Food Service Worker - UI Health Food

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Food Service Worker - UI Health Food

Company: Aramark

Location: Chicago, IL, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Food Service Operations

Date Posted: 2026-06-01

Experience Level: Entry Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Execute essential food preparation and service tasks within a healthcare environment, adhering to strict sanitation and safety standards.

• Manage daily transactions, including cash receipts and meal records, contributing to accurate reporting and operational efficiency.

• Maintain a high level of quality in food production, presentation, and storage, ensuring customer satisfaction and adherence to menu specifications.

• Uphold rigorous food safety regulations, kitchen safety practices, and sanitation protocols to ensure a healthy and secure work environment.

• Collaborate with management to prepare daily menus, manage inventory, and maintain cleanliness of kitchen equipment and areas.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the provided job title is "Food Service Worker," the context of "UI Health Food" and the employer "Aramark" (a large food and facilities management company) suggests a role within a hospital or healthcare facility. This implies a heightened focus on food safety, sanitation, and potentially specialized dietary needs, requiring a strong adherence to protocols beyond a standard restaurant setting. The "Entry Level" experience level indicates that extensive prior experience may not be mandatory, but a foundational understanding of food handling and a willingness to learn are crucial.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Prepare and cook a variety of food items, baked goods, and beverages according to planned menus and established recipes.

• Accurately record daily transactions, including cash receipts and meal counts, and assist in compiling daily operational reports.

• Ensure proper storage of all food items, adhering to temperature requirements and FIFO (First-In, First-Out) principles to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage.

• Serve meals to patients, staff, or visitors according to scheduled meal times, departmental policies, and service standards.

• Maintain a high standard of cleanliness and sanitation in food preparation areas, serving stations, and all kitchen equipment, including ware washing and general upkeep.

• Safely operate and maintain kitchen equipment, including knives, ovens, steam tables, and cleaning machinery, following proper usage and care guidelines.

• Coordinate and participate in deep cleaning activities for refrigerators, freezers, cooking equipment, and serving stations as scheduled.

• Adhere strictly to all food safety regulations, including proper food handling, storage, preparation temperatures, and cross-contamination prevention.

• Maintain a neat, organized, and sanitary work and storage area, including sweeping, mopping, and managing waste disposal.

• Assist with inventory management, including receiving, stocking, and rotating food supplies to ensure adequate stock levels and minimize waste.

• Follow uniform policies and use Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) as required for the role and specific tasks.

• Communicate effectively with the Manager daily to understand daily menu requirements and ensure accurate preparation.

• Perform other assigned duties within the kitchen or related areas to support overall operational needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of direct food preparation, operational support (reporting, inventory), and strict adherence to safety and sanitation protocols. The mention of "UI Health Food" strongly suggests that understanding dietary restrictions and patient needs might be an implicit requirement, though not explicitly stated. The phrase "perform other duties as assigned" indicates a need for flexibility and a willingness to contribute across various kitchen functions.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• High School Diploma or equivalent preferred.

Experience:

• 0-2 years of experience in a food service environment, preferably in a healthcare, institutional, or high-volume setting.

Required Skills:

• Food Preparation: Proficiency in preparing a variety of food items following recipes and menu plans.

• Sanitation & Food Safety: Strong understanding and practical application of food safety regulations, HACCP principles, and sanitation standards.

• Kitchen Equipment Operation: Competence in safely operating and maintaining standard kitchen equipment.

• Time Management: Ability to manage tasks and prepare food items within specified timeframes, especially under pressure.

• Customer Service: Ability to serve food courteously and ensure customer satisfaction.

• Basic Math Skills: For cash handling, record keeping, and recipe scaling.

• Physical Stamina: Ability to stand for extended periods, lift/carry up to 25-30 lbs, bend, and perform repetitive tasks.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with specialized diets (e.g., diabetic, low-sodium, pureed) common in healthcare settings.

• Familiarity with inventory management systems and procedures.

• Basic understanding of menu planning and food costing.

• Experience working in a fast-paced, high-volume kitchen environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for a "Food Service Certificate" is a critical qualification. Candidates should ensure they have this or are prepared to obtain it promptly. The emphasis on "working quickly and concisely under pressure" and the physical demands suggest that candidates should be prepared to demonstrate resilience and efficiency in their responses.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Food Safety Protocols: Documentation or descriptions of personal adherence to and understanding of food safety regulations, sanitation procedures, and best practices for preventing cross-contamination.

• Recipe Adherence & Modification: Examples of following standardized recipes accurately and any experience with minor modifications for dietary needs or ingredient availability.

• Workflow Efficiency: Descriptions of how tasks were managed to ensure timely meal preparation and service in previous roles, highlighting efficiency strategies.

• Sanitation Practices: Visual or descriptive evidence of maintaining a clean and organized work environment, including personal hygiene and equipment cleaning routines.

Process Documentation:

• Food Preparation Workflows: Ability to describe the step-by-step process for preparing common menu items, from ingredient gathering to final plating.

• Sanitation Procedures: Detailed understanding of daily, weekly, and monthly cleaning schedules and procedures for kitchen areas and equipment.

• Cash Handling & Reporting: Explanation of procedures for accurately handling cash transactions, balancing receipts, and contributing to daily reports.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level role like this, a formal "portfolio" might not be expected in the traditional sense. However, candidates should be prepared to discuss their practical experience and knowledge related to these areas during an interview. This could involve describing specific instances of food preparation, sanitation practices, or how they managed their workload. For candidates with prior food service experience, highlighting these aspects in their resume and during the interview will be key.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

The hourly rate for this position is $17.00 - $17.00 USD.

This represents Aramark's good faith and reasonable estimate of the compensation for this position at the time of posting.

Benefits:

Aramark offers comprehensive benefit programs and services for eligible employees, which may include:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance.

• Work/Life Resources.

• Retirement savings plan (e.g., 401(k)).

• Paid days off, including parental leave.

Working Hours:

This is a Full-Time position. While specific daily hours are not detailed, standard full-time employment typically involves around 40 hours per week. Flexibility may be required to cover various shifts, including early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays, as is common in healthcare food service operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary is fixed at $17.00/hour, which is a clear benchmark. Candidates should research the cost of living in Chicago, IL, to assess the adequacy of this compensation for their needs. The listed benefits are comprehensive for a full-time role and should be carefully reviewed on the Aramark careers site for specific eligibility criteria.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Food & Beverage, Hospitality, Healthcare Services. Aramark operates in diverse sectors, providing food, facility management, and uniform services. This role is specifically within their healthcare division, serving UI Health.

Company Size: Aramark is a large, global company with tens of thousands of employees worldwide. This means established processes, structured teams, and opportunities for advancement, but also requires individuals to adapt to corporate policies and procedures.

Founded: Aramark was founded in 1960. Its long history suggests stability and extensive experience in managing large-scale food and facility services across various industries.

Team Structure:

• This role is part of a food service team within the UI Health facility.

• The team likely includes a Food Service Manager, potentially supervisors, and other food service workers.

• Collaboration is essential for daily operations, including food preparation, serving, and maintaining cleanliness.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Operations: Emphasis on accurate record-keeping for transactions, inventory, and reporting to inform operational decisions.

• Process Optimization: Focus on standardized procedures for food preparation, sanitation, and service to ensure consistency and efficiency.

• Safety & Compliance: Strict adherence to food safety regulations, health codes, and Aramark's internal policies.

Company Website: https://www.aramark.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Working for Aramark within a healthcare facility like UI Health means operating within a dual-layer of company culture: Aramark's corporate values and the healthcare institution's patient-centric environment. Candidates should understand that patient well-being and safety are paramount, influencing all operational decisions.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is an Entry-Level (0-2 years) position within the Food Service Operations track. It focuses on foundational skills in food preparation, sanitation, and customer service in a healthcare setting.

Reporting Structure:

• The Food Service Worker typically reports directly to a Food Service Manager or a Shift Supervisor.

Operations Impact:

• The primary impact of this role is on the patient and staff experience at UI Health by providing nutritious and safely prepared meals.

• Efficient operations contribute to the overall functioning of the healthcare facility by ensuring timely service and maintaining a hygienic environment.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Development: Opportunities to gain proficiency in various food preparation techniques, advanced sanitation practices, and potentially specialized dietary preparations.

• Advancement: Potential to move into roles such as Lead Food Service Worker, Cook, or Supervisor positions within Aramark's food service division, based on performance and acquired skills.

• Cross-Training: Possibility of cross-training in other Aramark-managed areas or facilities, broadening experience.

• Certifications: Support for obtaining further food service certifications or training relevant to healthcare environments.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level role, the growth path is typically through mastering core competencies and demonstrating reliability. The "0-2 years" experience level suggests that this role is designed as a stepping stone, providing the necessary training and experience for future progression within Aramark's extensive network.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site position within a healthcare facility (UI Health) managed by Aramark. The work environment will be a professional kitchen and food service area.

Office Location(s):

• Chicago, Illinois, specifically at a UI Health location.

Workspace Context:

• Kitchen Environment: The primary workspace is a commercial kitchen, which can be hot, noisy, and fast-paced.

• Collaborative Atmosphere: Requires close teamwork with colleagues to manage workflow, ensure timely service, and maintain cleanliness.

• Tools & Technology: Access to professional kitchen equipment, POS systems for transactions, and potentially inventory management software.

Work Schedule:

This is a Full-Time position, typically around 40 hours per week. The schedule may include early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays to ensure continuous food service operations for the healthcare facility.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment in a hospital kitchen is demanding. Candidates should be prepared for the physical aspects of the job and the need for strict adherence to hygiene and safety protocols, which are paramount in a healthcare setting.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

1. Application Submission:

Submit resume and complete the online application.

1. Initial Screening: HR or a hiring manager will review applications for basic qualifications (e.g., certificate, basic requirements).

2. Phone/Video Interview: A brief interview to discuss experience, qualifications, and suitability for the role. Focus on your understanding of food safety and sanitation.

3. On-Site Interview/Working Interview:

This may involve a practical assessment of food preparation or sanitation tasks, or a tour of the kitchen. It's an opportunity to see the work environment and meet the team.

1. Offer & Background Check:

Successful candidates will receive a job offer contingent on background checks and potentially a drug screening.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Resume Focus: Highlight any food service certifications (especially Food Service Certificate), previous kitchen experience, and knowledge of sanitation standards.

Use keywords from the job description.

• Behavioral Examples: Be prepared to discuss specific situations demonstrating your ability to:

  • Follow instructions accurately.

  • Work efficiently under pressure.

  • Maintain a clean and organized workspace.

  • Handle cash transactions responsibly.

  • Adhere to safety protocols.

• Scenario-Based Questions: Expect questions like: "How would you handle a situation where a piece of equipment malfunctions?" or "What are the key steps to prevent cross-contamination?"

Challenge Preparation:

• Practical Demonstration: If a practical assessment is involved, be ready to demonstrate basic knife skills, food preparation techniques, or sanitation procedures.

• Situational Judgment: Think through how you would address common kitchen challenges, such as running low on ingredients, dealing with a rush of orders, or ensuring food temperature compliance.

• Understanding of UI Health: Research UI Health to understand its mission and how food service contributes to patient care, demonstrating your alignment with their values.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level role, the "portfolio" is less about formal documents and more about demonstrating practical knowledge and a strong work ethic. Candidates should emphasize their understanding of food safety and their ability to learn and follow procedures.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Food Preparation Equipment: Ovens, ranges, grills, fryers, mixers, slicers, food processors, steam tables, commercial refrigerators and freezers.

• Warewashing Equipment: Commercial dishwashers, three-compartment sinks.

• Safety Equipment: Knives, cutting boards, personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, hairnets, aprons, and potentially cut-resistant gloves.

• Cleaning Supplies: Various sanitizers, detergents, and cleaning agents.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Point of Sale (POS) Systems: For processing cash and card transactions, tracking sales, and generating basic reports.

• Manual Logbooks/Reports: For recording meal counts, inventory levels, temperature logs, and daily operational summaries.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding how transactions feed into a larger system for inventory and financial tracking is beneficial.

• Basic computer literacy for accessing schedules, training materials, and company communications.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with standard commercial kitchen equipment is assumed. The key "technology" here is a strong understanding of the processes and equipment used in food service, particularly concerning safety and efficiency.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Service Excellence: Commitment to providing high-quality food and service to patients, staff, and visitors at UI Health.

• Safety First: Prioritizing food safety, personal safety, and a secure work environment for all.

• Teamwork & Collaboration: Working effectively with colleagues to achieve common goals and ensure smooth operations.

• Accountability: Taking responsibility for tasks, maintaining standards, and contributing to accurate reporting.

• Efficiency & Organization: Maintaining a clean, organized workspace and performing tasks in a timely manner.

Collaboration Style:

• Direct Communication: Clear and concise communication with managers and team members regarding tasks, issues, and needs.

• Mutual Support: Willingness to assist colleagues during busy periods or when tasks require extra hands.

• Adherence to Protocols: Following established procedures and guidelines to ensure consistency and safety across the team.

• Feedback Integration: Openness to receiving and implementing feedback to improve performance and processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: Aramark's mission emphasizes "doing great things for each other, our partners, our communities, and our planet." Within UI Health, this translates to a strong focus on patient care and supporting the healthcare mission through reliable food services.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Pace and Volume: Handling high volumes of food preparation and service during peak hours, especially in a healthcare setting where meal times are critical.

• Maintaining Standards: Consistently adhering to strict food safety, sanitation, and quality standards under pressure.

• Physical Demands: Managing the physical requirements of the job, including prolonged standing, lifting, and repetitive tasks.

• Adaptability: Quickly learning new menus, recipes, or procedures, and adapting to changing operational needs.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• On-the-Job Training: Comprehensive training on Aramark's procedures, food safety standards, and specific kitchen operations.

• Certification Support: Assistance or guidance in obtaining and maintaining required food service certifications.

• Career Progression: Structured pathways for advancement within Aramark's extensive network of food service operations.

• Exposure to Healthcare Operations: Gaining valuable experience in a critical sector, understanding the unique demands of food service in a healthcare environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for high-volume food service but are amplified by the healthcare context. Growth opportunities are significant for individuals who demonstrate a strong work ethic, a willingness to learn, and a commitment to safety and quality.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Food Safety: "Describe the steps you take to ensure food safety during preparation and serving." "What are the critical temperatures for holding hot and cold foods?" "How do you prevent cross-contamination?"

• Efficiency & Time Management: "How do you prioritize tasks when multiple orders are coming in simultaneously?" "Describe a time you had to work under pressure to meet a deadline."

• Teamwork: "How do you contribute to a positive team environment?" "Describe a situation where you had to assist a colleague."

• Problem-Solving: "What would you do if you discovered a piece of equipment was not working correctly?" "How would you handle a customer complaint about their meal?"

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in working for Aramark, and specifically at UI Health?"

• "What do you know about Aramark's mission or values?"

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Resume: Ensure your resume clearly lists your Food Service Certificate, any relevant experience (even if informal), and mentions skills like "food preparation," "sanitation," "cash handling," and "teamwork."

• Verbal Examples: Be prepared to articulate your understanding of food safety protocols and your ability to follow instructions precisely. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to describe past experiences relevant to the responsibilities.

• Demonstrate Enthusiasm: Show genuine interest in the role and a willingness to learn and contribute to the UI Health team.

📝 Enhancement Note: For this role, interviewers will likely focus on assessing your understanding of fundamental food safety principles, your ability to follow instructions, and your attitude towards teamwork and a structured work environment. Practical demonstrations of skills may also be part of the process.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Food Service Worker position:

• Visit the Aramark Careers website and search for this job posting using the provided URL or title.

• Submit your resume and complete the online application form. Ensure all sections are filled accurately.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight any food service experience, certifications (especially Food Service Certificate), and skills relevant to food preparation, sanitation, and customer service.

• Preparation for Interview: Review common interview questions related to food safety, sanitation, teamwork, and working under pressure. Be ready to provide specific examples from past experiences.

• Research UI Health: Understand the role of food services within a healthcare institution and Aramark's contribution to patient care.

• Confirm Availability: Be prepared to discuss your availability for shifts, including potential evenings, weekends, and holidays, as this is a full-time role supporting a healthcare facility.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.