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Kitchen Assistant Jobs in Normal, IL (NOW HIRING)

Lincoln Village Healthcare Center

Cook

Lincoln, IL

$15.50/hr

Maintain a clean and organized kitchen, including equipment, utensils, and work surfaces. * Monitor ... Inventory & Supplies * Assist with receiving, inspecting, and storing food and supplies. * Monitor ...

Potbelly Corporate

Assistant Manager

Bloomington, IL · On-site

$50K - $55K/yr

The Assistant Manager is the co-leader of the Potbelly shop. They should bring their good vibes ... Comfortable working in a bustling kitchen environment (knife skills are a big plus!) * You can ...

Potbelly

Assistant Manager

Bloomington, IL · On-site

$50K - $55K/yr

The Assistant Manager is the co-leader of the Potbelly shop. They should bring their good vibes ... Comfortable working in a bustling kitchen environment (knife skills are a big plus!) * You can ...

Panda Restaurant Group

Assistant Manager

Normal, IL

$22 - $25/hr

What You'll Do As An Assistant Manager: You are in charge of assisting the operation of a single ... Employees must prepare hot and cold foods, use Chinese cook knife and other kitchen equipment and ...

Villas of Holly Brook

Dietary Cook

Bloomington, IL · On-site

$16.50 - $19/hr

... * Assist with preparation and execution of special events, banquets, and theme meals. * Will attend pre-meal stand up in kitchen prior to meal service. * May perform other duties as needed and/or ...

Denny's

Restaurant Manager

Bloomington, IL · On-site

Operations Management * Assist in overseeing daily restaurant operations including dining room, kitchen, and service areas. * Support scheduling, staffing, and labor deployment based on business ...

Hopedale MC

Cook

Hopedale, IL · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

Follow standardized recipes and portion control guidelines. * Assist with meal preparation, tray line, food service, and kitchen cleanup. * Understand and prepare modified and therapeutic diets ...

Villas of Holly Brook

Dietary Director

Washington, IL · On-site

Confirm that the front of house and back of house staff work closely together to deliver a food product that exceeds the residents and/or guests expectations. * Assist Kitchen staff with back and ...

Unique Homes & Lumber

Dietary Director

Washington, IL · On-site

... Assist Kitchen staff with back and front of the house operations as needed. This includes the ability to work all stations in the kitchen and/or dining room if needed. • Work with the Executive ...

Hopedale Medical Complex

Cook

Hopedale, IL · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

Follow standardized recipes and portion control guidelines. * Assist with meal preparation, tray line, food service, and kitchen cleanup. * Understand and prepare modified and therapeutic diets ...

Hopedale Medical Complex

Dietary Lead

Hopedale, IL · On-site

$17 - $19/hr

Maintain a clean, organized, and safe kitchen and food service environment. * Identify and report equipment, safety, or sanitation concerns to the appropriate manager. * Assist with departmental ...

Hopedale Medical Complex

Cook

Hopedale, IL

$16 - $18/hr

Follow standardized recipes and portion control guidelines. * Assist with meal preparation, tray line, food service, and kitchen cleanup. * Understand and prepare modified and therapeutic diets ...

Hopedale Medical Complex

Cook

Hopedale, IL

$16 - $18/hr

Follow standardized recipes and portion control guidelines. * Assist with meal preparation, tray line, food service, and kitchen cleanup. * Understand and prepare modified and therapeutic diets ...

Hopedale Medical Complex

Cook

Hopedale, IL · On-site

$17/hr

Follow standardized recipes and portion control guidelines. * Assist with meal preparation, tray line, food service, and kitchen cleanup. * Understand and prepare modified and therapeutic diets ...

Hopedale Medical Complex

Dietary Aide

Hopedale, IL · On-site

$15 - $16/hr

Answer the kitchen telephone and assist with requests as needed. * Follow established food safety, sanitation, infection control, and safety procedures. * Perform other related duties as assigned.

McDonald's

Maintenance Team Member

Lincoln, IL · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

Clean and maintain equipment, kitchen, dining areas, restrooms , and windows * Perform routine maintenance tasks as needed * Ensure safety and sanitation standards are maintained * Assist with waste ...

Denny's

Cook

Bloomington, IL · On-site

$13.25 - $17.75/hr

Kitchen Operations * Operate grills, fryers, ovens, sauté stations, and other kitchen equipment safely. * Maintain a clean and organized kitchen, prep areas, and cooking stations. * Coordinate with ...

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All JobsKitchen JobsKitchen Assistant JobsKitchen Assistant Jobs in Normal, IL

Kitchen Assistant information

See Normal, IL salary details

$8

$15

$19

How much do kitchen assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for kitchen assistant in Normal, IL is $15.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.17 and $16.20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is a kitchen assistant a good first job?

A kitchen assistant is often a suitable first job because it provides basic skills such as food preparation, cleaning, and teamwork. It typically requires minimal prior experience and can help develop work ethic and time management in a fast-paced environment.

What are some common challenges faced by kitchen assistants, and how can they be managed effectively?

Kitchen Assistants often encounter challenges such as working in fast-paced environments, maintaining cleanliness under time pressure, and managing multiple tasks simultaneously. Staying organized, communicating clearly with chefs and team members, and following food safety protocols can help manage these demands effectively. Building strong teamwork skills and being proactive about restocking supplies are also key to thriving in this role.

What is a kitchen assistant?

Kitchen assistants are support staff who help chefs and cooks in the preparation and organization of food in restaurants, cafeterias, or other food service establishments. Their duties often include washing and chopping ingredients, cleaning work areas and utensils, unloading deliveries, and ensuring that the kitchen operates efficiently. They play a crucial role in maintaining hygiene standards and ensuring that meals are prepared in a timely manner. Kitchen assistants typically work under the supervision of more experienced kitchen staff and may have opportunities to learn basic cooking skills. The role can be fast-paced and requires good teamwork and attention to detail.

What is the difference between Kitchen Assistant vs Kitchen Porter?

AspectKitchen AssistantKitchen Porter
ResponsibilitiesAssisting with food prep, cleaning, and basic kitchen tasksCleaning dishes, utensils, and kitchen areas; basic support tasks
Required SkillsBasic cooking knowledge, teamwork, organizationCleaning skills, physical stamina, attention to hygiene
Work EnvironmentCommercial kitchens, restaurants, cateringSame as Kitchen Assistant, often in similar settings
CertificationsFood hygiene certificates often preferredFood hygiene certificates often required

Both roles support kitchen operations but differ mainly in responsibilities. Kitchen Assistants typically handle food prep and basic tasks, while Kitchen Porters focus on cleaning and maintaining hygiene. Both roles are essential in commercial kitchens and often require similar certifications.

What does a kitchen assistant do?

Kitchen assistants perform a number of cooking-related duties, including preparing food, retrieving ingredients from the freezer or other storage locations, and restocking food items. As a kitchen assistant, you may also perform hygiene-related tasks to keep the kitchen clean, such as wiping down equipment or cleaning counters after food preparation. There are usually no educational requirements for the career, but employers prefer that you have relevant work experience in a restaurant setting. Additional qualifications include the ability to follow oral instructions and health and safety procedures, as well as hand dexterity and cooking skills to peel and cut ingredients.

What qualifications are needed to be a kitchen assistant?

Kitchen assistants typically do not require formal qualifications but should have basic cooking skills, good hygiene, and the ability to follow safety procedures. Some employers may prefer candidates with a high school diploma or equivalent, and relevant experience or certifications in food safety can be advantageous.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a kitchen assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Kitchen Assistant, you need basic food preparation skills, knowledge of food safety, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with kitchen equipment, dishwashing machines, and sometimes food hygiene certifications are typically required. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and the ability to work efficiently under pressure are important soft skills. These competencies ensure a safe, organized, and productive kitchen environment, supporting overall food quality and service.

What do you do as a kitchen assistant?

A kitchen assistant helps with food preparation, cleaning, and maintaining the kitchen environment. They may wash dishes, organize supplies, and assist chefs or cooks as needed, often working in a fast-paced setting. Basic food safety and hygiene knowledge are important for this role.

How to work as a kitchen assistant?

To work as a kitchen assistant, you should be able to follow safety and hygiene standards, assist with food preparation and cleaning, and work efficiently in a fast-paced environment. Basic skills such as organization, teamwork, and knowledge of kitchen tools are important, and some positions may require food safety certifications. Flexibility with shifts and physical stamina are also beneficial for this role.
More about Kitchen Assistant jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Kitchen jobs in Normal, IL? The most popular types of Kitchen jobs in Normal, IL are:
What cities near Normal, IL are hiring for Kitchen Assistant jobs? Cities near Normal, IL with the most Kitchen Assistant job openings:
Kitchen Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Kitchen Assistant job openings in Normal, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,331 per year, or $15.1 per hour.

Cook

Lincoln Village Healthcare Center

Lincoln, IL

$15.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

Cook

Department: Dietary

Reports To: Director of Dietary Services

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Location: Lincoln Village Healthcare Center, Lincoln, IL


PAY: $15.50 per hour
HOURS: 6:00AM - 2:00PM, every other weekend

What We Are Looking For:

The Cook is responsible for preparing and cooking meals for residents in accordance with established menus, dietary guidelines, and sanitation standards. This role ensures that all meals are nutritious, visually appealing, and meet the dietary needs and preferences of residents while complying with federal, state, and local regulations.

What You Will Do:

Food Preparation & Cooking

  • Prepare and cook meals according to facility menus and standardized recipes.

  • Adjust food preparation to accommodate therapeutic and modified diets as prescribed.

  • Ensure portion control and proper food presentation.

  • Maintain awareness of resident allergies, food preferences, and special requests.

Sanitation & Safety

  • Follow proper food handling, storage, and sanitation procedures.

  • Maintain a clean and organized kitchen, including equipment, utensils, and work surfaces.

  • Monitor food temperatures during preparation, cooking, and holding to ensure safety.

  • Comply with all infection control ad health department regulations.

Inventory & Supplies

  • Assist with receiving, inspecting, and storing food and supplies.

  • Monitor food inventory levels and report shortages to the Director of Dietary Services.

  • Help minimize food waste through proper planning and storage.

Teamwork & Communication

  • Coordinate with dietary aides and other kitchen staff to ensure timely meal service.

  • Communicate effectively with nursing staff regarding resident meal needs.

  • Participate in dietary staff meetings and training sessions.

What You Will Bring:

  • High school diploma or equivalent required.

  • Previous cooking experience in a healthcare or institutional setting preferred.

  • Knowledge of therapeutic diets and food service sanitation standards.

  • Ability to follow recipes, production sheets, and written/verbal instructions.

  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

Physical Requirements:

  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.

  • Frequent standing, bending, and reaching.

  • Ability to tolerate heat from kitchen equipment.

Work Environment:

The Cook works primarily in the facility kitchen but may move throughout the building to communicate with staff. The role involves exposure to heat, steam, cleaning chemicals, and potential hazards from kitchen equipment.  


What You Will Get:

  • Competitive Wages

  • Paid Holidays

  • Vacation Time

  • Sick Time

  • Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance

  • Life Insurance

  • 401 (K)

  • Worker’s Compensation Insurance