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Assistant Chef Jobs in Springfield, IL (NOW HIRING)

Illini Country Club

Cook

Springfield, IL

$18 - $25/hr

Consistently follow portion control and presentation specifications set by the Executive Chef ... * Assist in the development of new menu items and daily specials by providing creative input and ...

All JobsAssistant Chef JobsAssistant Chef Jobs in Springfield, IL

Assistant Chef information

See Springfield, IL salary details

$9

$20

$38

How much do assistant chef jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant chef in Springfield, IL is $20.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.96 and $22.16 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does an Assistant Chef typically collaborate with the Head Chef and other kitchen staff during service?

As an Assistant Chef, you play a vital role in supporting the Head Chef by preparing ingredients, ensuring stations are well-stocked, and executing dishes according to established recipes and quality standards. Collaboration is constant—clear communication with the Head Chef and other cooks helps maintain a smooth workflow, especially during busy service hours. You may also assist in training junior staff and step in to manage specific sections of the kitchen when needed, making adaptability and teamwork essential traits for success in this role.

How much do you pay a chef per hour?

Assistant chefs typically earn between $12 and $20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the establishment. Entry-level positions may pay closer to the lower end, while experienced or specialized roles can command higher wages. Certifications and skills in kitchen operations can also influence pay rates.

What Does a Chef Assistant Do?

A chef assistant provides support for the head chef of a restaurant, bakery, catering business, or cafeteria. As a chef assistant, your job duties include managing inventory, ensuring that the kitchen meets food safety and cleanliness standards, and helping kitchen staff with food preparation. The qualifications for a career as a chef assistant vary by employer, but typically include training from a culinary school, proven cooking skills, and experience working in a kitchen. You need strong teamwork abilities and a willingness to work a flexible schedule.

What are Assistant Chefs?

Assistant Chefs, also known as commis chefs or junior chefs, support the head chef and sous chef in a professional kitchen. Their responsibilities typically include preparing ingredients, cooking basic dishes, maintaining kitchen cleanliness, and helping with inventory management. They play a crucial role in ensuring a smooth workflow and may also assist in plating dishes and learning advanced culinary techniques. This position is often an entry-level role for those pursuing a culinary career, offering hands-on experience and opportunities for advancement.

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

To thrive as an Assistant Chef, you need a solid understanding of culinary techniques, food safety standards, and experience in a kitchen environment, often supported by a culinary certificate or diploma. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, inventory management systems, and food hygiene certifications like ServSafe is typically required. Strong teamwork, time management, and attention to detail are crucial soft skills that help in supporting the head chef and ensuring smooth kitchen operations. These skills and qualities are vital for maintaining food quality, efficiency, and safety in a fast-paced culinary setting.

Is assistant chef a stressful job?

Assistant chefs often work in fast-paced kitchen environments that can be physically demanding and require long hours, especially during busy service times. The role involves multitasking, maintaining high standards of cleanliness and safety, and meeting tight deadlines, which can contribute to stress. However, experience, teamwork, and good time management can help manage job-related stress effectively.

What does an assistant chef do?

An assistant chef supports the head chef by preparing ingredients, cooking dishes, and maintaining kitchen cleanliness. They often handle tasks such as chopping, measuring, and organizing supplies, and may assist with menu preparation and quality control in a fast-paced kitchen environment.

What is the lowest position as a chef?

The lowest position in a professional kitchen is typically that of a line cook or prep cook, responsible for basic food preparation and assisting higher-level chefs. Entry-level roles often require basic cooking skills and may serve as a stepping stone to higher positions like sous chef or executive chef.

What is the difference between Assistant Chef vs Line Cook?

AspectAssistant ChefLine Cook
CredentialsBasic culinary training, certifications varyBasic culinary skills, often no formal certification required
Work EnvironmentAssists head chef, supports kitchen operationsPrepares specific dishes on the line during service
Employer & Industry UsageHotels, restaurants, catering servicesRestaurants, hotels, catering
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The Assistant Chef typically supports the head chef and handles a variety of kitchen tasks, often with some formal training. Line Cooks focus on preparing specific dishes during service, usually with less supervision. Both roles are essential in culinary operations, but Assistant Chefs often have broader responsibilities and may oversee Line Cooks.

More about Assistant Chef jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Chef jobs in Springfield, IL? The most popular types of Chef jobs in Springfield, IL are:
What cities near Springfield, IL are hiring for Assistant Chef jobs? Cities near Springfield, IL with the most Assistant Chef job openings:
Assistant Chef jobs near you
Cook

Cook

Illini Country Club

Springfield, IL

$18 - $25/hr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

Join us at Illini Country Club, where culinary excellence meets exceptional member experiences. We strive to create memorable dining moments in a luxurious setting, offering top-notch amenities and a welcoming environment for our members and their guests.

We are seeking a talented and dedicated Cook to join our culinary team. As a Cook on our team, you will play a crucial role in creating high-quality dishes that exceed our members' expectations. You will prepare and cook a variety of meals with precision and care, contributing to an exceptional dining experience in our club’s restaurants and event settings.

The key responsibilities of a Cook on our team are to:

  • Demonstrate knowledge of restaurant best practices and cooking methods.
  • Prepare and cook a diverse range of menu items, including appetizers, entrees, and desserts, following established recipes and presentation style.
  • Ensure all dishes are cooked to perfection, meeting our quality standards and exceeding member satisfaction.
  • Consistently follow portion control and presentation specifications set by the Executive Chef.
  • Collaborate with the front of house team to ensure food service is seamless and efficient, especially during peak hours.
  • Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work environment in accordance with health and safety regulations.
  • Assist in the development of new menu items and daily specials by providing creative input and testing recipes.
  • Manage and control food inventory, ensuring the freshness and quality of ingredients.

A successful candidate will:

  • Have proven experience as a cook or in a similar culinary role, preferably within a high-end restaurant or hospitality setting (preferred but not required).
  • Possess strong knowledge of cooking methods, kitchen equipment, and best practices.
  • Work well under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
  • Be detail-oriented with a commitment to maintaining a high standard of food quality and presentation.
  • Exhibit excellent communication and interpersonal skills to interact effectively with team members from various departments.
  • Have a current Illinois food handler certification, or be willing to earn certification within seven (7) days of hire.
  • Be able to stand, walk, reach, bend, etc. for extended periods of time.
  • Be able to lift up to 30 pounds.
  • Be available to work a flexible schedule, including holidays and weekends.

We offer:

  • A competitive hourly wage.
  • Opportunities for growth and professional development.
  • A supportive and engaging work environment.
  • Time off under the Paid Leave for All Workers Act.
  • Insurance benefits, 401(k), and paid time off for employees who meet eligibility requirements.

This is a nonexempt position and will be paid on an hourly basis.

Join our team and enjoy being part of an exclusive setting where you can showcase your culinary skills while building rewarding relationships with your fellow employees. If you have a passion for creating memorable food experiences, can follow instructions, and thrive in a fast-paced environment, this could be the job for you. We invite you to apply today to join our club community!


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