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Food Service Associate Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Kelley Williamson Company

Food Service Associate

Huntley, IL · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Kelley Williamson Company

Food Service Associate

Rockford, IL · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Kelley Williamson Company

Food Service Associate

Rockford, IL · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Kelley Williamson Company

Food Service Associate

Pingree Grove, IL · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Kelley Williamson Company

Food Service Associate

Rockford, IL · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Kelley Williamson Company

Food Service Associate

Island Lake, IL · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Kelley Williamson Company

Food Service Associate

Belvidere, IL · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

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All JobsFood Service Associate JobsFood Service Associate Jobs in Illinois

Food Service Associate information

See Illinois salary details

$8

$15

$20

How much do food service associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for food service associate in Illinois is $15.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.03 and $17.02 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a food service associate?

A food service associate usually works in a school, park, or within a business center to ensure the food served meets health safety codes. Your daily duties include greeting guests, answering questions, and providing quality customer service. In this career, companies expect you to understand proper cash handling procedures and the ability to work a register. A food service associate must prepare food with health and safety standards in mind. For food service associates working in a school, you must understand the health needs of children and work within those restraints. A job as a food service associate can lead to a fulfilling career in the culinary arts.

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

To thrive as a Food Service Associate, you need basic food preparation skills, knowledge of food safety regulations, and preferably a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with point-of-sale (POS) systems, kitchen equipment, and food handling certifications like ServSafe are typically required. Excellent customer service, teamwork, and strong communication skills help you stand out in this role. These skills and qualities ensure efficient operations, customer satisfaction, and compliance with health standards in food service environments.

What are some common challenges a food service associate might face during busy meal periods, and how can they effectively manage them?

During peak meal times, Food Service Associates often face challenges such as long lines, high customer volume, and the need to maintain quality service under pressure. Effective time management, clear communication with team members, and staying organized at the workstation are crucial for handling these busy periods. Being proactive, such as prepping ingredients in advance and anticipating customer needs, can also help ensure smooth service and customer satisfaction.

What is the difference between Food Service Associate vs Food Service Worker?

AspectFood Service AssociateFood Service Worker
CredentialsNone required or basic food safety certificationTypically similar; may require food safety training
Work EnvironmentRestaurants, cafeterias, cateringRestaurants, cafeterias, fast food outlets
Employer UsageCommonly used in healthcare, schools, and hospitalityWidespread in food service establishments
Job DutiesCustomer service, food prep, servingFood prep, serving, cleaning

Both roles involve food handling and customer service, often with overlapping duties. The term "Food Service Associate" is frequently used in healthcare and institutional settings, emphasizing customer interaction and food service tasks, while "Food Service Worker" is more common in fast food and casual dining environments. Understanding these distinctions helps job seekers target the right opportunities in the food service industry.

More about Food Service Associate jobs

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

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

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

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

Food Service Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Food Service Associate job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,791 per year, or $15.3 per hour.

Food Service Associate

J D Streett and Company

Canton, IL • On-site

$15/hr

Part-time

PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Description
Food Service Associate
J.D. Streett & Company, Inc. is a family-owned convenience store company and is seeking self-motivated, energetic Food Service Associates to join our team.
Our convenience stores are located throughout Missouri and Illinois and carry all of the bestselling brand name products along with providing fast, friendly service. Marketing under the ZX® and Marathon logos, customer receive quality fuel products. Our great gas prices, customer service, and competitive prices are what set us apart from the rest.
Our convenience stores feature everything from fresh foods and beverages to auto supplies and general merchandise. Customers find we have everything they need under one roof.
Our clean gas stations feature regular gasoline pumps and diesel pumps, along with an air and water station.
Our "Discount Cigarette & Beer" stores also located throughout Missouri offer true convenience and speed with very competitive discounts on cigarette and beer products.
Our Food Service Associates are responsible for:
  • Preparing food according to a customers' orders or supervisors' instructions, including following approved procedures.
  • Cleaning of work areas and equipment.
  • Inventory control.
  • Maintaining knowledge of all product offerings and promotions.
  • Receiving and stocking product from vendors and following correct procedures.

Job Requirements:
  • Provide customers with prompt and courteous service.
  • Must be able to stand for up to 8 hours at a time.
  • Must be able to use a calculator, computer, telephone and other equipment as needed.
  • Must have a High School Diploma/GED equivalent OR work experience equivalent.
  • Must have reliable transportation.
  • Must be able to multitask.
  • Must be able to clean store and parking lot.
  • Must be able to stock shelves and coolers, including the ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
  • Must be able to complete Food Service Training program.
  • Must be able to tolerate exposure to gasoline fumes and cleaning products.
  • Must be able to work a flexible schedule of nights, days, weekends, and holidays.

Benefits:
  • Paid Time Off
  • Part Time Position with a Flexible Schedule
  • Weekly Pay
  • Extensive Training Program
  • Advancement Opportunities

Must pass a pre-employment background check and drug screening.
We Look Forward To Working With You!
EOE/M/F/V/D/AA

Apply