Cook
Capron, IL · On-site
$17.50 - $26/hr
Cook Career Opportunity Recognized for your culinary skills Are you passionate about creating culinary delights that leave a lasting impression? If so, we have an exciting opportunity for a cook who ...
Cook
Capron, IL · On-site
$17.50 - $26/hr
Cook Career Opportunity Recognized for your culinary skills Are you passionate about creating culinary delights that leave a lasting impression? If so, we have an exciting opportunity for a cook who ...
Cook
Sandwich, IL · On-site
$19 - $20.50/hr
The cook prepares and serves resident meals using proper food handling and safety techniques resulting in foods that meet the nutritional guidelines and safety standards, treating our residents with ...
Quick apply
Cook
Sandwich, IL · On-site
$19 - $20.50/hr
The cook prepares and serves resident meals using proper food handling and safety techniques resulting in foods that meet the nutritional guidelines and safety standards, treating our residents with ...
Cook
Rockford, IL · On-site
$16 - $18/hr
Join our team and work in a unique cooking atmosphere interacting with families serving themselves from our extensive buffet offerings. We are currently seeking energetic, friendly individuals to ...
Cook
Rockford, IL · On-site
$16 - $18/hr
Join our team and work in a unique cooking atmosphere interacting with families serving themselves from our extensive buffet offerings. We are currently seeking energetic, friendly individuals to ...
Cook
Rockford, IL · On-site
$15 - $17/hr
Join our team and work in a unique cooking atmosphere interacting with families serving themselves from our extensive buffet offerings. We are currently seeking energetic, friendly individuals to ...
Cook
Rockford, IL · On-site
$15 - $17/hr
Join our team and work in a unique cooking atmosphere interacting with families serving themselves from our extensive buffet offerings. We are currently seeking energetic, friendly individuals to ...
Cook
Rochelle, IL · On-site
$13/hr
The Rabbit's Foot in Rochelle, IL is looking for one cook to join our team. We are located on 1244 N 7th St. Our ideal candidate is self-driven, motivated, and hard-working. Starting pay based off ...
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Cook
Rochelle, IL · On-site
$13/hr
The Rabbit's Foot in Rochelle, IL is looking for one cook to join our team. We are located on 1244 N 7th St. Our ideal candidate is self-driven, motivated, and hard-working. Starting pay based off ...
Cook
Belvidere, IL · On-site
$13.25 - $17.75/hr
Cook | Highland Hospital | Charleston, West Virginia About the Job: PURPOSE STATEMENT: The Cook implements menus and coordinates food preparation and serves meals. Responsibilities include ordering ...
Cook
Belvidere, IL · On-site
$13.25 - $17.75/hr
Cook | Highland Hospital | Charleston, West Virginia About the Job: PURPOSE STATEMENT: The Cook implements menus and coordinates food preparation and serves meals. Responsibilities include ordering ...
Cook
$15.50 - $17.96/hr
The cook prepares and serves resident meals using proper food handling and safety techniques resulting in foods that meet the nutritional guidelines and safety standards, treating our residents with ...
Quick apply
Cook
$15.50 - $17.96/hr
The cook prepares and serves resident meals using proper food handling and safety techniques resulting in foods that meet the nutritional guidelines and safety standards, treating our residents with ...
Substitute Cook/Assistant Cook
Poplar Grove, IL · On-site
$15.50/hr
Substitute/Substitute Cook/Assistant Cook Date Posted: 3/6/2026 Location: Multiple Buildings Date Available: ASAP Closing Date: When Filled Description: Substitute Cook/Assistant Cook Job Summary ...
Substitute Cook/Assistant Cook
Poplar Grove, IL · On-site
$15.50/hr
Substitute/Substitute Cook/Assistant Cook Date Posted: 3/6/2026 Location: Multiple Buildings Date Available: ASAP Closing Date: When Filled Description: Substitute Cook/Assistant Cook Job Summary ...
Cook Front Line Cook
Sycamore, IL · On-site
$19 - $22/hr
Join Our Team as a Cook/Front Line Cook! Are you passionate about food and thrive in a fast-paced environment? We're a vibrant Middle Eastern fast-food dining restaurant, and we're looking for a ...
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Cook Front Line Cook
Sycamore, IL · On-site
$19 - $22/hr
Join Our Team as a Cook/Front Line Cook! Are you passionate about food and thrive in a fast-paced environment? We're a vibrant Middle Eastern fast-food dining restaurant, and we're looking for a ...
Cook
Dekalb, IL · On-site
$13.75 - $18.50/hr
Cook and present all items on the menu in a timely manner * Complete assigned prep list, efficiently run your station during the shift, and stock food as needed * Exercise safety, sanitation and ...
Cook
Dekalb, IL · On-site
$13.75 - $18.50/hr
Cook and present all items on the menu in a timely manner * Complete assigned prep list, efficiently run your station during the shift, and stock food as needed * Exercise safety, sanitation and ...
Cook
Dekalb, IL · On-site
$13.75 - $18.50/hr
Cook and present all items on the menu in a timely manner * Complete assigned prep list, efficiently run your station during the shift, and stock food as needed * Exercise safety, sanitation and ...
Cook
Dekalb, IL · On-site
$13.75 - $18.50/hr
Cook and present all items on the menu in a timely manner * Complete assigned prep list, efficiently run your station during the shift, and stock food as needed * Exercise safety, sanitation and ...
Cook
Saint Charles, IL · On-site
$13.75 - $18.25/hr
Cook Position Position Summary: The Cook performs designated work and cleaning routines for the Dietary Department to include preparing meals correctly and timely, supervising employee staff, and is ...
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Cook
Saint Charles, IL · On-site
$13.75 - $18.25/hr
Cook Position Position Summary: The Cook performs designated work and cleaning routines for the Dietary Department to include preparing meals correctly and timely, supervising employee staff, and is ...
Cook
Dekalb, IL · On-site
$13.75 - $18.50/hr
Cook and present all items on the menu in a timely manner * Complete assigned prep list, efficiently run your station during the shift, and stock food as needed * Exercise safety, sanitation and ...
Quick apply
Cook
Dekalb, IL · On-site
$13.75 - $18.50/hr
Cook and present all items on the menu in a timely manner * Complete assigned prep list, efficiently run your station during the shift, and stock food as needed * Exercise safety, sanitation and ...
Cook
Marengo, IL · On-site
$15 - $17/hr
Cook Job Benefits: * Competitive Pay * Health Insurance including Dental and Vision * Paid Time Off for Sick, Holiday, and Vacation Days * Employer Matched 401k * Daily Pay * Employee Perks Website ...
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Cook
Marengo, IL · On-site
$15 - $17/hr
Cook Job Benefits: * Competitive Pay * Health Insurance including Dental and Vision * Paid Time Off for Sick, Holiday, and Vacation Days * Employer Matched 401k * Daily Pay * Employee Perks Website ...
Cook
$15 - $16/hr
A Restaurant cook is responsible to prepare quality food that tastes great and is consistent from day to day and follows Wingstop operational standards requirements. This position is critical to ...
Cook
$15 - $16/hr
A Restaurant cook is responsible to prepare quality food that tastes great and is consistent from day to day and follows Wingstop operational standards requirements. This position is critical to ...
Cook
Montgomery, IL · On-site
$15 - $16/hr
A Restaurant cook is responsible to prepare quality food that tastes great and is consistent from day to day and follows Wingstop operational standards requirements. This position is critical to ...
Cook
Montgomery, IL · On-site
$15 - $16/hr
A Restaurant cook is responsible to prepare quality food that tastes great and is consistent from day to day and follows Wingstop operational standards requirements. This position is critical to ...
Cook information
See DeKalb, IL salary details
$8.73 - $9.91
2% of jobs
$9.91 - $11.09
4% of jobs
$11.09 - $12.27
9% of jobs
$13.45 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$12.27 - $13.45
10% of jobs
$13.45 - $14.63
14% of jobs
The median wage is $15.41 / hr.
$14.63 - $15.81
16% of jobs
$15.81 - $16.99
15% of jobs
$17.42 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$16.99 - $18.17
12% of jobs
$18.17 - $19.35
9% of jobs
$19.35 - $20.53
5% of jobs
$20.53 - $21.71
3% of jobs
$8
$15
$21
How much do cook jobs pay per hour?
As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for cook in DeKalb, IL is $15.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.22 and $17.69 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 DeKalb, IL?
The most popular types of Cook jobs in DeKalb, IL are:
What job categories do people searching Cook jobs in DeKalb, IL look for?
The top searched job categories for Cook jobs in DeKalb, IL are:
What cities near DeKalb, IL are hiring for Cook jobs?
Cities near DeKalb, IL with the most Cook job openings:
$17.50 - $26/hr
Other
Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO
Posted 11 days ago
Job description
Cook Career Opportunity
Recognized for your culinary skills
Are you passionate about creating culinary delights that leave a lasting impression? If so, we have an exciting opportunity for a cook who not only brings skill to the kitchen but also seeks a career close to home and close to heart. In this role, you'll be instrumental in preparing therapeutic and modified diets for patients. Join us in a culinary journey that goes beyond the kitchen and resonates with the warmth of helping others. If you're ready to infuse your love for cooking into a career that matters, your next chapter starts here. Welcome to a kitchen where your skills meet a sense of belonging.
A Glimpse into Our World
At Encompass Health, you'll experience the difference the moment you become a part of our team. Working with us means aligning with a rapidly growing national inpatient rehabilitation leader. Our achievements include being named one of the "World's Most Admired Companies" and receiving the Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For® Award, among other accolades, which is nothing short of amazing.
Starting Perks and Benefits
At Encompass Health, we are committed to creating a supportive, inclusive, and caring environment where you can thrive. From day one, you will have access to:
- Affordable medical, dental, and vision plans for both full-time and part-time employees and their families.
- Generous paid time off that accrues over time.
- Opportunities for tuition reimbursement and continuous education.
- Company-matching 401(k) and employee stock purchase plans.
- Flexible spending and health savings accounts.
- A vibrant community of individuals passionate about the work they do!
Become the Cook you always wanted to be
- Apportion servings according to menu combinations or orders for patients.
- Follow menus, recipes, and oral instructions in the preparation of various foods.
- Serve appropriate portion sizes based on menu specifications.
- Plan timing of preparation of the food to ensure food satisfaction.
- Ensure satisfaction regarding taste, texture, temperature and appearance.
Qualifications
- Possession of a food handler's permit, if required by state or county regulations.
- Training in food preparation for therapeutic diets.
- Recent institutional cooking experience and/or exposure to special function cooking are desirable.
- Familiarity with all H.A.C.C.P. and food safety guidelines.
- Flexibility in working weekdays, weekends, evenings, or night shifts to meet deadlines is expected.
We're eagerly looking forward to meeting you, and we genuinely mean that. Join us on this remarkable journey!
About Van Matre Encompass Health Rehabilitation Institute
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
Company size
201 - 500 Employees
Headquarters location
Rockford, IL, United States