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Army Cook Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Cook

Chicago, IL

$17 - $20.40/hr

THE SALVATION ARMY NORTH AND CENTRAL ILLINOIS DIVISION POSITION DESCRIPTION POSITION TITLE : Cook LOCATION/DEPT : Evangeline Booth Lodge REPORTS TO : Kitchen Supervisor PEOPLE MANAGER : No FLSA ...

Cook

Chicago, IL · On-site

$17 - $20.40/hr

THE SALVATION ARMY NORTH AND CENTRAL ILLINOIS DIVISION POSITION DESCRIPTION POSITION TITLE : Cook LOCATION/DEPT : Evangeline Booth Lodge REPORTS TO : Kitchen Supervisor PEOPLE MANAGER : No FLSA ...

Cook

Chicago, IL

$16.60 - $20/hr

THE SALVATION ARMY NORTH AND CENTRAL ILLINOIS DIVISION POSITION DESCRIPTION POSITION TITLE : Cook LOCATION/DEPT : Harbor Light REPORTS TO : Food Service Manager PEOPLE MANAGER : No FLSA CATEGORY

Cook

Chicago, IL · On-site

$16.60 - $20/hr

THE SALVATION ARMY NORTH AND CENTRAL ILLINOIS DIVISION POSITION DESCRIPTION POSITION TITLE : Cook LOCATION/DEPT : Harbor Light REPORTS TO : Food Service Manager PEOPLE MANAGER : No FLSA CATEGORY

Army Cook information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$9

$16

$22

How much do army cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for army cook in Chicago, IL is $16.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.89 and $18.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an army cook do?

An Army Cook is responsible for preparing, cooking, and serving meals to soldiers and other military personnel. They work in a variety of settings, from dining facilities on base to field kitchens during training exercises or deployments. Their duties include menu planning, food safety, inventory management, and maintaining kitchen equipment. Army Cooks play a vital role in ensuring troops are well-nourished and ready for their missions. They also adhere to strict food safety and sanitation standards to keep everyone healthy.

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

To thrive as an Army Cook, you need basic culinary skills, knowledge of food safety regulations, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often supplemented by military food service training. Familiarity with large-scale kitchen equipment, inventory management systems, and military food preparation protocols is important. Attention to detail, teamwork, and the ability to work efficiently under pressure are critical soft skills for this role. These skills ensure the timely delivery of safe, nutritious meals that support the health and morale of military personnel in diverse and demanding environments.

What are some common challenges faced by army cooks in field environments, and how can they prepare for them?

Army Cooks often encounter unique challenges when preparing meals in field environments, such as limited equipment, unpredictable weather, and the need to serve large groups quickly. To succeed, it's important to be adaptable, well-organized, and able to follow strict food safety standards under pressure. Familiarity with field kitchen equipment and efficient teamwork are crucial, as cooks often collaborate closely with supply and logistics personnel to ensure timely meal delivery. Regular training and practice in simulated field conditions help Army Cooks build the necessary skills and confidence to overcome these challenges.

What is the difference between Army Cook vs Army Food Service Specialist?

AspectArmy CookArmy Food Service Specialist
CertificationsBasic food safety and sanitation trainingSame as Army Cook, plus additional food service management
Work EnvironmentKitchen, dining facilities, field kitchensKitchen, dining facilities, logistics settings
Job DutiesPreparing meals, cooking, food presentationPreparing meals, managing food service operations, inventory

The Army Cook and Army Food Service Specialist roles share many similarities, including certifications and work environments. However, the Food Service Specialist often has additional responsibilities related to managing food operations and logistics, making it a broader role within military food services.

Can you be an Army Cook?

Yes, you can become an Army Cook by meeting the military's enlistment requirements, which include age, education, and physical fitness standards. Training is provided at basic training and through specialized culinary courses, and cooks are responsible for preparing meals in various military settings. Prior cooking experience or culinary skills can be beneficial but are not always mandatory.

How much do Army cooks make?

Army cooks, also known as food service specialists, typically earn a base salary that ranges from approximately $25,000 to $35,000 per year for entry-level positions. With experience, rank advancements, and additional responsibilities, their pay can increase, and they may also receive benefits such as housing allowances and healthcare.

What are popular job titles related to Army Cook jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Army Cook jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Army Cook jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Army Cook jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Infographic showing various Army Cook job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, 28% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,372 per year, or $16.5 per hour.

$17 - $20.40/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 5 days ago


Salvation Army rating

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 364 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

598th of 783 rated non-profit organizations


Job description

THE SALVATION ARMY

NORTH AND CENTRAL ILLINOIS DIVISION

POSITION DESCRIPTION

POSITION TITLE: Cook

LOCATION/DEPT: Evangeline Booth Lodge

REPORTS TO: Kitchen Supervisor

PEOPLE MANAGER: No

FLSA CATEGORY: Non-Exempt

STATUS TYPE: RFT

PAY GRADE: 202

PAY RANGE: $17.00 - $20.40

WHO WE ARE

At The Salvation Army, we are dedicated to "Doing the Most Good". We are made up of thousands of officers, soldiers, staff, volunteers, donors, and partners working together to holistically meet the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of our most vulnerable neighbors. We do this through programs designed to combat homelessness and hunger, provide safe spaces for kids after school and on the weekends, achieve and maintain sobriety, and give hope to the hopeless. The Salvation Army North and Central Illinois Division provides these services to people in need.

JOB SUMMARY

The Cook is primarily responsible the preparation of meals for the nutrition program. Will support the full mission of The Salvation Army by providing compassionate, professional service to the families and single women residing at the Lodge and the community in a team-focused manner with the entire Lodge staff, providing nutritious meals.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  1. All meals are prepared consistent with the menu identified.
  2. Food that qualifies is prepared for next day. Supplies are obtained from the storerooms, coolers, or freezer.
  3. The receipt of deliveries (food and non-food items) and maintenance of food service areas are organized and supervised. Food and equipment are secured from theft.
  4. The food service area is cleaned and maintained on a daily basis at standards which ensure full compliance with all health and sanitation requirements. This includes the cleaning of the ovens and skillet. All completed tasks are documented. All pertinent documentation is maintained.
  5. Kitchen staff may be given direction as needed.
  6. All other duties as assigned.

OTHER DUTIES

  • This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive list of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

MINIMUM KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

  • Education: Must possess current Chicago Sanitation License.
  • Experience: Minimum 3 years of cooking experience required. Experience cooking for large groups and working in a fast paced industrial kitchen preferred.

JOB LIMITATIONS

  • This individual will only commit Army resources that have been allocated or approved.
  • This individual will keep the Kitchen Supervisor informed on all critical issue relating to his/her area of responsibility.
  • This individual will adhere to all policies and procedures in carrying out the responsibilities of this position.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS/WORK ENVIRONMENT

  • This position is required to do light to moderate physical work.
  • In order to successfully perform the essential functions of this position, the employee is regularly required to use standard kitchen equipment.
  • Must be able to walk up two flights of stairs and lift up to 70lbs.
  • The work environment for this position includes a kitchen environment with a low to high noise level.
  • Must be able to work with clients that have poor social skills, suffer from mental illness, and have substance abuse problems.

COMPENTENCIES

  • Able to work as a team member and well with others.
  • Good communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Able to work at fairly fast pace.
  • Demonstrated ability to use initiative and be a self-starter.
  • An attention to detail.
  • A positive attitude and ability to be flexible in light of changing job situations/priorities.
  • Supportive of the mission of The Salvation Army.

REPORTING RELATIONSHIPS

  • This individual relates to and interacts with a wide range of contacts both within and outside The Salvation Army. In these contacts, they act as a representative of the Army and its mission.

PERFORMANCE MEASURES

  • This individual will be evaluated on how effective the outcomes of this position are achieved, as well as timeliness, accuracy, and completeness of accomplishing assigned goals.

THE SALVATION ARMY MISSION STATEMENT

The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.

DOING THEMOST GOOD

Do you want to use your skills and talents to make a lasting difference in the world?The Salvation Army is the fourth largest charity in the United States and is an international organization based on Biblical principles created to help people in need.We are mission-driven, diverse, collaborative, and focused on positive results for people. Join us in making a difference.

The Salvation Army offers a competitive benefit package for eligible employees which may include the following medical, dental, vision, hearing, disability and life insurance, flexible spending accounts, 403(b) retirement accounts, a company-funded defined contribution (pension) plan and generous time off policies.

In compliance with the ADA AmendmentsActif you have a disability and would like to requestan accommodationto apply for this position, please contact the Human Resources department.

The Salvation Army is an Equal Opportunity Employer Minority/Female/Veterans/Disabled. Candidates who are back-to-work, US Veterans, people with disabilities, people who have beenimpactedby the justice system, and/or people without a college degree are encouraged to apply.


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About Salvation Army

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian Church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.

Industry

Non-profits, retail, amusement, gambling, and recreation and religious organizations

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Alexandria, VA, US