ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Cook 3 Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

QUEST FOOD MANAGEMENT SERVICES LLC

Cook III

Winnetka, IL · On-site

$22/hr

The Cook III position is a senior culinary role within the retail trade industry, responsible for preparing high-quality meals that meet both company standards and customer expectations. This role ...

QUEST FOOD MANAGEMENT SERVICES LLC

Cook III

Winnetka, IL · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Cook III will assist in cold prep, salad and grab & go production recipes. Expected to serve hot food and follow recipes to produce all hot food in the kitchen. Follow all HACCP and food safety ...

AccorHotel

Cook III

Chicago, IL · On-site

$27.33/hr

Working knowledge of weights, measures and various cooking techniques. * Working knowledge of health, safety and sanitation procedures. * Ability to work well under pressure in a fast paced ...

AccorHotel

Cook III

Chicago, IL

$27.33/hr

Working knowledge of weights, measures and various cooking techniques. * Working knowledge of health, safety and sanitation procedures. * Ability to work well under pressure in a fast paced ...

FAIRMONT

Cook III

Chicago, IL

Working knowledge of weights, measures and various cooking techniques. * Working knowledge of health, safety and sanitation procedures. * Ability to work well under pressure in a fast paced ...

Food for Thought

Cook III - DS

Chicago, IL · On-site

$20 - $25.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Cook III Hours: 10am-6pm Wage: $20 to $25.50 per hour Location: Ohare Airport Job Summary As one of our Food For Thought Cooks, you will be required to assist in the execution of catering events ...

AccorHotel

Pastry Cook III

Chicago, IL

$27.33/hr

Pastry Cook III Rising gracefully above Millennium Park and Chicago's impressive lakefront, Fairmont Chicago, Millennium Park is located conveniently near major cultural attractions, the city ...

Four Seasons Hotels Limited

Cook 3 (On Call)

Chicago, IL · On-site

$14.50 - $19.25/hr

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The On-Call Adorn Cook is an essential member of the Food & Beverage team, dedicated to preparing specialized innovative cuisine per guest orders in accordance with production requirements and ...

AccorHotel

Pastry Cook III

Chicago, IL · On-site

$27.33/hr

Pastry Cook III Rising gracefully above Millennium Park and Chicago's impressive lakefront, Fairmont Chicago, Millennium Park is located conveniently near major cultural attractions, the city ...

Park Hyatt Chicago

Cook

Chicago, IL · On-site

$27.33/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Cook 3 Position Available at Park Hyatt Chicago - Where Passion Meets Precision. ABOUT US : NoMI at Park Hyatt Chicago offers an elevated dining experience, featuring innovative American cuisine with ...

Hyatt Hotels Corporation

Cook

Chicago, IL · On-site

$27.33/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Cook 3 Position Available at Park Hyatt Chicago - Where Passion Meets Precision. ABOUT US : NoMI at Park Hyatt Chicago offers an elevated dining experience, featuring innovative American cuisine with ...

Hyatt

Cook

Chicago, IL · On-site

$27.33/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Cook 3 Position Available at Park Hyatt Chicago - Where Passion Meets Precision. ABOUT US: NoMI at Park Hyatt Chicago offers an elevated dining experience, featuring innovative American cuisine with ...

Invited Clubs

Cook 2

Riverwoods, IL · On-site

$18 - $22.25/hr

You will work closely with Cook 1 and Cook 3 team members, coordinating to ensure smooth kitchen operations and consistent adherence to quality standards. This junior-level position requires ...

Invited

Cook 2

Riverwoods, IL

$18.50 - $22.75/hr

You will work closely with Cook 1 and Cook 3 team members, coordinating to ensure smooth kitchen operations and consistent adherence to quality standards. This junior-level position requires ...

ClubCorp

Cook 2

Riverwoods, IL · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

You will work closely with Cook 1 and Cook 3 team members, coordinating to ensure smooth kitchen operations and consistent adherence to quality standards. This junior-level position requires ...

Hollywood Casino Joliet

Cook 2

Joliet, IL · On-site

$17.25 - $21.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Oversees activities of Cook III's and maintains a clean food preparation area. * This position is responsible for providing a high level of customer service and promoting a positive attitude to ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsCook 3 JobsCook 3 Jobs in Illinois

Cook 3 information

See Illinois salary details

$9

$18

$23

How much do cook 3 jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for cook 3 in Illinois is $18.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.82 and $19.57 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Cook 3 vs Cook 2?

AspectCook 3Cook 2
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent, culinary training preferredHigh school diploma or equivalent, culinary training preferred
Work EnvironmentCommercial kitchens, restaurants, cafeteriasCommercial kitchens, restaurants, cafeterias
ResponsibilitiesSupervises lower cooks, prepares complex dishes, ensures qualityPrepares basic to moderate dishes, assists senior cooks
UsageCommonly searched for comparison with Cook 2Commonly searched for comparison with Cook 3

The main difference between Cook 3 and Cook 2 lies in their responsibilities and experience level. Cook 3 typically supervises lower-level cooks and handles more complex dishes, while Cook 2 focuses on preparing basic to moderate dishes and assisting senior staff. Both roles require similar credentials and work in similar environments, but Cook 3 involves more leadership and advanced culinary skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Cook 3?

To thrive as a Cook 3, you need advanced culinary skills, knowledge of food safety, and several years of professional kitchen experience, often supported by a culinary degree or relevant certification. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, inventory management systems, and recipe standardization tools is typically required. Attention to detail, time management, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills for excelling in this position. These abilities ensure consistent food quality, a safe working environment, and efficient kitchen operations in a high-pressure setting.

What is a Cook 3?

A Cook 3, sometimes known as a Line Cook or Third Cook, is a culinary professional responsible for preparing and cooking food according to recipes and standards set by the kitchen leadership. They typically work under the supervision of a Cook 1 (Head/Executive Chef) and Cook 2 (Sous Chef) and are tasked with specific stations or food preparation duties. Cook 3s may assist with food prep, maintain cleanliness, ensure food safety, and help with plating dishes. This role is often considered an entry- to mid-level position within a professional kitchen, providing foundational experience for advancement to higher culinary roles.

What are some common challenges faced by a Cook 3 and how can they be addressed?

As a Cook 3, you may frequently encounter challenges such as managing multiple tasks simultaneously during peak service hours and ensuring consistency in food quality. Adapting quickly to last-minute menu changes or special dietary requests is also common. To address these challenges, strong organizational skills, effective communication with your team, and a proactive approach to prep work are essential. Seeking feedback from senior chefs and collaborating closely with kitchen staff can also help you continuously improve and handle busy shifts more efficiently.

What are popular job titles related to Cook 3 jobs in Illinois?

For Cook 3 jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Cook 3 jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Cook 3 jobs in Illinois are:

Cook 3 jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cook 3 job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, and 28% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $37,931 per year, or $18.2 per hour.

Cook III

QUEST FOOD MANAGEMENT SERVICES LLC

Winnetka, IL • On-site

$22/hr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

Quest Food Management Services rating

3.4

Company rating: 3.4 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

66th of 68 rated caterers

Job description

About Company:

For over 40 years, Quest Food Management Services has been a leading food service provider serving K-12 schools, higher education institutions, corporate dining programs, and event venues. Quest is consistently ranked among the top food service management companies in the United States for its commitment to fresh, scratch made menus, local sourcing, and intensely personal service. At the heart of our success is our “Quest Ready” culture, built on integrity, responsiveness, accountability, respect, and excellence.
Being Quest Ready means serving with purpose and care, creating experiences that are nourishing, welcoming, and reliable. This mindset empowers our teams to build lasting relationships and continually raise the standard for great hospitality in every community we serve.

About the Role:

The Cook III position is a senior culinary role within the retail trade industry, responsible for preparing high-quality meals that meet both company standards and customer expectations. This role involves overseeing kitchen operations, ensuring food safety and sanitation protocols are strictly followed, and maintaining consistency in food presentation and taste. The Cook III will collaborate closely with kitchen staff to optimize workflow, manage inventory, and minimize waste while adhering to budgetary guidelines. This position requires a strong understanding of diverse cooking techniques and the ability to adapt recipes to meet dietary restrictions and preferences. Ultimately, the Cook III plays a critical role in enhancing the customer dining experience and supporting the overall success of the retail food service operation.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • At least 3 years of professional cooking experience in a commercial kitchen environment.
  • Knowledge of food safety standards and certification (e.g., ServSafe or equivalent).
  • Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends and holidays.
  • Strong physical stamina to stand for extended periods and perform kitchen duties.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Culinary degree or formal culinary training from an accredited institution.
  • Experience working in a retail food service or fast-paced environment.
  • Proficiency in inventory management and cost control techniques.
  • Leadership experience in supervising kitchen teams.
  • Familiarity with dietary restrictions and allergen management.

Responsibilities:

  • Prepare and cook a variety of menu items according to standardized recipes and quality standards.
  • Supervise and mentor junior kitchen staff, providing guidance and training to ensure efficient kitchen operations.
  • Monitor food preparation processes to ensure compliance with health and safety regulations.
  • Manage inventory levels, order supplies as needed, and minimize food waste through effective portion control.
  • Collaborate with management to develop new menu items and improve existing recipes based on customer feedback.
  • Maintain cleanliness and organization of the kitchen and workstations throughout shifts.
  • Assist in scheduling kitchen staff and coordinating daily kitchen activities to meet service demands.

Skills:

The required skills such as cooking proficiency, food safety knowledge, and physical stamina are essential for preparing meals efficiently and safely while maintaining high quality. Leadership and communication skills are used daily to guide junior staff and ensure smooth kitchen operations. Inventory management and organizational skills help in maintaining adequate stock levels and reducing waste, which supports cost control efforts. Preferred skills like culinary training and experience in retail food service enhance the ability to innovate menu offerings and adapt to customer preferences. Together, these skills enable the Cook III to deliver exceptional food service that aligns with company standards and customer satisfaction goals.


Perfect schedule: Monday-Friday 6:30-2:30

What Quest Food Management Services employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom