Cook
Arlington Heights, IL · On-site
$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
Arlington Heights, IL · On-site
$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
$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 - $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
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
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 ...
Quick apply
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
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
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 ...
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
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
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 ...
Banquet Cooks/ Lounge Cooks/ Prep Cooks
Chicago, IL · On-site
$18 - $20/hr
Cook Positions - Position SummaryWe are seeking dependable, experienced cooks to join our culinary team. We are hiring for Banquet Cooks, Lounge Cooks, and Prep Cooks. Candidates should be passionate ...
Quick apply
Banquet Cooks/ Lounge Cooks/ Prep Cooks
Chicago, IL · On-site
$18 - $20/hr
Cook Positions - Position SummaryWe are seeking dependable, experienced cooks to join our culinary team. We are hiring for Banquet Cooks, Lounge Cooks, and Prep Cooks. Candidates should be passionate ...
Cook
Westmont, IL · On-site
$14 - $18.75/hr
Cook Westmont, IL Join our team at Nexus of Westmont as a Cook, where you will play a vital role in preparing delicious meals for our customers. As a Cook, you will be responsible for food ...
Quick apply
Cook
Westmont, IL · On-site
$14 - $18.75/hr
Cook Westmont, IL Join our team at Nexus of Westmont as a Cook, where you will play a vital role in preparing delicious meals for our customers. As a Cook, you will be responsible for food ...
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
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 ...
Cooker information
See Illinois salary details
$15.14 - $15.65
1% of jobs
$15.65 - $16.16
2% of jobs
$16.16 - $16.67
8% of jobs
$16.67 - $17.17
8% of jobs
$17.42 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$17.17 - $17.68
11% of jobs
$17.68 - $18.19
9% of jobs
The median wage is $18.67 / hr.
$18.19 - $18.70
11% of jobs
$18.70 - $19.21
11% of jobs
$19.63 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$19.21 - $19.72
17% of jobs
$19.72 - $20.22
13% of jobs
$20.22 - $20.73
9% of jobs
$15
$18
$20
How much do cooker jobs pay per hour?
As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for cooker in Illinois is $18.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.26 and $19.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What does a cooker do?
A cooker, often referred to as a cook or chef, is responsible for preparing and cooking food in restaurants, cafeterias, or other dining establishments. Their duties include following recipes, measuring and mixing ingredients, monitoring food while it cooks, and ensuring meals are served at the right temperature and presentation. Cookers also maintain kitchen cleanliness and adhere to food safety standards. Depending on the workplace, their responsibilities may range from simple food preparation to creating complex dishes.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a cooker?
To thrive as a Cooker (Chef or Cook), you need a solid understanding of food preparation, cooking techniques, and food safety standards, often gained through culinary school or hands-on experience. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, inventory management systems, and certifications like ServSafe are typically required. Attention to detail, time management, and teamwork are vital soft skills that set exceptional cooks apart. These skills and qualifications ensure efficient kitchen operations, high-quality dishes, and a safe dining environment for customers.
What are some common challenges a professional cooker faces in a high-volume kitchen, and how can they be managed?
In a high-volume kitchen, cookers often face challenges such as managing time efficiently, maintaining consistency in food quality, and handling pressure during peak service hours. To manage these, it's important to develop strong organizational skills, communicate clearly with kitchen staff, and stay calm under pressure. Many successful cookers also rely on prep work and mise en place to streamline service and ensure a smooth workflow. Building good relationships with team members helps foster a supportive environment, making it easier to overcome challenges together.
What is the difference between Cooker vs Chef?
| Aspect | Cooker | Chef |
|---|---|---|
| Credentials | Basic culinary skills, sometimes certifications in food safety | Formal culinary education or extensive experience, culinary certifications |
| Work Environment | Commercial kitchens, restaurants, catering services | Professional kitchens, restaurants, hotels, culinary establishments |
| Responsibilities | Preparing and cooking food according to recipes | Overseeing kitchen operations, menu creation, supervising cooks |
The main difference between a Cooker and a Chef lies in their roles and responsibilities. A Cooker typically focuses on preparing and cooking food, often with basic skills and certifications. A Chef, on the other hand, has advanced culinary training, oversees kitchen operations, and is responsible for menu development. While both work in similar environments, the Chef's role is more managerial and creative, whereas the Cooker primarily executes cooking tasks.
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Cooker jobs?
Cities in Illinois with the most Cooker job openings:
Wingstop rating
5.2
Based on 426 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
53rd of 107 rated fast food restaurants
Job description
Main Responsibilities of a Cook:
- Preparing workstations, cooking ingredients, and kitchen equipment for cooking.
- Cooking and arranging food.
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.
- 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.
We're not in the wing business. We're in the flavor business. It's been our mission to serve the world flavor since we first opened shop in '94, and we're just getting started.
1997 saw the opening of our first franchised Wingstop location, and by 2002 we had served the world one billion wings. It's a flavor that defines us and has made Wingstop one of the fastest-growing brands in the restaurant industry.
Wingstop is the destination when you crave fresh never faked wings, hand-cut seasoned fries, and any of our famous sides. For people who demand flavor in everything they do, there's only Wingstop - because it's more than a meal, it's a flavor experience.
About Wingstop
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
Wingstop Inc. is a prominent player in the fast-casual dining industry, headquartered in Dallas, TX, USA. The company specializes in chicken wings, and its menu boasts a variety of flavors from spicy to sweet. Wingstop was founded in 1994 with a mission to serve the world flavor. Their commitment to this mission has earned them significant recognition with a presence across all 50 states and 9 countries, marking them as a leader in their industry. The company's core values, prominently displayed on their website, include being service minded, authentic, and fun. They prioritize quality, focusing on fresh, made-to-order wings and exceptional customer experience.
Industry
Food services and drinking places and restaurants
Company size
1,001 - 5,000 Employees
Headquarters location
Dallas, TX, US