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Chef Jobs in Washington, IL (NOW HIRING)

* We are hiring immediately for a full time CHEF position. * Location : CAT - 8826 W. Route 24, Mapleton, IL 61547 Note: online applications accepted only. * Schedule : Full time schedule. Monday ...

* We are hiring immediately for full time CHEF positions. * Location : CAT AB - 100 Northeast Adams Street, Peoria, IL 61629. Note: online applications accepted only. * Schedule : Full time schedule.

Executive Chef

Normal, IL · On-site

$69K - $96K/yr

Responsibilities In the role of Executive Chef, you are responsible for the day-to-day operations and staffing for the kitchen and dining venue in the community. You drive a culture of hospitality ...

In the role of Executive Chef, you are responsible for the day-to-day operations and staffing for the kitchen and dining venue in the community. You drive a culture of hospitality and ensure that ...

Executive Chef

Normal, IL · On-site

$60K - $69K/yr

Responsibilities In the role of Executive Chef, you are responsible for the day-to-day operations and staffing for the kitchen and dining venue in the community. You drive a culture of hospitality ...

Executive Chef

Normal, IL · On-site

$60K - $69K/yr

Responsibilities In the role of Executive Chef, you are responsible for the day-to-day operations and staffing for the kitchen and dining venue in the community. You drive a culture of hospitality ...

CHEF (FULL TIME)

Mossville, IL · On-site

$20.30/hr

* We are hiring immediately for full time CHEF positions. * Location : Caterpillar AC - 14009 Old Galena Road, Mossville, IL 61552 Note: online applications accepted only. * Schedule : Full time ...

CHEF (FULL TIME)

Mossville, IL · On-site

$20.30/hr

* We are hiring immediately for full time CHEF positions. * Location : Caterpillar AC - 14009 Old Galena Road, Mossville, IL 61552 Note: online applications accepted only. * Schedule : Full time ...

Executive Chef

Peoria, IL · On-site

$70K - $96K/yr

Work with Corporate Chef to create specials, menu efficiencies across the community as well as a costing strategy; * Supervise other cooks, on a one-to-one basis, instructing and guiding them in ...

Work with Corporate Chef to create specials, menu efficiencies across the community as well as a costing strategy; * Supervise other cooks, on a one-to-one basis, instructing and guiding them in ...

* We are hiring immediately for full time CHEF positions. * Location : Caterpillar AC - 14009 Old Galena Road, Mossville, IL 61552 Note: online applications accepted only. * Schedule : Full time ...

Executive Chef

Peoria, IL · On-site

$75K - $88K/yr

Work with Corporate Chef to create specials, menu efficiencies across the community as well as a costing strategy; * Supervise other cooks, on a one-to-one basis, instructing and guiding them in ...

Grill & Line Cook

Bloomington, IL · On-site

$15 - $19/hr

Proven cooking experience, including experience as a line chef, restaurant cook, or prep cook * Excellent understanding of various cooking methods, ingredients, equipment and procedures * Accuracy ...

Grill & Line Cook

Bloomington, IL · On-site

$15 - $19/hr

Proven cooking experience, including experience as a line chef, restaurant cook, or prep cook * Excellent understanding of various cooking methods, ingredients, equipment and procedures * Accuracy ...

Showing results 41-60

Chef information

See Washington, IL salary details

$9

$23

$42

How much do chef jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for chef in Washington, IL is $23.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $29.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a chef do?

A chef is a professional cook who is responsible for preparing meals, developing menus, and overseeing kitchen operations in restaurants, hotels, or other food establishments. Chefs ensure food quality, safety, and presentation standards are met, and often manage other kitchen staff. Their duties may include ordering ingredients, maintaining inventory, and creating new recipes. Chefs may specialize in specific types of cuisine or cooking techniques. They play a key role in delivering a memorable dining experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a chef, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Chef, you need strong culinary skills, creativity in menu development, and comprehensive knowledge of food safety standards, typically supported by culinary school training or relevant experience. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, recipe management software, and food hygiene certifications (such as ServSafe) is highly valuable. Exceptional organizational ability, teamwork, and leadership are critical soft skills for managing kitchen staff and maintaining a positive work environment. These competencies are essential for delivering high-quality dishes efficiently, ensuring kitchen safety, and running a successful culinary operation.

What are common challenges chefs face in maintaining consistency across dishes and shifts?

Chefs often encounter challenges in ensuring that every dish meets the restaurant’s quality and presentation standards, particularly when managing a team with varying skill levels or during busy service periods. Maintaining consistency requires strong communication, standardized recipes, and rigorous training for all kitchen staff. Additionally, chefs must monitor ingredient quality and adapt quickly to supply changes, all while leading by example to uphold the restaurant’s reputation. Overcoming these challenges is key to delivering a reliable dining experience and building trust with patrons.

What is the difference between Chef vs Cook?

AspectChefCook
CredentialsFormal culinary training or certifications often preferredMinimal formal training, on-the-job experience common
Work EnvironmentProfessional kitchens, restaurants, hotelsVaries from home kitchens to restaurants, catering
Job ResponsibilitiesMenu planning, supervising kitchen staff, quality controlFood preparation, cooking, basic kitchen tasks
Industry UsageHigh-end restaurants, culinary institutionsWidespread across all food service settings

While both chefs and cooks work in kitchens and prepare food, chefs typically have formal training, oversee kitchen operations, and work in professional or upscale environments. Cooks usually focus on food preparation and cooking tasks, often with less formal education, and work in a variety of settings. The role of a chef involves leadership and menu development, whereas a cook primarily executes recipes and prepares dishes.

Is 25 too late to become a chef?

Becoming a chef at 25 is not too late, as many chefs start their careers in their twenties or later. Success in the culinary industry depends on skills, training, and experience, which can be gained through culinary schools, apprenticeships, or on-the-job training at any age.

What are the most commonly searched types of Chef jobs in Washington, IL?

The most popular types of Chef jobs in Washington, IL are:

What cities near Washington, IL are hiring for Chef jobs?

Cities near Washington, IL with the most Chef job openings:

Infographic showing various Chef job openings in Washington, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, and 23% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $48,314 per year, or $23.2 per hour.

$20.30/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago


Compass Group rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 1,093 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

347th of 495 rated business services


Job description

  • We are hiring immediately for a full time CHEF position.
  • Location: CAT - 8826 W. Route 24, Mapleton, IL 61547 Note: online applications accepted only.
  • Schedule: Full time schedule. Monday - Friday, 5:30 am - 2:00 pm. More details upon interview.
  • Requirement: Must have Culinary Skills/Food Service Skills.
    *Internal Employee Referral Bonus Available
  • Fixed Pay Rate: $20.30 per hour.

We Make Applying Easy! Want to apply to this job via text messaging? Text JOB to 75000 and search requisition ID number 1557294.

The advertised program is a conversational recruiting assistant that helps you apply to jobs with Compass Group. Message frequency varies. Message and data rates may apply. Text STOP to opt out or HELP for help. Terms and conditions: http://olivia.paradox.ai/moSkg

Application Deadline: applications are accepted ongoing until all openings are filled for this position. If an applicant is declined due to the position being filled, they may still be considered for future opportunities and are always welcome to reapply.

Diversity of thought and inclusion for all is what drives our success - we invite you to start your journey with us today!

Eurest is recognized worldwide for standards of service and excellence within the foodservice industry. Embracing an ownership mindset, Eurest leverages global resources, promotes a local presence and enriches the communities we serve. The Eurest Promise, “connect with people, inspire through food, create solutions, and live our promise,” is exemplified throughout our organization. Eurest is proud to serve the world’s most respected successful corporations, including many of the Fortune 500.

Job Summary


Summary:  Directs, coordinates and evaluates assigned kitchen, food production and food-service associates.  
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Supervises, coordinates and participates in activities of cooks and other associates engaged in preparing, cooking and serving food. Ensures all food handling, sanitation and customer service standards are met.
  • Supervises hourly kitchen associates, including interviewing, scheduling, payroll, training, counseling, participating in reviews and recommending disciplinary action.
  • Efficiently prepares high-quality food items according to standardized recipes to meet production, delivery and service schedules. Serves meals or prepares for delivery.
  • Ensures proper presentation, food quality, portion control and maintenance of proper serving temperatures.
  • Tracks food use, waste and consumption to requisition or purchase product.
  • Receives and inspects product and supplies for quality and quantity to ensure appropriate inventory.
  • Maintains sanitation of equipment, supplies and utensils. Cleans workstation thoroughly before leaving area. Keeps display equipment clean and free of debris during meal service to ensure compliance with sanitation, safety, production and merchandising requirements.
  • Helps select and develop recipes and menus.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Associates at Eurest are offered many fantastic benefits.

Full-time and part-time positions offer the following benefits to associates: Retirement Plan, Associate Shopping Program, Health and Wellness Programs, Discount Marketplace, Identity Theft Protection, Pet Insurance, Voluntary Benefits, including Critical Illness Insurance, Accident Insurance, Hospital Indemnity Insurance, Legal Services, and Choice Auto and Home Program

Full-time positions also offer the following benefits to associates: Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance/AD, Disability Insurance, Commuter Benefits, Employee Assistance Program, Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)

Associates may also be eligible for paid and/or unpaid time off benefits in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. For positions in Washington State, Maryland, or to be performed Remotely, click here or copy/paste the link below for paid time off benefits information. 

https://www.compass-usa.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/2023_WageTransparency_Eurest.pdf

About Compass Group: Achieving leadership in the foodservice industry

Compass Group is an equal opportunity employer.  At Compass, we are committed to treating all Applicants and Associates fairly based on their abilities, achievements, and experience without regard to race, national origin, sex, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other classification protected by law.
 

Qualified candidates must be able to perform the essential functions of this position satisfactorily with or without a reasonable accommodation. Disclaimer: this job post is not necessarily an exhaustive list of all essential responsibilities, skills, tasks, or requirements associated with this position. While this is intended to be an accurate reflection of the position posted, the Company reserves the right to modify or change the essential functions of the job based on business necessity.

Certain positions may require Florida Level 2 background screening. Details: https://info.flclearinghouse.com/ 

Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis.

Eurest maintains a drug-free workplace. 
Req ID: 1557294

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