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Apprentice Cook Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Executive Chef

Chicago, IL · On-site

$73K - $101K/yr

Familiarizes newly hired chefs and cooks with practices of kitchen and oversees training of cook apprentices * Establishes and enforces nutrition and sanitation standards for restaurant * Achieves ...

Cook Number of Vacancies: 1 Bargaining Unit Code: RC014 Clerical Employees, AFSCME Merit Comp Code ... GI Bill Training/Apprenticeship Benefits eligibility for qualifying Veterans * 5% Salary ...

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Cook Number of Vacancies: 1 Bargaining Unit Code: RC014 Clerical Employees, AFSCME Merit Comp Code ... GI Bill ® Training/Apprenticeship Benefits eligibility for qualifying Veterans * 5% Salary ...

New

Cook Number of Vacancies: 1 Bargaining Unit Code: RC014 Clerical Employees, AFSCME Merit Comp Code ... GI Bill ® Training/Apprenticeship Benefits eligibility for qualifying Veterans 5% Salary ...

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Apprentice Cook information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$10

$16

$22

How much do apprentice cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice cook in Chicago, IL is $16.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.38 and $20.29 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an apprentice cook, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Apprentice Cook, you need a basic understanding of food preparation, kitchen safety, and hygiene standards, often gained through culinary training or a relevant apprenticeship. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, food handling certifications, and point-of-sale systems is typically required. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn are important soft skills for this role. These abilities ensure efficient kitchen operations, high-quality food output, and a safe, collaborative work environment.

What are some common challenges faced by apprentice cooks during their training period?

Apprentice cooks often encounter challenges such as adjusting to the fast-paced kitchen environment, mastering basic cooking techniques under pressure, and learning to follow strict hygiene and safety standards. Balancing learning new skills with performing routine prep work can feel demanding, but it’s a valuable part of building a solid foundation. Regular feedback from experienced chefs and teamwork with other kitchen staff help apprentices grow and adapt quickly.

What is the difference between Apprentice Cook vs Line Cook?

AspectApprentice CookLine Cook
CredentialsBasic culinary training or no formal certificationExperience or culinary certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentTraining kitchen, supervised environmentFast-paced kitchen, independent responsibilities
Job RoleLearning and assisting, gaining skillsPreparing dishes, executing menu items

The main difference between an Apprentice Cook and a Line Cook is experience level and responsibilities. Apprentice Cooks are in training, focusing on learning skills under supervision, while Line Cooks are experienced professionals responsible for preparing specific dishes in a busy kitchen. Both roles are essential in culinary operations, with Apprentice Cooks progressing toward full Line Cook responsibilities as they gain experience.

What is an apprentice cook?

Apprentice cooks are individuals who are learning the basics of cooking and kitchen operations under the supervision of experienced chefs. They assist with food preparation, basic cooking tasks, cleaning, and maintaining kitchen equipment while developing their culinary skills. This role is often part of a formal apprenticeship or training program, designed to provide hands-on experience and foundational knowledge in the culinary arts. Apprentice cooks gradually take on more responsibilities as they gain experience and proficiency in the kitchen.
What are the most commonly searched types of Cook jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Cook jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Apprentice Cook jobs in Chicago, IL? For Apprentice Cook jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Apprentice Cook jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Apprentice Cook jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Apprentice Cook jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Apprentice Cook job openings:
Infographic showing various Apprentice Cook job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $35,063 per year, or $16.9 per hour.

Berenjak Line Cook - Soho House Chicago

Soho House & Co.

Chicago, IL

$16.25 - $20.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

We're excited to bring Berenjak to Chicago. Inspired by the beloved neighborhood kebab houses of Tehran, Berenjak is a place where incredible food, genuine hospitality, and bringing people together around the table are at the heart of everything we do. As we prepare to open our doors, we're looking for passionate, and dedicated people to join our founding team. Whether you're welcoming guests, crafting memorable dining experiences, or working behind the scenes, every role is an important part of creating a restaurant where both our guests and our team feel truly cared for.

The role…

At Soho House, a Line Cook is responsible for ensuring the kitchen runs smoothly, seamless preparing food and sauces, and assisting Senior Chefs with service. As a Line Cook, you thrive in fast-paced environments and positively influence fellow members of the team to remain calm during a busy service.

A successful Line Cook is a critical member of the team due to the diverse and specialized skill set and proven ability to execute all menu items properly from prep to plate and deliver top-quality dishes from all stations.

Main Duties

  • Well-versed on all menu items and able to produce consistent and quality dishes in fast-paced and demanding environments and on all stations
  • Daily responsibilities also include preparing food items in the pantry, fry station, and other kitchen areas while adhering to allergy requests and specific dish alterations.
  • Assist with inventory to support the kitchen operating at a sustainable food cost
  • Sets up stations according to Kitchen guidelines, and maintains a safe, clean, organized, and stocked work area.
  • Watch wastage, cooking temps and quality to reduce additional costs, influence others on the cost of product and how it contributes to the profit and loss of the company.
  • Production and a-la-carte dish(s) execution. Including weekend feast ideas and family meals.
  • Delegate some tasks as needed while also ensuring proper procedure is followed when clocking in and out for shifts as well as breaks
  • Support Executive Sous and Jr. Sous with pre and post-service meeting when requested.
  • Work towards specific goals and Soho House Standards for speed of service goals and consistent experience for Soho House Standards for service; 3-8-10
  • Positive influence for the team under pressure and provide a welcoming work environment that increases staff morale.
  • Attend "Cook House" trainings and support the mentoring and education of new and existing team members on areas they are looking to go
  • Assists with the cleaning, sanitation, and organization of kitchen, walk-in coolers, and all storage areas.
  • Be committed to providing quality service and food knowledge.

Required Skills/Qualifications

  • Minimum of 3+ years' experience in a fast pace, upscale and approachable environment of professionals
  • Strong understanding of professional cooking and knife handling skills
  • Proven ability to execute all menu items and properly prepare and deliver top quality dishes on all stations
  • Flexible schedule and ability to work morning, night, weekend and holiday's (as needed)
  • Food handler's certificate
  • Strong communicator, collaborator and motivator with ability to build professional relationships with all leaders and kitchen team.
  • Proactive, team-player who can work well independently as well as on a team
  • Ability to multitask and work in a demanding, fast-paced environment
  • Possess a level of creativity to create recipes from scratch, preferred

Physical Requirements

  • Must be able to seize, grasp, turn, and hold objects with hands.
  • Must be able to work on your feet for at least 8-10 hours.
  • Fast-paced movements are required to go from one part of the kitchen and storage areas to others.
  • Must be able to move, pull, carry, or lift up to 50 pounds on occasion and 35 pounds regularly.
  • Occasional environmental exposures to cold, heat, and water
  • Occasionally kneel, bend, crouch, and climb as required.

Why work with us...

Soho House offers competitive compensation packages that feature global benefits and perks. Whether you're seeking entry-level employment or a new opportunity to expand your profession, we offer training to develop the technical and managerial skills necessary to enhance your career.

  • Health Care + 401K: Full-time employees are eligible for full benefits; Medical, Dental, and Vision as well as a Retirement fund with a 2% match.
  • Paid Time Off: Full- Time Employees have sick days + vacation days.
  • Career Development: Soho House can progress your career domestically or internationally as well as managerially or technically.
  • Soho Impact: Empowering the Soho House Community to make positive change, through mentoring, apprenticeship, local outreach, and sustainability.
  • Learning & Development: An extensive range of internally and externally run courses are available for all employees.
  • Cookhouse & House Tonic: Celebrating our passion for food and drink. Check out our monthly calendars and get involved in trips, trainings and events. Available to all.
  • Team Events: From fitness sessions to cinema screenings and art classes, each month, we hold a series of fun events which you can sign up for.

In accordance with Illinois law, the salary range for this role if filled within Chicago is listed below. The range for the position in other geographies may vary based on market differences. The actual compensation will be determined based on experience and other factors permitted by law.

Pay Range
$27.50—$27.50 USD