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Cook Chef Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Clarendale of Addison is recruiting for a hospitality focused Cook to join our team! This position is responsible for full-scope, hands on production cooking in the Community Culinary Services ...

Hoots Food Service Member

Cicero, IL

$14 - $18.25/hr

Prior experience as a cook, grill cook, fry cook, prep cook, line cook, chef, or food preparation or service jobs is not required but preferred. At hoots, we are building a team to develop into ...

Hoots Food Service Member

Cicero, IL · On-site

$14 - $18.25/hr

Prior experience as a cook, grill cook, fry cook, prep cook, line cook, chef, or food preparation or service jobs is not required but preferred. At hoots, we are building a team to develop into ...

Kitchen Cook

New Lenox, IL · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

The line cook is responsible for preparing food for café utilization per Pete's Fresh Market and the Head Cook (Chef) standards and providing backup to the kitchen team. S/he is responsible for ...

Hoots Food Service Member

Chicago, IL · On-site

$14.50 - $18.75/hr

Prior experience as a cook, grill cook, fry cook, prep cook, line cook, chef, or food preparation or service jobs is not required but preferred. At hoots, we are building a team to develop into ...

Showing results 21-40

Cook Chef information

See Illinois salary details

$8

$15

$21

How much do cook chef jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for cook chef in Illinois is $15.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.03 and $17.45 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by cook chefs in a fast-paced kitchen environment?

Cook Chefs often encounter challenges such as managing time efficiently during busy shifts, maintaining consistency in food quality, and adapting to last-minute changes in orders or menu items. In a fast-paced kitchen, multitasking and clear communication with team members are essential to ensure that meals are prepared correctly and delivered promptly. Handling stress and staying organized under pressure are key skills that help chefs thrive and maintain a positive work atmosphere.

What is the difference between Cook Chef vs Line Cook?

AspectCook ChefLine Cook
CredentialsBasic culinary training, certifications varySimilar culinary training, often with certifications
Work EnvironmentProfessional kitchens, restaurants, hotelsKitchen stations within restaurants, fast-paced environments
Employer & Industry UsageUsed broadly in hospitality and food serviceCommonly used in restaurants, catering, and hotels
Search & Comparison IntentOften compared for career progressionCompared for entry-level or specialized roles

The main difference between a Cook Chef and a Line Cook lies in their roles and responsibilities. A Cook Chef typically oversees kitchen operations, menu planning, and supervises staff, while a Line Cook focuses on preparing specific dishes at a designated station. Both roles require culinary skills and certifications, but the Cook Chef often has more experience and responsibilities. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify the right position for their skills and career goals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a cook chef?

To thrive as a Cook Chef, you need strong culinary skills, knowledge of food safety standards, and often a culinary degree or relevant kitchen experience. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, point-of-sale systems, and certifications like ServSafe are typically required. Creativity, teamwork, and the ability to work efficiently under pressure are vital soft skills for this role. These skills ensure high-quality food preparation, smooth kitchen operations, and customer satisfaction in a fast-paced environment.

What is a cook chef?

Cook Chefs are culinary professionals responsible for preparing, cooking, and presenting food in restaurants, hotels, or other dining establishments. They may handle a variety of tasks including recipe creation, ingredient preparation, and ensuring food safety standards are met. Cook Chefs often work under the supervision of a head chef or may lead a kitchen team themselves, depending on their experience and the size of the establishment. Their role is essential in delivering quality meals and maintaining kitchen efficiency.
What are popular job titles related to Cook Chef jobs in Illinois? For Cook Chef jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Cook Chef jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Cook Chef jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Cook Chef jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Cook Chef job openings:
Infographic showing various Cook Chef job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 69% Full Time, and 31% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $32,307 per year, or $15.5 per hour.

$21/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

When you work at Clarendale of Addison, you have a front-row seat to the amazing life stories of the wisest people on earth. What's more, you are part of an extraordinary company - one that's investing in the future of senior living by investing in you. Don't just do a job. Be part of an extraordinary life!

Clarendale of Addison is recruiting for a hospitality focused Cook to join our team! This position is responsible for full-scope, hands on production cooking in the Community Culinary Services Department.  Is responsible for maintaining a superior level of quality service and cleanliness at all times.  

Full time 10:30 AM- 7:00 PM with weekend availability

Starting pay $21.00 /hour based on experience and $1000 sign on bonus paid after 90 days

Here are a few of the daily responsibilities of a Cook:

  • Exemplify at all times Community standards of cleanliness, sanitation and operational organization.
  • Responsible for adhering to food quality, appearance and presentation standards at all times.
  • Produce and serve menu cycle programs that are compliant with required Nutritional/Dietary criteria as required by local regulations and correctly prepare diets provided per Policy and Procedure.
  • Exhibit cooking standards of speed, accuracy, and efficiency.
  • Demonstrate knowledge in all areas of cooking preparation and production.
  • Assist with serving of meals and ware washing as necessary.
  • Visit residents periodically to evaluate food service such as quality, quantity, temperature, and appearance; and conduct evaluations to make revisions in operations / procedures to promote improved food service.
  • Represent the community in a warm and inviting manner, which creates a positive marketing environment.
  • Supports creating a culture where the business decisions made in this position, along with individual employee engagement, drive top-line revenue and occupancy. 

Here are a few of the qualifications we need you to have:

  • High school diploma
  • Culinary degree preferred
  • Minimum of one year restaurant/senior living or equivalent cooking experience

If you're an enthusiastic, compassionate, senior care professional who is passionate about hospitality and senior engagement- please apply, we'd love to get to know you!

EEO Employer


Life Care Services logo

About Life Care Services

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

s an industry pioneer with more than a half-century of experience, making a difference in the lives of seniors has been our sole focus since day one. At LCS, we’ve designed a dedicated family of companies to help fulfill your community’s mission. This structure allows us to develop and share expertise across our company to deliver innovative solutions to seniors and their communities. We are guided by five principles to ensure that every company decision is made with integrity and for the good of the seniors we serve.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

201 - 500 Employees

Headquarters location

Des Moines, IA, US

Year founded

1971

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