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Cook Chef Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Life Care Services

Cook/Chef (Full-Time)

Algonquin, IL · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

Clarendale of Algonquin is recruiting for a hospitality-focused Chef/Cook to join our team! This position partners with the rest of our culinary team in preparing and cooking high-quality meals for ...

Life Care Services

Cook/Chef (Full-Time)

Algonquin, IL

$21 - $23/hr

Clarendale of Algonquin is recruiting for a hospitality-focused Chef/Cook to join our team! This position partners with the rest of our culinary team in preparing and cooking high-quality meals for ...

Asbury Village

Cook/Chef (Full-Time)

Algonquin, IL · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

Clarendale of Algonquin is recruiting for a hospitality-focused Chef/Cook to join our team! This position partners with the rest of our culinary team in preparing and cooking high-quality meals for ...

P.F. Chang's

Line Cook

Schaumburg, IL · On-site

$19 - $23/hr

A Line Cook, Wok Cook, Cook, Chef De Partie, or Station Chef accommodates guest's needs by preparing food according to established recipes and procedures as well as following safety and sanitation ...

PF Changs

Line Cook

Schaumburg, IL

$19 - $23/hr

A Line Cook, Wok Cook, Cook, Chef De Partie, or Station Chef accommodates guest's needs by preparing food according to established recipes and procedures as well as following safety and sanitation ...

PF Changs

Line Cook

Schaumburg, IL · On-site

$19 - $23/hr

A Line Cook, Wok Cook, Cook, Chef De Partie, or Station Chef accommodates guest's needs by preparing food according to established recipes and procedures as well as following safety and sanitation ...

PF Changs

Line Cook

Schaumburg, IL

$19 - $23/hr

A Line Cook, Wok Cook, Cook, Chef De Partie, or Station Chef accommodates guest's needs by preparing food according to established recipes and procedures as well as following safety and sanitation ...

P.F. Chang's

Line Cook

Northbrook, IL · On-site

$19 - $23/hr

A Line Cook, Wok Cook, Cook, Chef De Partie, or Station Chef accommodates guest's needs by preparing food according to established recipes and procedures as well as following safety and sanitation ...

PF Changs

Line Cook

Orland Park, IL · On-site

$18.50 - $22.50/hr

A Line Cook, Wok Cook, Cook, Chef De Partie, or Station Chef accommodates guest's needs by preparing food according to established recipes and procedures as well as following safety and sanitation ...

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All JobsCook Chef JobsCook Chef Jobs in Chicago, IL

Cook Chef information

See Chicago, IL salary details

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$16

$22

How much do cook chef jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for cook chef in Chicago, IL is $16.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.85 and $18.56 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

Is 25 too late to become a cook chef?

There is no age limit to becoming a cook chef; many successful chefs start their careers later in life. Gaining culinary skills through training or apprenticeships can be done at any age, and experience can be an asset in the kitchen.

What are popular job titles related to Cook Chef jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Cook Chef jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Cook Chef jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Cook Chef jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Cook Chef jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Cook Chef job openings:

Cook Chef jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cook Chef job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 65% Full Time, 33% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $33,598 per year, or $16.2 per hour.

Cafe Cook / Chef

Glenview, IL

FIELDS LEXUS AND COLLISION CENTER GLENVIEW
See more jobs at FIELDS LEXUS AND COLLISION CENTER GLENVIEWexternal

$13.75 - $18.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

Cafe Cook / Chef

Within our new state-of-the-art auto dealership in Glenview, we have a cafe for our customers. We are seeking someone to run the day-to-day operations for our small cafe. We serve a limited menu daily for breakfast and lunch.

This individual will take and prepare orders and deliver to waiting customers. Keep the waiting area clean and keep the kitchen area and coffee bar full throughout the day. Keep the self-serve area full and organized. 

  • Applicants must have prior experience in food prep/food service with a focus on pastries and desserts
  • Experience in purchasing supplies.
  • Food service safety certification will be required.
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills; professional appearance.
  • Excellent customer contact skills and customer service orientation.
  • Must have reliable transportation.

Hours for this position are Monday-Friday 

We offer:

  • Competitive Compensation: 17.00 - 21.00 DOE
  • Health, Dental, Vision, Short and Long Term Disability Benefits, Life Insurance
  • 401(k)
  • Professional work environment
  • Chef Uniforms

Apply