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Cook Helper Jobs in Carlyle, IL (NOW HIRING)

Cook/Dishwasher

Centralia, IL

$12.50 - $16.50/hr

* Prepare and cook menu items according to recipes, quality standards, and food safety guidelines ... Support kitchen staff during busy service periods by helping with prep, plating, and cleaning tasks.

LINE COOK

Mascoutah, IL · On-site

$17/hr

We are looking for a skilled Line Cook to join our airport dining operation, where every shift brings a diverse, high-volume guest experience unlike any other environment in the industry. At Tailwind ...

Cook

Centralia, IL · On-site

$14 - $15/hr

Creating and packaging delicious menu items Trying to beat your best record, every time Being proactive (If you're not busy now, you may be in 5 minutes!) Continuously communicating with team to help ...

Dietary Aide

Odin, IL · On-site

$12.50 - $15.75/hr

Clean food stations and wash dishes, cooking vessels and silverware * Stock ingredients and monitor inventory * Assist in keeping track of expenses and menu planning * Help maintain kitchen equipment ...

Dietary Aide

Lebanon, IL

$13 - $16.50/hr

Clean food stations and wash dishes, cooking vessels and silverware * Stock ingredients and monitor inventory * Assist in keeping track of expenses and menu planning * Help maintain kitchen equipment ...

Dietary Aide

Highland, IL · On-site

$12.50 - $15.75/hr

Clean food stations and wash dishes, cooking vessels and silverware * Stock ingredients and monitor inventory * Assist in keeping track of expenses and menu planning * Help maintain kitchen equipment ...

Crew Member

Vernon, IL · On-site

$11.25 - $14.75/hr

Passion for helping and serving others (both customers and team members) * Desire to learn how to cook (a lot) * Be at least 16 years old * Ability to communicate in the primary language(s) of the ...

Showing results 21-40

Cook Helper information

See Carlyle, IL salary details

$9

$15

$19

How much do cook helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for cook helper in Carlyle, IL is $15.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.09 and $18.08 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 Carlyle, IL?

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Cook Helper job openings in Carlyle, 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 $32,913 per year, or $15.8 per hour.

Cook/Dishwasher

CHG Inc.

Centralia, IL

$12.50 - $16.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

  • Prepare and cook menu items according to recipes, quality standards, and food safety guidelines.
  • Assist with food preparation, portioning, and stocking ingredients for daily service. 
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary kitchen at all times.
  • Wash dishes, glassware, utensils, cookware, and kitchen equipment promptly during and after service.
  • Operate commercial dishwashing equipment safely and efficiently.
  • Clean and sanitize workstations, kitchen surfaces, floors, and storage areas.
  • Properly receive, label, rotate, and store food and supplies following FIFO procedures.
  • Assist with opening and closing kitchen duties, including trash removal and equipment cleaning.
  • Support kitchen staff during busy service periods by helping with prep, plating, and cleaning tasks.
  • Follow all health department regulations, company policies, and food safety standards.
  • Work collaboratively with the kitchen team to ensure efficient operations and exceptional guest experiences.