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

Compass Group

FOOD SERVICE UTILITY

Chicago, IL · On-site

$21.50/hr

Washes worktables, walls, refrigerators, meat blocks and other food prep surfaces. * Removes trash ... Associates at Eurest are offered many fantastic benefits. Full-time and part-time positions offer ...

Troon

Prep Cook

Chicago, IL · On-site

$22/hr

Learns and maintains standards in food production and quality. * Expedites orders in a timely ... Maintains a professional relationship with fellow associates. * Helps reduce loss/waste.

Compass Group

FOOD SERVICE UTILITY

Downers Grove, IL · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

With more than 16,000 associates in 4,300 schools, ranging from large public institutions to small ... Washes worktables, walls, refrigerators, meat blocks and other food prep surfaces. * Removes trash ...

Compass Group

FOOD SERVICE UTILITY

Chicago, IL · On-site

$17.05/hr

We asked some of our associates why they love working for Touchpoint. Click here to see what they ... Washes worktables, walls, refrigerators, meat blocks and other food prep surfaces. * Removes trash ...

Compass Group

FOOD SERVICE UTILITY

Elk Grove Village, IL · On-site

$18/hr

We asked some of our associates why they love working for Touchpoint. Click here to see what they ... Washes worktables, walls, refrigerators, meat blocks and other food prep surfaces. * Removes trash ...

Compass Group

FOOD SERVICE UTILITY

Chicago, IL · On-site

$18.50/hr

Washes worktables, walls, refrigerators, meat blocks and other food prep surfaces. * Removes trash ... Retirement Plan, Associate Shopping Program, Health and Wellness Programs, Discount Marketplace ...

The Cheesecake Factory

Prep Cook

Orland Park, IL · On-site

$17.50 - $21/hr

... in food preparation, attention to detail, and consistency. Our Prep Cooks are passionate team ... No cost GED or Associate Degree programs Perks, Recognition & Community * Perks and discounts ...

The Cheesecake Factory

Prep Cook

Oak Brook, IL · On-site

$17.50 - $21/hr

... in food preparation, attention to detail, and consistency. Our Prep Cooks are passionate team ... No cost GED or Associate Degree programs Perks, Recognition & Community * Perks and discounts ...

The Cheesecake Factory

Prep Cook

Skokie, IL · On-site

$18 - $20.75/hr

... in food preparation, attention to detail, and consistency. Our Prep Cooks are passionate team ... No cost GED or Associate Degree programs Perks, Recognition & Community * Perks and discounts ...

Compass Group

FOOD SERVICE UTILITY

Chicago, IL · On-site

$19/hr

Washes worktables, walls, refrigerators, meat blocks and other food prep surfaces. * Removes trash ... Associates at Eurest are offered many fantastic benefits. Full-time and part-time positions offer ...

The Cheesecake Factory

Prep Cook

Naperville, IL · On-site

$17.50 - $21.50/hr

... in food preparation, attention to detail, and consistency. Our Prep Cooks are passionate team ... No cost GED or Associate Degree programs Perks, Recognition & Community * Perks and discounts ...

The Cheesecake Factory

Prep Cook

Schaumburg, IL · On-site

$17.50 - $21/hr

... in food preparation, attention to detail, and consistency. Our Prep Cooks are passionate team ... No cost GED or Associate Degree programs Perks, Recognition & Community * Perks and discounts ...

The Cheesecake Factory

Prep Cook

Chicago, IL

$18.50 - $22.75/hr

... in food preparation, attention to detail, and consistency. Our Prep Cooks are passionate team ... No cost GED or Associate Degree programs Perks, Recognition & Community * Perks and discounts ...

Troon Golf

Prep Cook

Chicago, IL · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Learns and maintains standards in food production and quality. * Expedites orders in a timely ... Maintains a professional relationship with fellow associates. * Helps reduce loss/waste.

Eurest

FOOD SERVICE UTILITY (FULL TIME)

Chicago, IL · On-site

$21.50/hr

Washes worktables, walls, refrigerators, meat blocks and other food prep surfaces. * Removes trash ... Associates at Eurest are offered many fantastic benefits. Full-time and part-time positions offer ...

Compass Group

FOOD SERVICE UTILITY (FULL TIME)

Chicago, IL · On-site

$21.50/hr

Washes worktables, walls, refrigerators, meat blocks and other food prep surfaces. * Removes trash ... Associates at Eurest are offered many fantastic benefits. Full-time and part-time positions offer ...

Compass Group

FOOD SERVICE UTILITY (FULL TIME)

Chicago, IL · On-site

$21.50/hr

Washes worktables, walls, refrigerators, meat blocks and other food prep surfaces. * Removes trash ... Associates at Eurest are offered many fantastic benefits. Full-time and part-time positions offer ...

Compass Group

FOOD SERVICE UTILITY

Chicago, IL · On-site

$20.75/hr

The decisions, actions and attitudes of our associates earn the trust and loyalty of our clients ... Washes worktables, walls, refrigerators, meat blocks and other food prep surfaces. * Removes trash ...

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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 Sep 2, 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 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 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 71% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. 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.

FOOD SERVICE UTILITY (FULL TIME AND PART TIME)

Compass Group

Chicago, IL • On-site

$24.35/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago

Compass Group rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 1,095 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

349th of 500 rated business services

Job description

  • We are hiring immediately for a full and part time FOOD SERVICE UTILITY position.
  • Location: Cafe 71 - 71 South Wacker Drive, Chicago, IL 60606 Note: online applications accepted only.
  • Schedule: Full and part time schedule. Monday - Friday, hours may vary. More details upon interview.
  • Requirement: Utility & prep cook experience required.
    *Internal Employee Referral Bonus Available
  • Pay Range: $23.35 per hour to $24.35 per hour

We Make Applying Easy! Want to apply to this job via text messaging? Text JOB to 75000 and search requisition ID number 1561977.

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

Application Deadline: applications are accepted ongoing until all openings are filled for this position. If an applicant is declined due to the position being filled, they may still be considered for future opportunities and are always welcome to reapply.

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

Eurest is recognized worldwide for standards of service and excellence within the foodservice industry. Embracing an ownership mindset, Eurest leverages global resources, promotes a local presence and enriches the communities we serve. The Eurest Promise, "connect with people, inspire through food, create solutions, and live our promise," is exemplified throughout our organization. Eurest is proud to serve the world's most respected successful corporations, including many of the Fortune 500.

Job Summary


Summary:  Maintains kitchen work areas, and keeps equipment and utensils clean and orderly.  
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Sweeps and mops floors to comply with safety and sanitation standards.
  • Washes worktables, walls, refrigerators, meat blocks and other food prep surfaces.
  • Removes trash and places it into designated containers. Steam cleans or hoses out garbage cans.
  • Transfers supplies and equipment between storage and work areas.
  • Assists with banquet table and front of the house set up.
  • Assist with loading or unloading and delivering supplies and product.
  • Distributes supplies, utensils and portable equipment as needed.
  • Complies with outlined sanitation and safety requirements.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Associates at Eurest are offered many fantastic benefits.

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

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_Eurest.pdf

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.

Eurest maintains a drug-free workplace. 
Req ID: 1561977

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