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Kitchen Associate Jobs in Springfield, MO (NOW HIRING)

DISHWASHER

Springfield, MO · On-site

$15/hr

Maintains dishes, pots, pans, trays, kitchen, work areas, equipment and utensils in orderly and ... Associates at Fresh Ideas are offered many fantastic benefits: • Medical • Dental • Vision ...

FOOD UNIT LEAD

Nixa, MO · On-site

$13.75 - $18.75/hr

With more than 16,000 associates in 4,300 schools, ranging from large public institutions to small ... kitchen and dining area and washing of kitchen utensils and equipment. * Issues written and oral ...

Maintains dishes, pots, pans, trays, kitchen, work areas, equipment and utensils in orderly and ... Associates at Fresh Ideas are offered many fantastic benefits: • Medical • Dental • Vision ...

Maintains dishes, pots, pans, trays, kitchen, work areas, equipment and utensils in orderly and ... Associates at Fresh Ideas are offered many fantastic benefits: Medical Dental Vision Life Insurance ...

Maintains dishes, pots, pans, trays, kitchen, work areas, equipment and utensils in orderly and ... Associates at Fresh Ideas are offered many fantastic benefits: * Medical * Dental * Vision * Life ...

FOOD UNIT LEAD (FULL TIME)

Nixa, MO · On-site

$13.75 - $18.75/hr

With more than 16,000 associates in 4,300 schools, ranging from large public institutions to small ... kitchen and dining area and washing of kitchen utensils and equipment. * Issues written and oral ...

FOOD UNIT LEAD (FULL TIME)

Nixa, MO · On-site

$13.75 - $18.75/hr

With more than 16,000 associates in 4,300 schools, ranging from large public institutions to small ... kitchen and dining area and washing of kitchen utensils and equipment. * Issues written and oral ...

Communicate clearly with managers, kitchen & front of the house associates. * Assist in various areas of the hotels Food & Beverage outlets. * Other duties as assigned by the Sous Chef/ Executive ...

Maintains dishes, pots, pans, trays, kitchen, work areas, equipment and utensils in orderly and ... Associate Shopping Program * Health and Wellness Programs * Discount Marketplace * Identity Theft ...

Communicate clearly with managers, kitchen & front of the house associates. * Assist in various areas of the hotels Food & Beverage outlets. * Other duties as assigned by the Sous Chef/ Executive ...

Communicate clearly with managers, kitchen & front of the house associates. * Assist in various areas of the hotels Food & Beverage outlets. * Other duties as assigned by the Sous Chef/ Executive ...

Cleans kitchen after preparation and serving, maintaining high standards of cleanliness. Stores or ... Associate Shopping Program * Health and Wellness Programs * Discount Marketplace * Identity Theft ...

COOK

Springfield, MO · On-site

$18.50/hr

Cleans kitchen after preparation and serving, maintaining high standards of cleanliness. Stores or ... Associate Shopping Program * Health and Wellness Programs * Discount Marketplace * Identity Theft ...

COOK

Springfield, MO · On-site

$18/hr

Cleans kitchen after preparation and serving, maintaining high standards of cleanliness. Stores or ... Associates at Fresh Ideas are offered many fantastic benefits: • Medical • Dental • Vision ...

Cleans kitchen after preparation and serving, maintaining high standards of cleanliness. Stores or ... Associates at Fresh Ideas are offered many fantastic benefits: * Medical * Dental * Vision * Life ...

COOK

Springfield, MO · On-site

$18/hr

Cleans kitchen after preparation and serving, maintaining high standards of cleanliness. Stores or ... Associate Shopping Program * Health and Wellness Programs * Discount Marketplace * Identity Theft ...

Cleans kitchen after preparation and serving, maintaining high standards of cleanliness. Stores or ... Associates at Fresh Ideas are offered many fantastic benefits: • Medical • Dental • Vision ...

Cleans kitchen after preparation and serving, maintaining high standards of cleanliness. Stores or ... Associate Shopping Program * Health and Wellness Programs * Discount Marketplace * Identity Theft ...

Cleans kitchen after preparation and serving, maintaining high standards of cleanliness. Stores or ... Associate Shopping Program * Health and Wellness Programs * Discount Marketplace * Identity Theft ...

Cleans kitchen after preparation and serving, maintaining high standards of cleanliness. Stores or ... Associate Shopping Program * Health and Wellness Programs * Discount Marketplace * Identity Theft ...

Showing results 41-60

Kitchen Associate information

See Springfield, MO salary details

$8

$17

$28

How much do kitchen associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for kitchen associate in Springfield, MO is $17.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.80 and $18.37 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 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 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.

Can I work in a kitchen as a Kitchen Associate with no experience?

Kitchen Associate positions often do not require prior experience, as employers typically provide on-the-job training for tasks like food preparation and cleaning. Basic skills such as teamwork, reliability, and a willingness to learn are valued, and some roles may require food safety certifications which can be obtained quickly. Entry-level roles are suitable for individuals new to the industry.

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

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

What cities near Springfield, MO are hiring for Kitchen Associate jobs?

Cities near Springfield, MO with the most Kitchen Associate job openings:

DISHWASHER

Compass Group

Springfield, MO • On-site

$15/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago


Compass Group rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 1,095 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

349th of 500 rated business services


Job description

  • We are hiring immediately for part time DISHWASHER positions.
  • Location: Drury University - 900 North Benton Avenue, Springfield, MO 65802. Note: online applications accepted only.
  • Schedule: Part time; Days may vary, 4:00 PM to 8:30 PM. More details upon interview.
  • Requirement: Previous food utility experience is required.
  • Fixed Pay Rate: $15.00 per hour.

Fresh Ideas Management is a dynamic food service management company that believes good food is a powerful thing. Food brings people together and food creates memories.
Fresh Ideas encourages creativity by creating fun working environments for our teams! Our diverse teams enjoy a workplace where creativity, openness and innovation flow free and new, Fresh Ideas are encouraged. Our team-members are excited about creating delicious, unique and engaging dining experiences for our guests.
Fresh Ideas offers a full benefits package, flexible schedules that respect one of our core values, work life balance, and ongoing training and development opportunities. This, along with our rapid growth, means accelerated promotion opportunities for every motivated Fresh Ideas team member!
The advertised program is a conversational recruiting assistant that helps you apply to jobs with Compass Group. Message frequency varies. Message and data rates may apply. Text STOP to opt out or HELP for help. Terms and conditions: http://olivia.paradox.ai/moSkg
Job Summary
Summary: Maintains dishes, pots, pans, trays, kitchen, work areas, equipment and utensils in orderly and sanitary condition.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Scrapes and rinses food from dirty dishes and washes them by hand or places them in racks or on conveyor to dishwashing machine depending on assigned equipment. Ensures complete cleanliness and sanitation.
  • Washes pots, pans and trays based on assigned procedures. Ensure complete cleanliness and sanitation.
  • Polishes silver using burnishing machine tumbler, chemical dip, buffing wheel and hand cloth depending on assigned equipment and procedures. Ensures complete cleanliness and sanitation.
  • Ensures compliance with outlined safety procedures.
  • Maintains temperatures and chemical levels as outlined by provided standards.
  • Keeps dish area orderly and in compliance with safety standards.
  • Sweeps and mops kitchen floors to ensure compliance with safety and sanitation standards.
  • Washes worktables, walls, refrigerators, meat blocks and other food prep surfaces.
  • Removes trash and places it in designated containers. Steam cleans or hoses out garbage cans.
  • Transfers supplies and equipment between storage and work areas.
  • Helps load and unload supplies and product.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Associates at Fresh Ideas are offered many fantastic benefits:
• Medical
• Dental
• Vision
• Life Insurance/ AD
• Disability Insurance
• Retirement Plan
• Paid Time Off
• Holiday Time Off (varies by site/state)
• Associate Shopping Program
• Health and Wellness Programs
• Discount Marketplace
• Identity Theft Protection
• Pet Insurance
• Commuter Benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)
Associates may also be eligible for paid and/or unpaid time off benefits in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. For positions in Washington State, Maryland, or to be performed Remotely, click here or copy/paste the link below for paid time off benefits information
https://www.compass-usa.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/2023_WageTransparency_FreshIdeas.pdf
About Compass Group: Achieving leadership in the foodservice industry
Compass Group is an equal opportunity employer. At Compass, we are committed to treating all Applicants and Associates fairly based on their abilities, achievements, and experience without regard to race, national origin, sex, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other classification protected by law.
Qualified candidates must be able to perform the essential functions of this position satisfactorily with or without a reasonable accommodation. Disclaimer: this job post is not necessarily an exhaustive list of all essential responsibilities, skills, tasks, or requirements associated with this position. While this is intended to be an accurate reflection of the position posted, the Company reserves the right to modify or change the essential functions of the job based on business necessity.
Certain positions may require Florida Level 2 background screening. Details: https://info.flclearinghouse.com/
Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis.
Fresh Ideas maintains a drug-free workplace.

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