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Kitchen Assistant Jobs in Springfield, IL (NOW HIRING)

Food Service Assistant

Springfield, IL · On-site

$16 - $16.50/hr

What You'll Do As our Kitchen Assistant, you will work closely with our Food Service Manager to help keep our kitchen organized, clean, and ready to serve our students each day. Responsibilities ...

As an Assistant Kitchen Manager your responsibilities would include: * Supervises and oversees the production of food * In conjunction with all management, enforces compliance with all employment ...

As an Assistant Kitchen Manager your responsibilities would include: * Supervises and oversees the production of food * In conjunction with all management, enforces compliance with all employment ...

Kitchen Manager

Springfield, IL · On-site

$55K - $65K/yr

As Kitchen Manager, you will help lead the way in our fast-paced, high-volume, scratch kitchen ... Be accountable for prep and line knowledge to drive financial and operational results * Assist with ...

Kitchen Manager

Springfield, IL · On-site

$5.2K/mo

As a Kitchen Manager your responsibilities would include: * Supervising and overseeing the ... Assisting with the development of all key employees, assistant managers, and hourly employees by ...

Kitchen Manager

Springfield, IL · On-site

$5.2K/mo

As a Kitchen Manager your responsibilities would include: * Supervising and overseeing the ... Assisting with the development of all key employees, assistant managers, and hourly employees by ...

Kitchen Manager

Farmersville, IL · On-site

$18 - $23.50/hr

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 ...

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 ...

Kitchen Manager

Farmersville, IL · On-site

$18 - $23.50/hr

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 ...

Join us as a Kitchen Team Associate We're looking for friendly team players to cook delicious food while maintaining the highest standards of cleanliness for our guests. Thrive in a safe and ...

Collaborate with the team in a high-paced kitchen environment * Assist in preparing and serving delicious food * Ensure exceptional dining experiences for our guests Qualifications: * A genuine smile ...

Collaborate with the team in a high-paced kitchen environment * Assist in preparing and serving delicious food * Ensure exceptional dining experiences for our guests Qualifications: * A genuine smile ...

Must be physically able to work at any duty station in the kitchen or service area when needed on a temporary basis and operate cash register as appropriate. * Must be required to lift objects up to ...

Kitchen Staff

Riverton, IL · On-site

$15 - $16.50/hr

Position Summary Prepare breakfast and/or lunch offerings and assist with serving lines. Participate in occasional catering functions. Perform all positions within the kitchen. Opaa! Food Management ...

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Kitchen Assistant information

See Springfield, IL salary details

$8

$15

$19

How much do kitchen assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for kitchen assistant in Springfield, IL is $15.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.37 and $16.44 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Kitchen jobs in Springfield, IL?

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

What job categories do people searching Kitchen Assistant jobs in Springfield, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Kitchen Assistant jobs in Springfield, IL are:

What cities near Springfield, IL are hiring for Kitchen Assistant jobs?

Cities near Springfield, IL with the most Kitchen Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Kitchen Assistant job openings in Springfield, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,762 per year, or $15.3 per hour.

$14.75 - $18.75/hr

Part-time

PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Benefits:
  • Employee discounts
  • Paid time off

Are you dependable, organized, and someone who enjoys keeping things clean and running smoothly? The Goddard School is looking for a Food Service Assistant to join our team and help us provide nutritious meals and snacks to the children in our care!
This is a great opportunity for someone who enjoys working behind the scenes, staying busy throughout the day, and being part of a fun, supportive school environment.
What You'll Do
As our Kitchen Assistant, you will work closely with our Food Service Manager to help keep our kitchen organized, clean, and ready to serve our students each day.
Responsibilities include:
  • Assisting with daily meal and snack preparation
  • Portioning food according to age-appropriate serving sizes
  • Preparing and organizing meal and snack carts for classrooms
  • Delivering food and supplies to classrooms as needed
  • Washing dishes, utensils, pans, carts, and other kitchen equipment
  • Cleaning and sanitizing food preparation and kitchen areas
  • Properly storing food and rotating inventory
  • Assisting with receiving and putting away food and supply deliveries
  • Following food safety, sanitation, and allergy procedures
  • Helping maintain accurate labeling and proper food storage
  • Supporting the Food Service Manager with daily kitchen needs
  • Maintaining a clean, organized, and well-stocked kitchen
  • Following all school, DCFS, health department, and food safety requirements
  • Assisting with other school needs as assigned
What We're Looking For
Our ideal Kitchen Assistant is:
  • Dependable and punctual – our classrooms count on meals and snacks being ready on time!
  • Organized and able to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment
  • Comfortable standing, bending, lifting, and being active throughout the shift
  • Able to follow recipes, portion guidelines, and written instructions
  • Detail-oriented, especially when it comes to allergies and food safety
  • Willing to clean, wash dishes, and jump in wherever help is needed
  • Positive, flexible, and a team player
  • Comfortable working in an environment with young children
Qualifications
  • Must meet all Illinois DCFS requirements for employment in a licensed child care center
  • Must be able to pass required background checks
  • Food Handler Certification required or willingness to obtain upon hire
  • Previous kitchen, food service, restaurant, school, or child care experience is preferred but not required
  • Ability to safely lift and carry food, supplies, and kitchen equipment
  • Ability to follow sanitation and food safety procedures consistently
Why Join The Goddard School?
At The Goddard School, every role contributes to creating a safe, healthy, and nurturing environment for our children. Our kitchen team plays an incredibly important part in our school day by making sure our students are well-fed and ready to learn, play, and grow.
We offer a welcoming team environment, consistent weekday hours, and the opportunity to be part of a school community that truly values the work you do.
No late nights and no traditional restaurant environment!

If you're reliable, hardworking, and ready to be part of a team that makes a difference for children every day, we'd love to meet you!
Apply today to join The Goddard School of Springfield!