1

Cook Helper Jobs in Gurnee, IL (NOW HIRING)

Have a current Food Handler's Card where applicable, or we will help you obtain. * A love for food and an eye for detail with cooking; knowing weights, measurements, and volumes. * Ability to learn ...

Cook

Arlington Heights, IL · On-site

$14.25 - $19/hr

The Cook is responsible for the quality, quantity, tastiness, and freshness of all Hot Choice Buffet products. The Cook pays special attention to speed, cleanliness, organization, and product ...

Have a current Food Handler's Card where applicable, or we will help you obtain. * A love for food and an eye for detail with cooking; knowing weights, measurements, and volumes. * Ability to learn ...

Join our school nutrition team as a Cook and help prepare fresh, nutritious meals that give students the energy to learn and thrive! What You'll Do: * Cook and prepare a variety of meals according to ...

Line Cook

Northbrook, IL · On-site

$19 - $23/hr

Have a current Food Handler's Card where applicable, or we will help you obtain. * A love for food and an eye for detail with cooking; knowing weights, measurements, and volumes. * Ability to learn ...

Have a current Food Handler's Card where applicable, or we will help you obtain. * A love for food and an eye for detail with cooking; knowing weights, measurements, and volumes. * Ability to learn ...

Cook

Buffalo Grove, IL · On-site

$18.25 - $21.50/hr

Cook: At this location, our cooks e arn $18.25 - $21.50 / hour. Be part of the excitement and freshness of a "Scratch Kitchen" We hand-craft everything in our kitchens. We are looking for talented ...

Cook PT

Highland Park, IL

$14.25 - $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

Gurnee, IL · On-site

$13.50 - $18/hr

The Cook is responsible for the quality, quantity, tastiness, and freshness of all Hot Choice Buffet products. The Cook pays special attention to speed, cleanliness, organization, and product ...

Cook

Kenosha, WI · On-site

$13.50 - $18.25/hr

The Cook is responsible for the quality, quantity, tastiness, and freshness of all Hot Choice Buffet products. The Cook pays special attention to speed, cleanliness, organization, and product ...

Cook

Vernon Hills, IL · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Cook: At this location, our cooks e arn $18-$20 / hour. Be part of the excitement and freshness of a "Scratch Kitchen" We hand-craft everything in our kitchens. We are looking for talented ...

Cook

Arlington Heights, IL

$14.25 - $19/hr

We are looking for a Cook to join our team! We are dedicated to enriching the lives of our ... Because mental health is being healthy, our EAP program is here to help when needed. For the future ...

Cook (42)

Algonquin, IL · On-site

$16 - $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 ...

Cook

Algonquin, IL · On-site

$13.75 - $18.25/hr

The Cook is responsible for the quality, quantity, tastiness, and freshness of all Hot Choice Buffet products. The Cook pays special attention to speed, cleanliness, organization, and product ...

Cook

Vernon Hills, IL · On-site

$13.75 - $18.25/hr

DESCRIPTION Cook - Bring Your Passion for Flavor to Our Kitchen We are looking for skilled and dedicated Cooks to join our kitchen team. Whether you specialize in the line, sauté, grill, or fry ...

Cook (4)

Deer Park, IL · On-site

$16 - $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 ...

Cook

Rolling Meadows, IL

$14 - $18.75/hr

A Wingstop cook is responsible to prepare quality food that tastes great and is consistent from day-to-day. This position is critical to Wingstop Restaurants; ensuring compliance with company ...

Cook

Mchenry, IL · On-site

$13.75 - $18.50/hr

A Wingstop cook is responsible to prepare quality food that tastes great and is consistent from day-to-day. This position is critical to Wingstop Restaurants; ensuring compliance with company ...

Cook

Arlington Heights, IL · On-site

$14.25 - $19/hr

We are looking for a Cook to join our team! We are dedicated to enriching the lives of our ... Because mental health is being healthy, our EAP program is here to help when needed. For the future ...

Showing results 41-60

Cook Helper information

See Gurnee, IL salary details

$9

$16

$20

How much do cook helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 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 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 Gurnee, IL?

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

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

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

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

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

$19 - $23/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 10 days ago


P.F. Chang's rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 97 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

34th of 88 rated restaurants


Job description

P.F. Chang's Pay Range (based on experience): $19.00 - $23.00 / hour

Benefits we offer for this position:

All team members:

  • Competitive pay

  • Flexible scheduling

  • Paid on the job training

  • Opportunities for advancement – we promote from within

  • Discounted meals

  • Employee referral program

  • Exclusive team member discounts

  • Closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas at most locations

For qualifying team members:

  • 401(k) retirement plan (based on hours worked)

  • Medical, dental and vision insurance (based on hours worked)

  • Paid sick leave (in qualifying jurisdictions)

Hiring immediately for full-time and part-time hourly Line Cooks, Wok Cooks, Cooks, Chef De Parties, or Station Chefs.

Job Summary:

A Line Cook, Wok Cook, Cook, Chef De Partie, or Station Chef accommodates guest’s needs by preparing food according to established recipes and procedures as well as following safety and sanitation guidelines.

Job Responsibilities:

  • Prepare and cook all food items to company specifications

  • Plates prepared foods based on chef’s guidance

  • Responsible for the setup, operation, break down, and cleaning of all kitchen equipment

  • May need to assist with washing dishes, sweeping/mopping floors, cleaning and maintaining equipment, sanitizing utensils, etc.

  • Uphold our high restaurant kitchen sanitation and food service safety standards

Job Requirements:

  • Previous experience is not required – we will train you!

  • Have a current Food Handler’s Card where applicable, or we will help you obtain.

  • A love for food and an eye for detail with cooking; knowing weights, measurements, and volumes.

  • Ability to learn restaurant menu and recipes.

  • Knowledge of all chemicals used in the building.

  • Excellent customer service skills and etiquette.

  • Ability to multi-task in a fast-paced teamwork environment.

  • Flexibility to work a variety of shifts.

  • Comfortable standing for extended periods of time, able to lift up to 30 lbs. and continuously bend, reach and twist.

  • Must be at least 18 years old.

Why work for us?

Because it’s more than a job.  We are passionate people doing meaningful work, motivated by our purpose:  To Celebrate Life. Family. Food.

Apply Now

  • Search for jobs by keyword or location.

  • Gather your work history, and if applicable, prepare your resume for submission. 

  • Click “Apply Now” to submit your application.


What P.F. Chang's employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom