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

• 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.