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Lunch Helper Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

DuPage County ROE

Lunch Monitor

Wheaton, IL · On-site

Lunch Monitor Date Posted: 7/21/2021 Location: Glenside Middle School Closing Date: TBD Working ... Help students problem solve minor disagreements * Assess playground and/or lunchroom for any unsafe ...

DuPage County ROE

Lunch Monitor

Wheaton, IL · On-site

Lunch Monitor Date Posted: 7/21/2021 Location: Americana Elementary School Closing Date: TBD ... Help students problem solve minor disagreements * Assess playground and/or lunchroom for any unsafe ...

The Diocese Of Rockford

Lunch/Plgrnd Aide

Dundee, IL · On-site

$16/hr

Flexible scheduling available - We can add hours for extra teacher aide work after the lunch period ... No previous experience required - just a willingness to help! This is a great opportunity for ...

Education Career Page

Lunch/Plgrnd Aide

Dundee, IL · On-site

$16/hr

Flexible scheduling available - We can add hours for extra teacher aide work after the lunch period ... No previous experience required - just a willingness to help! This is a great opportunity for ...

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All JobsLunch Helper JobsLunch Helper Jobs in Chicago, IL

Lunch Helper information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$11

$18

$24

How much do lunch helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for lunch helper in Chicago, IL is $18.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.86 and $18.80 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a lunch helper?

Lunch Helpers are individuals, often volunteers or school staff, who assist in managing and supervising students during school lunch periods. Their responsibilities typically include helping students open food packages, ensuring safety in the cafeteria, monitoring behavior, and assisting with cleanup. Lunch Helpers play an important role in creating a safe, orderly, and positive lunchtime environment for students. They often work alongside teachers and cafeteria staff to support the smooth operation of lunch service.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a lunch helper?

To thrive as a Lunch Helper, you need basic food handling knowledge, organizational skills, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with food safety protocols, kitchen equipment, and sometimes a food handler's permit are typically required. Strong teamwork, reliability, and communication skills help create a positive dining environment and ensure smooth meal service. These abilities are essential for maintaining food safety, efficiency, and a supportive atmosphere in school or institutional cafeterias.

What are the most common challenges lunch helpers face during busy meal periods?

Lunch Helpers often experience fast-paced environments, especially during peak lunchtime hours. Managing time efficiently while ensuring all students are served, maintaining cleanliness, and addressing dietary needs or food allergies can be challenging. Working collaboratively with kitchen staff and other helpers is essential for smooth operations. Adaptability and strong communication skills help Lunch Helpers stay organized and provide a positive dining experience for everyone.

What is the difference between Lunch Helper vs Cafeteria Worker?

AspectLunch HelperCafeteria Worker
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalentHigh school diploma or equivalent
Work EnvironmentSchool cafeterias, assisting with meal serviceSchool cafeterias, preparing and serving food
Employer & Industry UsageSchools, educational institutionsSchools, educational institutions
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Lunch Helpers and Cafeteria Workers both work in school cafeterias and typically require similar credentials. However, Lunch Helpers mainly assist with meal service and cleanup, while Cafeteria Workers may be involved in food preparation and serving. Both roles are essential for smooth cafeteria operations in educational settings.

What are the most commonly searched types of Lunch jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Lunch jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Lunch Helper jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Lunch Helper job openings:

Lunch Helper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lunch Helper job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,997 per year, or $18.7 per hour.

2026-27 Part-Time Lunch/Recess Monitor

Diocese of Joliet

New Lenox, IL • On-site

$15 - $18/hr

Part-time

PTO

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Position Type:
School Service Staff
Date Posted:
8/20/2026
Location:
St. Jude Catholic School, New Lenox
Diocese of Joliet Catholic Elementary Schools
(2026/2027) Lunch/Recess Monitor
Part-time-Benefit Ineligible
New Lenox, IL
Position available: (August, 2026)
Position Purpose
Seeking an energetic and dynamic Lunch and Recess Helper who will work each day of the week that school is in session. Ideal candidates are individuals who are interested in interacting with elementary school students, helping them to follow lunch/recess rules, and maintaining a safe environment while the students enjoy lunch and recess. In addition, the applicant must be willing to help teach children how to use indoor voices while enjoying lunch, help teach table manners, help distribute milk and hot lunches, and help to maintain a welcoming lunch environment for all.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Cleaning and maintaining kitchen and cafeteria
  • Light lifting
  • Assist in disposing of lunch trash
  • Supervising students during lunch along with teachers.

Education and Experience
  • A High School or GED is required.
  • Food handling certificate is preferred.
  • Previous experience is a plus but not required.
  • Enjoys being around young children ages Preschool to Grade 8.
  • Excellent communication skills are essential when supervising young children.
  • Practicing Catholic is preferred but not required.

Physical abilities that are commonly associated with the performance of this job
  • Work in standard school building environment.
  • Ability to work outdoors during outdoor student activities including during times of inclement weather.
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to see, talk or hear.
  • The employee is frequently required to stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle or feel; and reach with hands and arms.
  • Ability to stand, sit, or walk for extended periods of time.
  • Ability to walk up and down multiple flights of stairs on a regular basis.
  • Physically able to perform the duties as assigned, including the ability to lift up to 20-30 pounds if needed.
  • If hired, food handling certificate is necessary

Hourly Range ($15 - $18)
  • Determined at the local level
  • This is a part-time position, hours not to exceed 29 hours per week as per a schedule developed by the principal.

Benefits
  • Paid personal leave days

To apply for this position
Complete an online Frontline Applicant Tracking application and upload required supplemental materials. Additionally, the following documentation is required to be uploaded/submitted with your online application to be considered further:
  • Current Resume
  • Official Transcripts, if applicable/obtained.
  • References

This may be accessed at the following link:
https://www.applitrack.com/dioceseofjoliet/onlineapp/
Applications will be reviewed as they are received. Incomplete or paper applications will not be considered.
We are excited to review your interest in this position!
This document is not intended to be a comprehensive list of work-related functions. All duties and work conditions listed are subject to change at the discretion of the Diocese of Joliet Management. The Diocese of Joliet will, in compliance with the Americans with Disability Act (ADA), accommodate essential job functions whenever feasible.

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