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Kitchen Associate Jobs in Oswego, IL (NOW HIRING)

Kitchen Manager

Glendale Heights, IL · On-site

$62K - $65K/yr

Associate or Bachelor's degree in Culinary Arts preferred. * Experience: Minimum 5 years experience in food and beverage kitchen management required. * Leadership Skills : Proven track record in ...

Kitchen Manager

Aurora, IL · On-site

$62K - $65K/yr

Associate or Bachelor's degree in Culinary Arts preferred. * Experience: Minimum 5 years experience in food and beverage kitchen management required. * Leadership Skills : Proven track record in ...

Kitchen Manager

Naperville, IL · On-site

$62K - $65K/yr

Associate or Bachelor's degree in Culinary Arts preferred. * Experience: Minimum 5 years experience in food and beverage kitchen management required. * Leadership Skills : Proven track record in ...

Kitchen Manager

Bloomingdale, IL · On-site

$62K - $65K/yr

Associate or Bachelor's degree in Culinary Arts preferred. * Experience: Minimum 5 years experience in food and beverage kitchen management required. * Leadership Skills : Proven track record in ...

Kitchen Manager

Carol Stream, IL · On-site

$62K - $65K/yr

Associate or Bachelor's degree in Culinary Arts preferred. * Experience: Minimum 5 years experience in food and beverage kitchen management required. * Leadership Skills : Proven track record in ...

Associate or Bachelor's degree in Culinary Arts preferred. * Experience: Minimum 5 years experience in food and beverage kitchen management required. * Leadership Skills : Proven track record in ...

Kitchen Manager

Naperville, IL · On-site

$62K - $65K/yr

Associate or Bachelor's degree in Culinary Arts preferred. * Experience: Minimum 5 years experience in food and beverage kitchen management required. * Leadership Skills : Proven track record in ...

Kitchen Manager

Bolingbrook, IL · On-site

$62K - $65K/yr

Associate or Bachelor's degree in Culinary Arts preferred. * Experience: Minimum 5 years experience in food and beverage kitchen management required. * Leadership Skills : Proven track record in ...

Associate or Bachelor's degree in Culinary Arts preferred. * Experience: Minimum5years experience in food and beverage kitchen management required. * Leadership Skills : Proven track record in ...

Kitchen Manager

Lisle, IL · On-site

$62K - $65K/yr

Associate or Bachelor's degree in Culinary Arts preferred. * Experience: Minimum 5 years experience in food and beverage kitchen management required. * Leadership Skills : Proven track record in ...

Associate or Bachelor's degree in Culinary Arts preferred. * Experience: Minimum 5 years experience in food and beverage kitchen management required. * Leadership Skills : Proven track record in ...

Kitchen Manager

Naperville, IL · On-site

$62K - $65K/yr

Associate or Bachelor's degree in Culinary Arts preferred. * Experience: Minimum 5 years experience in food and beverage kitchen management required. * Leadership Skills : Proven track record in ...

Kitchen Manager

Woodridge, IL · On-site

$62K - $65K/yr

Associate or Bachelor's degree in Culinary Arts preferred. * Experience: Minimum 5 years experience in food and beverage kitchen management required. * Leadership Skills : Proven track record in ...

Kitchen Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$62K - $65K/yr

Associate or Bachelor's degree in Culinary Arts preferred. * Experience: Minimum 5 years experience in food and beverage kitchen management required. * Leadership Skills : Proven track record in ...

Showing results 41-60

Kitchen Associate information

See Oswego, IL salary details

$8

$18

$30

How much do kitchen associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for kitchen associate in Oswego, IL is $18.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $19.18 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 Oswego, IL? The most popular types of Kitchen jobs in Oswego, IL are:
What cities near Oswego, IL are hiring for Kitchen Associate jobs? Cities near Oswego, IL with the most Kitchen Associate job openings:

Kitchen Manager

SSP

Glendale Heights, IL • On-site

$62K - $65K/yr

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Join Our Team!
  • $62,000 - $65,000 / year
  • Opportunity for quarterly bonus
  • Comprehensive Benefits Package
  • Bilingual in Spanish is a plus!

Are you a passionate culinary professional with a flair for leadership? We’re seeking a Kitchen Manager to drive success and innovation in our kitchens, ensuring exceptional food quality and memorable guest experiences across one or multiple airport restaurant locations.

As a Kitchen Manager you’ll take charge of food production, staff management, and menu development, all while upholding our brand’s culinary standards.

What You’ll Do:

  • Lead with Excellence: Recruit, train, and develop kitchen staff, creating a strong, dynamic team dedicated to top-notch service and culinary innovation.
  • Create Memorable Menus: Bring your creative touch to menu development, maintaining our commitment to quality, presentation, and guest satisfaction.
  • Drive Financial Success: Manage budgets, control costs, and maximize profitability by monitoring inventory, labor, and expenses.
  • Oversee Culinary Operations: Maintain high food and sanitation standards, resolve quality issues, and ensure compliance with health regulations.
  • Deliver Exceptional Guest Service: Foster an environment that prioritizes guest satisfaction, with each meal crafted to exceed expectations.

Qualifications:

  • Education: Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Culinary Arts preferred.
  • Experience: Minimum 5 years experience in food and beverage kitchen management required.
  • Leadership Skills: Proven track record in managing a team, excellent interpersonal abilities, and skillful in handling high-stress situations.
  • Culinary Savvy: Knowledge of both full-service and quick-service environments, with strong organizational and planning skills.
  • Certifications: Food Handlers Permit and any brand certifications as required by law.

Why Join Us?

Be a part of a team that celebrates creativity and growth. With us, you’ll have the opportunity to shape a culinary program that excites guests and sets standards for quality and innovation. Apply today and bring your culinary vision to life!

SSP America is an equal opportunity employer. All decisions concerning the employment relationship will be made without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status, age, disability, genetic information, or any other status or characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. SSP America will provide reasonable accommodations during the application and interview process upon request as required to comply with applicable laws.


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About SSP

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Oil and gas extraction

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Twinsburg, OH, US

Year founded

1926