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Restaurant Associate Jobs in Decatur, IL (NOW HIRING)

We are a Maximum Wage Employer , paying the highest hourly rates within 25 miles of our restaurants ... Associate Emergency Foundation * Next Day Pay - receive up to 50% of your prior day's earned wages

Team Member

Forsyth, IL · On-site

$19.25/hr

We are a Maximum Wage Employer, paying the highest hourly rates within 25 miles of our restaurants ... Associate Emergency Foundation Next Day Pay - receive up to 50% of your prior day's earned wages

Team Member

Decatur, IL · On-site

$15 - $19.25/hr

We are a Maximum Wage Employer , paying the highest hourly rates within 25 miles of our restaurants ... Associate Emergency Foundation * Next Day Pay - receive up to 50% of your prior day's earned wages

Team Member

Decatur, IL · On-site

$15 - $19.25/hr

We are a Maximum Wage Employer , paying the highest hourly rates within 25 miles of our restaurants ... Associate Emergency Foundation * Next Day Pay - receive up to 50% of your prior day's earned wages

Team Member

Lincoln, IL · On-site

$15 - $19.25/hr

We are a Maximum Wage Employer , paying the highest hourly rates within 25 miles of our restaurants ... Associate Emergency Foundation * Next Day Pay - receive up to 50% of your prior day's earned wages

Team Member

Forsyth, IL · On-site

$15 - $19.25/hr

We are a Maximum Wage Employer , paying the highest hourly rates within 25 miles of our restaurants ... Associate Emergency Foundation * Next Day Pay - receive up to 50% of your prior day's earned wages

Job Summary The General Manager (GM) is the strategic and operational leader of the restaurant ... An associate or a bachelor's degree is preferred. * ServeSafe Certification preferred (training may ...

Job Summary The General Manager (GM) is the strategic and operational leader of the restaurant ... An associate or a bachelor's degree is preferred. * ServeSafe Certification preferred (training may ...

Job Summary The General Manager (GM) is the strategic and operational leader of the restaurant ... An associate or a bachelor's degree is preferred. * ServeSafe Certification preferred (training may ...

Job Summary The General Manager (GM) is the strategic and operational leader of the restaurant ... An associate or a bachelor's degree is preferred. * ServeSafe Certification preferred (training may ...

Job Summary The General Manager (GM) is the strategic and operational leader of the restaurant ... An associate or a bachelor's degree is preferred. * ServeSafe Certification preferred (training may ...

Shift Manager

Lincoln, IL · On-site

$20.25/hr

We are a Maximum Wage Employer, paying the highest hourly rates within 25 miles of our restaurants ... Associate Emergency Foundation Next Day Pay - receive up to 50% of your prior day's earned wages

Shift Manager

Forsyth, IL · On-site

$20.25/hr

We are a Maximum Wage Employer, paying the highest hourly rates within 25 miles of our restaurants ... Associate Emergency Foundation Next Day Pay - receive up to 50% of your prior day's earned wages

We are a Maximum Wage Employer, paying the highest hourly rates within 25 miles of our restaurants ... Associate Emergency Foundation Next Day Pay - receive up to 50% of your prior day's earned wages

We are a Maximum Wage Employer, paying the highest hourly rates within 25 miles of our restaurants ... Associate Emergency Foundation Next Day Pay - receive up to 50% of your prior day's earned wages

Shift Leader

Decatur, IL

$13.25 - $16.50/hr

* The Shift Manager supports the Restaurant General Manager by running great work shift and meeting ... Ability to oversee a team of associates in a fast-paced environment while insuring that all proper ...

Shift Leader

Decatur, IL · On-site

$13.25 - $16.50/hr

* The Shift Manager supports the Restaurant General Manager by running great work shift and meeting ... Ability to oversee a team of associates in a fast-paced environment while insuring that all proper ...

Shift Manager

Forsyth, IL · On-site

$15 - $21.50/hr

We are a Maximum Wage Employer , paying the highest hourly rates within 25 miles of our restaurants ... Associate Emergency Foundation * Next Day Pay - receive up to 50% of your prior day's earned wages

Shift Manager

Decatur, IL · On-site

$15 - $21.50/hr

We are a Maximum Wage Employer , paying the highest hourly rates within 25 miles of our restaurants ... Associate Emergency Foundation * Next Day Pay - receive up to 50% of your prior day's earned wages

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Restaurant Associate information

See Decatur, IL salary details

$8

$14

$27

How much do restaurant associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for restaurant associate in Decatur, IL is $14.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.12 and $15.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is Restaurant Associates a good company to work for?

Restaurant Associates offers roles such as restaurant associates in food service environments, typically providing entry-level positions with opportunities for advancement. The company is known for a structured work environment, competitive pay, and benefits, though experiences can vary by location and role. Prospective employees should research specific locations and review employee feedback for a comprehensive understanding.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Restaurant Associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Restaurant Associate, you need strong customer service skills, basic food safety knowledge, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with point-of-sale (POS) systems, food handling certifications, and kitchen equipment is typically required. Exceptional communication, teamwork, and the ability to stay calm under pressure help you stand out in this role. These skills ensure efficient service, customer satisfaction, and a smooth-running restaurant environment.

What is an associate at a restaurant?

A restaurant associate is an employee who performs various tasks such as serving customers, taking orders, handling payments, and maintaining cleanliness. They often work in fast-paced environments and may need good communication skills and knowledge of POS systems. The role can include positions like server, cashier, or busser, depending on the restaurant's structure.

What do Restaurant Associates do?

Restaurant Associates employees typically work in food service roles such as servers, cooks, dishwashers, or hosts in dining establishments. They are responsible for preparing, serving, and maintaining food and customer service standards, often requiring knowledge of food safety and customer interaction skills.

What is the difference between Restaurant Associate vs Food Service Worker?

AspectRestaurant AssociateFood Service Worker
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; food safety certification often preferredHigh school diploma or equivalent; food safety certification often required
Work EnvironmentRestaurants, cafes, fast food outletsRestaurants, cafeterias, catering services
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly used in hospitality and food service industryWidely used in food service establishments and institutional settings
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting customers, taking orders, maintaining cleanlinessPreparing food, serving customers, cleaning

Both roles involve customer service and food handling, but a Restaurant Associate typically focuses more on customer interaction and order management, while a Food Service Worker may have broader food preparation duties. The roles often overlap, but the title 'Restaurant Associate' is more common in retail and fast food chains, emphasizing customer service.

What is the 30/30/30 rule for restaurants?

The 30/30/30 rule in restaurants typically refers to a time management guideline where staff aim to greet customers within 30 seconds, take their order within 30 seconds of greeting, and serve the food within 30 minutes of ordering. It helps ensure efficient service and customer satisfaction. Restaurant associates should be familiar with such standards to maintain smooth operations.

What are Restaurant Associates?

Restaurant Associates are employees who support daily operations in a restaurant, including tasks like taking orders, serving food, preparing simple dishes, and ensuring customer satisfaction. They may also help with cleaning, stocking supplies, and assisting kitchen staff as needed. The role requires good communication skills, multitasking, and a friendly attitude to provide a positive dining experience for guests. Restaurant Associates are essential for maintaining a smooth and efficient service environment.

What are some typical challenges a Restaurant Associate might face during busy shifts, and how can they manage these effectively?

During peak hours, Restaurant Associates often encounter challenges such as handling multiple customer requests simultaneously, maintaining accuracy in orders, and ensuring quick service under pressure. Effective time management, clear communication with both kitchen staff and fellow associates, and staying organized are key strategies to manage these situations. Many restaurants provide training on multitasking and customer service to help associates excel during high-demand periods, and teamwork plays a crucial role in keeping operations smooth.
What are the most commonly searched types of Restaurant jobs in Decatur, IL? The most popular types of Restaurant jobs in Decatur, IL are:
What cities near Decatur, IL are hiring for Restaurant Associate jobs? Cities near Decatur, IL with the most Restaurant Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Restaurant Associate job openings in Decatur, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $31,060 per year, or $14.9 per hour.
Team Member

$19.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 23 days ago


Steak 'n Shake rating

5.4

Company rating: 5.4 out of 10

Based on 124 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

41st of 103 rated fast food restaurants


Job description

Team Member - Steak 'n Shake - Paying up to $19.25 per hour!
At Steak 'n Shake, we don't just compete on pay - we lead the market. We are a Maximum Wage Employer, paying the highest hourly rates within 25 miles of our restaurants - plus unique bonus pay options!
On top of paying up to $19.25 per hour we offer unique perks like:
-Bitcoin Bonus Pay
Earn an additional $0.21 per hour worked - fully funded by Steak 'n Shake (on top of your salary) invested in your personal Bitcoin wallet.
Optional participation. Real long-term financial growth opportunity - for free!
-$1,000 Newborn Match
When the government contributes $1,000 to your newborn's qualifying Trump Account,
we match it with another $1,000. ** Employee must be employed for 90 days before Steak n Shake's contribution will be made.
More Than Just a Paycheck
We combine top-of-market wages with benefits that support you and your family - now and long term.
Benefits*
  • Medical/Rx
  • HSA with Employer Contribution
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Life & Disability
  • Hospital Indemnity
  • Critical Illness
  • Accident
  • 401(k) with 4% Employer Safe-Harbor Match (age 18 & older)

Perks
  • Flexible Scheduling
  • Meal Discounts
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Paid Training
  • Discount Program
  • Associate Emergency Foundation
  • Next Day Pay - receive up to 50% of your prior day's earned wages

* Benefits are subject to service and/or ACA eligibility requirements
What You'll Do
  • Greet every guest with a genuine smile
  • Create and maintain friendly eye contact
  • Speak with enthusiasm and warmth
  • Build real connections with guests to make them feel valued
  • Represent and uphold the vision and values of Steak 'n Shake
  • Take orders accurately and efficiently (including kiosk assistance)
  • Work well with your team to keep service fast and friendly
  • Stay adaptable, dependable, and focused during busy shifts
  • Follow all brand standards for food safety, cleanliness, and dress code

What We're Looking For
  • Ability to stand for extended periods
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs regularly
  • Strong customer service skills - Positive, cheerful attitude
  • Consistency and reliability-you show up ready to work every shift
  • Detail-oriented, multitasker, team oriented
  • Flexible schedule availability

You can work anywhere - but not anywhere will offer more than Steak 'n Shake.
Apply Today

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