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Cook Helper Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Cook Helper

Joliet, IL · On-site

$18.28/hr

Prepare and cook quantity of food required according to menu and number of students * Maintain kitchen equipment in orderly workable condition; ensure work area is safe, clean and sanitary at all ...

Prep Cook

Naperville, IL · On-site

$14.25 - $18/hr

Prep Cooks help prepare and maintain assigned par levels of food items. They produce all proteins, sauces, dressing, and stocks from scratch; they are the heart of the kitchen. Prep Cook upholds the ...

Prep Cook

Chicago, IL · On-site

$14.75 - $18.50/hr

Prep Cooks help prepare and maintain assigned par levels of food items. They produce all proteins, sauces, dressing, and stocks from scratch; they are the heart of the kitchen. Prep Cook upholds the ...

Prep Cook

Chicago, IL · On-site

$14.75 - $18.50/hr

Prep Cooks help prepare and maintain assigned par levels of food items. They produce all proteins, sauces, dressing, and stocks from scratch; they are the heart of the kitchen. Prep Cook upholds the ...

Kitchen Helper

Des Plaines, 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 ...

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 ...

Cook

Elgin, IL

$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 ...

Cook

Arlington Heights, IL · On-site

$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 ...

Cook

Elgin, IL

$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 ...

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 ...

Cook

Evergreen Park, IL · On-site

$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 ...

Cook

Valparaiso, IN · On-site

$12 - $16/hr

Cook Reports to: Kitchen Leader/Manager on Duty SUMMARY OF POSITION: Stocks, prepares, and cooks ... A steady hand will help you greatly. • Food Safety knowledge and/or certification. • Stamina:

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Cook Helper information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$10

$17

$22

How much do cook helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for cook helper in Chicago, IL is $17.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $20.29 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the work of cook helper?

A cook helper assists in food preparation, such as chopping ingredients, cleaning kitchen equipment, and organizing supplies. They support cooks and chefs in maintaining a clean and efficient kitchen environment, often working under supervision and following safety standards.

What's the difference between a cook and a kitchen helper?

A cook is responsible for preparing and cooking food, often with more advanced skills and experience, while a kitchen helper assists with basic tasks such as cleaning, prepping ingredients, and supporting cooks. Kitchen helpers typically perform entry-level duties and may require less training, working under supervision in a fast-paced kitchen environment.

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 jobs pay 2000 a day?

Jobs that can pay $2,000 a day typically include high-level positions such as specialized surgeons, senior corporate executives, or successful entrepreneurs. These roles often require advanced skills, extensive experience, or significant investment and are less common for entry-level positions like cook helpers.

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 job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

High-paying jobs that can reach $10,000 a month without a degree include roles such as certain sales positions, real estate agents, or skilled trades like electricians and plumbers who have gained experience and certifications. These jobs often require strong skills, certifications, or licenses, and may involve variable income based on performance or project volume.

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 Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Cook jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Cook Helper jobs in Chicago, IL? For Cook Helper jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Cook Helper jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Cook Helper jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Cook Helper jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Cook Helper job openings:
Infographic showing various Cook Helper job openings in Chicago, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 4% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,986 per year, or $17.8 per hour.
Cook helper

$15.26/hr

Other

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Maintains the highest standards of safety and cleanliness in the kitchen daily following the HACCP policy.
  • Maintains and follows the instruction of the Head Cook with the set up and serving of the daily student lunches.
  • Assists with the daily clean-up of the kitchen and cafeteria following the HACCP policy.
  • Sets up and maintains the dishwasher daily, cleans with chemicals to keep residue from forming weekly following the HACCP policy.
  • At the end of each lunch period clean and sanitize lunch trays and any kitchenware used to preplunch.
  • Help wipe tables in the cafeteria as needed.
  • Assumes responsibilities of Assistant Cook during their absence.
  • Attends meetings and in-services as requested.
  • Supports Teamwork in the kitchen and cafeteria.
  • Maintains a pleasant attitude with all staff and students.
  • Physical Requirements: lifting up to 50 pounds, bending, kneeling, and working in hot and cold kitchen conditions.
  • Other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

  • High School diploma or equivalent      

Hourly rate beginning at $15.26




Lake County Schools Consortium logo

About Lake County Schools Consortium

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Lake County Schools Consortium is a notable entity within the educational sector in the US. Based in Vernon Hills, Illinois, the consortium serves as an umbrella organization for a number of schools within Lake County. Its official website 'lake.k12.il.us' provides abundant information on working within various educational institutions ranging from elementary schools to high schools. The Consortium focuses on ensuring that education and learning resources are adequately provided to all institutions, as well as coordinating efforts for optimal utilization of resources between schools.

Industry

Education

Headquarters location

Vernon Hills, IL, US

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