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Cook Helper Jobs in Gurnee, IL (NOW HIRING)

Antioch School District 34

Cook helper

Antioch, IL

$15.26/hr

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 ...

Antioch School District 34

Cook helper

Antioch, IL · On-site

$15.26/hr

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 ...

Marriott

Baker's Helper

Schaumburg, IL · On-site

... help grow their careers. Through Rouxbe's self-paced online platform and culinary training ... Prepare and cook food according to recipes, quality and presentation standards, and food prep ...

Marriott

Baker's Helper

Schaumburg, IL

... help grow their careers. Through Rouxbe's self-paced online platform and culinary training ... Prepare and cook food according to recipes, quality and presentation standards, and food prep ...

Marriott International

Baker's Helper

Schaumburg, IL · On-site

$21.50 - $22.50/hr

... help grow their careers. Through Rouxbe's self-paced online platform and culinary training ... Prepare and cook food according to recipes, quality and presentation standards, and food prep ...

Wingstop

Cook

Arlington Heights, IL

$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 ...

Killarney Kourt

Cook

Sturtevant, WI · On-site

$13.50 - $18.25/hr

Opportunity to help and support an older generation * A career that gives back to the community ... Do you love cooking, but want a break from the stress of busy restaurants? The Line Cook position ...

Killarney Kourt

Cook

Sturtevant, WI · On-site

$13.50 - $18.25/hr

Opportunity to help and support an older generation * A career that gives back to the community ... Do you love cooking, but want a break from the stress of busy restaurants? The Line Cook position ...

Killarney Kourt

Cook

Sturtevant, WI · On-site

$13.50 - $18.25/hr

Opportunity to help and support an older generation * A career that gives back to the community ... Do you love cooking, but want a break from the stress of busy restaurants? The Line Cook position ...

Charter Senior Living

Cook

Kenosha, WI · On-site

$16 - $17/hr

At Charter Senior Living, our cooks do more than prepare food - they help create meaningful dining experiences for our residents every single day. We are looking for a dependable, energetic, and team ...

Charter Senior Living of Kenosha

Cook

Kenosha, WI · On-site

$16 - $17/hr

At Charter Senior Living, our cooks do more than prepare food -- they help create meaningful dining experiences for our residents every single day. We are looking for a dependable, energetic, and ...

Pace Suburban Bus

Mechanic Helper

Waukegan, IL

$16.75 - $21/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 ...

Cottages of Fox Lake

Cook

Fox Lake, IL · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Cook (Assisted Living - No Late Nights) The Cottages of Fox Lake - Fox Lake, IL Pay: Starting at ... In this role, you will prepare nutritious, high-quality meals for our residents while helping ...

Charter Senior Living

Cook

Fox Lake, IL · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

) Cook (Assisted Living - No Late Nights) The Cottages of Fox Lake - Fox Lake, IL Pay: Starting at ... In this role, you will prepare nutritious, high-quality meals for our residents while helping ...

Pace Suburban Bus

Mechanic Helper

Waukegan, IL · On-site

$16.75 - $21/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

$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 ...

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All JobsCook Helper JobsCook Helper Jobs in Gurnee, IL

Cook Helper information

See Gurnee, IL salary details

$9

$16

$20

How much do cook helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for cook helper in Gurnee, IL is $16.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.76 and $18.94 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the work of cook helper?

A cook helper assists in food preparation and kitchen cleanup under the supervision of chefs or cooks. Their tasks include chopping ingredients, washing dishes, and organizing supplies, often requiring basic cooking skills and knowledge of food safety standards. The role supports efficient kitchen operations and may involve working early mornings, evenings, or weekends.

Can I get paid to cook at home?

Cook helpers typically work in commercial kitchens or food service establishments and are paid for their labor. Cooking at home for personal use is unpaid, but some individuals may earn money by preparing meals for others through catering or meal prep services, which require skills and sometimes certifications. In general, paid cooking jobs are performed in professional environments rather than at home.

How much is the salary for a kitchen helper?

The salary for a kitchen helper typically ranges from $10 to $15 per hour, depending on location, experience, and the establishment. Entry-level positions may pay closer to the lower end, while experienced helpers or those in high-cost areas may earn more.

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 a cook's helper called?

A cook's helper is often called a kitchen assistant or food prep worker. They assist with basic food preparation, cleaning, and organizing in a kitchen environment, supporting chefs and cooks. This role typically requires basic cooking knowledge and the ability to follow instructions.

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 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 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 Gurnee, IL? The most popular types of Cook jobs in Gurnee, IL are:
What cities near Gurnee, IL are hiring for Cook Helper jobs? Cities near Gurnee, IL with the most Cook Helper job openings:
Cook Helper jobs near you

Cook helper

Antioch School District 34

Antioch, IL

$15.26/hr

Other

Posted 26 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



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