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Kettle Driver Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Custodian/Driver

Elgin, IL · On-site

$15.75 - $20/hr

... up kettle workers, drop off donations at local SA thrift store and other duties as assigned ... Valid Driver's license and good driving record. * Clearance of TSA MVR check. JOB LIMITATIONS

Custodian/Driver

Chicago, IL

$17.60 - $21.11/hr

... up kettle workers. * Keeping vehicles fueled up. * Ensure all Corps vehicles receive regular ... Valid Driver's license/MVR clearance. COMPETENCIES * Willing to promote the mission of The ...

Our portfolio includes the iconic Campbell's brand, as well as Cape Cod, Chunky, Goldfish, Kettle ... business drivers, incremental opportunities, etc. * Leverage Category Management resources and ...

Kettle Driver information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$14

$23

$34

How much do kettle driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for kettle driver in Chicago, IL is $23.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.81 and $25.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a kettle driver?

Kettle Drivers are individuals who operate vehicles to transport large kettles, typically containing food or beverages, to various locations for events, catering, or charitable purposes. In many cases, Kettle Drivers are associated with organizations like The Salvation Army, where they deliver and set up donation kettles during fundraising campaigns. Their responsibilities may include driving safely, setting up or maintaining equipment, and sometimes assisting with collections or event logistics. They must have a valid driver's license and may need to follow specific safety and operational guidelines. This role often requires good communication skills, reliability, and a customer-focused attitude.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a kettle driver?

To thrive as a Kettle Driver, you need a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL), a good driving record, and experience in vehicle operation and basic vehicle maintenance. Familiarity with GPS navigation systems, logbook software, and safety inspection tools is typically required. Strong time management, customer service orientation, and attention to detail help Kettle Drivers excel in their daily routes and interactions. These skills and qualities ensure efficient, safe, and reliable transport of materials or goods, which is vital for operational success and regulatory compliance.

What challenges do kettle drivers face during their shifts, and how can they be managed?

Kettle Drivers often encounter challenges such as navigating busy city routes, loading and unloading heavy donations, and maintaining strict schedules for collection stops. Weather conditions and high-traffic periods can further complicate routes, making time management and adaptability essential. Effective communication with dispatchers and local coordinators helps address these issues, while following safety protocols ensures both personal well-being and the security of donations.

What is the difference between Kettle Driver vs Forklift Operator?

AspectKettle DriverForklift Operator
CredentialsDriver's license, possibly specialized training for kettle trucksForklift certification/license
Work EnvironmentIndustrial sites, factories, chemical plantsWarehouses, manufacturing plants, distribution centers
Industry UsageHeavy industry, chemical, manufacturingLogistics, warehousing, manufacturing
Job FocusTransporting liquids or materials via kettle trucksMoving pallets and materials with forklifts

While both roles involve material transportation within industrial settings, a Kettle Driver specializes in operating kettle trucks for liquid or bulk material transport, often in chemical or manufacturing industries. A Forklift Operator primarily handles palletized goods in warehouses and distribution centers. The key differences lie in the equipment used and the specific environments, though both require relevant certifications and safety training.

What are popular job titles related to Kettle Driver jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Kettle Driver jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Custodian/Driver

Elgin, IL • On-site


The Salvation Army Central Territory
Non-Profits • 5 - 10K employees

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 364 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

597th of 781 rated non-profit organizations

People enjoy working here

Recommended by students

Recommended by parents


$15.75 - $20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

THE SALVATION ARMY
NORTH AND CENTRAL ILLINOIS DIVISION
POSITION DESCRIPTION
POSITION TITLE:Custodian/Driver
LOCATION/DEPT:Elgin Corps
REPORTS TO:Corps Officers
PEOPLE MANAGER: No
FLSA CATEGORY: Non-Exempt
STATUS TYPE: RFT
PAY GRADE: 402
PAY RANGE: $15.75 - $20.00
WHO WE ARE
At The Salvation Army, we are dedicated to "Doing the Most Good". We are made up of thousands of officers, soldiers, staff, volunteers, donors, and partners working together to holistically meet the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of our most vulnerable neighbors. We do this through programs designed to combat homelessness and hunger, provide safe spaces for kids after school and on the weekends, achieve and maintain sobriety, and give hope to the hopeless. The Salvation Army North and Central Illinois Division provides these services to people in need.
OUTCOMES
This position is expected to perform all types of building custodial cleaning duties to include seasonal grounds upkeep, set-up rooms for meetings, and other duties as assigned by the Corps Officer. Will maintain a clean and healthy environment for employees and clients through basic janitorial services. Position is expected to comply with and meet The Salvation Army, Federal, State and Local policies, and standards.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  1. Custodial Duties
    1. Ensure that the entire building is cleaned, including all offices and Chapel. Vacuuming the carpets, mopping all hard floors.
    2. Attend to the bathrooms, replacing hand towels and toilet paper. Ensure all liquid soap containers are always filled.
    3. Attend to all counter tops in bathrooms and kitchen.
    4. Set up classrooms and other designated rooms for corps activities, and other weekly activities held during the week.
    5. Periodically, inspect building to remove cobwebs and replace light bulbs as necessary.
    6. Empty all garbage containers from the offices, kitchen, and the bathrooms. All garbage must be disposed of at the bin on the parking lot.
    7. Provides supervision and direction to Community Service workers as they fulfill their court-mandated obligations through cleaning, pantry support and other duties as assigned.
    8. Outdoor grounds keeping, parking lot, park, and yardwork.
    9. Unload food delivery for the food pantry.
    10. Pickup and unload home goods order for home goods pantry.
    11. Maintains orderly storage areas for the building.
  2. Driving Duties
    1. Drive the Corps vans. (Drive for the pick-up of home goods, food pantry items, EDS goods, of toys of sponsoring companies, refuel as necessary, drop off and pick up kettle workers, drop off donations at local SA thrift store and other duties as assigned).
    2. Take vans for regular maintenance as directed by Corps Officers.
    3. Report any issues or problems with the vans to the Corps Officers.
  3. Other Duties as assigned.

OTHER DUTIES
  • This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive list of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

MINIMUM KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
  • Education: High School education or its equivalent preferred.
  • Experience: Basic experience in maintenance and knowledge of related tools and equipment.
  • Valid Driver's license and good driving record.
  • Clearance of TSA MVR check.

JOB LIMITATIONS
  • This individual will only commit Army resources that have been allocated or approved.
  • This individual will keep the Corps Officers informed on all critical issues relating to their area of responsibility.
  • This individual will adhere to all policies and procedures in carrying out the responsibilities of this position.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS/WORK ENVIRONMENT
  • This position is required to do light to heavy physical work.
  • Must be able to lift up to 50lbs. and climb a ladder.
  • In order to successfully perform the essential functions of this position, the employee is regularly required to remain stationary for some periods of time; use hands and fingers; communicate; move; occasionally required to position self to stoop, kneel or crouch; frequently required to reach with and use arms and hands, as required in using standard maintenance equipment.
  • The work environment for this position includes an office and outside environment with a low to high noise level.
  • Maintain positive work atmosphere by behaving and communicating in a manner that fosters and maintains positive relationships with co-workers and supervisors. This would include but not be limited to such actions: resolution of conflicts in a positive manner; courteous treatment of staff, clients, and visitors; respect of others' property and person, professional and appropriate communication to and about co-workers, supervisors, and subordinates. Support the Mission of The Salvation Army by treating every donor, contact and colleague with respect and dignity, and without discrimination of any kind.

COMPETENCIES
  • Must be a self-starter and have the ability to work unsupervised.
  • Good communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Excellent safe driving skills, with an ability to operate large passenger vehicles.
  • Must possess a valid IL driver's license and clear all MVR requirements.
  • Demonstrated ability to positively interact with passengers and staff in a pleasant and polite manner.
  • Ability to work quickly and with a level of excellence in cleaning.
  • A positive attitude and the ability to be flexible in light of changing job situations/priorities.
  • Must be willing to work a flexible schedule and serve as needed.
  • Ability to work well with both staff and clients.
  • Must represent The Salvation Army in a positive manner.
  • Supportive of the mission of The Salvation Army.

REPORTING RELATIONSHIPS
  • This position is supervised by the Corps Officers.
  • In contacts related to this position's duties, this individual acts as a representative of the Army and its mission.

PERFORMANCE MEASURES
  • This individual will be evaluated on how effectively the outcomes of this position are achieved, as well as the timeliness, accuracy, and completeness of accomplishing assigned goals.

THE SALVATION ARMY MISSION STATEMENT
The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.
DOING THE MOST GOOD
Do you want to use your skills and talents to make a lasting difference in the world? The Salvation Army is the fourth largest charity in the United States and is an international organization based on Biblical principles created to help people in need. We are mission-driven, diverse, collaborative, and focused on positive results for people. Join us in making a difference.
The Salvation Army offers a competitive benefit package for eligible employees which may include the following medical, dental, vision, hearing, disability and life insurance, flexible spending accounts, 403(b) retirement accounts, a company-funded defined contribution (pension) plan and generous time off policies.
In compliance with the ADA Amendments Act if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation to apply for this position, please contact the Human Resources department.
The Salvation Army is an Equal Opportunity Employer Minority/Female/Veterans/Disabled. Candidates who are back-to-work, US Veterans, people with disabilities, people who have been impacted by the justice system, and/or people without a college degree are encouraged to apply.

Salvation Army logo

About Salvation Army

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian Church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.

Industry

Non-profits, retail, amusement, gambling, and recreation and religious organizations

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Alexandria, VA, US


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