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Food Service Associate Jobs in Springfield, IL (NOW HIRING)

Kitchen Manager

Farmersville, IL ยท On-site

$18 - $23.50/hr

You will be eager to aid in the coaching, training, and maintenance of food service associates on all kitchen standards. You will maintain required records for food production, inventory, and ...

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Food Service Associate information

See Springfield, IL salary details

$9

$15

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How much do food service associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for food service associate in Springfield, IL is $15.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.37 and $17.40 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

How to get a food service associate job with no experience?

To get a food service associate job with no experience, focus on demonstrating a positive attitude, good communication skills, and a willingness to learn. Entry-level positions often do not require prior experience, but having a basic understanding of food safety and customer service can improve your chances. Volunteering or completing short training programs can also help build relevant skills and improve your resume.

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 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 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 the most commonly searched types of Food Service jobs in Springfield, IL?

The most popular types of Food Service jobs in Springfield, IL are:

What cities near Springfield, IL are hiring for Food Service Associate jobs?

Cities near Springfield, IL with the most Food Service Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Food Service Associate job openings in Springfield, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 27% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,519 per year, or $15.6 per hour.

Kitchen Manager

Jack Flash Stores

Farmersville, IL โ€ข On-site

$18 - $23.50/hr

Full-time

PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago


Job description

Jack Flash in Farmersville, Illinois is looking to hire a Full-time Kitchen Manager. Do you have passion for leading people in a challenging, fast-paced environment? Would you like to grow your skills at the favorite stop in your community? If this sounds like you, then we encourage you to apply!
ABOUT JACK FLASH
Jack Flash is a family-owned, growing retailer in Illinois and Missouri. We were founded in 1986 with just one location. We now have 18 locations ranging from convenience stores, truck stops, liquor stores, and car washes. We are dedicated to providing top notch customer service, a fun environment and fantastic products!
We value hard work and effort! To compensate for your time, we offer:
  • Employee Fuel Discount
  • Paid Leave Accrual
  • Competitive compensation packages
  • Flexible schedules
  • Advancement opportunities
  • Fun and comfortable work environment!
  • Raises based on performance: Yearly and on Merit
  • Discounted fountain drinks while working!
  • Uniform Contribution
  • Team Member Bonus Referral Program
A DAY IN THE LIFE AS A KITCHEN MANAGER
As a Kitchen Manager, you will be an essential part of growing the food service program in our store! Our customers love the products and food service we offer, as well as the convenience of our location. It's what keeps them coming back!
This career path will keep you on your toes with a number of different responsibilities that fall within the food service program, but safety, quality, and service will be your top priority! As a Kitchen Manager, you will develop a strong partnership with the Store Manager. You will be eager to aid in the coaching, training, and maintenance of food service associates on all kitchen standards. You will maintain required records for food production, inventory, and temperature/production/expiration logs. Keeping kitchen equipment working and maintained to ensure smooth workflow is essential. If you are someone who thrives on development through hard work and staying busy, this may be the job for you!
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
  • Oversees the day-to-day operations of serving and preparation of all prepared foods
  • Ensures that all Food Service Team Members fully understand the importance of preparing and maintaining high quality food as required, to our standards at all times, as dictated by business needs.
  • Presides over all food service employees ensuring a sense of urgency from ALL kitchen team members at ALL times.
  • Assigns daily work tasks and manage break schedule as dictated by business needs.
  • Maintains and manage daily, weekly, monthly cleaning schedule and checklists
  • Responsible for the food service department's cleanliness and sanitation. Leads the team effort to clean and maintain kitchen and equipment, including refrigerators, freezers, ovens, fryers and microwaves, as well as all small wares and pans used in the food service department.
QUALIFICATIONS
  • Courteous, positive attitude
  • Business and goal oriented
  • Team player mentality
  • Fair and professional
  • Clear, effective communication
  • Self-motivated
  • Physically able to lift up to 50 lbs and be on your feet for extended periods
ARE YOU READY TO JOIN OUR TEAM?
We understand your time is valuable and that is why we have a very quick and easy application process. If you feel that you would be right for this job, please fill out our 3-minute, mobile-friendly initial application so that we can review your information. We look forward to meeting you!