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Operations Assistant Jobs in Lockport, IL (NOW HIRING)

Supplier Operations Generalist We are looking for broadly skilled, resourceful, and talented people to join our team. People from a diverse range of backgrounds are successful at McMaster-Carr from ...

Supplier Operations

Chicago, IL · On-site

$103K - $118K/yr

Supplier Operations Generalist We are looking for broadly skilled, resourceful, and talented people to join our team. People from a diverse range of backgrounds are successful at McMaster-Carr from ...

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Operations Assistant information

See Lockport, IL salary details

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How much do operations assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for operations assistant in Lockport, IL is $19.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.43 and $22.40 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the role of an operations assistant?

An operations assistant supports daily business functions by coordinating administrative tasks, managing schedules, and assisting with process improvements. They often use tools like spreadsheets and communication platforms to ensure smooth operations and may handle inventory, customer service, or data entry tasks.

What are Operations Assistants?

Operations Assistants are administrative professionals who support the daily functions of a company’s operations. They handle various tasks such as scheduling, data entry, maintaining records, and communicating with other departments to ensure smooth workflow. Their role is crucial in helping the organization run efficiently by assisting managers and other staff with administrative and logistical tasks. Operations Assistants often work in a variety of industries and may take on additional responsibilities depending on the needs of their employer.

What is the salary of an operations assistant?

The average salary for an operations assistant typically ranges from $30,000 to $50,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced assistants or those in specialized fields can earn higher wages. Benefits and work environment also vary by employer.

What is the difference between Operations Assistant vs Administrative Assistant?

AspectOperations AssistantAdministrative Assistant
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma; some roles may prefer certifications in office managementHigh school diploma; often requires proficiency in office software
Work EnvironmentCorporate offices, warehouses, or production facilitiesOffice settings, reception areas
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, logistics, retail, corporateCorporate, government, nonprofit, small businesses
Common Search & ComparisonOperations Assistant vs Administrative Assistant

The main difference is that Operations Assistants focus on supporting daily operational functions, logistics, and process improvements, often in more technical or production environments. Administrative Assistants primarily handle clerical tasks, scheduling, and office management. Both roles require organizational skills and basic office credentials, but Operations Assistants tend to work more closely with operational teams and processes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Operations Assistant, and why are they important?

To excel as an Operations Assistant, you typically need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and a foundational understanding of business administration, often supported by an associate's or bachelor's degree. Familiarity with office software like Microsoft Office Suite, project management tools, and basic database systems is commonly required. Excellent communication, time management, and problem-solving abilities help individuals stand out in this role. These skills ensure efficient support for daily operations, smooth workflow, and effective coordination across teams.

What does an operations assistant do?

An operations assistant supports daily business functions by coordinating administrative tasks, managing schedules, and ensuring smooth workflow. They often handle communication, data entry, and basic problem-solving, using tools like spreadsheets and office software to improve efficiency.

What Is an Operations Assistant?

An operations assistant takes care of a variety of administrative and clerical responsibilities for an organization. Their purpose is to help ensure the business runs smoothly by resolving customer complaints, training employees, and assisting management. As an operations assistant, you can work in a wide variety of industries, and your specific duties vary depending upon the job field. This career requires industry-specific work experience, as well as strong interpersonal skills. Some medical employers require additional qualifications, such as an associate degree in a related field.

How much do operations assistants make in the US?

Operations assistants in the US typically earn a median annual salary of around $35,000 to $45,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced assistants or those in specialized fields can earn higher wages. Many roles require strong organizational and communication skills, with some employers offering benefits and opportunities for advancement.

What are some common challenges Operations Assistants face, and how can they effectively manage them?

Operations Assistants often juggle multiple tasks simultaneously, such as coordinating schedules, processing documentation, and supporting various departments. One common challenge is managing shifting priorities while maintaining attention to detail. To succeed, it's important to develop strong organizational skills, use digital tools to track tasks, and communicate proactively with team members. Regular check-ins with supervisors and colleagues can also help ensure alignment and prevent bottlenecks.
What are the most commonly searched types of Operations jobs in Lockport, IL? The most popular types of Operations jobs in Lockport, IL are:
What job categories do people searching Operations Assistant jobs in Lockport, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Operations Assistant jobs in Lockport, IL are:
What cities near Lockport, IL are hiring for Operations Assistant jobs? Cities near Lockport, IL with the most Operations Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Operations Assistant job openings in Lockport, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,344 per year, or $19.9 per hour.
Culinary Operations Assistant

Culinary Operations Assistant

QUEST FOOD MANAGEMENT SERVICES LLC

Lombard, IL • On-site

$65K - $75K/yr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


Quest Food Management Services rating

3.4

Company rating: 3.4 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

65th of 67 rated caterers


Job description

About Company:

For over 40 years, Quest Food Management Services has been a leading food service provider serving K-12 schools, higher education institutions, corporate dining programs, and event venues. Quest is consistently ranked among the top food service management companies in the United States for its commitment to fresh, scratch made menus, local sourcing, and intensely personal service. At the heart of our success is our “Quest Ready” culture, built on integrity, responsiveness, accountability, respect, and excellence.
Being Quest Ready means serving with purpose and care, creating experiences that are nourishing, welcoming, and reliable. This mindset empowers our teams to build lasting relationships and continually raise the standard for great hospitality in every community we serve.

Position Summary

Quest Food Management Services is seeking a passionate, exceptionally talented, and motivated Corporate Executive Chef to lead our culinary team. This position is responsible for safeguarding our culinary standards, driving culinary innovation, and supporting best-in-class field operations. The Corporate Executive Chef will directly oversee regional chefs and culinary directors, and lead Quest's newly created Culinary CIRCLE, a dynamic collection of culinarians from across our portfolio. This role is key to positioning Quest as the premier foodservice provider in the Midwest. We are looking for someone who is unafraid of grandiose ideas and unbounded by industry norms, with a relentless drive to push the boundaries of culinary excellence.

Responsibilities

  • Leadership and Management:
  1. Lead, mentor, and develop the culinary team, including regional chefs and culinary directors.
  2. Oversee and partner closely with the Culinary CIRCLE, ensuring effective collaboration and innovation in culinary practices.
  3. Foster a culture of excellence, accountability, and continuous improvement within the culinary team.
  4. Inspire the team with your passion for culinary arts and innovation, encouraging creative thinking and innovative ideas.
  • Culinary Standards and Innovation:
  1. Establish and safeguard Quest’s culinary standards across all locations.
  2. Drive culinary innovation, stay abreast of industry trends, and incorporate new techniques and ingredients.
  3. Develop and implement new recipes, menus, and food concepts that align with Quest’s mission and vision in collaboration with the Procurement and Ops Support Teams.
  4. Challenge the status quo by exploring unconventional ideas and pushing the limits of what is possible in the culinary world.
  • Field Operations Support:
  1. Provide culinary support to field operations, ensuring high-quality food service delivery.
  2. Conduct regular site visits to ensure compliance with culinary standards and operational excellence.
  3. Collaborate with operations teams to address and resolve culinary challenges.
  • Strategic Planning and Execution:
    1. Contribute to the development and execution of Quest’s strategic culinary initiatives.
    2. Assist in positioning Quest as the premier foodservice provider in the Midwest through innovative and high-quality culinary offerings.
    3. Support business development efforts by participating in presentations and leading tastings for potential clients.
  • Budget and Resource Management:
  1. Manage the culinary department budget.
  2. Establish culinary best-practices for field operators ensuring cost-effective operations without compromising quality.

Corporate Executive Chef - Requirements

Education and Experience: The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.

  • Bachelor's degree in culinary arts, Hospitality Management, or a related field preferred.
  • Minimum of 10 years of experience in a senior culinary leadership role, preferably within a large food service or hospitality organization.

Skills & Ability: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.

  • A visionary mindset with the courage to take risks and the resilience to see ideas through to fruition.
  • Strong leadership and team management skills, with a servant-leader mentality
  • Exceptional culinary skills with a passion for innovation and quality.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to work collaboratively with diverse teams and stakeholders.
  • Strong organizational and time management abilities.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and culinary management software.

Certification

  • Certified Executive Chef (CEC) or equivalent certification preferred.
  • ServSafe certification or equivalent food safety certification required.

Physical Demands: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by a team member to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

  • Specific vision requirements include the ability to see at close range, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus
  • While performing the duties of this job, the team member is regularly required to talk and hear
  • Possess the ability to fulfill any office activities normally expected in an office setting, to include, but not limited to: remaining seated for periods of time to perform computer-based work, participating in filing activity, lifting and carrying office supplies (paper reams, mail, etc.)
  • Frequently required to stand, walk, sit, use hands to feel, and reach with hand and arms
  • Occasionally lift and/or move up to 20-25 pounds
  • Exposure to odors, noise, heat, steam, in/out walk-in freezer, cleaning chemicals and detergent
  • Fine hand manipulation (keyboarding and knife skills)

Work Environment: The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those team member encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.

  • Ability to travel frequently up to 50% to various locations as required.
  • Flexible work schedule to accommodate business needs, including some evenings and weekends.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position. The team member must provide medical evidence for reasonable accommodation




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