Food Service Worker - Dietary

Elgin hosts a moderate demand for hospital food service workers, with Saint Joseph Hospital actively hiring part-time dietary aides. Compared to nearby areas, the healthcare sector here offers steady opportunities, particularly for candidates with local food handler certifications and flexible availability.

Yes, food service workers at healthcare facilities in Elgin must maintain county-specific food handler certifications. This ensures compliance with local health regulations and is often required upon hire, reflecting the region’s emphasis on food safety in dietary departments.

At Prime Healthcare Services, dietary food service workers engage in a range of tasks including patient tray preparation, cafeteria service, and sanitation duties. Their role is versatile, blending direct patient meal support with operational tasks like stocking and floor maintenance, which may differ from more narrowly focused food service jobs.

Part-time food service workers at Saint Joseph Hospital experience variable shifts, which may include mornings, afternoons, or evenings based on patient and cafeteria needs. This scheduling flexibility accommodates both the hospital’s dynamic service demands and employees’ personal commitments.

The compensation for this position typically falls between $16.00 and $23.17 per hour. This range reflects factors like experience, skillset, and credentials, coupled with a comprehensive benefits package that includes health coverage, 401k, and tuition reimbursement.

Prime Healthcare Services encourages growth by providing resources and voluntary programs for staff development. Food service workers may enhance their skills and potentially transition into supervisory or specialized nutritional support roles through ongoing education and internal opportunities.

Candidates can anticipate an inclusive and supportive environment emphasizing equal opportunity and respect. Prime Healthcare Services promotes diversity and prohibits discrimination, fostering a workplace where all employees can thrive regardless of background.

This role uniquely blends hands-on patient tray service with broader cafeteria and kitchen duties, demanding versatility. Unlike some specialized food support roles, it requires multitasking across preparation, sanitation, and inventory within a hospital dietary setting.

Daily tasks include assembling and delivering patient meals, assisting in cafeteria operations, managing tray lines, restocking supplies, and maintaining kitchen cleanliness through dishwashing and floor care, ensuring a hygienic and efficient food service environment.

The hourly wages offered by Prime Healthcare Services are competitive locally, especially when factoring in benefits like paid time off, medical and dental coverage, and retirement plans. This total rewards package makes their compensation attractive within Elgin’s healthcare food service market.