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Cook Helper Jobs in Bloomington, IL (NOW HIRING)

Lincoln Village Healthcare Center

Cook

Lincoln, IL · On-site

$15.50/hr

Cook Department: Dietary Reports To: Director of Dietary Services FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Location ... Help minimize food waste through proper planning and storage. Teamwork & Communication * Coordinate ...

Tenta Enterprises

Cook

Bloomington, IL · On-site

$16.50 - $17/hr

The cook's primary job function is to prep ingredients and cook the menu items according to Barrel ... Practices teamwork by helping co-workers. * Adheres to company standards, including personal ...

Franciscan Ministries

Cook

Normal, IL · On-site

$21 - $25/hr

Position Summary In this role, you will be responsible for storing, cooking, and helping to serve nutritious high quality food and a superb dining experience to residents at the community. Essential ...

Franciscan Ministries

Cook

Normal, IL · On-site

$21 - $25/hr

Position Summary In this role, you will be responsible for storing, cooking, and helping to serve nutritious high quality food and a superb dining experience to residents at the community. Essential ...

New

Franciscan Ministries

Cook

Normal, IL

$21 - $25/hr

Position Summary In this role, you will be responsible for storing, cooking, and helping to serve nutritious high quality food and a superb dining experience to residents at the community. Essential ...

New

Franciscan Ministries

Cook

Normal, IL

$21 - $25/hr

Position Summary In this role, you will be responsible for storing, cooking, and helping to serve nutritious high quality food and a superb dining experience to residents at the community. Essential ...

Denny's

Cook

Bloomington, IL · On-site

$13.25 - $17.75/hr

Cook Brand: Denny's Reports To: Restaurant Manager/General Manager/Manager on Duty Job Overview The Cook is responsible for preparing and cooking menu items according to Denny's recipes, plating ...

Biaggi's Italian Restaurants

Cook (177)

Bloomington, IL · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

Biaggi's is looking for passionate line cooks to help us create the ultimate food experience. Join our culinary team that takes pride in preparing Italian pastas, soups & salads, pizza, seafood ...

MAXBY HOSPITALITY INC

Cook (177)

Bloomington, IL · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

Biaggi's is looking for passionate line cooks to help us create the ultimate food experience. Join our culinary team that takes pride in preparing Italian pastas, soups & salads, pizza, seafood ...

Ancho & Agave

Cook (49)

Bloomington, IL · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

Ancho & Agave is looking for passionate line cooks to help us create the ultimate food experience. Join our culinary team that takes pride in preparing tacos, burritos, enchiladas and other Mexican ...

MAXBY HOSPITALITY INC

Cook (49)

Bloomington, IL · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

Ancho & Agave is looking for passionate line cooks to help us create the ultimate food experience. Join our culinary team that takes pride in preparing tacos, burritos, enchiladas and other Mexican ...

Run N' Erin's

Cook

Bloomington, IL · On-site

$13.50 - $18/hr

Cook Locally owned bar & grill! Looking for an experienced cook that is looking to bring some new ideas to the kitchen, self efficient, clean & organized! Must be flexible with schedule & weekend!

Hopedale Medical Complex

Cook

Hopedale, IL

$16 - $18/hr

Cook Cook - Full-Time Join the Hopedale Medical Complex Team! Do you enjoy cooking and making a difference in people's lives? Hopedale Medical Complex is looking for a dedicated Full-Time Cook to ...

Hopedale Medical Complex

Cook

Hopedale, IL · On-site

$17/hr

Cook Cook - Full-Time Join the Hopedale Medical Complex Team! Do you enjoy cooking and making a difference in people's lives? Hopedale Medical Complex is looking for a dedicated Full-Time Cook to ...

Hopedale MC

Cook

Hopedale, IL · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

Cook - Full-Time Join the Hopedale Medical Complex Team! Do you enjoy cooking and making a difference in people's lives? Hopedale Medical Complex is looking for a dedicated Full-Time Cook to join our ...

Hy-Vee, Inc.

Cook

Bloomington, IL · On-site

$16 - $20/hr

Answers the telephone promptly when called upon, and provides friendly, helpful service to ... Cooks soups first and then meats. * Prepares vegetables and ready sauces adding spices, etc.

Hopedale Medical Complex

Cook

Hopedale, IL · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

Cook - Full-Time Join the Hopedale Medical Complex Team! Do you enjoy cooking and making a difference in people's lives? Hopedale Medical Complex is looking for a dedicated Full-Time Cook to join our ...

Guernsey Holdings LLC

Cook

Normal, IL · On-site

$13.75 - $18.25/hr

Cook Immediate Supervisor: Manager on Duty (MOD) Position Summary: This position cooks, prepares, and packages product. Job Duties: * Cook, prepare, and package food product pursuant to operational ...

Sonic Drive-In

Cook

Normal, IL · On-site

$13.75 - $18.25/hr

Cook Immediate Supervisor: Manager on Duty (MOD) Position Summary: This position cooks, prepares, and packages product. Job Duties: * Cook, prepare, and package food product pursuant to operational ...

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All JobsCook Helper JobsCook Helper Jobs in Bloomington, IL

Cook Helper information

See Bloomington, IL salary details

$9

$16

$20

How much do cook helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for cook helper in Bloomington, IL is $16.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.76 and $18.89 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 Bloomington, IL? The most popular types of Cook jobs in Bloomington, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Cook Helper jobs in Bloomington, IL? For Cook Helper jobs in Bloomington, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Cook Helper jobs in Bloomington, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Cook Helper jobs in Bloomington, IL are:
What cities near Bloomington, IL are hiring for Cook Helper jobs? Cities near Bloomington, IL with the most Cook Helper job openings:
Cook Helper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cook Helper job openings in Bloomington, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 47% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,440 per year, or $16.6 per hour.

Cook

Lincoln Village Healthcare Center

Lincoln, IL • On-site

$15.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

Cook

Department: Dietary

Reports To: Director of Dietary Services

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Location: Lincoln Village Healthcare Center, Lincoln, IL


PAY: $15.50 per hour
HOURS: 6:00AM - 2:00PM, every other weekend

What We Are Looking For:

The Cook is responsible for preparing and cooking meals for residents in accordance with established menus, dietary guidelines, and sanitation standards. This role ensures that all meals are nutritious, visually appealing, and meet the dietary needs and preferences of residents while complying with federal, state, and local regulations.

What You Will Do:

Food Preparation & Cooking

  • Prepare and cook meals according to facility menus and standardized recipes.

  • Adjust food preparation to accommodate therapeutic and modified diets as prescribed.

  • Ensure portion control and proper food presentation.

  • Maintain awareness of resident allergies, food preferences, and special requests.

Sanitation & Safety

  • Follow proper food handling, storage, and sanitation procedures.

  • Maintain a clean and organized kitchen, including equipment, utensils, and work surfaces.

  • Monitor food temperatures during preparation, cooking, and holding to ensure safety.

  • Comply with all infection control ad health department regulations.

Inventory & Supplies

  • Assist with receiving, inspecting, and storing food and supplies.

  • Monitor food inventory levels and report shortages to the Director of Dietary Services.

  • Help minimize food waste through proper planning and storage.

Teamwork & Communication

  • Coordinate with dietary aides and other kitchen staff to ensure timely meal service.

  • Communicate effectively with nursing staff regarding resident meal needs.

  • Participate in dietary staff meetings and training sessions.

What You Will Bring:

  • High school diploma or equivalent required.

  • Previous cooking experience in a healthcare or institutional setting preferred.

  • Knowledge of therapeutic diets and food service sanitation standards.

  • Ability to follow recipes, production sheets, and written/verbal instructions.

  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

Physical Requirements:

  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.

  • Frequent standing, bending, and reaching.

  • Ability to tolerate heat from kitchen equipment.

Work Environment:

The Cook works primarily in the facility kitchen but may move throughout the building to communicate with staff. The role involves exposure to heat, steam, cleaning chemicals, and potential hazards from kitchen equipment.  


What You Will Get:

  • Competitive Wages

  • Paid Holidays

  • Vacation Time

  • Sick Time

  • Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance

  • Life Insurance

  • 401 (K)

  • Worker’s Compensation Insurance