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Cook Helper Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Compass Group

HELPER COOK

Downers Grove, IL · On-site

$16 - $20.50/hr

* We are hiring immediately for full time HELPER COOK positions. * Location : Community High School District - 4436 Main Street, Downers Grove, IL 60515. Note: online applications accepted only.

Compass Group

HELPER COOK (FULL TIME)

Downers Grove, IL

$16 - $20.50/hr

* We are hiring immediately for full time HELPER COOK positions. * Location : Community High School District - 4436 Main Street, Downers Grove, IL 60515. Note: online applications accepted only.

Compass Group

HELPER COOK (FULL TIME)

Downers Grove, IL · On-site

$16 - $20.50/hr

* We are hiring immediately for full time HELPER COOK positions. * Location : Community High School District - 4436 Main Street, Downers Grove, IL 60515. Note: online applications accepted only.

Chartwells K12

HELPER COOK (FULL TIME)

Downers Grove, IL · On-site

$16 - $20.50/hr

* We are hiring immediately for full time HELPER COOK positions. * Location : Community High School District - 4436 Main Street, Downers Grove, IL 60515. Note: online applications accepted only.

Antioch School District 34

Head Cook

Antioch, IL

Supervises and instructs assistant cook and cook's helper in the safe and proper use of all kitchen equipment. * Maintains the highest standards of safety and cleanliness in the kitchen following ...

Antioch School District 34

Head Cook

Lake Villa, IL · On-site

Supervises and instructs assistant cook and cook's helper in the safe and proper use of all kitchen equipment. * Maintains the highest standards of safety and cleanliness in the kitchen following ...

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 ...

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:

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 Sep 7, 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 a cook helper?

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 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 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 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $34,792 per year, or $16.7 per hour.

Substitute Cook Helper

Antioch School District 34

Antioch, IL • On-site

$15/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Position Type:
Food Service/Cook
Date Posted:
5/19/2026
Location:
Antioch School District 34
Date Available:
08/19/2026
Closing Date:
NONE
Substitute cook's helper reports to the Head Cook and is responsible for assisting with serving meals, washing student trays after each lunch period, clean up of dining and kitchen areas when lunch hours are completed. Other duties as needed.
Physical Requirements: Able to lift up to 50 pounds, bending, kneeling, and working in hot and cold kitchen conditions.
Starting rate: $15.00/hr
Substitute position does not include benefits

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