site

$13.50 - $17/hr

Free Telemedicine and Virtual Mental Health care access for All Associates starting day one ... Prepares food according to specifications for breakfast, lunch, dinner and banquets * Maintains ...

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All JobsFood Prep Associate JobsFood Prep Associate Jobs in Chicago, IL

Food Prep Associate information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$9

$16

$21

How much do food prep associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for food prep associate in Chicago, IL is $16.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.85 and $18.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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.

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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Food Prep jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Food Prep jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Food Prep Associate jobs in Chicago, IL? For Food Prep Associate jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Food Prep Associate jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Food Prep Associate jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Food Prep Associate jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Food Prep Associate job openings:
Food Prep Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Food Prep Associate job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, 27% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,796 per year, or $16.2 per hour.

Kitchen Support & Food Prep Associate

Montessori Kids Universe of Bannockburn

Deerfield, IL • On-site

$18/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

Position Summary
Montessori Kids Universe is seeking a dependable, hardworking Kitchen Support & Food Prep Associate to join our team. This combined role supports daily meal and snack preparation for children while maintaining a clean, organized, and health-compliant kitchen environment.
This position is ideal for someone who enjoys working behind the scenes to support children and staff, takes pride in cleanliness and organization, and can manage food preparation and dishwashing responsibilities efficiently.
Key Responsibilities

Food Preparation & Service
  • Assist in planning monthly menus based on seasonality and nutritional guidelines
  • Create a weekly shopping list for food and kitchen supplies
  • Set up the kitchen with necessary tools and equipment for daily operations
  • Prepare and portion snacks and catered lunches for classroom distribution
  • Deliver snacks to classrooms at scheduled times
  • Maintain appropriate inventory levels and restock when necessary
  • Follow all food safety and sanitation regulations (local and state guidelines)
  • Participate in daily kitchen opening and closing procedures
Dishwashing & Sanitation
  • Remove food from plates and pre-rinse dishes, glasses, and utensils
  • Load and unload dishwasher properly and efficiently or wash using 3 compartment Sink
  • Return clean items to appropriate storage areas
  • Sweep and mop kitchen floors daily
  • Monitor detergent and cleaning supply levels
  • Perform general cleaning tasks as assigned by management
  • Follow all health and safety guidelines

Team Collaboration
  • Participate in team meetings
  • Support staff needs related to meal service
  • Perform other duties as assigned by administration
Qualifications
  • Previous experience in food service, kitchen support, or similar role preferred
  • ServSafe or Food Handler’s Certification (or willingness to obtain)
  • Knowledge of basic culinary techniques and food safety practices
  • Strong work ethic and reliability
  • Positive attitude and friendly demeanor
  • Excellent time management and organizational skills
  • Attention to detail
  • Ability to remain calm
  • Ability to meet the physical demands of the role, including standing for extended periods, lifting, bending, and repetitive movement