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.