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Cook Helper Jobs in Wheaton, IL (NOW HIRING)

Bottleneck Management

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 ...

Wingstop

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 ...

Wingstop

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 ...

DO & CO

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 ...

Aramark

Cook

Naperville, IL · On-site

$14 - $18.75/hr

As a Cook on our team, you'll help bring recipes to life while being able to flex your creativity! Surrounded by fresh ingredients and the best equipment, you'll be immersed in a world that goes ...

Aramark

Cook

Naperville, IL · On-site

$14 - $18.75/hr

As a Cook on our team, you'll help bring recipes to life while being able to flex your creativity! Surrounded by fresh ingredients and the best equipment, you'll be immersed in a world that goes ...

HHS LLC

Cook

Arlington Heights, IL · On-site

$18.50/hr

Responsibilities Cook Wage: $18.50/hour Full-time and part-time positions available Morning/Day ... help the department operate efficiently Qualifications * Minimum of 2 years of experience in a ...

Hhs

Cook

Arlington Heights, IL

$18.50/hr

Responsibilities Cook Wage: $18.50/hour Full-time and part-time positions available Morning/Day ... help the department operate efficiently Qualifications * Minimum of 2 years of experience in a ...

Hhs

Cook

Chicago, IL · On-site

$18/hr

Responsibilities Cook Wage: $18/hour Full-time position available Day/Evening/Night shifts ... help the department operate efficiently Qualifications * Minimum of 2 years of experience in a ...

Hhs

Cook

Chicago, IL · On-site

$18.50/hr

Responsibilities Cook Wage: $18.50/hour Full-time and part-time positions available Morning/Day ... help the department operate efficiently Qualifications * Minimum of 2 years of experience in a ...

HHS LLC

Cook

Chicago, IL · On-site

$18/hr

Responsibilities Cook Wage: $18/hour Full-time position available Day/Evening/Night shifts ... help the department operate efficiently Qualifications * Minimum of 2 years of experience in a ...

Lakewood Nursing and Rehab

Cook

Plainfield, IL · On-site

$20/hr

Our facility is looking for dynamic and compassionate individuals to help enrich the lives of our ... The Cook will ensure compliance with facility, OBRA, federal, state, and other regulatory standards ...

doco

Kitchen Helper

Chicago, IL

$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 ...

Lakewood Nursing and Rehab

Cook

Plainfield, IL

$20/hr

Our facility is looking for dynamic and compassionate individuals to help enrich the lives of our ... The Cook will ensure compliance with facility, OBRA, federal, state, and other regulatory standards ...

ALIYA of Palos Park

Cook

Palos Park, IL

$14 - $19/hr

Cook Job Summary We are seeking a Cook to join our team at ALIYA of Palos Park, a premier health ... kitchen help in job tasks and work cooperatively with Supervisors How to Apply If you are a ...

ALIYA of Palos Park

Cook

Palos Park, IL

$14 - $19/hr

Cook Job Summary We are seeking a Cook to join our team at ALIYA of Palos Park, a premier health ... kitchen help in job tasks and work cooperatively with Supervisors How to Apply If you are a ...

doco

Kitchen Helper

Chicago, IL

$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 ...

Pace Suburban Bus

Mechanic Helper

Elgin, IL · On-site

$33.10/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 ...

ALIYA of Crestwood

Cook

Palos Heights, IL · On-site

$18.50 - $25/hr

As a Cook, you will be responsible for preparing and serving nutritious meals to our residents ... Ability to direct and instruct other kitchen help in job tasks and work cooperatively with ...

Citadel At Casa Scalabrini

Cook

Northlake, IL

$18 - $21/hr

The cook prepares and serves resident meals using proper food handling and safety techniques ... help each guest feel at home and achieve an optimal health outcome- our number one goal. Citadel ...

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All JobsCook Helper JobsCook Helper Jobs in Wheaton, IL

Cook Helper information

See Wheaton, IL salary details

$9

$16

$20

How much do cook helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for cook helper in Wheaton, IL is $16.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.86 and $19.04 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 Wheaton, IL? The most popular types of Cook jobs in Wheaton, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Cook Helper jobs in Wheaton, IL? For Cook Helper jobs in Wheaton, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Cook Helper jobs in Wheaton, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Cook Helper jobs in Wheaton, IL are:
What cities near Wheaton, IL are hiring for Cook Helper jobs? Cities near Wheaton, IL with the most Cook Helper job openings:
Cook Helper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cook Helper job openings in Wheaton, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,701 per year, or $16.7 per hour.
Prep Cook

Prep Cook

Bottleneck Management

Naperville, IL • On-site

$14.25 - $18/hr

Part-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

Position: Prep Cook
Our Prep Cooks are a key part of our team, and critical to providing genuine hospitality. 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 origination of all recipes and provides the guests with the best possible culinary experience.
Who is Bottleneck Management?
Bottleneck Management operates vibrant, high-energy, approachable restaurants in the most dynamic neighborhoods and locations. From the start, we've been about genuine people and genuine hospitality. We've grown into a crowd-pleasing hospitality juggernaut while continuing to hold our core values close to our hearts.
Core Values
Understand the wants and needs of others
Support others through words and actions
Empower each team member to excel
Enjoy each other, our guests, and our time at work
We believe it's our people that make us strong, so we're committed to finding driven, hospitable, upbeat, and intelligent teammates. Whether it's in our home office or our restaurants, we put hospitality first, like excellent hosts at a party.
We offer a fun and supportive working environment, comprehensive benefits, 401k, a generous PTO plan, EAP access, and restaurant dining discounts.
Primary Responsibilities and Duties
Essential Functions:
  • Follow recipes and procedures to prepare assigned sauces and food items according to prep lists and par guidelines
  • Follow all prescribed portioning controls and par levels
  • Understand and follow the food allergy procedure and special orders/restrictions
  • Responsible for the preparation and production of readying foods, garnishes, and condiments to be used on the line or for service
  • Comply with all health code requirements.
  • Use knives correctly to include use of a cut glove to chip, cut, dice, etc. Clean shelves, organize and remove trash
  • Ensure the work area stays clean throughout the workday
  • Operate equipment safely determined by position and OSHA regulations
  • Contribute to a positive guest experience by doing everything to exceed their expectations Store, receive, stock and rotate food throughout the workday per company standards as needed
  • Work closely and communicate with BOH and FOH team members, in a high-paced environment while doing a variety of time restraint tasks
  • Assist other cooks during high volume when needed
  • Other functions as assigned by management

Qualifications and Skills:
  • No prior education required
  • Previous prep experience preferred
  • Ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced work environment
  • Ability to work a variable schedule, including nights and weekends
  • Good judgment skills and adaptive attitude
  • Must have all required food / alcohol certifications as designated by location

Supervisory Responsibilities: N/A
Department: HOH Operations
Compensation:
Please visit our Careers Page to view and learn more about payrates
Reports to: Executive Chef
Work Environment/Physical Demand:
  • 75% Work at approximately 36" table/stove and reach in approximately 36"
  • 75% Reach (6" to overhead) bend, stoop, and wipe
  • 60% Perform job at continuous high pace, under pressure, also maintain quality and speed standards
  • 50% Lift and carry sacks, boxes, and product up to 50 pounds from floor to above waist level, approximately 20 feet and sometimes involving stairs
  • Must be able to walk and stand for full shift
  • Must be able to lift at least 50 pounds
  • Must have good hearing for accurate communication with guests
  • Must be able to use hands and fingers to handle and feel objects, tools controls and type
  • Must be able to work in areas of loud noises

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an associate to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
This is not necessarily an all-inclusive list of job-related responsibilities, duties, skills, efforts, requirements or working conditions. While this is intended to be an accurate reflection of the current job, management reserves the right to revise the job or to require that other or different tasks be performed as assigned.
Bottleneck Management provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.
An equal opportunity employer.
We adhere to E-Verify procedures where applicable in accordance with federal regulations.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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