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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 ...

Haven of Bridgeport

Cook

Bridgeport, IL

$16.50/hr

Help ensure residents receive meals that meet their nutritional needs and preferences Requirements * Previous cooking or food service experience preferred * Ability to work efficiently in a fast ...

Aramark

Cook

Naperville, IL · On-site

$14 - $18.75/hr

As a Cook on our team, you'll help bring recipes to life while being able to flex your creativity! Surrounded by fresh ingredients and the best equipment, you'll be immersed in a world that goes ...

Aramark

Cook

Naperville, IL · On-site

$14 - $18.75/hr

As a Cook on our team, you'll help bring recipes to life while being able to flex your creativity! Surrounded by fresh ingredients and the best equipment, you'll be immersed in a world that goes ...

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Kitchen Helper

Chicago, 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 ...

Allure of Walnut

Cook

Walnut, IL · On-site

$15.50/hr

Do you enjoy cooking and making a difference in someone's day? We're looking for a caring ... Help us create delicious, nutritious meals for our residents in a warm and welcoming environment.

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 ...

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 ...

Prairie Oasis

Cook

South Wilmington, IL · On-site

$13.50 - $18.25/hr

Skilled nursing facility has a current opportunity for a Cook to help with the Dietary department. This position requires the following qualifications: * Food Service Manager Certification is ...

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

Markham, IL · On-site

$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 ...

Trinity Services Group

Cook

Waukegan, IL · On-site

$22/hr

The Cook also demonstrates experience and knowledge in the preparation of hot and cold food items ... To help with both of these, employees are eligible for: * Paid Time Off * Company Match for the ...

iCare Consulting Services LLC

Cook

South Wilmington, IL · On-site

$13.50 - $18.25/hr

Skilled nursing facility has a current opportunity for a Cook to help with the Dietary department. This position requires the following qualifications: * Food Service Manager Certification is ...

The Citadel of Glenview

Cook

Glenview, IL · On-site

$20.02 - $26.25/hr

The Cook prepares and serves resident meals using proper food handling and safety techniques ... help each guest feel at home and achieve an optimal health outcome- our number one goal. Citadel ...

Citadel Healthcare

Cook

Glenview, IL · On-site

$20.02 - $26.25/hr

The Cook prepares and serves resident meals using proper food handling and safety techniques ... help each guest feel at home and achieve an optimal health outcome- our number one goal. Citadel ...

Encompass Health Corporation

Cook

Rockford, IL · On-site

$12.75 - $17.25/hr

Join us in a culinary journey that goes beyond the kitchen and resonates with the warmth of helping others. If you're ready to infuse your love for cooking into a career that matters, your next ...

Hhs

Cook

Arlington Heights, IL · On-site

$19.50/hr

Responsibilities Cook Wage: $19.50/hour Full-time position available Evening/Night shift available ... help the department operate efficiently Qualifications * Minimum of 2 years of experience in a ...

Pace Suburban Bus

Mechanic Helper

North Aurora, IL

$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

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 ...

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Showing results 41-60

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 Aug 9, 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 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 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 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.

Cook

Carbondale Community High School District #165

Carbondale, IL • On-site

$16.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Position Type:
Support Staff/Cook`s Helper
Date Posted:
6/30/2026
Location:
Carbondale Community High School
Date Available:
TBD
Closing Date:
Until Filled
Position: Cook (Full-time) Posted: June 30, 2026
Terms of Employment:
The 2026-27 hourly rate of pay will be $16.50 per hour. Benefits include IMRF pension contribution, health, dental, vision and life insurance, personal leave and sick days, paid holidays, fitness reimbursement, and an Employee Sick Leave Bank.
Qualifications Preferred:
Experience working in schools. Demonstrates aptitude for successful performance of the tasks listed. Food Sanitation Certification required.
Reports to: Head Cook
Job Goal:
To serve the students attractive and nutritious meals in an atmosphere of efficiency, cleanliness and warmth.
Performance Responsibilities:
1. Assist in the preparation and serving of food in an efficient and pleasant manner.
2. Assume responsibility for seeing that during meal service periods the supply of food offered is replenished regularly.
3. Assist in the daily clean-up of the kitchen and service areas.
4. Perform major cleaning of refrigerators and storerooms at regularly scheduled intervals as designated by the Head Cook.
5. Assume responsibility for storage and disposal of unused foods.
6. Perform any other tasks as designated by the Head Cook.

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