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

Chicago Public Schools

Associate Lunchroom Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$14.50 - $18.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... food prep, sanitation, safety and general housekeeping topics; forecasting production needs and ... Associate Lunchroom Manager III equivalent combination of related training and experience. Must ...

Compass Group

FOOD SERVICE UTILITY

Chicago, IL · On-site

$21.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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

Downers Grove, IL · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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

Elk Grove Village, IL · On-site

$18/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Eurest

FOOD SERVICE UTILITY (FULL TIME)

Chicago, IL · On-site

$21.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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

$20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Gordon Food Service

Part Time Store Associate

Aurora, IL · On-site

$15/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

As a Part Time Store Associate you bring fun into our store! No 2 days are ever the same - a great ... Must be able/willing to perform all store functions (Stocking, Cashier, Food Prep, Etc.) BE PART OF ...

7-Eleven Corporation

Sales Associate

Chicago, IL · On-site

$14.50 - $19.50/hr

Sales Associate Apply Now ( Save Job Job ID P1-834923-1 Address 201 E Ohio, CHICAGO, Illinois ... food prep and foodservice safety. What you might not expect is the camaraderie of the store team ...

New

7-Eleven Corporation

Sales Associate

Chicago, IL · On-site

$14.50 - $19.50/hr

Sales Associate Apply Now ( Save Job Job ID P1-834923-1 Address 201 E Ohio, CHICAGO, Illinois ... food prep and foodservice safety. What you might not expect is the camaraderie of the store team ...

New

Chick-fil-A

Kitchen Team Member 1st Shift

Elmhurst, IL · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

... food prep, chef, kitchen, host, hostess, dining room, maintenance, cleaner, dish, dishwasher, guest services, shift, supervisor leader, hospitality, professional, associate, crew, team member, food ...

Compass Group

FOOD SERVICE UTILITY (FULL TIME)

Chicago, IL · On-site

$20.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Compass Group

CASHIER/FOOD SERVICE WORKER

Downers Grove, IL · On-site

$18/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Prior customer service, food prep, and food handlers certification is required. * Fixed Pay Rate ... Associate Shopping Program * Health and Wellness Programs * Discount Marketplace * Identity Theft ...

Bottleneck Management

Prep Cook

Naperville, IL · On-site

$14.25 - $18/hr

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Prep Cooks help prepare and maintain assigned par levels of food items. They produce all proteins ... by an associate to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable ...

Compass Group

FOOD SERVICE UTILITY (PART TIME)

Northlake, IL · On-site

$16/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

New

Compass Group

FOOD SERVICE UTILITY (PART TIME)

Northlake, IL · On-site

$16/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

New

Delta Sonic

Store Hospitality Associate Trainee

Oswego, IL · On-site

$18/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

... food prep and storage areas, processing customer purchases, cleaning the store facilities, and following proper cash handling procedures. Store Hospitality Associates understand the importance of ...

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Showing results 21-40

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

Food Prep Associate information

See Elgin, IL salary details

$9

$15

$20

How much do food prep associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 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 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 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:
Food Prep Associate jobs near you
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 WORKER (FULL TIME AND PART TIME)

Compass Group

Chicago, IL • On-site

$20/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Compass Group rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 1,088 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

345th of 491 rated business services

Job description

  • We are hiring immediately for full time and part time FOOD SERVICE WORKER positions.
  • Location: SAIC - 36 South Wabash Avenue, Chicago, IL 60603. Note: online applications accepted only.
  • Schedule: Full time and part time schedules. Flexibility preferred. Hours and days may vary. Further details upon interview.
  • Requirement: Previous food prep, front of house, barista, cashiering, and deli experience preferred.
    *Internal Employee Referral Bonus Available
  • Pay Range: $17.00 per hour to $20.00 per hour.

Free meals, uniforms and laundering service available at select locations.

We Make Applying Easy! Want to apply to this job via text messaging? Text JOB to 75000 and search requisition ID number 1539555.

The advertised program is an AI 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

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


Flik Independent School Dining has been leading the way in transforming private and independent school foodservice across 300 communities for over four decades. Our passionate team of associates is fully committed to delivering exceptional foodservice experiences every single time. Our meals are crafted from fresh, locally sourced ingredients, supporting sustainable agricultural practices that benefit our communities. But we don't stop at just foodservice – we take it to the next level by offering cutting-edge nutrition education programs that empower students to make smart, healthy choices daily. By combining nutritious meals with comprehensive education, we equip students with the essential tools they need to lead a healthy and thriving life. We believe in nourishing the whole person, creating community through great food and programming, and doing what’s right, every time.


We are Nourishing a Brighter Future.

Job Summary


Summary:  Prepares, presents and serves food as needed. 
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Performs prep work such as washing, peeling, cutting and seeding fruits and vegetables.
  • Weighs and measures designated ingredients.
  • Carries pans, kettles and trays of food to and from work stations, stove and refrigerator in accordance with safety standards.
  • Stores food in designated areas following wrapping, dating, food safety and rotation procedures.
  • Cleans work areas, equipment and utensils.
  • Distributes supplies, utensils and portable equipment.
  • Utilizes approved food recipes and production standards to ensure proper quality, serving temperatures and standard portion control.
  • Serves customers in a friendly, efficient manner following outlined steps of service.
  • Resolves customer concerns and relays relevant information to supervisor.
  • Ensures compliance with company service standards and inventory and cash control procedures.
  • Assures compliance with all sanitation and safety requirements.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Associates at FISD are offered many fantastic benefits.

Both 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_FISD.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. 

Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis.

FISD maintains a drug-free workplace.

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