Cook
$14 - $15/hr
Cook We are looking for an experienced cook to fill a vacant spot in our kitchen staff and contribute to the overall excellence of our restaurant. The person we are hoping to employ is first and ...
Cook
$14 - $15/hr
Cook We are looking for an experienced cook to fill a vacant spot in our kitchen staff and contribute to the overall excellence of our restaurant. The person we are hoping to employ is first and ...
Cook
Belleville, IL · On-site
$15/hr
Cook We are looking for an experienced cook to fill a vacant spot in our kitchen staff and contribute to the overall excellence of our restaurant. The person we are hoping to employ is first and ...
Quick apply
Cook
Belleville, IL · On-site
$15/hr
Cook We are looking for an experienced cook to fill a vacant spot in our kitchen staff and contribute to the overall excellence of our restaurant. The person we are hoping to employ is first and ...
Cook
Evergreen Park, IL · On-site
$14 - $16/hr
Cook We are looking for an experienced cook to fill a vacant spot in our kitchen staff and contribute to the overall excellence of our restaurant. The person we are hoping to employ is first and ...
Cook
Evergreen Park, IL · On-site
$14 - $16/hr
Cook We are looking for an experienced cook to fill a vacant spot in our kitchen staff and contribute to the overall excellence of our restaurant. The person we are hoping to employ is first and ...
Cook
Danville, IL · On-site
$15/hr
Lee's Famous Recipe Chicken - Immediate Cook Position Are you a highly skilled and creative cook who thrives in a fast-paced kitchen environment? Do you take pride in delivering delicious dishes that ...
Quick apply
Cook
Danville, IL · On-site
$15/hr
Lee's Famous Recipe Chicken - Immediate Cook Position Are you a highly skilled and creative cook who thrives in a fast-paced kitchen environment? Do you take pride in delivering delicious dishes that ...
Cook
Belleville, IL · On-site
$14/hr
As a Cook, you will play a key role in maintaining our restaurant's excellence by preparing and arranging delicious food from our menu. Apart from showcasing your cooking prowess, you will have the ...
Cook
Belleville, IL · On-site
$14/hr
As a Cook, you will play a key role in maintaining our restaurant's excellence by preparing and arranging delicious food from our menu. Apart from showcasing your cooking prowess, you will have the ...
Cook
Belleville, IL · On-site
$14/hr
As a Cook, you will play a key role in maintaining our restaurant's excellence by preparing and arranging delicious food from our menu. Apart from showcasing your cooking prowess, you will have the ...
Quick apply
Cook
Belleville, IL · On-site
$14/hr
As a Cook, you will play a key role in maintaining our restaurant's excellence by preparing and arranging delicious food from our menu. Apart from showcasing your cooking prowess, you will have the ...
Cook
Springfield, IL · On-site
$15 - $18/hr
Tired of pre-made sauces and microwaves, and want to cook? Tired of corporate rules and not being recognized for your work? Bella Milano is a locally owned family business that cares about its ...
Cook
Springfield, IL · On-site
$15 - $18/hr
Tired of pre-made sauces and microwaves, and want to cook? Tired of corporate rules and not being recognized for your work? Bella Milano is a locally owned family business that cares about its ...
Cook
O Fallon, IL · On-site
$16 - $19/hr
Tired of pre-made sauces and microwaves, and want to cook? Tired of corporate rules and not being recognized for your work? Bella Milano is a locally owned family business that cares about its ...
Cook
O Fallon, IL · On-site
$16 - $19/hr
Tired of pre-made sauces and microwaves, and want to cook? Tired of corporate rules and not being recognized for your work? Bella Milano is a locally owned family business that cares about its ...
Cook
Springfield, IL · On-site
$15 - $18/hr
Tired of pre-made sauces and microwaves, and want to cook? Tired of corporate rules and not being recognized for your work? Bella Milano is a locally owned family business that cares about its ...
Quick apply
Cook
Springfield, IL · On-site
$15 - $18/hr
Tired of pre-made sauces and microwaves, and want to cook? Tired of corporate rules and not being recognized for your work? Bella Milano is a locally owned family business that cares about its ...
Cook
O Fallon, IL · On-site
$16 - $19/hr
Tired of pre-made sauces and microwaves, and want to cook? Tired of corporate rules and not being recognized for your work? Bella Milano is a locally owned family business that cares about its ...
Quick apply
Cook
O Fallon, IL · On-site
$16 - $19/hr
Tired of pre-made sauces and microwaves, and want to cook? Tired of corporate rules and not being recognized for your work? Bella Milano is a locally owned family business that cares about its ...
Cook
Chicago, IL · On-site
$14.50 - $19.25/hr
Cook CHARACTERISTICS OF THE CLASS : Under supervision, prepares foods using a variety of cooking methods at a Chicago Public Schools' facility; and performs related duties as required. ESSENTIAL ...
Cook
Chicago, IL · On-site
$14.50 - $19.25/hr
Cook CHARACTERISTICS OF THE CLASS : Under supervision, prepares foods using a variety of cooking methods at a Chicago Public Schools' facility; and performs related duties as required. ESSENTIAL ...
Cook
Crest Hill, IL · On-site
$19/hr
Cook We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Cook to join our team at Pearl of Joliet, a premier healthcare organization dedicated to providing exceptional dining experiences. As a Cook with our ...
Quick apply
Cook
Crest Hill, IL · On-site
$19/hr
Cook We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Cook to join our team at Pearl of Joliet, a premier healthcare organization dedicated to providing exceptional dining experiences. As a Cook with our ...
Cook
Moline, IL · On-site
$13 - $17.25/hr
We are looking for an experienced Cook to join our team! You will be preparing and cooking a variety of dishes for restaurant guests to enjoy. You are passionate about creating exceptional dining ...
Quick apply
Cook
Moline, IL · On-site
$13 - $17.25/hr
We are looking for an experienced Cook to join our team! You will be preparing and cooking a variety of dishes for restaurant guests to enjoy. You are passionate about creating exceptional dining ...
Cook
Springfield, IL · On-site
$14 - $18.50/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 ...
Quick apply
Cook
Springfield, IL · On-site
$14 - $18.50/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
O Fallon, IL · On-site
$16/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 ...
Quick apply
Cook
O Fallon, IL · On-site
$16/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
Effingham, IL · On-site
$13 - $17.25/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 ...
Quick apply
Cook
Effingham, IL · On-site
$13 - $17.25/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
Shiloh, IL · On-site
$16/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
Shiloh, IL · On-site
$16/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 information
See Illinois salary details
$8.62 - $9.78
2% of jobs
$9.78 - $10.95
4% of jobs
$10.95 - $12.11
9% of jobs
$13.28 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$12.11 - $13.28
10% of jobs
$13.28 - $14.44
14% of jobs
The median wage is $15.22 / hr.
$14.44 - $15.61
16% of jobs
$15.61 - $16.77
15% of jobs
$17.20 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$16.77 - $17.94
12% of jobs
$17.94 - $19.10
9% of jobs
$19.10 - $20.27
5% of jobs
$20.27 - $21.43
3% of jobs
$8
$15
$21
How much do cook jobs pay per hour?
As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for cook in Illinois is $15.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.03 and $17.45 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What does a cook do?
A Cook—also called a Chef—is ultimately responsible for preparing the food that is served in restaurants or other dining establishments. As the head of the kitchen, Cooks also supervise other work and oversee the kitchen to ensure it all runs smoothly. In some restaurants, Cooks are responsible for creating recipes and menus, planning events, ensuring that food and kitchen regulations are followed, and sticking to a restaurant budget. There are different levels of this position that you can earn, meaning that there can be a wide range to all the potential possibilities and responsibilities of a daily Cook. For example, there’s the Head Chef who runs the kitchen while the other Cooks are responsible for specific types of food.
What does a cook do?
A cook is responsible for preparing and cooking food in restaurants, cafeterias, or other food service establishments. Their duties include following recipes, measuring ingredients, operating kitchen equipment, and ensuring food safety and cleanliness. Cooks may also help with menu planning, inventory management, and maintaining kitchen supplies. They work closely with other kitchen staff to deliver meals efficiently and meet customer expectations.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a cook, and why are they important?
To thrive as a Cook, you need a solid grasp of culinary techniques, food safety standards, and menu preparation, often supported by a high school diploma or culinary training. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, inventory systems, and certifications like ServSafe are typically required. Strong time management, teamwork, and attention to detail help Cooks stand out in busy kitchen environments. These skills and qualities are crucial for consistently delivering safe, high-quality dishes and maintaining efficient kitchen operations.
What are some common challenges cooks face during busy service hours, and how can they effectively manage them?
During peak service times, cooks often encounter challenges such as time pressure, managing multiple orders simultaneously, and maintaining high standards of food quality and presentation. Effective communication with team members and staying organized are crucial for keeping up with the pace. Many cooks use strategies like prepping ingredients in advance, prioritizing tasks, and maintaining a clean workstation to ensure smooth workflow and minimize mistakes. Developing these habits helps cooks deliver consistent results even in high-stress environments.
What is the difference between Cook vs Chef?
| Aspect | Cook | Chef |
|---|---|---|
| Credentials | None required or basic culinary training | Formal culinary education or extensive experience |
| Work Environment | Restaurants, cafeterias, catering | Fine dining, hotels, culinary establishments |
| Responsibilities | Preparing dishes, following recipes | Menu creation, kitchen management, supervising cooks |
In summary, a Cook typically prepares food following established recipes and has minimal formal training, while a Chef often has specialized culinary education and takes on leadership roles in the kitchen, overseeing cooking staff and menu development.
What jobs can you do if you like cooking?
If you enjoy cooking, you can pursue roles such as chef, line cook, pastry chef, or culinary assistant. These jobs typically require culinary skills, knowledge of food safety, and sometimes certifications like a food handler's permit. Opportunities exist in restaurants, hotels, catering companies, and institutional food services.
More about Cook jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Cook jobs in Illinois?
The most popular types of Cook jobs in Illinois are:
What are popular job titles related to Cook jobs in Illinois?
For Cook jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Cook jobs in Illinois look for?
The top searched job categories for Cook jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Cook jobs?
Cities in Illinois with the most Cook job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Cook jobs in IL?
For Cook jobs in IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
$14 - $18.75/hr
Full-time
Posted 9 days ago
Job description
Qualifications
- High School Diploma or Equivalent
- Illinois Approved Food Manager's Certificate
- Food preparation experience preferred
Duties and Responsibilities
- Preparation, assisting, cooking and serving a variety of food items for breakfast and lunch programs
- Maintenance of sanitary work environment including cleaning all cooking surfaces, utensils, trays, pots and pans, floors, and counters
- Maintenance of high standards for food quality and appearance following guidelines for food safety in preparation, serving and storing of food
- Ability to operate all kitchen equipment in an efficient and timely manner
- Clean and inspect galley equipment, kitchen appliances, and work areas to ensure cleanliness and functional operation
- Demonstrates high personal hygiene standards including proper hand washing protocol and handling of food items
- Understands basic kitchen first aid and must report all accidents to building principal and health specialist
- Responsible for ensuring all equipment is turned off at the end of the day
- Demonstrate knowledge of disaster/safety actions especially in regards to fire and ability to use a fire extinguisher
- Knowledge of various cooking methods including baking, grilling, frying, boiling, etc.
- Requisition food supplies, kitchen equipment, and appliances, based on estimates of future needs
- Willing to attend work related training classes and workshops as requested by building principal
Physical Requirements
- Ability to lift up to 50 pounds, carry 50 pounds, and push/pull 35 pounds of force
- Ability to stand and walk on hard surfaces for long periods of time
- Ability to adapt to changes in room temperature
- Ability to work in the presence of loud background noise.