Kitchen Staff – School Cafeteria (Illinois)

About the role

Opaa! Food Management is looking for a Kitchen Staff member to support breakfast and lunch service in school cafeterias across Illinois. The position involves preparing meals, setting up serving lines, and assisting with occasional catering events while maintaining high standards of food quality and safety.

Key responsibilities

• Prepare and portion breakfast and lunch items according to menu plans and Opaa! recipes.
• Set up and stock serving lines, ensuring food is held at required temperatures.
• Operate slicers, mixers, grinders and other kitchen equipment with proper certification.
• Maintain clean and organized work areas, including kitchen, cafeteria, and dishwashing stations.
• Follow FIFO inventory practices and keep cooler/storage racks tidy.
• Record production data, temperature logs, and complete HACCP documentation.
• Assist with batch cooking, baking, and presentation of baked goods.
• Support catering functions as needed and adhere to safety and sanitation protocols.

Required profile

• Ability to follow standardized recipes and menu specifications.
• Commitment to food safety, HACCP procedures and HHFKA/CACFP regulations.
• Attention to detail in temperature monitoring and record‑keeping.
• Willingness to work in a fast‑paced kitchen environment and maintain cleanliness.
• Team‑oriented attitude with a focus on quality presentation and hospitality.

Required skills

• Operating slicers, mixers, grinders and similar kitchen equipment.
• Food safety compliance (HACCP, temperature control).
• Inventory management using FIFO methodology.
• Batch cooking and basic baking techniques.

What we offer

• Hourly pay ranging from $15.00 to $16.50, depending on school district.
• Opportunities to work across multiple states within a growing food‑service organization.
• Training on food safety, equipment operation and Opaa! core values.