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Cook Helper Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

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Kitchen Helper

Chicago, IL

$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 ...

Bella Milano

Cook

O Fallon, IL · On-site

$16 - $19/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 ...

Bella Milano

Cook

O Fallon, IL

$16 - $19/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 ...

Bella Milano

Cook

Springfield, IL

$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 ...

doco

Kitchen Helper

Chicago, IL

$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 ...

Lee's Famous Recipe Chicken

Cook

Danville, IL

$15/hr

Lee's Famous Recipe Chicken - Immediate Cook Position Are you a highly skilled and creative cook ... Apply today and help us continue to serve up the flavors and recipes that have made us Famous!

Pace Suburban Bus

Mechanic Helper

Elgin, IL · On-site

$33.10/hr

... Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry, and Will Counties. As an equal opportunity employer, Pace seeks to employ qualified personnel in all job classifications and to provide equal opportunities in a ...

Lee's Famous Recipe Chicken

Cook

Belleville, IL · On-site

$14/hr

As a Cook, you will play a key role in maintaining our restaurant's excellence by preparing and ... Apply today and help us continue to serve up the flavors and recipes that have made us Famous!

Lee's Famous Recipe Chicken

Cook

Belleville, IL

$14/hr

As a Cook, you will play a key role in maintaining our restaurant's excellence by preparing and ... Apply today and help us continue to serve up the flavors and recipes that have made us Famous!

Pace Suburban Bus

Mechanic Helper

Bridgeview, IL

$31.27/hr

... Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry, and Will Counties. As an equal opportunity employer, Pace seeks to employ qualified personnel in all job classifications and to provide equal opportunities in a ...

Wingstop

Cook

Elgin, IL · On-site

$13 - $16/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 ...

Wingstop

Cook

Arlington Heights, IL

$14 - $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 ...

Pace Suburban Bus

Mechanic Helper

Waukegan, IL · On-site

$33.49/hr

... Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry, and Will Counties. As an equal opportunity employer, Pace seeks to employ qualified personnel in all job classifications and to provide equal opportunities in a ...

Wingstop

Cook

Evergreen Park, IL

$14 - $16/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 ...

Pace Suburban Bus

Mechanic Helper

Waukegan, IL · On-site

$33.49/hr

... Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry, and Will Counties. As an equal opportunity employer, Pace seeks to employ qualified personnel in all job classifications and to provide equal opportunities in a ...

Pace Suburban Bus

Mechanic Helper

Bridgeview, IL · On-site

$31.27/hr

... Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry, and Will Counties. As an equal opportunity employer, Pace seeks to employ qualified personnel in all job classifications and to provide equal opportunities in a ...

Pace Suburban Bus

Mechanic Helper

Elgin, IL

$33.10/hr

... Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry, and Will Counties. As an equal opportunity employer, Pace seeks to employ qualified personnel in all job classifications and to provide equal opportunities in a ...

Pace Suburban Bus

Mechanic Helper

Markham, IL

$32.52/hr

... Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry, and Will Counties. As an equal opportunity employer, Pace seeks to employ qualified personnel in all job classifications and to provide equal opportunities in a ...

Pace Suburban Bus

Mechanic Helper

North Aurora, IL · On-site

$30.62/hr

... Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry, and Will Counties. As an equal opportunity employer, Pace seeks to employ qualified personnel in all job classifications and to provide equal opportunities in a ...

Pace Suburban Bus

Mechanic Helper

Waukegan, IL

$16.75 - $21/hr

... Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry, and Will Counties. As an equal opportunity employer, Pace seeks to employ qualified personnel in all job classifications and to provide equal opportunities in a ...

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Showing results 1-20

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.

Kitchen Helper

doco

Chicago, IL

$19.35/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 29 days ago

Job description

We have an incredible opportunity for a dynamic Kitchen helperto join our growingDes Plaines, ILTeam! 

About DO & CO 

We have a passion for hospitality culinary delights on every banquet floor and in the sky. With the three business segments of Airline Catering, International Event Catering, and Restaurants, Lounges & Hotels, we offer gourmet entertainment all over the world. We operate in 33 locations, 12 countries and 3 Continents, maintaining the highest standard of quality in both our products and services. We refine the classics, develop the unknown and grow constantly – sometimes beyond our own expectations. 

Responsibilities: 

  • Assisting senior team members in running a busy kitchen. 
  • Dealing with deliveries and assisting with stock rotation. 
  • Ensures all food is prepared and cooked according to specific standards. 
  • Maintaining high standards of hygiene. 
  • Assist chefs and cooks with basic kitchen tasks, such as preparation of Hot and Cold meals (Halal and/or Non-Halal). 
  • Prepare food by washing, chopping, and dicing vegetables using knife or peeling machine. 
  • Comply with all food safety and hygiene regulations as stated in the food safety management system handbook. 
  • Report problems with the food safety management system to their manager and the hygiene and food safety team

Qualifications:

  • Proactive and self-organization 
  • Ability to manage through a substantial workload. 
  • Capability to work independently and in a team environment. 
  • Ability to complete assigned tasks within the given time to meet strict deadlines. 
  • Ability to accurately monitor wastage. 
  • Ability to work long hours on foot and in environments with varying temperatures.
  • Flexibility to work different shifts (including nights, weekends, and holidays) based on business needs

What We Offer: 

  • Pay rate: $19.35 hourly.
  • Daily Complimentary Meals (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner).
  • FT employees are eligible for 401K and medical benefits: medical, dental, and vision.
  • An organization dedicated to fostering innovation; in pursuit of cultivating creativity, embracing new ideas and leveraging our impeccable standard for hospitality.  
  • Genuine career development opportunities, both nationally and internationally.  
  • The chance to collaborate and represent a leading force in the luxury global gourmet entertainment industry by attending world-class events.     

Diversity & Inclusion Statement 

DO & CO provides equal employment opportunities. Applicants will be considered for employment without discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, disability status or any other protected characteristic. 

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