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Cook Helper Jobs in Aurora, IL (NOW HIRING)

Cook

Elgin, IL ยท On-site

$18 - $22.94/hr

The cook prepares and serves resident meals using proper food handling and safety techniques ... If you are looking for a meaningful career in helping others, Crescent Care is the place for you.

Cook

Lombard, IL ยท On-site

$19/hr

Responsibilities Cook Wage: $19/hour Full-time and part-time positions available Day/Evening/Night ... help the department operate efficiently Qualifications * Minimum of 2 years of experience in a ...

Cook

Lombard, IL ยท On-site

$19/hr

Responsibilities Cook Wage: $19/hour Full-time and part-time positions available Day/Evening/Night ... help the department operate efficiently Qualifications * Minimum of 2 years of experience in a ...

Cook

Willowbrook, IL ยท On-site

$20/hr

Our facility is looking for dynamic and compassionate individuals to help enrich the lives of our ... The Cook will ensure compliance with facility, OBRA, federal, state, and other regulatory standards ...

Our facility is looking for dynamic and compassionate individuals to help enrich the lives of our ... The Cook will ensure compliance with facility, OBRA, federal, state, and other regulatory standards ...

New

Cook

Palos Park, IL

$14 - $19/hr

As a Cook, you prepare high-quality meals that support residents' health and enjoyment while ... As part of our team, you will help brighten the future for everyone at Sunrise and beyond. That is ...

Cook

Wheaton, IL

$13.50 - $18/hr

As a Cook, you prepare high-quality meals that support residents' health and enjoyment while ... As part of our team, you will help brighten the future for everyone at Sunrise and beyond. That is ...

Cook

Bloomingdale, IL

$14 - $18.75/hr

As a Cook, you prepare high-quality meals that support residents' health and enjoyment while ... As part of our team, you will help brighten the future for everyone at Sunrise and beyond. That is ...

Cook

Palos Park, IL ยท On-site

$14 - $19/hr

As a Cook, you prepare high-quality meals that support residents' health and enjoyment while ... As part of our team, you will help brighten the future for everyone at Sunrise and beyond. That is ...

Cook

Bloomingdale, IL ยท On-site

$14 - $18.75/hr

As a Cook, you prepare high-quality meals that support residents' health and enjoyment while ... As part of our team, you will help brighten the future for everyone at Sunrise and beyond. That is ...

Cook

Bridgeview, IL

$19 - $20.50/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. We don't ...

Showing results 21-40

Cook Helper information

See Aurora, IL salary details

$9

$17

$21

How much do cook helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for cook helper in Aurora, IL is $17.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.24 and $19.52 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 Aurora, IL?

The most popular types of Cook jobs in Aurora, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Cook Helper jobs in Aurora, IL?

For Cook Helper jobs in Aurora, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Aurora, IL are hiring for Cook Helper jobs?

Cities near Aurora, IL with the most Cook Helper job openings:

Infographic showing various Cook Helper job openings in Aurora, IL 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 $35,596 per year, or $17.1 per hour.

Cook

Crescent Care of Elgin

Elgin, IL โ€ข On-site

$18 - $22.94/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

Crescent Care of Elgin is seeking a Cook to join their team! The cook prepares and serves resident meals using proper food handling and safety techniques resulting in foods that meet the nutritional guidelines and safety standards, treating our residents with respect.   

Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to join the Crescent Care of Elgin team and make a real difference in the lives of others. Apply today and take the first step towards a rewarding career as a Cook with us at Crescent Care. 

Cook Duties and Responsibilities: 

  • Reviews menus prior to preparation of food.  

  • Inspects special diet trays to assure that the correct diet is served to the resident.  

  • Performs administrative requirements such as completing necessary forms, reports, etc., and submits to management. 

  • Coordinates meal service with other departments as necessary.  

  • Works with the facility’s culinary director as necessary and implements recommended changes as required.  

  • Ensures that all dietary procedures are followed in accordance with established policies.  

  • Ensures that menus are maintained and filed in accordance with established policies and procedures.  

  • Assists in establishing food service production lines, etc., to assure that meals are prepared on time.  

  • Processes diet changes and new diets as received from nursing and dietary staff 

  • Takes pride in the preparation and presentation of the residents’ meals. 

  • Other duties as assigned.  

Cook Skills and Abilities: 

  • Must be able to read, write, speak and understand English. 

  • Must be able to read recipes and convert ingredients to different serving sizes. 

  • Must be able to cook a variety of foods in large quantities. 

Cook Education and Experience: 

  • High School Diploma or GED  

  • Two or more years of cooking experience in a hospital, skilled nursing care facility, or other related medical facility preferred.  

Physical Requirements:  

  • Walking, reaching, bending, lifting, extended sitting, grasping, fine hand coordination, pushing and pulling, ability to distinguish smells and temperatures, all with or without the aid of mechanical devices is required.    

  • Limited potential for exposure to environmental hazards. Understanding and adherence to company safety standards and protocols required.    

Crescent Care of Elgin Full-Time Benefits: 

  • Daily Pay & Competitive Compensation 

  • 401(k) with company match 

  • Medical Insurance 

  • Dental, Vision, and Disability insurance 

  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) 

  • Employee Discount Program 

  • Innovative Training Programs 

  • Opportunity for Growth and Advancement 

  • Paid Time Off 

  • And much more! 

Why Crescent Care? 

At Crescent Care, we are more than just a workplace—we are a community built on compassion, support, and excellence. Our environment is supportive, and we empower our employees to use innovative and proven practices to provide the highest quality care. 

Our diverse team is made up of energetic, compassionate, and committed professionals who are dedicated to making a difference in the lives of our guests and their loved ones. We believe that love, care, and understanding are essential parts of healing and recovery. 

If you are looking for a meaningful career in helping others, Crescent Care is the place for you. Our team helps guests live comfortably in a warm, family-like atmosphere filled with comfort, happiness, and satisfaction. 

We offer a wide range of rewarding career opportunities, a welcoming workplace culture, and competitive pay and benefits. You’ll find flexibility, security, wellness support, and engaging employee programs that recognize your hard work and celebrate your success. 

Apply to join a growing team today! 

At Crescent Care we lead with compassion and operate with purpose. Our promise, Right Care. Right Time. Right Place., guides every decision we make. 

We are proud to be part of the Elgin community and committed to serving its families with high-quality, personalized care. More than a care facility, Crescent Care is a trusted local resource where individuals come to heal, feel safe, and regain their independence. 

Whether it is short-term rehabilitation or long-term skilled nursing, we provide a welcoming and safe environment that feels like home. With licensed nurses, certified therapists, and a wide range of programs and activities, we help each guest reach their goals while staying connected to the Elgin community they call home. 

At Crescent Care, we do not settle for what is expected. We work every day to raise the standard of care and beyond. 

Crescent Care of Elgin is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate based on any protected right such as race, color, nationality, gender, age, disability or any protected applicable right under the National Labor Relations Act.