Food Service Worker I

Quest Food Management Services; Gurnee (IL); On-site; USD 17,000 - 22,000; Full time

Job summary

Quest Food Management Services is seeking a Food Service Worker I to join our retail dining operations. You will prepare, serve, and maintain food items following safety standards and contribute to a clean, welcoming dining area.

This role emphasizes teamwork, customer service, and accuracy in inventory handling, with hours Monday–Friday 7:00 AM–2:00 PM. Previous food service experience preferred; basic math and strong communication required.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Follow food safety and sanitation guidelines.
• Basic math skills for measuring ingredients and handling transactions.
• Stand for extended periods and lift up to 25 pounds.
• Strong communication skills with team and customers.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and serve food items according to recipes and standards.
• Maintain cleanliness and sanitation of prep and service areas.
• Assist in receiving, storing, and rotating inventory to ensure freshness.
• Provide courteous and efficient customer service, addressing inquiries and requests.
• Follow health and safety regulations to ensure a safe working environment.
• Operate kitchen equipment safely and efficiently.
• Assist with setup and breakdown of food service stations.
• Report equipment malfunctions or safety hazards to management.

Skills

Food safety knowledge

Basic math skills

Strong communication skills

Ability to stand long periods

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Food Handler's Certification

Tools

POS systems

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.

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.

About The Role

The Food Service Worker I plays a vital role in ensuring the smooth operation of food service activities within a retail environment. This position is responsible for preparing, serving, and maintaining food items in accordance with established safety and quality standards. The role requires close attention to cleanliness, customer service, and efficient handling of food products to meet customer expectations. The Food Service Worker I contributes to a positive dining experience by maintaining a clean and organized work area and assisting with inventory management. Ultimately, this position supports the overall success of the food service operation by delivering consistent, high-quality service to customers.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Ability to follow food safety and sanitation guidelines.
• Basic math skills for measuring ingredients and handling transactions.
• Ability to stand for extended periods and perform physical tasks such as lifting up to 25 pounds.
• Strong communication skills to interact effectively with team members and customers.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous experience in food service or retail environment.
• Food Handler's Certification or equivalent food safety training.
• Familiarity with point-of-sale (POS) systems.
• Ability to work flexible hours including weekends and holidays.
• Bilingual skills to assist a diverse customer base.
• Valid driver's license (there are 4 schools total in the district, in Gurnee, that we cook & serve food to)

Responsibilities

• Prepare and serve food items according to company recipes and standards.
• Maintain cleanliness and sanitation of food preparation and service areas.
• Assist in receiving, storing, and rotating food inventory to ensure freshness.
• Provide courteous and efficient customer service, addressing customer inquiries and requests.
• Follow all health and safety regulations to ensure a safe working environment.
• Operate kitchen equipment safely and efficiently.
• Assist with setup and breakdown of food service stations as needed.
• Report any equipment malfunctions or safety hazards to management promptly.

Skills

The required skills such as food safety knowledge and basic math are essential for daily food preparation and ensuring compliance with health regulations. Communication skills enable the Food Service Worker I to provide excellent customer service and collaborate effectively with team members. Physical stamina and the ability to handle equipment safely are used continuously throughout the workday to maintain operational efficiency. Preferred skills like experience with POS systems and bilingual abilities enhance the worker’s capacity to serve customers accurately and inclusively. Overall, these skills combine to create a reliable, customer-focused team member who supports the food service operation’s success.

Monday - Friday 7-2pm