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

Assistant Cook

Antioch, IL · On-site

$15.35/hr

Maintains and follows the instructions given by the Head Cook to assist in the preparing and serving of daily school lunches. * Assumes responsibilities of the Head Cook during their absence.

Supervises and instructs assistant cook and cook's helper in the safe and proper use of all kitchen equipment. * Maintains the highest standards of safety and cleanliness in the kitchen following ...

Supervises and instructs assistant cook and cook's helper in the safe and proper use of all kitchen equipment. * Maintains the highest standards of safety and cleanliness in the kitchen following ...

Dietary Aide

Waukegan, IL · On-site

$15.75/hr

Basic Function To assist cook in providing nutritional meals by preparing and serving meals in an attractive manner, and to maintain a high standard of sanitation and safety. Essential Duties 1. ...

Dietary Aide

Waukegan, IL · On-site

$15.75/hr

Basic Function To assist cook in providing nutritional meals by preparing and serving meals in an attractive manner, and to maintain a high standard of sanitation and safety. Essential Duties 1. ...

BratHaus is located at 10310 N Main Street, Richmond IL Responsibilities include but not limited to: * assist cooks with food preparation-prepare sauces, control portion sizes, prepare salad, etc ...

Cook

Inverness, IL

$14 - $18.75/hr

Cook Job Benefits * Competitive Pay * Health Insurance including Dental and Vision * Paid Time Off ... * Assist / direct daily or schedule cleaning duties in accordance with established policies and ...

Cook

Inverness, IL · On-site

$14 - $18.75/hr

) Cook Job Benefits * Competitive Pay * Health Insurance including Dental and Vision * Paid Time Off ... * Assist / direct daily or schedule cleaning duties in accordance with established policies and ...

Cook

Mchenry, IL

$13.75 - $18.50/hr

... Assist other employees as needed Follow directions given by Manager or Supervisor Know and ... Cook and restaurant experience is a plus! Food Handler Certification required Benefits: * Employee ...

Cook

Rolling Meadows, IL · On-site

$14 - $18.75/hr

... Assist other employees as needed Follow directions given by Manager or Supervisor Know and ... Cook and restaurant experience is a plus! Food Handler Certification required Benefits: * Employee ...

Cook

Palatine, IL · On-site

$14 - $18.75/hr

) Cook ALIYA of Palatine is seeking a reliable and dedicated Cook to join our Dietary team. The Cook ... * Assist with food preparation, meal service, inventory management, and proper storage of food ...

Cook

Palatine, IL · On-site

$14 - $18.75/hr

Cook ALIYA of Palatine is seeking a reliable and dedicated Cook to join our Dietary team. The Cook ... * Assist with food preparation, meal service, inventory management, and proper storage of food ...

Cook

Mchenry, IL · On-site

$13.75 - $18.50/hr

... Assist other employees as needed Follow directions given by Manager or Supervisor Know and ... Cook and restaurant experience is a plus! Food Handler Certification required Benefits: * Employee ...

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Assistant Cook information

See Crystal Lake, IL salary details

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How much do assistant cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant cook in Crystal Lake, IL is $15.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.99 and $16.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an assistant cook?

Assistant Cooks are kitchen staff members who support chefs and head cooks in preparing food, maintaining kitchen cleanliness, and organizing ingredients. They perform tasks such as chopping vegetables, measuring ingredients, and assisting with basic cooking techniques. Assistant Cooks also help with cleaning kitchen equipment, stocking supplies, and ensuring food safety standards are met. Their role is essential for the smooth operation of a kitchen, especially in busy restaurants or catering services.

What does an assistant cook do?

Assistant cooks support to the chef or head cook in the kitchen of a restaurant, catering company, or other food service facility. As an assistant cook, your job duties may include helping to plan the menu, testing new dishes, maintaining inventory, and buying or ordering the necessary ingredients for upcoming meal services. You may also perform cleaning duties around the kitchen to ensure that the food preparation area meets health code standards.

How does an assistant cook typically collaborate with the kitchen team during busy service hours?

During peak service times, an Assistant Cook works closely with chefs, line cooks, and kitchen staff to ensure smooth operations. This includes prepping ingredients, supporting the assembly of dishes, and maintaining cleanliness at workstations. Effective communication is key, as instructions often come quickly and priorities can shift. Being adaptable and proactive in assisting team members helps maintain efficiency and high food quality standards.

What is the difference between Assistant Cook vs Line Cook?

AspectAssistant CookLine Cook
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; basic culinary trainingHigh school diploma; culinary school or training often preferred
Work EnvironmentAssists in kitchen, supports chefs, performs prep workPrepares dishes on the line during service, works in fast-paced kitchen
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in restaurants, hotels, cateringFound in restaurants, hotels, institutional kitchens
Search & Comparison IntentOften compared for entry-level roles, support tasksCompared for active cooking during service

The main difference between an Assistant Cook and a Line Cook is their role during food preparation. An Assistant Cook typically supports the kitchen team with prep work and basic tasks, while a Line Cook actively prepares dishes during service. Both roles require culinary skills, but Line Cooks usually have more experience and responsibility during meal service.

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Assistant Cook job openings in Crystal Lake, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,255 per year, or $15.5 per hour.

Substitute Cook/Assistant Cook

Poplar Grove, IL • On-site

North Boone Community Unit School District 200
51 - 200 employees

$15.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago


Job description

Position Type:
Substitute/Substitute Cook/Assistant Cook
Date Posted:
3/6/2026
Location:
Multiple Buildings
Date Available:
ASAP
Closing Date:
When Filled
Description:
Substitute Cook/Assistant Cook
Job Summary:
  • Assist in the preparation of food portions and prepare cafeteria counter
  • Serve students and staff from the cafeteria counter
  • Perform the cleaning of all kitchen equipment and the washing and sterilizing of all dishes, silverware and utensils

Qualifications:
  1. High school diploma
  2. Knowledgeable of safety precautions regarding blood borne pathogens
  3. Food Certification/sanitation certificate required

Reports to:
Food Service Director
Salary:
$15.50/hour
There are no benefits for substitute positions
Application Procedure:
Apply Online