Cook
$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
$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
$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 - $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
$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
$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
$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
$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
$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
$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
$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
North Aurora, IL · On-site
$17/hr
As a short order cook, line cook, grill cook, or breakfast cook, you'll be the one making sure plates hit the table hot, fresh, and on time. This isn't a station gig. You'll be cooking whole meals ...
Cook
North Aurora, IL · On-site
$17/hr
As a short order cook, line cook, grill cook, or breakfast cook, you'll be the one making sure plates hit the table hot, fresh, and on time. This isn't a station gig. You'll be cooking whole meals ...
Cook
$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
$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
$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
$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
$17/hr
As a short order cook, line cook, grill cook, or breakfast cook, you'll be the one making sure plates hit the table hot, fresh, and on time. This isn't a station gig. You'll be cooking whole meals ...
Quick apply
Cook
$17/hr
As a short order cook, line cook, grill cook, or breakfast cook, you'll be the one making sure plates hit the table hot, fresh, and on time. This isn't a station gig. You'll be cooking whole meals ...
Cook
North Aurora, IL · On-site
$17/hr
As a short order cook, line cook, grill cook, or breakfast cook, you'll be the one making sure plates hit the table hot, fresh, and on time. This isn't a station gig. You'll be cooking whole meals ...
Cook
North Aurora, IL · On-site
$17/hr
As a short order cook, line cook, grill cook, or breakfast cook, you'll be the one making sure plates hit the table hot, fresh, and on time. This isn't a station gig. You'll be cooking whole meals ...
Cook
$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
$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
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
$16/hr
Immediately Hiring Cooks! * A top-paying facility in the area! * Medical / Dental / Vision insurance * Generous paid time off (PTO) package - take off when YOU want * Paid holidays * Life Insurance ...
Quick apply
Cook
$16/hr
Immediately Hiring Cooks! * A top-paying facility in the area! * Medical / Dental / Vision insurance * Generous paid time off (PTO) package - take off when YOU want * Paid holidays * Life Insurance ...
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
Hopedale, IL · On-site
$16 - $18/hr
Cook, Full-time HMC Offers: * Excellent benefits * Quality childcare located in HMC * Wellness Center membership * 401(k) plan with employer match About the job: The cook is responsible for preparing ...
Cook
Hopedale, IL · On-site
$16 - $18/hr
Cook, Full-time HMC Offers: * Excellent benefits * Quality childcare located in HMC * Wellness Center membership * 401(k) plan with employer match About the job: The cook is responsible for preparing ...
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 Jul 20, 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 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 is a chef vs. cook?
A cook is a person who prepares and cooks food, often working in kitchens with basic skills and following recipes. A chef is a trained culinary professional who typically has formal education, oversees kitchen operations, and creates menus and recipes. The main difference lies in training, responsibilities, and level of expertise.
Can I get paid to cook at home?
A cook can earn money by preparing meals at home through options like catering, meal prep services, or selling homemade food. These opportunities often require cooking skills, food safety knowledge, and sometimes permits or certifications. Income varies based on the scale of the operation and local regulations.
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 is the highest paying job for a cook?
The highest paying roles for cooks typically include executive chefs, head chefs, or specialized culinary professionals in high-end restaurants, hotels, or private establishments. These positions often require extensive experience, leadership skills, and culinary certifications, and can offer salaries significantly above standard line cook roles.
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 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.
How do I get a job as a cook?
To get a job as a cook, you typically need relevant culinary skills, which can be gained through culinary school, training programs, or on-the-job experience. Employers often look for food safety certifications and a good work ethic, and job opportunities are available in restaurants, hotels, and catering services.
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.
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:
Dairy Queen rating
5.3
Based on 1,897 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
46th of 104 rated fast food restaurants
Job description
Main Responsibilities of a Cook:
Preparing workstations, cooking ingredients, and kitchen equipment for cooking.
Cooking and arranging food.
Cook Job Description:
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 foremost a skilled, organized, and creative cook. 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 organizational skills are paramount.
A good candidate for this job is a person with attention to detail who can keep the kitchen tidy and clean all while preparing, cooking, and arranging food together with the rest of our kitchen staff. We pride ourselves in our exceptional service, and we expect nothing less from our cooks. The advantage goes to candidates with a diploma from a culinary school.
Responsibilities of a Cook:
Maintaining a sanitized and well-organized kitchen.
Preparing workstations for cooking.
Preparing and maintaining kitchen equipment.
Checking the quality of the ingredients.
Preparing cooking ingredients using various techniques.
Cooking food using various culinary techniques.
Arranging food and ensuring appealing presentation.
Manage food storage, stock, and ingredient orders.
Cook Job Requirements:
Must have prior experience as a cook.
Must be skilled in operating kitchen equipment.
Must be skilled in various cooking techniques.
Must know and follow sanitation procedures.
Must showcase teamwork and communication skills.
Must showcase great organizational skills.
Must be able to multitask and act quickly.
Must carry at least a high school diploma.
Preparing workstations, cooking ingredients, and kitchen equipment for cooking.
Cooking and arranging food.
Cook Job Description:
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 foremost a skilled, organized, and creative cook. 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 organizational skills are paramount.
A good candidate for this job is a person with attention to detail who can keep the kitchen tidy and clean all while preparing, cooking, and arranging food together with the rest of our kitchen staff. We pride ourselves in our exceptional service, and we expect nothing less from our cooks. The advantage goes to candidates with a diploma from a culinary school.
Responsibilities of a Cook:
Maintaining a sanitized and well-organized kitchen.
Preparing workstations for cooking.
Preparing and maintaining kitchen equipment.
Checking the quality of the ingredients.
Preparing cooking ingredients using various techniques.
Cooking food using various culinary techniques.
Arranging food and ensuring appealing presentation.
Manage food storage, stock, and ingredient orders.
Cook Job Requirements:
Must have prior experience as a cook.
Must be skilled in operating kitchen equipment.
Must be skilled in various cooking techniques.
Must know and follow sanitation procedures.
Must showcase teamwork and communication skills.
Must showcase great organizational skills.
Must be able to multitask and act quickly.
Must carry at least a high school diploma.
Dairy Queen® (DQ®) franchisees, employees and crew members have been focused on creating positive memories for all who touch DQ®, for over 75 years. Unlike any other quick-service brand, DQ® food and treats hold a special place in the hearts of fans of all ages, from all around the globe. That’s why DQ® fans have always been our top priority and why we continue to look for new ways to surprise and delight them. Doing so is our passion. It’s what sets DQ® restaurants apart and is what is helping us reach our vision of being the world’s favorite quick-service restaurant
What Dairy Queen employees say
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Benefits
Hours and flexibility
Workplace
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