Food Service Associate

Food Service Associate

Join a company with deep roots and big opportunities! Since 1926, Kelley's Market has been serving Northern Illinois and Southern Wisconsin as a family-owned convenience store chain. As an ExxonMobil distributor, we're continuously growing and innovating to meet our customers' needs with new products, services, and technology. We pride ourselves on offering top-quality products underscored with outstanding service—and that starts with our team.

The Food Service Associate plays a key role in helping us deliver top-quality food and an outstanding customer experience. This position is responsible for maintaining a clean, organized, and well-stocked food-service environment while serving customers in a friendly and efficient manner. The Food Service Associate may receive guidance and direction from Lead team members and reports directly to the Assistant Manager(s) and Station Manager. You will:

• Prepare, assemble, and serve fresh food and beverages that meet brand and safety standards
• Provide fast, friendly, and courteous service that creates positive guest experiences
• Operate food prep equipment and POS systems accurately and safely
• Stay current on menu offerings, pricing, and promotions to assist customers and support sales

Maintain cleanliness of all food service areas including prep stations, counters, equipment, dining areas, and restrooms

• Restock and rotate food items, condiments, utensils, and beverages using FIFO practices
• Follow all food safety, handling, and sanitation procedures in compliance with company and health department guidelines
• Alert management to any food safety concerns, equipment issues, or supply shortages

Complete assigned tasks including temperature logs, equipment cleaning, and station checklists

• Accurately process transactions at the register and maintain proper cash handling
• Maintain accurate timekeeping and communicate shift updates or concerns to leadership
• Take ownership of daily routines and contribute to a smooth-running food service experience

Collaborate effectively with team members and take direction from leadership

• Uphold all safety and security procedures in food prep and customer interaction
• Contribute to a positive team culture that values cleanliness, quality, and fast service

Competitive compensation

• The hiring range for this position is $15 to $18 per hour and may be based on education, work experience, knowledge, skills and certifications.

Comprehensive benefits

• Medical & Dental (BlueCross), Vision (EyeMed)
• Flexible Savings Account (FSA)
• Voluntary Life and AD&D
• Voluntary Short-Term Disability
• 401(k) Plan with Annual Matching

Time off & work-life balance

• Vacation Time
• Personal Time
• Illinois Paid Leave
• Six Paid Holidays

Additional perks

• Employee discounts on store products
• Clean, modern, and well-maintained work environment
• Opportunities for advancement within our growing organization

Requirements

What's required:

• Must be at least 16 years of age. In select market(s), hiring age may be 18+.
• Ability to provide excellent customer service in a fast-paced retail/food-service environment.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Basic math skills and the ability to handle cash and operate a point-of-sale (POS) system accurately.
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Ability to lift up to 30 lbs frequently and up to 50 lbs occasionally, and to stand for extended periods.

Preferred experience:

• Prior experience in a convenience store, gas station, or retail environment.
• Prior experience in a fast-food or QSR environment.
• Experience handling cash and completing shift reports or basic bookkeeping tasks.