Kitchen & Youth Development Assistant at Boys and Girls Clubs of North Central Illinois – South Elgin, Illinois

Job Overview

The Kitchen Assistant / Youth Development Assistant supports both the Club’s meal program and youth development programming. This position assists with preparing and serving meals to Club members while also supporting program activities and supervising youth. The role helps create a safe, engaging, and supportive environment where youth can learn, grow, and receive nutritious meals during Club hours.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist with preparing and serving meals and snacks for Club members.
  
• Safely operate kitchen equipment including ovens, warmers, microwaves, dishwashers, and other food service equipment.
  
• Follow all kitchen safety procedures when handling food and operating equipment.
  
• Ensure food is distributed in a timely and organized manner.
  
• Maintain cleanliness and sanitation standards in the kitchen and serving areas.
  
• Wash dishes, utensils, and kitchen equipment after use.
  
• Assist with organizing food deliveries and properly storing food supplies.
  
• Follow all food safety and health department guidelines.
  

• Assist with planning and implementing youth development programs and activities.
  
• Support educational, recreational, and enrichment programming.
  
• Provide homework help and academic support when needed.
  
• Encourage participation and engagement among Club members.
  

• Provide active supervision of youth to ensure safety at all times.
  
• Build positive relationships with Club members and serve as a positive role model.
  
• Promote respectful behavior and support behavior management strategies.
  
• Ensure youth are signed in and out according to Club procedures.
  

• Follow all Boys & Girls Club safety policies and procedures.
  
• Maintain a safe and welcoming environment for youth.
  
• Report incidents, concerns, or behavioral issues to the Site Coordinator.
  
• Participate in required staff trainings and meetings.
  

• Work closely with Site Coordinators and other Club staff to support daily operations.
  
• Assist with setup and cleanup of program areas and meal service areas.
  
• Help ensure smooth coordination between meal service and program activities.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
  
• Experience working with youth or in food service preferred.
  
• Ability to safely operate kitchen equipment and follow food safety procedures.
  
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
  
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
  
• Must pass background check and fingerprinting requirements.
  

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand for extended periods of time.
  
• Ability to lift up to 30 pounds.
  
• Ability to supervise youth and participate in activities.