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Chefs Assistant Jobs in Elgin, IL (NOW HIRING)

Wooddale Barbecue

Event Assistant Chef

Wood Dale, IL · On-site

Sweet Baby Ray's Catering Category Food & Beverage Full-Time/Part-Time Part-Time Position Event Assistant Chef Description Position Summary The Event Assistant Chef supports food preparation, kitchen ...

the Chef Agency

PM Sous Chef, Luxury Hotel

Chicago, IL

$75K - $80K/yr

Location - Chicago, IL Salary - $75-80k Benefits - M/D/V, drycleaning, meals, discounted rooms, PTO, 401k matching, relocation assistance Seeking a refined sous chef to assist with a fine dining ...

UNION LEAGUE CLUB OF CHICAGO

Sous Chef

Chicago, IL · On-site

$65K/yr

Serve as "third-in-command" of the kitchen: assist the Executive Chef and Executive Sous Chef in supervising food production for all food outlets, banquet events and other functions at the club.

the Chef Agency

Sous Chef- Oakbrook, IL

Oak Brook, IL

$68K - $72K/yr

Qualifications: * 2+ years of Sous Chef or kitchen leadership experience * Experience in high ... Maintain food quality, consistency, sanitation, and kitchen organization standards * Assist with ...

Gecko Hospitality

Hotel Sous Chef

Lake Forest, IL

$70K - $75K/yr

Key Responsibilities * Assist the Executive Chef with the daily operation and management of all kitchen and culinary areas. * Supervise, train, coach, and develop culinary team members to ensure high ...

New

The Purple Pig

Sous Chef

Chicago, IL

$60K - $70K/yr

... detail - Assist with menu development, seasonal features, and recipe execution - Assist food ... Sous Chef experience in a high volume setting - Must have open availability including evenings ...

HHM Hotels

Line Cook

Hoffman Estates, IL · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

Your Growth Path Lead Cook - Sous Chef - Assistant to the Head Chef Your Focus * Prepare food of consistent quality following recipe cards and production and portion standards. * Begin food items ...

S.K.Y. Restaurant

Sous Chef

Chicago, IL

$60K - $65K/yr

K.Y. offers a dynamic environment for chefs looking to grow, lead, and contribute creatively. Who ... Train and develop cooks while maintaining high standards for quality and consistency. * Assist with ...

Juniper Modern American

Sous Chef

Highwood, IL

$60K - $75K/yr

Supervise, coach, and develop line cooks and prep cooks * Assist with ordering, receiving ... We value chefs who are organized, composed, hardworking, and willing to jump onto the line when the ...

Marriott Chicago O'Hare

Sous Chef

Chicago, IL · On-site

$65K - $75K/yr

Key Responsibilities: * Assist the Executive Chef with the daily operation and supervision of the hotel's culinary department. * Supervise cooks and other culinary associates during assigned shifts.

Private Listing

Sous Chef

Chicago, IL · On-site

$51K - $69K/yr

Key Responsibilities * Assist in leading daily kitchen operations and service execution * Ensure ... Minimum 2 years of Sous Chef or kitchen management experience * Experience in high-volume, full ...

Shakou Restaurants

Sushi Chef - PR

Park Ridge, IL

Position Summary Sushi Chefs are responsible for the preparation, production, and presentation of ... * Assist the Head Sushi Chef as directed. * Other duties may be assigned as needed. Minimum ...

Adalina Prime

Sous Chef

Chicago, IL

$51K - $69K/yr

The Sous Chef is a key leadership role within the Adalina Prime culinary team. This position ... Ensure consistency in plating, flavor, and presentation. * Assist with menu development, seasonal ...

Adalina Prime

Sous Chef

Chicago, IL

The Sous Chef is a key leadership role within the Adalina Prime culinary team. This position ... Ensure consistency in plating, flavor, and presentation. * Assist with menu development, seasonal ...

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Chefs Assistant information

See Elgin, IL salary details

$12

$18

$26

How much do chefs assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for chefs assistant in Elgin, IL is $18.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.15 and $20.91 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a chefs assistant?

Chefs Assistants, also known as kitchen assistants or commis chefs, support chefs in the preparation and cooking of food in professional kitchens. Their duties often include washing, peeling, and chopping ingredients, maintaining cleanliness, organizing kitchen tools, and sometimes helping with basic cooking tasks. Chefs Assistants are crucial for ensuring the kitchen runs smoothly and efficiently. They often learn essential culinary skills on the job, making this role a common entry point for those interested in a culinary career.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a chefs assistant?

To thrive as a Chef's Assistant, you need basic culinary skills, knowledge of food safety standards, and often a high school diploma or culinary coursework. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment and food handling certifications like ServSafe are typically required. Strong teamwork, time management, and the ability to work efficiently under pressure are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills ensure safe, organized, and high-quality food preparation, supporting the kitchen's smooth operation.

What are some common challenges faced by a chefs assistant, and how can they be effectively managed?

As a Chef's Assistant, you may encounter challenges such as working under tight time constraints, adapting to fast-paced kitchen environments, and maintaining consistent food quality. Effective communication with chefs and team members is essential to ensure smooth workflow and prevent errors. Staying organized, being proactive, and continuously learning kitchen procedures can help you manage these challenges successfully while developing valuable culinary skills.

What is the difference between Chefs Assistant vs Kitchen Helper?

AspectChefs AssistantKitchen Helper
Required CredentialsBasic culinary knowledge, sometimes certificationsMinimal qualifications, on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentProfessional kitchens, assisting chefsSupport roles in kitchens, general cleaning and prep
Employer & Industry UsageRestaurants, hotels, catering servicesFood service establishments, cafeterias
Search & Comparison IntentRoles assisting chefs with food prep and organizationSupport staff helping in kitchen tasks

Chefs Assistants typically have some culinary knowledge and work closely with professional chefs in busy kitchen environments. Kitchen Helpers usually perform basic support tasks like cleaning and prep, often with minimal qualifications. Both roles are essential in food service settings but differ in responsibilities and skill requirements.

What is the average salary of a chef's assistant?

The average salary of a chef's assistant typically ranges from $20,000 to $30,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and the establishment. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced assistants or those working in high-end kitchens can earn more. The role often requires basic culinary skills and the ability to follow instructions in a fast-paced environment.

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

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

Chefs Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Chefs Assistant job openings in Elgin, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, and 28% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $39,141 per year, or $18.8 per hour.

Event Assistant Chef

SBR Events Group dba Sweet Baby Ray's & True Cuisi

Wood Dale, IL

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Assist with food preparation, kitchen setup, and event execution in an off-premise location.

  • Support the execution of food service, including ingredient prep, cooking, assembly, and plating, ensuring adherence to standards.

  • Help with loading, unloading, organizing equipment and supplies, and supporting full event setup, service, and breakdown.

Job description

Position Summary

The Event Assistant Chef supports food preparation, kitchen setup, and event execution in an off-premise location. This role ensures all food is prepared, presented, and served according to company standards and event specifications. Success in this position requires attention to detail, efficiency in a fast-paced setting, and strong teamwork to deliver a seamless event experience.

Essential Duties: 

  • Prepare for each event by reviewing the Event Contract and menu to understand timing, menu items, and service expectations
  • Assist with kitchen and event setup, ensuring all work areas are clean, organized, and ready for production and service
  • Execute assigned tasks as directed by the Head Event Chef and support overall kitchen operations
  • Participate in food preparation and production, including ingredient prep, cooking, assembly, and plating across all menu components
  • Support the execution of hors d’oeuvres, stations, buffets, plated meals, and desserts
  • Follow established timelines and ensure all food is ready for service as directed by the Head Chef and the Event Director
  • Maintain consistent food quality, presentation, and adherence to company standards throughout the event
  • Handle multiple tasks simultaneously to support an efficient and steady flow of service
  • Maintain proper food handling, sanitation, and cleanliness practices in alignment with company policies and food safety requirements
  • Assist with loading, unloading, and organizing equipment, supplies, and food for transport and service
  • Properly store food items by wrapping, labeling, dating, and placing them in appropriate holding equipment
  • Support full event execution from setup through service and post-event breakdown
  • Interact professionally with guests, clients, and venue staff when needed
  • Take direction from leadership and assist with additional tasks as needed to support event success
  • Remain on-site until all food service responsibilities are complete and operational needs have been addressed
  • Check out with the Event Director before departure to confirm completion of responsibilities

Performance Standards:

  • Excellent communication and people skills, customer service
  • The ability to multitask, make good decisions fast, and have good problem-solving skills
  • Ability to work in a high-paced, high-pressure environment and be calm under pressure
  • Punctuality
  • Able to work in a team arrangement
  • Demonstrate professionalism and strong customer service when interacting with guests, clients, venue staff, and team members
  • A positive attitude and passion for serving others are essential
  • Must have knowledge and understanding of various event functions as they pertain to food
  • Must have solid knowledge of food techniques, quality control, and food safety standards
  • Complete all required training and apply company standards in daily responsibilities