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Food Service Jobs in Normal, IL (NOW HIRING)

Previous food service experience preferred. * Perks: Sign On Bonus after 3 months of employment! * *Internal Employee Referral Bonus Available * Pay Range : $20.00 per hour to $22.00 per hour We Make ...

Subway - Food Service - Part Time

Mclean, IL · On-site

$10 - $13.25/hr

The Food Service employee is further responsible for food preparation, stocking, store cleanliness, operation of the point-of-sale register and following all operating standards. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND ...

The Food Service employee is further responsible for food preparation, stocking, store cleanliness, operation of the point-of-sale register and following all operating standards. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND ...

R+R Kitchen - Food Service - Part Time

Mclean, IL · On-site

$15.25 - $20/hr

Our R+R Kitchen Food Service Staff are dedicated to serving up fresh-made, delicious food offerings for our hungry customers. In addition to preparing food, this role is responsible for providing ...

Worker II, Food Operations

Mansfield, IL · On-site

$14 - $17/hr

... service to its customers, helping its employees improve, supporting its communities, and increasing ... Position Summary The Food Operations Worker role supports the safe and compliant handling of food ...

Worker II, Food Operations

Mansfield, IL · On-site

$14 - $17/hr

... service to its customers, helping its employees improve, supporting its communities, and increasing ... Position Summary The Food Operations Worker role supports the safe and compliant handling of ...

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Food Service information

See Normal, IL salary details

$8

$15

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How much do food service jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for food service in Normal, IL is $15.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.09 and $17.16 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are food service jobs?

Food service jobs encompass a wide range of positions involved in preparing, serving, and managing food and beverages in settings such as restaurants, cafeterias, catering companies, and institutional kitchens. Common roles include cooks, servers, dishwashers, cashiers, and food service managers. These jobs may involve customer service, food preparation, cleaning, and ensuring food safety standards are met. Food service workers play a crucial role in delivering quality dining experiences and maintaining a clean, safe environment.

What are some common challenges faced by food service workers and how can they be managed?

Food service workers often encounter challenges such as managing high customer volumes during peak hours, maintaining food safety and hygiene standards, and effectively communicating with both kitchen staff and customers. Staying organized, keeping a positive attitude under pressure, and being proactive with time management can help manage these challenges. Many workplaces also offer ongoing training and support to help staff continuously improve their skills and adapt to fast-paced environments.

What is the difference between Food Service vs Food Preparation?

AspectFood ServiceFood Preparation
CredentialsNone required or basic food handler permitsFood safety certifications often required
Work EnvironmentRestaurants, cafeterias, cateringKitchen, food production areas
Job DutiesServing customers, taking orders, customer servicePreparing ingredients, cooking, assembling dishes
Industry UsageFront-of-house roles in food industryBack-of-house food production roles

Food Service involves direct interaction with customers, focusing on serving and customer experience, while Food Preparation centers on cooking and preparing food behind the scenes. Both roles are essential in the food industry but differ mainly in responsibilities and work environment.

What Qualifications Do You Need for Food Service Jobs?

Most food service jobs provide on-the-job training, so you don’t need many qualifications before starting work. Some employers prefer you to have a high school diploma, and you can take culinary courses to gain specific kitchen skills. To work front of house roles, you need strong interpersonal and customer service skills. If you want to work as a chef, you may have to work your way up from prep cook. All food service workers need physical stamina, as you spend most of each shift on your feet.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Food Service, and why are they important?

To thrive in Food Service, you need a solid understanding of food safety, basic food preparation, and customer service, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with point-of-sale (POS) systems, kitchen equipment, and food handler certifications is typically required. Strong communication, teamwork, and the ability to work efficiently under pressure are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills and qualifications ensure effective service, customer satisfaction, and adherence to health and safety standards.
What cities near Normal, IL are hiring for Food Service jobs? Cities near Normal, IL with the most Food Service job openings:
Infographic showing various Food Service job openings in Normal, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 68% Full Time, and 32% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,992 per year, or $15.9 per hour.

Substitute - Food Service Worker - 2025-2026

McLean County Unit District No. 5

Normal, IL • On-site

$16.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Position Type:
Substitute/Food Service
Date Posted:
2/10/2025
Location:
All Schools
Date Available:
Immediate
JOB DESCRIPTION
McLean County Unit District No. 5
Position Title: Substitute Food Service Worker
Department: Operations
Reports to: Food Service Manager
FLSA Class: Non-Exempt
SUMMARY
Work with other food service team members to provide school lunches while maintaining a clean, safe and friendly food service atmosphere.
DUTIES
  1. Prepare and serve food according to the menu and all county health sanitary and nutritional guidelines.
  2. Clean facility, trays and dishes according to all sanitary guidelines.
  3. Interact in a friendly, professional manner with all students, co-workers and staff while performing food service duties.
  4. Prepare foods using standardized recipes and methods to retain nutritive values.
  5. Prepare food for delivery to other schools.
  6. Maintain accurate records and report information in a timely manner.
  7. May be expected to enter payment information accurately into proper accounts.
  8. May be expected to prepare accurate and balanced deposits for the bank.
  9. May be expected to travel to the bank to make deposits.
  10. Set up, restock and store food and food service items as needed.
  11. Perform any additional duties as requested by the Food Service Manager or Principal.

QUALIFICATIONS
  1. High School diploma or equivalent preferred.
  2. Employees must have knowledge of proper methods of cooking, serving, food care and use of equipment and kitchen appliances.
  3. Ability to communicate, follow written and oral instructions and work well with others is essential.
  4. Refer to Functional Job Analysis for physical requirements.

Please note: The Substitute Food Service Worker position is the pool from which our permanent regular Food Service Worker positions are hired. This position may lead to ongoing employment.
COMPENSATION:
$16.50 per hour
Application Procedure:
Apply Online at www.unit5.org