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Kitchen Utility Associate Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Utility Staff

Naperville, IL ยท On-site

$15 - $18/hr

The utility associate performs a variety of tasks in the food and beverage department including but not limited to dishwashing, trash control, and helping to maintain and clean and safe kitchen ...

Utility Staff

Naperville, IL ยท On-site

$18/hr

The utility associate performs a variety of tasks in the food and beverage department including but not limited to dishwashing, trash control, and helping to maintain and clean and safe kitchen ...

Utility Staff

Naperville, IL ยท On-site

$15 - $18/hr

The utility associate performs a variety of tasks in the food and beverage department including but not limited to dishwashing, trash control, and helping to maintain and clean and safe kitchen ...

FOOD SERVICE UTILITY

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$21.35/hr

Become part of Restaurant Associates, the industry's leading provider of dining and event catering ... Maintains kitchen work areas, and keeps equipment and utensils clean and orderly. Essential Duties ...

FOOD SERVICE UTILITY

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$20.75/hr

The decisions, actions and attitudes of our associates earn the trust and loyalty of our clients ... Maintains kitchen work areas, and keeps equipment and utensils clean and orderly. Essential Duties ...

FOOD SERVICE UTILITY

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$21/hr

Previous kitchen experience required. * Perks: Free meals, uniforms provided, and close to train ... The decisions, actions and attitudes of our associates earn the trust and loyalty of our clients ...

We asked some of our associates why they love working for Touchpoint. Click here to see what they ... Maintains kitchen work areas, and keeps equipment and utensils clean and orderly. Essential Duties ...

FOOD SERVICE UTILITY

Downers Grove, IL ยท On-site

$15 - $18/hr

With more than 16,000 associates in 4,300 schools, ranging from large public institutions to small ... Maintains kitchen work areas, and keeps equipment and utensils clean and orderly. Essential Duties ...

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Kitchen Utility Associate information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$9

$16

$21

How much do kitchen utility associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for kitchen utility associate in Chicago, IL is $16.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.85 and $18.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Kitchen Utility Associate vs Kitchen Steward?

AspectKitchen Utility AssociateKitchen Steward
CredentialsNone typically requiredNone typically required
Work EnvironmentCommercial kitchens, restaurants, cafeteriasCommercial kitchens, hospitals, hotels
Job DutiesCleaning, dishwashing, basic kitchen supportDishwashing, maintaining cleanliness, assisting kitchen staff
Industry UsageCommonly used in hospitality and food serviceCommonly used in hospitality, healthcare, and food service

The Kitchen Utility Associate and Kitchen Steward roles are similar, focusing on cleaning and maintaining kitchen cleanliness. The terms are often used interchangeably, but 'Kitchen Steward' may imply a more formal or traditional position within larger establishments. Both roles require no specific certifications and are essential for smooth kitchen operations.

What are Kitchen Utility Associates?

Kitchen Utility Associates are essential staff members in food service operations who handle cleaning, sanitizing, and basic support tasks in the kitchen. Their responsibilities typically include washing dishes, cleaning kitchen equipment and surfaces, removing trash, and assisting cooks or chefs with basic food preparation. They help maintain a safe and sanitary environment, ensuring the kitchen runs smoothly. This role is vital for upholding food safety standards and supporting the overall efficiency of the culinary team.

What are the primary challenges Kitchen Utility Associates face during busy service periods?

Kitchen Utility Associates often experience fast-paced and high-pressure situations, especially during peak meal times. Managing multiple tasks such as dishwashing, sanitizing surfaces, and transporting kitchen equipment efficiently can be challenging. Staying organized and maintaining a positive attitude are key to ensuring smooth kitchen operations and supporting the culinary team. Strong communication with chefs and other staff members also helps prioritize urgent tasks and maintain cleanliness standards throughout shifts.
What are popular job titles related to Kitchen Utility Associate jobs in Chicago, IL? For Kitchen Utility Associate jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Kitchen Utility Associate jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Kitchen Utility Associate jobs in Chicago, IL are:

$15 - $18/hr

Other

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Description

Position Summary:

The utility associate performs a variety of tasks in the food and beverage department including but not limited to dishwashing, trash control, and helping to maintain and clean and safe kitchen environment.ย 

Essential Functions:

  • Performs dish and pot washing and general cleaning duties in the kitchen and dining room areaย 
  • Assist in ordering and storage of food and non-food productsย 
  • Sets up and maintains the pot and dish washing areaย 
  • Distributes and stores clean pots, dishes and utensilsย 
  • Cleans and sanitizes production equipment, work surfaces and kitchen according to cleaning schedules and proceduresย 
  • Empties trash containers as requiredย 
  • Assists in the preparation of food as directed by supervisorย 
  • Notify Dir. of Food and Beverage or any malfunctioning kitchen equipment or appliancesย 
  • Maintain a clean, organized and safe kitchenย 
  • The ability to work in a safe and alert mannerย 
  • The ability to take ownership for associate's safety and the safety of the residentsย 
  • Must disclose any medication that might impair associate's ability to perform the job safely or competently.ย 

Non-Essential Functions:

  • Leads by example exhibiting the CORE Values through servant leadershipย 
  • Must possess a passion to work with and around senior citizensย 
  • Attends required community meetings and participates Life Enrichment activities when ableย 
  • Completes all required courses in adherence with HRA Universityย 
  • Is prompt and able to perform the required duties of the position on a regular, predictable basisย 
  • Becomes familiar and understands how to report a missing person using the Safe Return program or equivalentย 
  • Becomes familiar and understands the steps for fire evacuationย 
  • All associates are responsible for maintaining a safe and secure environment for all community residents


Requirements

Qualifications/Skills/Educational Requirements:

  • Must have a high school educationย 
  • Experience in cooking for large groups a plusย 
  • Knowledge of state food-handling and kitchen regulations preferredย 
  • Knowledge of OSHA Standards and fire and safety procedures preferredย 
  • Knowledge of fire and safety proceduresย 

Background Screening Requirement

In all Florida Companies, this position requires a Level 2 background screening through the Florida Care Provider Background Screening Clearinghouse. For more information regarding the Clearinghouse, disqualifying offenses, and exemption procedures, please visit: https://info.flclearinghouse.com