1

Assistant Cook Jobs in Elgin, IL (NOW HIRING)

Assistant Cook

Chicago, IL · On-site

$21/hr

We're after a line/prep cook who keeps the pass moving on a packed league night and takes pride in food people actually rave about. The kitchen is a big part of what makes a night at Players feel ...

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 ...

Cook Positions

Chicago, IL · On-site

$14.50 - $19.25/hr

Cook Positions - Position Summary We are seeking dependable, experienced cooks to join our culinary ... Clean and sanitize workstations, equipment, and kitchen areas after events. * Assist with inventory ...

Prep Cook

Aurora, IL · On-site

$14.25 - $18/hr

Follow recipes and portion guidelines to ensure consistency * Assist cooks and chefs with food preparation as needed * Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary work environment * Properly store food ...

Prep Cook

Aurora, IL · On-site

$14.25 - $18/hr

Follow recipes and portion guidelines to ensure consistency * Assist cooks and chefs with food preparation as needed * Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary work environment * Properly store food ...

Prep Cook

Aurora, IL · On-site

$17/hr

Follow recipes and portion guidelines to ensure consistency * Assist cooks and chefs with food preparation as needed * Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary work environment * Properly store food ...

Prep Cook

Aurora, IL · On-site

$17/hr

Follow recipes and portion guidelines to ensure consistency * Assist cooks and chefs with food preparation as needed * Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary work environment * Properly store food ...

Prep Cook

Aurora, IL · On-site

$17/hr

Follow recipes and portion guidelines to ensure consistency * Assist cooks and chefs with food preparation as needed * Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary work environment * Properly store food ...

Prep Cook

Aurora, IL · On-site

$17/hr

Follow recipes and portion guidelines to ensure consistency * Assist cooks and chefs with food preparation as needed * Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary work environment * Properly store food ...

Prep Cook

Aurora, IL · On-site

$17/hr

Follow recipes and portion guidelines to ensure consistency * Assist cooks and chefs with food preparation as needed * Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary work environment * Properly store food ...

Prep Cook

Aurora, IL · On-site

$17/hr

Follow recipes and portion guidelines to ensure consistency * Assist cooks and chefs with food preparation as needed * Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary work environment * Properly store food ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Assistant Cook information

See Elgin, IL salary details

$9

$15

$20

How much do assistant cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant cook in Elgin, IL is $15.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.28 and $17.12 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 Elgin, IL?

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

What job categories do people searching Assistant Cook jobs in Elgin, IL look for?

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Assistant Cook job openings in Elgin, IL as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,878 per year, or $15.8 per hour.

$15.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 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