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Apprentice Cook Jobs in Springfield, IL (NOW HIRING)

Apprentice Cook information

See Springfield, IL salary details

$9

$16

$21

How much do apprentice cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice cook in Springfield, IL is $16.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.80 and $19.52 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 Springfield, IL?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Apprentice Cook job openings in Springfield, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $33,734 per year, or $16.2 per hour.

PRODUCTS & STANDARDS INSPECTOR TRAINEE -WM FUEL DISP & SMALL SCALE - DUPAGE CO.

Springfield, IL


State of Illinois
11 - 50 employees

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 75 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

10th of 50 rated states

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by parents


$4.7K - $6.4K/mo

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Job Requisition ID: 58186
Opening Date: 08/20/2026
Closing Date: 09/02/2026
Agency: Department of Agriculture
Class Title: PRODUCTS & STNDRDS INSPECTOR TRN (34605) 
Skill Option: None 
Bilingual Option: None
Salary: Anticipated Starting Salary $4747 - $6446 monthly
Job Type: Salaried
Category: Full Time 
County: DuPage; Cook
Number of Vacancies: 1
Bargaining Unit Code: None
Merit Comp Code: 

This position serves in a regional capacity. Persons serving in this role are required to assume residency in the county identified under the Conditions of Employment section which includes   DuPage County or Cook County north of O'hare and West of I-290 and will be required to work from their home location as a base of daily operational headquarters to service their designated worksites.

A resume is highly encouraged to evaluate your qualifications and skills as part of your application.  Please attach a DETAILED Resume/Curriculum Vitae (CV) to the MY DOCUMENTS section of your application if you decide to provide one.

Why Work for Illinois?

Working with the State of Illinois is a testament to the values of compassion, equity, and dedication that define our state. Whether you're helping to improve schools, protect our natural resources, or support families in need, you're part of something bigger-something that touches the lives of every person who calls Illinois home.

No matter what state career you're looking for, we offer jobs that fit your life and your schedule-flexible jobs that provide the gold standard of benefits. Our employees can take advantage of various avenues to advance their careers and realize their dreams. Our top-tier benefits and great retirement packages can help you build a rewarding career and lasting future with the State of Illinois.

Position Overview

Weights and Measures inspectors protect both the buyers and sellers interests by providing equity in the marketplace. Being part of a team of 34 of inspectors, you would be performing the various inspections throughout the state of Illinois. In addition, you would investigate consumer complaints about shortages or unfair practices and educate the buyer and seller generally as to their rights provided by the Weights and Measures Act and Motor Fuel & Petroleum Standards Act. The Products and Standards team inspects 145,000 devices annually. This position offers an excellent beginning salary and benefits. We invite all qualified applicants to apply.

Essential Functions
  • Under direct supervision, participates in an agency approved training program of six to twelve months duration in the inspection and investigation of products sold on the basis of weight, measure or count; receives training and orientation in inspection techniques, testing commercially used weighting and measuring devices, inspecting prepackaged commodities and inspecting scanning devices; receives training and performs controlled assignments under close supervision of the line supervisor or experienced inspector, e.g., Stage II Vapor Recovery inspections, collection of motor fuel samples for quality analysis, calibration of regulatory and industry standards of mass, volume and linear measure in the Metrology Laboratory; receives training in the Grain Moisture Meter Testing Laboratory. 
  • Serves as an apprentice in the field under the guidance of experienced Products and Standards
    Inspectors.
  • Travels to participate in on-the-job training and orientation using test standards and associated equipment using inspection techniques.
  • Travels to participate in on-the-job training and orientation on maintaining records, such as accounts of daily activities.
  • Travels to attend meetings and workshops to obtain knowledge of proper inspection procedures and administrative policies.
  • Operates and Maintains vehicle, testing, and office equipment.
  • Performs other duties as required or assigned which are reasonably within the scope of the duties enumerated above.
Minimum Qualifications
  • Requires knowledge, skill, and mental development equivalent to the completion of two years of college, preferably with coursework in fields relating to business, management, or communications.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Prefers experience testing commercially used devices.
  • Prefers working knowledge of mathematics, including multiplication, division, addition, and subtraction.
  • Prefers experience enforcing regulations based on established procedures/guidelines.
  • Prefers experience accurately filling out forms and reports.
  • Prefers experience following instructions and established policy.
  • Prefers experience communicating with associates, businesses, and the general public.
  • Prefers experience testifying in a court of law or administrative hearings regarding inspections or investigations.
Conditions of Employment
  • Requires completion of a name-based background screening and self-disclosure of criminal history.
  • Requires the ability to successfully pass a preemployment physical.
  • Requires ability to travel in the performance of duties. Requires appropriate, valid driver's license. Overnight travel may be required. Employee must pay for lodging and personal expenses while on travel status until being reimbursed.
  • Overtime is a condition of employment, and you may be requested or required/mandated to work
    overtime including scheduled, unscheduled, or last-minute overtime. This requires the ability to work evenings and weekends.
  • This position is considered heavy work as defined by the U.S. Department of Labor (20 CFR
    404.1567(d)). Heavy work involves lifting no more than 100 pounds at a time with frequent lifting or
    carrying of objects weighing up to 50 pounds.
  • Requires ability to attend seminars, conferences, and trainings to stay current on methods, tools,
    ideologies, or other industry related topics relevant to the job duties.
  • Requires the ability to sustain long periods of city and highway driving.
  • Requires the ability to climb, work in an environment with dust, chemicals, motor fuel, refrigerated areas and outside during all seasons.
  • Requires residency in DuPage County or Cook Co. north of O'Hare and West of I-290 and will be required to work from their home location as a base of daily operational headquarters to service their designated worksites.
  • The conditions of employment listed here are incorporated and related to any of the job duties as listed in the job description.

Work Hours: 7:00 AM - 5:30PM Monday-Thursday
Headquarter Location:
801 E Sangamon Ave, Springfield, Illinois, 62702
Work County:
DuPage
Agency Contact:
Bureau of Human Resources
Email:
AGR.HumanResources@illinois.gov
Phone #:
217-785-5099
Posting Group:
Legal, Audit & Compliance

The Illinois Department of Agriculture administers an annual budget of approximately $200 million and employs more than 400 people statewide, with several hundred more seasonal employees hired during the summer to support the Illinois State Fair and Du Quoin State Fair.  Separate bureaus administer programs and services directed at conserving the State's land and water resources; protecting the health and welfare of livestock and companion animals; overseeing state and county fairs; regulating seed, feed, and fertilizer products; ensuring the financial stability of grain dealers and warehouses; promoting Illinois food and agricultural products; and operating the State's horse racing programs.

AGR values employees with different backgrounds, life experiences, and talents.  

AGR offers a robust benefit package including; 

  • Monday-Friday work schedule
  • Flexible work schedules in many program areas
  • Health, life, vision, and dental insurance
  • 12 Weeks paid maternity/paternity leave
  • Pension Plan
  • Public Service Loan Forgiveness
  • Deferred Compensation, and other pre-tax benefit programs
  • Employees earn twelve (12) paid sick days annually
  • Ten to twenty-five (10-25) paid vacation days based on years of service
  • Employees earn three (3) paid personal days pro-rated based on start date
  • Thirteen - Fourteen (13-14) paid state holidays annually

For more information regarding State of Illinois Benefits follow this link: https://www2.illinois.gov/cms/benefits/Pages/default.aspx

If this opportunity appeals to you, please apply today!

The main form of communication will be through email. Please check your "junk mail", "spam", or "other" folder for communication(s) regarding any submitted application(s). You may receive emails from the following addresses:

  • donotreply@SIL-P1.ns2cloud.com
  • systems@SIL-P1.ns2cloud.com
 

State of Illinois logo

About State of Illinois

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The State of Illinois is not a traditional company, but rather a governmental entity encompassing diverse agencies and departments that serve the constituents of Illinois. Based in Illinois, United States, this governmental body communicates with its citizens through the official website illinois.gov. The website is a one-stop resource for Illinois residents to access information about the state's services, including education, healthcare, transportation, and public safety, among others.

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Springfield, IL, US

Year founded

2009

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