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Cook Helper Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Antioch School District 34

Cook helper

Antioch, IL

$15.26/hr

Help wipe tables in the cafeteria as needed. * Assumes responsibilities of Assistant Cook during their absence. * Attends meetings and in-services as requested. * Supports Teamwork in the kitchen and ...

Antioch School District 34

Cook helper

Antioch, IL · On-site

$15.26/hr

Help wipe tables in the cafeteria as needed. * Assumes responsibilities of Assistant Cook during their absence. * Attends meetings and in-services as requested. * Supports Teamwork in the kitchen and ...

Bottleneck Management

Prep Cook

Naperville, IL · On-site

$14.25 - $18/hr

Prep Cooks help prepare and maintain assigned par levels of food items. They produce all proteins, sauces, dressing, and stocks from scratch; they are the heart of the kitchen. Prep Cook upholds the ...

Bottleneck Management

Prep Cook

Chicago, IL · On-site

$14.75 - $18.50/hr

Prep Cooks help prepare and maintain assigned par levels of food items. They produce all proteins, sauces, dressing, and stocks from scratch; they are the heart of the kitchen. Prep Cook upholds the ...

Bottleneck Management

Prep Cook

Chicago, IL · On-site

$14.75 - $18.50/hr

Prep Cooks help prepare and maintain assigned par levels of food items. They produce all proteins, sauces, dressing, and stocks from scratch; they are the heart of the kitchen. Prep Cook upholds the ...

Pimacounty

$17.90 - $19.46/hr

Do you love to prep and cook ... Help support our community and have a positive impact. Apply today! Distinguishing Characteristics:

DO & CO

Kitchen Helper

Des Plaines, IL · On-site

$19.35/hr

We have an incredible opportunity for a dynamic Kitchen helper to join our growing Des Plaines, IL ... Ensures all food is prepared and cooked according to specific standards. * Maintaining high ...

Dairy Queen

Cook

Belleville, IL · On-site

$15/hr

We are looking for someone to work as a team player, follow instructions, and help us delight our customers with delicious food from our menu. In addition to cooking prowess, great communication and ...

Bella Milano

Cook

Springfield, IL · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

Teamwork: Individuals that are willing to take time to help other's succeed, thrive in our ... Cooking and arranging food per Bella Milano standards and recipes. We are looking for someone to ...

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All JobsCook Helper JobsCook Helper Jobs in Illinois

Cook Helper information

See Illinois salary details

$9

$16

$20

How much do cook helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for cook helper in Illinois is $16.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $19.09 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the work of cook helper?

A cook helper assists in food preparation and kitchen cleanup under the supervision of chefs or cooks. Their tasks include chopping ingredients, washing dishes, and organizing supplies, often requiring basic cooking skills and knowledge of food safety standards. The role supports efficient kitchen operations and may involve working early mornings, evenings, or weekends.

Can I get paid to cook at home?

Cook helpers typically work in commercial kitchens or food service establishments and are paid for their labor. Cooking at home for personal use is unpaid, but some individuals may earn money by preparing meals for others through catering or meal prep services, which require skills and sometimes certifications. In general, paid cooking jobs are performed in professional environments rather than at home.

How much is the salary for a kitchen helper?

The salary for a kitchen helper typically ranges from $10 to $15 per hour, depending on location, experience, and the establishment. Entry-level positions may pay closer to the lower end, while experienced helpers or those in high-cost areas may earn more.

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

To thrive as a Cook Helper, you need basic food preparation skills, knowledge of kitchen safety, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, food handling certifications, and inventory tracking systems is beneficial. Strong teamwork, time management, and the ability to follow instructions help you stand out in this role. These skills ensure efficient kitchen operations, food safety, and effective support for chefs and cooks.

What is a cook's helper called?

A cook's helper is often called a kitchen assistant or food prep worker. They assist with basic food preparation, cleaning, and organizing in a kitchen environment, supporting chefs and cooks. This role typically requires basic cooking knowledge and the ability to follow instructions.

What is the difference between Cook Helper vs Kitchen Assistant?

AspectCook HelperKitchen Assistant
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; basic culinary skillsHigh school diploma; general kitchen knowledge
Work EnvironmentCommercial kitchens, restaurants, catering servicesRestaurants, cafeterias, food service establishments
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly employed in food service industry to assist cooksUsed across various food service settings to support kitchen operations

Cook Helper and Kitchen Assistant roles often overlap, with both supporting kitchen staff in food prep and cleaning. However, Cook Helpers typically focus more on assisting cooks with specific culinary tasks, while Kitchen Assistants handle broader support duties like cleaning and basic prep. Both roles require similar credentials and are vital in maintaining efficient kitchen operations.

What are Cook Helpers?

Cook Helpers assist chefs and cooks in preparing and serving food in kitchens. Their duties often include washing and chopping ingredients, cleaning kitchen equipment, organizing supplies, and helping with basic cooking tasks. They play an essential role in maintaining kitchen hygiene and ensuring that food preparation runs smoothly and efficiently. Cook Helpers typically work in restaurants, cafeterias, hotels, or other food service establishments.

What are some common challenges Cook Helpers face during busy meal service times?

Cook Helpers often face the challenge of working efficiently under pressure during peak meal service times. They must keep up with rapidly changing orders, maintain cleanliness, and ensure ingredients are prepped and available for cooks. Balancing speed with attention to detail is crucial, as mistakes can impact food quality and kitchen workflow. Strong communication and teamwork help Cook Helpers support chefs and contribute to a smooth, successful service.
What are the most commonly searched types of Cook jobs in Illinois? The most popular types of Cook jobs in Illinois are:
What are popular job titles related to Cook Helper jobs in Illinois? For Cook Helper jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Cook Helper jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Cook Helper jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Cook Helper jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Cook Helper job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Cook Helper jobs in IL? For Cook Helper jobs in IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Cook Helper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cook Helper job openings in Illinois as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, and 26% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $34,792 per year, or $16.7 per hour.
Cook helper

Cook helper

Lake County Schools Consortium

Libertyville, IL

$15.26/hr

Other

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Maintains the highest standards of safety and cleanliness in the kitchen daily following the HACCP policy.
  • Maintains and follows the instruction of the Head Cook with the set up and serving of the daily student lunches.
  • Assists with the daily clean-up of the kitchen and cafeteria following the HACCP policy.
  • Sets up and maintains the dishwasher daily, cleans with chemicals to keep residue from forming weekly following the HACCP policy.
  • At the end of each lunch period clean and sanitize lunch trays and any kitchenware used to preplunch.
  • Help wipe tables in the cafeteria as needed.
  • Assumes responsibilities of Assistant Cook during their absence.
  • Attends meetings and in-services as requested.
  • Supports Teamwork in the kitchen and cafeteria.
  • Maintains a pleasant attitude with all staff and students.
  • Physical Requirements: lifting up to 50 pounds, bending, kneeling, and working in hot and cold kitchen conditions.
  • Other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

  • High School diploma or equivalent      

Hourly rate beginning at $15.26



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About Lake County Schools Consortium

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Lake County Schools Consortium is a notable entity within the educational sector in the US. Based in Vernon Hills, Illinois, the consortium serves as an umbrella organization for a number of schools within Lake County. Its official website 'lake.k12.il.us' provides abundant information on working within various educational institutions ranging from elementary schools to high schools. The Consortium focuses on ensuring that education and learning resources are adequately provided to all institutions, as well as coordinating efforts for optimal utilization of resources between schools.

Industry

Education

Headquarters location

Vernon Hills, IL, US

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