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

Food Service Associate Reports To: Station Manager About Kelley's Market Join a company with deep ... food prep equipment and POS systems accurately and safely Stay current on menu offerings, pricing ...

Food Service Associate

Huntley, IL · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

Food Service Associate Reports To: Station Manager About Kelley's Market Join a company with deep ... food prep equipment and POS systems accurately and safely Stay current on menu offerings, pricing ...

Food Service Associate Reports To: Station Manager About Kelley's Market Join a company with deep ... food prep equipment and POS systems accurately and safely Stay current on menu offerings, pricing ...

Food Service Associate Reports To: Station Manager About Kelley's Market Join a company with deep ... food prep equipment and POS systems accurately and safely Stay current on menu offerings, pricing ...

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 ...

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 ...

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

See Elgin, IL salary details

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How much do food prep associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for food prep associate in Elgin, IL is $15.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.32 and $17.36 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 popular job titles related to Food Prep Associate jobs in Elgin, IL?

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

What job categories do people searching Food Prep Associate jobs in Elgin, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Food Prep Associate jobs in Elgin, IL are:

What cities near Elgin, IL are hiring for Food Prep Associate jobs?

Cities near Elgin, IL with the most Food Prep Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Food Prep Associate job openings in Elgin, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 29% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,430 per year, or $15.6 per hour.

Food Service Associate

Kelley's Market

Belvidere, IL • On-site

$15 - $18/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago


Job description

Description

Company: Kelley's Market

Location: State St

Address:  1901 N State St, Belvidere IL 61008 


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.