Food Service Worker - UI Health Food

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Food Service Worker - UI Health Food
Company: Aramark
Location: Chicago, Illinois, United States
Job Type: Full-Time
Category: Food Service / Hospitality Operations
Date Posted: October 21, 2025
Experience Level: Entry-Level / Junior
Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is focused on front-line food service operations within a healthcare environment, emphasizing efficient food preparation and service delivery.
• Key responsibilities include ensuring high standards of food quality, sanitation, and kitchen safety to support patient and staff well-being.
• The position involves meticulous record-keeping for cash receipts and meal counts, contributing to accurate operational reporting.
• Collaboration with the management team is essential for daily menu planning and operational execution, requiring strong communication and coordination skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role, while not directly in traditional Revenue or Sales Operations, is a crucial part of the operational infrastructure that supports revenue generation in a service-based organization. The emphasis on efficiency, standardized processes, and quality control aligns with core operations principles.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Prepare quality food and baked goods according to a planned menu, ensuring adherence to recipes and presentation standards.
• Maintain accurate cash receipts and meal records, preparing a daily report to verify transactions and support financial reconciliation.
• Ensure proper storage of all food items in an accurate and sanitary manner, adhering to all food safety regulations.
• Serve food according to established meal schedules, department policies, and procedures, focusing on customer satisfaction and presentation.
• Safely use and care for kitchen equipment, with particular attention to knives and cooking apparatus.
• Timely preparation of a variety of food items and beverages, adding garnishments to enhance customer appeal and satisfaction.
• Coordinate and assist in major cleaning tasks, including refrigerators, freezers, cooking equipment, and serving stations.
• Adhere strictly to all food safety regulations for sanitation, food handling, and storage to maintain a safe and healthy environment.
• Follow the established uniform policy and maintain a clean and organized work and storage area.
• Connect daily with the Manager to understand and accurately prepare the menu for the day, ensuring operational readiness.
• Supervise and maintain food temperature requirements throughout the preparation and serving process.
• Perform other duties as assigned, including assisting in other areas of the kitchen as needed to ensure smooth operations.
• Adhere to established procedures and standards for cleanliness, including sweeping, mopping, and ware washing.
• Maintain garbage collection sites and kitchen floor areas in a neat and sanitary fashion.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a hands-on operational role focused on execution within a defined framework. The emphasis on "adhering to policies and procedures" and "assisting the manager" indicates a structured operational environment where process compliance is paramount.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Possess a Food Service Certificate as required by local health regulations or company policy.
• 📝 Enhancement Note: While a general education is sufficient for basic tasks, a specific Food Service Certificate indicates a baseline understanding of industry-specific operational standards and safety protocols.

Experience:

• Prior experience in a food service environment is beneficial but not strictly required, as training will be provided.
• Ability to work quickly and concisely under pressure, managing multiple tasks efficiently in a fast-paced setting.
• 📝 Enhancement Note: The "0-2" AI experience level suggests that this role is designed for individuals new to the food service industry or with limited prior experience, focusing on foundational operational skills.

Required Skills:

• Proficient in basic food preparation techniques and understanding of recipe execution.
• Strong knowledge of sanitation standards and kitchen safety practices.
• Ability to handle cash transactions accurately and maintain basic financial records.
• Skill in proper food storage methods to ensure freshness and safety.
• Effective customer service skills, including polite interaction and timely service.
• Ability to coordinate tasks and work effectively within a team environment.
• Competency in preparing daily operational reports and verifying transactional data.
• 📝 Enhancement Note: These skills are foundational for any operational role requiring process adherence and quality output.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with specific healthcare food service protocols or patient meal delivery systems.
• Familiarity with inventory management basics and stock rotation.
• Ability to operate and maintain various kitchen appliances and equipment safely.
• 📝 Enhancement Note: Preferred skills indicate areas where candidates can differentiate themselves by demonstrating a deeper operational understanding or specialized experience.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio is not typically required for this entry-level role, candidates are encouraged to highlight any experience demonstrating:
  • Process Adherence: Examples of following established procedures for food preparation, sanitation, or safety.
  • Efficiency in Execution: Instances where tasks were completed accurately and promptly, even under pressure.
  • Quality Output: Demonstrations of producing high-quality food items consistently.
  • Record Keeping: Any experience with tracking transactions, inventory, or daily logs.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates should be prepared to discuss their understanding of standard operating procedures (SOPs) in a food service context, including:
  • Workflow Design: Understanding the sequence of tasks in food preparation and service.
  • Implementation: How to accurately follow established steps for each task.
  • Measurement: Awareness of how quality and efficiency are monitored (e.g., through customer feedback, manager observation, accuracy of reports).

📝 Enhancement Note: For this role, the "portfolio" is less about formal documentation and more about demonstrating an understanding of and ability to execute defined operational processes. Candidates should be ready to discuss past experiences that showcase these capabilities.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: The hourly rate for this position is $17.00. 📝 Enhancement Note: This is a fixed hourly rate, which is common for entry-level service roles. It aligns with industry standards for food service workers in major metropolitan areas like Chicago.

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

• Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance plans.
• Work/Life Resources to support employee well-being.
• Retirement savings plans, such as a 401(k).
• Paid days off, including parental leave and disability coverage.
• 📝 Enhancement Note: The benefits package is competitive for an organization of Aramark's size and industry, providing essential support for employees. Eligibility criteria and specific plan details will vary.

Working Hours: This is a full-time position, typically involving approximately 40 hours per week. 📝 Enhancement Note: Full-time employment in operations often implies a consistent schedule that allows for predictable workflow planning and team coordination.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Food Service & Hospitality, specifically within a healthcare dining environment (UI Health). Company Size: Aramark is a large, global company with tens of thousands of employees worldwide. This means established operational structures and resources are available. Founded: Aramark was founded in 1960. Its long history suggests stability and a well-developed operational framework.

Team Structure:

• The Food Service Worker will be part of the UI Health Food team, likely reporting to a Food Service Manager or Supervisor.
• This team operates within the broader UI Health dining services division, which collaborates with hospital administration and patient services.
• Cross-functional collaboration will primarily occur with other kitchen staff, service staff, and management within the food service department.

Methodology:

• Data Analysis: While not a primary focus for this role, data from meal counts and cash receipts are used for reporting and operational adjustments.
• Workflow Planning: Daily menu preparation and task delegation by the manager ensure efficient workflow.
• Automation/Efficiency: Focus is on efficient execution of manual tasks rather than system-based automation.

Company Website: http://www.aramarkcareers.com

📝 Enhancement Note: Working for a large, established company like Aramark, particularly within a healthcare setting, means operating within well-defined processes and standards. The culture emphasizes service, quality, and adherence to regulations.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is an entry-level position within the food service operations sector. It's foundational for understanding the daily execution of operational tasks in a demanding environment. Reporting Structure: The Food Service Worker reports directly to a Food Service Manager or Supervisor, who oversees daily operations and staff. Operations Impact: Directly impacts the patient and staff experience through the quality and timeliness of food service. Contributes to the operational efficiency of the UI Health dining services by performing essential preparation and service duties.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Advancement: Opportunity to develop advanced culinary skills, increase speed and efficiency, and learn more about food safety protocols.
• Cross-Training: Potential to gain experience in different areas of the kitchen or food service operations.
• Leadership Potential: With demonstrated performance and experience, there may be opportunities to move into supervisory roles or specialize in areas like catering or team lead positions within Aramark.

📝 Enhancement Note: While this is an entry-level role, Aramark's structure often provides clear pathways for advancement for dedicated employees who master foundational operational skills and demonstrate reliability.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site position within the food service operations of UI Health. The workspace is a professional kitchen and dining service area. Office Location(s): Chicago, Illinois, specifically within the UI Health facilities.

Workspace Context:

• The work involves being on your feet for extended periods, with potential for physically demanding tasks such as lifting, bending, and pushing.
• Access to standard kitchen equipment, tools, and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) will be provided.
• Interaction will primarily be with kitchen staff, supervisors, and potentially patients or hospital staff during service.

Work Schedule: Full-time, approximately 40 hours per week. Schedules may include early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays, depending on operational needs. 📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is dynamic and requires physical stamina and adherence to strict health and safety protocols, typical of food service operations, especially in healthcare.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your application to assess basic qualifications and alignment with the role's requirements.
• Interview: Typically a one-on-one or panel interview with the hiring manager and potentially a team member. This will focus on your understanding of food service, sanitation, and ability to work in a team.
• Skills Assessment (Informal): You may be asked to demonstrate basic knife skills or explain your understanding of sanitation procedures.
• Onboarding: If successful, you will proceed through HR onboarding, including background checks and required training.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Since this is an entry-level role, a formal portfolio isn't expected. Instead, prepare to discuss:
  • Relevant Experience: Highlight any past roles where you handled food, followed procedures, or worked in a team.
  • Understanding of Operations: Be ready to explain your approach to food preparation, sanitation, and customer service using examples.
  • Problem-Solving: Discuss a time you encountered a challenge in a previous role (even non-work related) and how you resolved it.
  • Preparedness: Show enthusiasm for learning and adapting to Aramark's operational standards.

Challenge Preparation:

• You might be asked situational questions like: "What would you do if you noticed a coworker not following sanitation guidelines?" or "How do you prioritize tasks when multiple orders are coming in at once?"
• Focus on demonstrating your commitment to safety, quality, and teamwork in your responses.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application process for this role is geared towards assessing foundational operational competencies and cultural fit rather than extensive prior experience or a formal portfolio.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Standard commercial kitchen equipment: Ovens, ranges, fryers, mixers, food processors, slicers, dishwashers.
• Knives and other manual kitchen utensils.
• Food storage containers and labeling systems.
• Cleaning and sanitation supplies.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Basic reporting tools for cash reconciliation and meal counts (likely manual logs or simple spreadsheet entries).
• Point-of-Sale (POS) systems may be used for order taking and payment processing.

CRM & Automation:

• Not applicable for this role; the focus is on manual execution of established processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role relies on physical tools and manual processes rather than sophisticated software systems. Familiarity with basic kitchen equipment and adherence to manual procedures are key.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Service Excellence: A commitment to providing high-quality food and service to patients and staff.
• Safety & Sanitation: Strict adherence to food safety regulations and maintaining a clean, safe working environment.
• Teamwork: Collaboration and mutual support among kitchen staff to ensure smooth operations.
• Reliability: Dependability in attendance and task completion.
• Efficiency: Performing tasks accurately and promptly to meet operational demands.

Collaboration Style:

• Team-Oriented: Emphasis on working together to achieve common goals.
• Instruction-Following: Adherence to directives from supervisors and established procedures.
• Communication: Open communication with team members and management regarding tasks, issues, and needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: Aramark's culture, especially in a healthcare setting, strongly emphasizes safety, service, and teamwork, reflecting the critical nature of their operations.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Pace and Volume: Managing high volumes of food preparation and service during peak hours requires efficiency and stress management.
• Physical Demands: The role involves standing for long periods, lifting, and repetitive motions, which can be physically taxing.
• Adherence to Strict Standards: Maintaining consistent quality and adhering to rigorous food safety and sanitation protocols.
• Learning New Menus/Procedures: Adapting to changing menus or operational procedures quickly.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• On-the-Job Training: Comprehensive training on culinary techniques, food safety, and Aramark's operational standards.
• Certification Support: Potential for company support in obtaining or maintaining required food service certifications.
• Mentorship: Learning from experienced colleagues and supervisors to develop skills and operational understanding.
• Career Progression: Opportunities to advance within Aramark's extensive network of food service operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a solid foundation for a career in food service operations, with clear pathways to develop essential skills and advance within a supportive organizational structure.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Operational Understanding: Be prepared to discuss your understanding of food safety, sanitation practices, and efficient food preparation. For example, "How do you ensure food is stored safely?" or "Describe your process for preparing multiple dishes at once."
• Teamwork & Collaboration: Expect questions about working in a team environment. For instance, "How do you handle disagreements with a coworker?" or "Describe a time you helped a teammate."
• Problem-Solving: Situational questions will assess your ability to think on your feet. For example, "What would you do if you ran out of a key ingredient during meal prep?" or "How would you handle a customer complaint about food quality?"

Company & Culture Questions:

• Research Aramark's mission and values, particularly regarding service and community impact.
• Be ready to articulate why you are interested in working for Aramark and specifically at UI Health.
• Show enthusiasm for contributing to a positive dining experience for patients and staff.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• While no formal portfolio is needed, be ready to verbally present examples from your past experiences that demonstrate:
  • Responsibility: Instances where you were entrusted with tasks and completed them reliably.
  • Efficiency: How you managed time and tasks effectively.
  • Attention to Detail: Your commitment to quality and accuracy, especially regarding food preparation and sanitation.
  • Eagerness to Learn: Your willingness to be trained and follow procedures.

📝 Enhancement Note: Focus on demonstrating reliability, a strong work ethic, a commitment to safety and quality, and a positive attitude towards teamwork and learning.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the Aramark Careers portal via the provided link.
• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly highlights any relevant food service experience, customer service skills, and examples of following procedures or working in a team. Use keywords from the job description.
• Prepare for Interview: Review common food service interview questions and practice articulating your skills and experience using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioral questions.
• Research Company: Familiarize yourself with Aramark's mission, values, and the specific context of providing food services within a healthcare environment like UI Health.
• Understand Role Expectations: Be ready to discuss your understanding of food safety, sanitation, and the importance of efficient operations in a healthcare setting.

⚠️ 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.

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