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Cook Helper Jobs in Springfield, IL (NOW HIRING)

Cook

Springfield, IL · On-site

$15 - $17/hr

As a Cook, you might be prepping ingredients, plating comfort food, or cooking up someone's new ... Support that starts on day one | Onboarding, training, and development to help you thrive ...

Cook

Springfield, IL · On-site

$15 - $17/hr

As a Cook, you might be prepping ingredients, plating comfort food, or cooking up someone's new ... Support that starts on day one | Onboarding, training, and development to help you thrive ...

Full Time Cook

Virden, IL · On-site

$15.50 - $18/hr

We are seeking a Full Time Cook to join our dedicated kitchen staff! You will assist in the preparation, cooking, and presentation of meals in our professional kitchen. The position includes cooking ...

Apply Early

Cook - Full Time

Girard, IL

$13 - $17.50/hr

COOK Minimum Qualifications: * Knowledge of food preparation * Ability to work as an effective team member * Basic physical and visual activities are required * Criminal background checks are ...

Cook

Lincoln, IL · On-site

$15 - $16.50/hr

As a Cook, you might be prepping ingredients, plating comfort food, or cooking up someone's new ... Support that starts on day one | Onboarding, training, and development to help you thrive ...

Cook - Full Time

Girard, IL

$13 - $17.50/hr

COOK Minimum Qualifications: * Knowledge of food preparation * Ability to work as an effective team member * Basic physical and visual activities are required * Criminal background checks are ...

Cook

Lincoln, IL · On-site

$15 - $16.50/hr

As a Cook, you might be prepping ingredients, plating comfort food, or cooking up someone's new ... Support that starts on day one | Onboarding, training, and development to help you thrive ...

Full Time Cook

Virden, IL · On-site

$15.50 - $18/hr

We are seeking a Full Time Cook to join our dedicated kitchen staff! You will assist in the preparation, cooking, and presentation of meals in our professional kitchen. The position includes cooking ...

Apply Early

Cook

Virden, IL

$13.25 - $17.50/hr

Yona is looking for a cook to join the team! Benefits of Yona • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vison insurance • Employer paid life insurance • 401(k) plan • Competitive paid time off • ...

Apply Early

Cook

Taylorville, IL · On-site

$13.25 - $18/hr

Yona is looking for a cook to join the team! Benefits of Yona • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vison insurance • Employer paid life insurance • 401(k) plan • Competitive paid time off • ...

Apply Early

Cook

Taylorville, IL

$13.25 - $18/hr

Yona is looking for a cook to join the team! Benefits of Yona • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vison insurance • Employer paid life insurance • 401(k) plan • Competitive paid time off • ...

Cook

Virden, IL

$13.25 - $17.50/hr

Yona is looking for a cook to join the team! Benefits of Yona • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vison insurance • Employer paid life insurance • 401(k) plan • Competitive paid time off • ...

Hy-Chi Cook

Springfield, IL · On-site

$16 - $20/hr

We promise "a helpful smile in every aisle" and those smiles can only come from a workforce that is ... Hy-Chi Department Cook Department: Hy-Chi FLSA : Non-Exempt General Function : As an Hy-Chi ...

Hy-Chi Cook

Springfield, IL · On-site

$16 - $20/hr

We promise "a helpful smile in every aisle" and those smiles can only come from a workforce that is ... Hy-Chi Department Cook Department: Hy-Chi FLSA : Non-Exempt General Function : As an Hy-Chi ...

The Dublin Pub is hiring a highly skilled GRILL COOK! Are you passionate about creating delicious dishes in a loving environment? The Dublin Pub is a local family-owned Irish Pub known for its Pony ...

Apply Early

Dietary Cook

Chatham, IL · On-site

$16.50 - $19/hr

... help them continue making a difference in our world. Responsibilities Responsible for the ... cooking of food in the community. Ensure that all meals are prepared and presented according to ...

Apply Early

Flexible schedules to help you balance other life commitments (school, childcare, family care, etc ... As a line cook, you must have a strong passion for delivering and flawlessly executing recipes and ...

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Showing results 1-20

Cook Helper information

See Springfield, IL salary details

$9

$17

$21

How much do cook helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for cook helper in Springfield, IL is $17.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.24 and $19.52 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 Springfield, IL? The most popular types of Cook jobs in Springfield, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Cook Helper jobs in Springfield, IL? For Cook Helper jobs in Springfield, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Cook Helper jobs in Springfield, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Cook Helper jobs in Springfield, IL are:
What cities near Springfield, IL are hiring for Cook Helper jobs? Cities near Springfield, IL with the most Cook Helper job openings:
Infographic showing various Cook Helper job openings in Springfield, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, and 34% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,584 per year, or $17.1 per hour.
Cook

$15 - $17/hr

Part-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


Cracker Barrel rating

5.4

Company rating: 5.4 out of 10

Based on 1,075 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

66th of 86 rated restaurants


Job description

They say you are the company you keep - and at Cracker Barrel, we take that seriously. Whether you're greeting guests, rolling out biscuits, or keeping things humming behind the scenes, you make the moments that matter, both big and small. Here, the work means more because we take pride in doing it together. So, join our team and find your place, because here...we're all in good company.
What You'll Do - You'll Make the Moment
Great times start in the kitchen, and it takes a team to bring the experience together. As a Cook, you might be prepping ingredients, plating comfort food, or cooking up someone's new favorite meal. Whatever your role, you'll make food that tastes like home. So, if you're making pancakes for breakfast or cooking breakfast for dinner, every shift is a chance to work with heart, hustle, and a team that's got your back.
So if you're someone who....
  • Takes pride in a job well done
  • Works well as part of a team
  • Learns quickly and keeps up in a fast-paced kitchen
  • Can stay focused and handle multiple tasks
  • Brings a positive, can-do spirit to every shift

... come on in, we've been expecting you!
No restaurant experience? No worries. We'll teach you everything you need to know.
Focus on You
We're all about making sure you're taken care of too. Here's what's in it for you:
  • Good Work Deserves Good Pay: Competitive pay every week | Same day pay access
  • Support That Goes Beyond the Clock: Health insurance eligibility on day 1 - Full and Part-time employees | Vacation time | Employee assistance program (EAP)
  • Grow and Thrive Your Way: Growth and development opportunities begin Day 1 with our industry-leading PAR training program | 401k plan with company matching contributions at 90 days | Employee Stock Purchase Program
  • Culture of Belonging: Support that starts on day one | Onboarding, training, and development to help you thrive | Recognition programs and employee events that bring us together
  • More Perks, Just Because: 35% Discount on Cracker Barrel Food and Retail items | Exclusive Biscuit Perks like discounts on home, travel, cell phones, and more!

Pay Range: $15.00 - $17.00
A Little About Us
Since 1969, Cracker Barrel has been a place to gather around delicious food, abundant servings, unexpected finds, and a warm welcome. Over time, it's become even more - somewhere folks can reconnect and feel at home. With more than 70,000 team members nationwide, we take pride in our roots -- always serving up more than a meal.
See for yourself. Apply now.
Cracker Barrel is an equal opportunity employer.
Qualified applicants are considered for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, genetic information, national origin, age, marital status, medical condition, disability or any other class expressly protected by law.

What Cracker Barrel employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Cracker Barrel logo

About Cracker Barrel

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Quite simple, really. It starts with quality food served with care. Offering warm welcomes and friendly service. It takes a dedication to pleasing people and treating our guests and staff like family. Maybe that’s why, for more than 50 years, millions of folks have trusted Cracker Barrel as a home-away-from-home where they can get a warm, comforting meal. It’s a trust we take seriously and couldn’t be more grateful for. And it’s a trust we’ve earned as a homegrown business dedicated to treating our guests to the very best – delicious, hand-prepared fare that’s sourced with love and served with a smile.

Industry

Restaurants

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Lebanon, TN, US

Year founded

1969