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Kitchen Associate Jobs in Downers Grove, IL (NOW HIRING)

Des Plaines IL The Kitchen Supervisor at Levy (part of Compass Group) oversees food-service associates and ensures quality, safety, and efficiency in food preparation and delivery at Oriole Park at ...

Kitchen Team

Homewood, IL

$17.40 - $20.40/hr

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Kitchen Team

Chicago, IL

$19.05 - $22.05/hr

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Kitchen Team

Schaumburg, IL

$17.15 - $20.15/hr

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Kitchen Team

Saint Charles, IL ยท On-site

$18 - $21/hr

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 ...

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 ...

Kitchen Team

Rosemont, IL

$17.25 - $20.25/hr

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 ...

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 ...

Kitchen Team

Chicago, IL

$19.05 - $22.05/hr

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 ...

Kitchen Team

Hillside, IL

$17.15 - $20.15/hr

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 ...

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 ...

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Kitchen Associate information

See Downers Grove, IL salary details

$9

$18

$31

How much do kitchen associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for kitchen associate in Downers Grove, IL is $18.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.10 and $20.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a kitchen associate?

Kitchen associates are team members who assist with food preparation, cooking, cleaning, and maintaining the overall organization of a kitchen. They typically work under the supervision of chefs or kitchen managers and help with tasks such as chopping ingredients, washing dishes, stocking supplies, and ensuring food safety standards are met. Kitchen associates play a vital role in keeping the kitchen running efficiently and supporting the culinary team in delivering quality meals.

What is the difference between Kitchen Associate vs Kitchen Helper?

AspectKitchen AssociateKitchen Helper
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; food safety certification often preferredMinimal formal credentials; on-the-job training provided
Work EnvironmentCommercial kitchens, restaurants, catering servicesSimilar environments, often assisting kitchen staff
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in restaurants, hotels, catering companiesCommonly used interchangeably with Kitchen Associate in hospitality
Job ResponsibilitiesFood prep, dishwashing, maintaining cleanlinessAssisting with basic food prep, cleaning, stocking supplies

Overall, Kitchen Associates typically have more defined responsibilities and may require basic certifications, while Kitchen Helpers focus on assisting with daily tasks and cleaning. Both roles are essential in maintaining efficient kitchen operations.

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

To thrive as a Kitchen Associate, you need a solid understanding of food safety, basic cooking techniques, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, food handling certifications, and inventory management systems is typically required. Strong teamwork, time management, and attention to detail are crucial soft skills that set candidates apart. These competencies ensure efficient kitchen operations, compliance with health standards, and consistently high-quality food preparation.

What are some typical challenges a kitchen associate faces during busy service periods, and how can they be managed?

During peak meal times, Kitchen Associates often face challenges such as high order volumes, tight deadlines, and maintaining quality standards under pressure. To manage these, it's important to stay organized, communicate clearly with team members, and prioritize tasks efficiently. Many kitchens operate with a strong sense of teamwork, so supporting colleagues and asking for help when needed can make a big difference. Developing good time management skills and staying calm under pressure are essential for success in this role.
What are the most commonly searched types of Kitchen jobs in Downers Grove, IL? The most popular types of Kitchen jobs in Downers Grove, IL are:
What cities near Downers Grove, IL are hiring for Kitchen Associate jobs? Cities near Downers Grove, IL with the most Kitchen Associate job openings:

Kitchen Supervisor

Jobs on Cash

Des Plaines, IL โ€ข On-site

Contractor

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Kitchen Supervisor

Job Type: Full-time

Location: Des Plaines IL

Job Description:


The Kitchen Supervisor at Levy (part of Compass Group) oversees food-service associates and ensures quality, safety, and efficiency in food preparation and delivery at Oriole Park at Camden Yards. This role requires supervising staff, maintaining inventory, adhering to safety standards, and providing exceptional food services.

Responsibilities:

  • Train, direct, and evaluate food-service associates
  • Plan and assign work; manage associate performance and resolve issues
  • Advise management on purchasing to minimize waste and prevent shortages
  • Ensure food quality, serving temperatures, and portion control using approved recipes
  • Clean and operate kitchen equipment according to department procedures
  • Store, label, and date food items as per policy to maintain safe rotations and minimize spoilage
  • Follow HACCP guidelines for food safety
  • Serve meals and remain available to receive customer feedback during meal periods
  • Perform other duties as assigned

Benefits:

  • Early access to wages through Instapay and high-interest savings via EVEN app
  • Associate Shopping Program
  • Health and Wellness Program
  • Discount Marketplace
  • Employee Assistance Program