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Cook Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Denny's

Cook

Collinsville, IL · On-site

$13 - $17.50/hr

Cook Brand: Denny's Reports To: Restaurant Manager/General Manager/Manager on Duty Job Overview The Cook is responsible for preparing and cooking menu items according to Denny's recipes, plating ...

Denny's

Cook

Pekin, IL · On-site

$12.75 - $17.25/hr

Cook Brand: Denny's Reports To: Restaurant Manager/General Manager/Manager on Duty Job Overview The Cook is responsible for preparing and cooking menu items according to Denny's recipes, plating ...

Denny's

Cook

Salem, IL · On-site

$13.50 - $18/hr

Cook Brand: Denny's Reports To: Restaurant Manager/General Manager/Manager on Duty Job Overview The Cook is responsible for preparing and cooking menu items according to Denny's recipes, plating ...

Lazy Dog Restaurants LLC

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 ...

Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ

Cook

Chicago, IL · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

Title : Cook Employment type : Hourly : The Prep & Line Cook prepares meals by chopping vegetables, slicing meats, making salads, and cooking / assembling appetizers & entrees. In addition, the ...

Golden Corral

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 ...

Denny's

Cook

Litchfield, IL · On-site

$12.50 - $16.75/hr

Cook Brand: Denny's Reports To: Restaurant Manager/General Manager/Manager on Duty Job Overview The Cook is responsible for preparing and cooking menu items according to Denny's recipes, plating ...

Village Inn

Cook

Moline, IL · On-site

$13 - $17.25/hr

You will be preparing and cooking a variety of dishes for restaurant guests to enjoy. You are passionate about creating exceptional dining experiences through good, quality food. With previous ...

Wingstop

Cook

La Grange, IL · On-site

$14/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 ...

Pearl of Fox River Valley

Cook

Elgin, IL

$14 - $18.75/hr

Cook Join the Pearl of Fox River Valley team as a talented Cook in Elgin, IL! Our mission is to provide exceptional care and delicious meals to our residents and guests. As a Cook with our team, you ...

Golden Corral

Cook

Joliet, IL · 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 ...

R Salerno Restaurant Group

Cook

Woodridge, IL · On-site

$14 - $18.50/hr

You will be preparing and cooking a variety of dishes for restaurant guests to enjoy. You are passionate about creating exceptional dining experiences through good, quality food. With previous ...

Lazy Dog Restaurants LLC

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 ...

Golden Corral

Cook

Bolingbrook, IL · On-site

$13.75 - $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 ...

Golden Corral

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 ...

Rosati's Pizza

Cook

Des Plaines, IL

$13.75 - $18.25/hr

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 station, you'll ...

Rosati's Pizza

Cook

Vernon Hills, IL

$13.75 - $18.25/hr

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 station, you'll ...

Rosati's Pizza

Cook

Des Plaines, 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 ...

University of Utah

Cook

Campus, IL · On-site

$18/hr

Details Open Date 08/06/2026 Requisition Number PRN45857B Job Title Cook Working Title Child Care Cook Career Progression Track B Track Level FLSA Code Nonexempt Patient Sensitive Job Code? No ...

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All JobsCook JobsCook Jobs in Illinois

Cook information

See Illinois salary details

$8

$15

$21

How much do cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 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?

AspectCookChef
CredentialsNone required or basic culinary trainingFormal culinary education or extensive experience
Work EnvironmentRestaurants, cafeterias, cateringFine dining, hotels, culinary establishments
ResponsibilitiesPreparing dishes, following recipesMenu 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:

Cook jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cook job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $32,307 per year, or $15.5 per hour.

Cook

Charter Senior Living of Hazel Crest

Hazel Crest, IL

$18/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Prepare and cook a variety of meals for residents according to menus and recipes

  • Ensure food quality, taste, presentation, and portion standards are maintained

  • Follow all food safety, sanitation, and infection control procedures

Job description

Cook – Senior Living Culinary Team

Charter Senior Living

PRN Shift

Now hiring a passionate Cook to join our culinary team!

Do you love cooking meals that bring comfort, joy, and connection to others? At Charter Senior Living, our cooks do more than prepare food — they help create meaningful dining experiences for our residents every single day.

We are looking for a dependable, energetic, and team-oriented Cook who is passionate about quality food, hospitality, and serving seniors with heart.

If you enjoy working in a positive environment where your work truly makes a difference, we would love to meet you!

Why Join Charter Senior Living?Perks & Benefits

  • No late nights

  • Free uniforms

  • Great culinary opportunities

  • Get paid today with ZayZoon

  • Flexible scheduling

  • Free medical insurance plan options

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance

  • Paid training

  • Paid time off and holiday pay

  • Perfect attendance bonus — earn up to an extra $100/month

  • Employee referral bonus opportunities

  • Career growth and advancement opportunities

  • Reliable hours and stable scheduling

  • Supportive leadership and engaged company support team

  • Environment where your voice is heard and appreciated

  • Employee appreciation events and recognition programs

  • Opportunity to make a meaningful impact on seniors every day

Our MissionTo Enhance the Human SpiritOur Core Values

  • Serve with Heart

  • Serve with Purpose

  • Serve with Courage

  • Have Fun While Serving

Position Summary

As a Cook at Charter Senior Living, you will prepare nutritious, high-quality meals that help residents feel at home while supporting their health and wellbeing.

This role is ideal for someone who enjoys cooking in a fast-paced but rewarding environment and takes pride in delivering exceptional meals and hospitality.

You’ll work closely with the culinary team to ensure meals are prepared safely, efficiently, and according to resident dietary needs and preferences.

Key Responsibilities

  • Prepare and cook a variety of meals for residents according to menus and recipes

  • Ensure food quality, taste, presentation, and portion standards are maintained

  • Follow all food safety, sanitation, and infection control procedures

  • Prepare meals for special dietary needs including diabetic, low-sodium, vegetarian, texture-modified, and other therapeutic diets

  • Assist with kitchen cleanliness and organization

  • Maintain proper food storage and temperature logs

  • Support timely meal service and positive dining experiences

  • Collaborate with team members to maintain an efficient and respectful kitchen environment

Qualifications

  • Previous cook, line cook, dietary cook, or culinary experience preferred

  • Senior living, healthcare, restaurant, or hospitality experience a plus

  • Knowledge of food safety and sanitation standards

  • Ability to prepare meals for large groups efficiently

  • Strong teamwork and communication skills

  • Compassionate and service-oriented attitude

  • Ability to work in a fast-paced and organized environment

  • Food safety certification or culinary training preferred but not required

What Makes a Great Fit

We are looking for someone who:

  • Takes pride in preparing quality meals

  • Enjoys serving seniors and making people smile through food

  • Works well under pressure while maintaining attention to detail

  • Brings reliability, positivity, and teamwork to every shift

  • Creates a welcoming and respectful kitchen environment

What Our Associates Say About Charter

“It truly feels like family at Charter.”

“The residents become an extension of my family.”

“They truly live out their mission and values.”

“I love working for a company that genuinely puts people first.”

If you are passionate about cooking, hospitality, and making a difference in the lives of seniors, apply today to join the Charter Senior Living culinary team!