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Kitchen Assistant Jobs in Normal, IL (NOW HIRING)

Popeyes

Assistant Manager POP825

Bloomington, IL · On-site

We're looking for an Assistant General Manager (AGM) who's ready to bring passion, hustle, and ... equipment, kitchen hazards, cleaning chemicals, and moderate noise levels. The role requires ...

Epiphany Farms Hospitality Group

Cook

Bloomington, IL

$16 - $20/hr

Follow recipes, portioning, plating, sanitation, and food safety standards * Assist with restaurant service, culinary production, and events * Maintain a clean, organized, and safe kitchen * Work ...

Hopedale Medical Complex

Dishwasher, PRN

Hopedale, IL · On-site

$16 - $17/hr

Sweep and mop kitchen and dish room floors. * Empty trash and recycling containers and maintain a clean work environment. * Assist with additional kitchen and dietary duties as assigned. * Work ...

Hopedale Medical Complex

Dishwasher, PRN

Hopedale, IL · On-site

$16 - $17/hr

Sweep and mop kitchen and dish room floors. * Empty trash and recycling containers and maintain a clean work environment. * Assist with additional kitchen and dietary duties as assigned. * Work ...

Hopedale Medical Complex

Dishwasher, PRN

Hopedale, IL · On-site

Sweep and mop kitchen and dish room floors. * Empty trash and recycling containers and maintain a clean work environment. * Assist with additional kitchen and dietary duties as assigned. * Work ...

Hopedale MC

Dishwasher, PRN

Hopedale, IL · On-site

$16 - $17/hr

Sweep and mop kitchen and dish room floors. * Empty trash and recycling containers and maintain a clean work environment. * Assist with additional kitchen and dietary duties as assigned. * Work ...

OnTray

Regional Dietary Consultant

Bloomington, IL · On-site

$13 - $16.25/hr

Ensure that facilities' kitchen are clean, logs are kept, etc .... * Assist with training and overseeing food quality and food presentation program. * Oversee inventory. * Assist with order guides ...

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 ...

Lincoln Village Healthcare Center

Cook

Lincoln, IL · On-site

$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

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 Corporate

Assistant Manager

Bloomington, IL

$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 ...

Reflections Memory Care

Dietary Cook

Morton, 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 ...

Villas of Holly Brook

Dietary Cook

Morton, 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 ...

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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 Sep 1, 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.

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 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 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 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 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.

Is a kitchen assistant a good first job?

A kitchen assistant role can be a good first job as it provides basic skills in food preparation, cleaning, and teamwork. It often requires minimal prior experience and offers opportunities to learn about the food service industry and develop work ethic. However, it may involve early hours and physical activity, which should be considered by job seekers.

What do you do as a kitchen assistant?

A kitchen assistant helps with food preparation, cleaning, and maintaining the cleanliness of the kitchen environment. They may also assist with organizing supplies, washing dishes, and supporting chefs or cooks as needed. Good communication and basic food safety knowledge are important for this role.

What qualifications do you need to be a Kitchen Assistant?

To become a kitchen assistant, there are generally no strict formal qualifications required, but a high school diploma or equivalent is often preferred. Relevant skills include basic food safety knowledge, ability to follow instructions, and good teamwork. Some employers may provide on-the-job training or require food hygiene certifications.
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 job categories do people searching Kitchen Assistant jobs in Normal, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Kitchen Assistant 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, 68% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,331 per year, or $15.1 per hour.

1st Assistant Manager

Peoria Ice Cream Company

Morton, IL • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

Assistant Store Manager

We strive to create positive memories for all our fans so we are looking for positive, energetic employees who are passionate about the Dairy Queen brand and delivering exceptional customer (fan) service.  Management roles at Dairy Queen are responsible for managing dining room and kitchen functions while motivating the team to deliver an excellent fan experience. Applicants should be eager to lead, do things right, be accountable, have ownership in what they do, and be able to create smiles and stories for our fans. If you are a management professional who is looking take on a fun and rewarding new challenge, join our team! Our commitment to your continued professional development makes this a great opportunity for you to build a career with us. If you want more out of your career, Dairy Queen is the right place!

Job Functions:

•    Be an ambassador of the Dairy Queen brand and be professional in every aspect of performance

•    Enthusiastically greet and welcome fans to the Dairy Queen brand

•    Strive to exceed fan expectations and deliver fan first service through timely and quality service

•    Meet or exceed Dairy Queen brand standards with competency in inventory and cash controls

•    Ensure that all PRIDE systems and routines are incorporated into the day-to-day operations of the restaurant, setting each scheduled shift up for success

•    React to issues impacting the restaurant’s profit & loss (P&L) to optimize sales and profit

•    Assist the General Manager with hiring, training, coaching, and developing Shift Leads and Crew Members to build a highly skilled and productive team

•    Create and maintain a positive, safe, clean, and inviting environment for fans and team members

•    Calmly solve fan concerns and embrace Dairy Queen’s service recovery standards

•    Be a willing team player and maintain a cooperative, harmonious working relationship with management and team members

•    May assist the GM in some assigned aspects of local store marketing activities and projects such as public and community relations programs, evaluating local competitors’ store marketing, identifying and tracking changing consumer demands. 

•    At all times exhibit a genuine passion for excellence

•    Perform other duties as assigned by management

Requirements:

•    Minimum 1-3 years of high volume restaurant leadership experience; previous quick service restaurant experience strongly preferred

•    High School diploma or equivalent

•    Proven track record of effectively managing COGS and labor

•    Strong knowledge and application of safe food handling practices

•    Must be ServSafe® certifiable 

•    Work well under pressure packed situations while maintaining a great attitude

•    Comfortable standing for entire shift and able to lift 50 pounds

•    Ability to work in and out of different temperature ranges. 

•    Must be highly organized and detail-oriented with the capability to oversee many aspects of the business and multiple areas simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.

•    Exhibit good manners, proper personal hygiene, and promptness

•    Have fun and maintain a positive attitude at all times!


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