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Apprentice Cook Jobs in Crystal Lake, IL (NOW HIRING)

Ceasars Entertainment

COOK 2 - Part Time

Elgin, IL · On-site

$18 - $18.50/hr

A cook 2 - Slice prepares hot and cold foods, , follows the proper preparation for all food recipes ... Apprenticeship at a technical school in culinary Arts preferred. * 1-3 years related experience and ...

Caesars Entertainment

COOK 2 - Part Time

Elgin, IL · On-site

$18 - $18.50/hr

A cook 2 - Slice prepares hot and cold foods, , follows the proper preparation for all food recipes ... Apprenticeship at a technical school in culinary Arts preferred. * 1-3 years related experience and ...

Lake Geneva Country Club

Jr. Sous Chef

Lake Geneva, WI · On-site

$48K - $65K/yr

Trains, apprentices the line cooks as necessary. * Maintains sanitary and hygienic food preparation environment. * Assists Sous Chef in Preparation and execution of Banquets. * Assists line cooks as ...

The Marcus Corporation

Chophouse Chef

Lake Geneva, WI · On-site

Culinary or Apprenticeship program preferred * 2-3 years of experience required in lead cook position * Experience with Steakhouse Cuisine * Above average knowledge of accepted safety sanitation ...

Marcus Hotels

Chophouse Chef

Lake Geneva, WI · On-site

Culinary or Apprenticeship program preferred * 2-3 years of experience required in lead cook position * Experience with Steakhouse Cuisine * Above average knowledge of accepted safety sanitation ...

Cygnethealth

Support Worker

Hawthorn Woods, IL · On-site

$16 - $21/hr

... as cooking & cleaning You are... * Genuinely driven with a desire to make a real difference in ... An opening to undertake further learning with our excellent apprenticeship scheme * Flexible ...

Chipotle

Assistant General Manager

Kildeer, IL · On-site

$19.25 - $21.43/hr

Our Apprentices have a strong desire to grow into General Managers by assisting in the day-to-day ... CMG) is cultivating a better world by serving responsibly sourced, classically cooked, real food ...

Hy-Vee, Inc.

Baker

Sycamore, IL · On-site

$12.50 - $16.50/hr

Apprentice Baker, Bakery Designer, Wrapper, Fryer Education and Experience * High school diploma or ... Where applicable to the role: exposure to heat- and burn-related hazards associated with cooking ...

Chipotle

Assistant General Manager

Mundelein, IL · On-site

$18.95 - $21.09/hr

Our Apprentices have a strong desire to grow into General Managers by assisting in the day-to-day ... CMG) is cultivating a better world by serving responsibly sourced, classically cooked, real food ...

HyVee

Baker

Sycamore, IL · On-site

$12.50 - $16.50/hr

Apprentice Baker, Bakery Designer, Wrapper, Fryer Education and Experience * High school diploma or ... Where applicable to the role: exposure to heat- and burn-related hazards associated with cooking ...

All JobsApprentice Cook JobsApprentice Cook Jobs in Crystal Lake, IL

Apprentice Cook information

See Crystal Lake, IL salary details

$9

$15

$21

How much do apprentice cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice cook in Crystal Lake, IL is $15.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.51 and $19.13 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

Can you get an apprenticeship in cooking?

Yes, aspiring cooks can pursue apprenticeships in cooking, which provide hands-on training in kitchens under the supervision of experienced chefs. These programs often combine practical work with classroom instruction and may lead to certification or increased job opportunities in the culinary industry.

What are the most commonly searched types of Cook jobs in Crystal Lake, IL?

The most popular types of Cook jobs in Crystal Lake, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Apprentice Cook jobs in Crystal Lake, IL?

For Apprentice Cook jobs in Crystal Lake, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Apprentice Cook jobs in Crystal Lake, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Apprentice Cook jobs in Crystal Lake, IL are:

What cities near Crystal Lake, IL are hiring for Apprentice Cook jobs?

Cities near Crystal Lake, IL with the most Apprentice Cook job openings:

Apprentice Cook jobs near you
Infographic showing various Apprentice Cook job openings in Crystal Lake, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, 31% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,008 per year, or $15.9 per hour.

COOK 2 - Part Time

Ceasars Entertainment

Elgin, IL • On-site

$18 - $18.50/hr

Part-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago

Caesars Entertainment rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 255 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

106th of 164 rated casinos

Job description

A cook 2 - Slice prepares hot and cold foods, , follows the proper preparation for all food recipes, and ensures proper sanitation, food storage, and safety standards.

  • Apprenticeship at a technical school in culinary Arts preferred.

  • 1-3 years related experience and/or training, or equivalent combination experience is required.

  • Ability to be physically mobile, and stand/walk during shifts.
  • Requires bending and reaching from floor level to six feet high.
  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
  • Ability to push and pull up to 100 pounds.
  • Excellent guest service and communication skills.
  • Must be able to work in areas containing dust, varying noise and temperature levels, lighting, vibrations, crowds and air quality.
  • Must always present a professional appearance and demeanor.

Salary Range:  $18 - $18.50 (depending on experience)

Benefits:  Part TIme

401(k), Paid Time Off, Education Assistance, Team Member Discounts

  • Confer with food preparation personnel to plan menus and related activities.

  • Utilize the proper preparation method for all food orders.

  • Responsible for the execution of all food preparation for shift.

  • Responsible for all cleanliness, safety and sanitation for assigned area.

  • Ensure food quality is at the highest standard, cooked and delivered on time.

  • Utilize the "FIFO" method for all items used in the area.

  • Responsible for accuracy of line in absence of Sous Chefs.

  • Other duties as assigned

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