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Cooking Assistant Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Cook

Palatine, IL · On-site

$14 - $18.75/hr

... * Assist with additional kitchen duties, including cleaning, stocking, and dish area support as needed. * Perform other duties as assigned. Qualifications * Previous cooking experience required ...

Cook Positions

Chicago, IL

$14.50 - $19.25/hr

Previous cooking or food preparation experience preferred * Ability to work flexible hours ... Clean and sanitize workstations, equipment, and kitchen areas after events. * Assist with inventory ...

Cook

Portage, IN · On-site

$14/hr

... Assist other employees as needed Follow directions given by Manager or Supervisor Know and ... Professional cooking: 1 year (Preferred) Cooking: 1 year (Preferred) Line cook: 1 year (Preferred ...

Cook

Portage, IN · On-site

$14/hr

... Assist other employees as needed Follow directions given by Manager or Supervisor Know and ... Professional cooking: 1 year (Preferred) Cooking: 1 year (Preferred) Line cook: 1 year (Preferred ...

Cook

La Grange, IL · On-site

$14/hr

... Assist other employees as needed Follow directions given by Manager or Supervisor Know and ... Professional cooking: 1 year (Preferred) Cooking: 1 year (Preferred) Line cook: 1 year (Preferred ...

Cook

Rolling Meadows, IL · On-site

$14 - $18.75/hr

... Assist other employees as needed Follow directions given by Manager or Supervisor Know and ... Professional cooking: 1 year (Preferred) Cooking: 1 year (Preferred) Line cook: 1 year (Preferred ...

Cook

Chicago, IL

$18 - $19/hr

... * Assist with food preparation, meal service, inventory management, and proper storage of food ... Previous cooking experience required. * Healthcare, skilled nursing facility, long-term care, or ...

Cook

Elgin, IL · On-site

$14 - $18.75/hr

... and cooking a wide variety of meals for our residents and guests. You will be part of a dynamic ... Ensure all food is prepared and served safely and in a timely manner * Assist with inventory ...

Cook

Chicago, IL · On-site

$18 - $19/hr

... * Assist with food preparation, meal service, inventory management, and proper storage of food ... Previous cooking experience required. * Healthcare, skilled nursing facility, long-term care, or ...

Cook

Chicago, IL · On-site

$14.50 - $19.25/hr

If you have experience cooking fast casual southern style hot chicken and are committed to ... Work efficiently in a fast-paced environment to meet customer demand. * Assist with inventory ...

Cook

Crystal Lake, IL · On-site

$13.50 - $18.25/hr

Cook As a valued member of our culinary team at Pearl of Crystal Lake, we are seeking a skilled ... and sanitation standards * Assist with meal planning, ordering, and inventory management

Cook

Chicago, IL · On-site

$13.75 - $18.50/hr

... Assist other employees as needed Follow directions given by Manager or Supervisor Know and ... Professional cooking: 1 year (Preferred) Cooking: 1 year (Preferred) Line cook: 1 year (Preferred ...

Cook

Gary, IN · On-site

$8.50 - $9.50/hr

... Assist other employees as needed Follow directions given by Manager or Supervisor Know and ... Professional cooking: 1 year (Preferred) Cooking: 1 year (Preferred) Line cook: 1 year (Preferred ...

Professional cooking: 1 year (Preferred) Cooking: 1 year (Preferred) Line cook: 1 year (Preferred ... Assist other employees as needed Follow directions given by Manager or Supervisor Know and ...

Cook

Chicago, IL · On-site

$14.50 - $19.25/hr

Professional cooking: 1 year (Preferred) Cooking: 1 year (Preferred) Line cook: 1 year (Preferred ... Assist other employees as needed Follow directions given by Manager or Supervisor Know and ...

Cook

Bartlett, IL · On-site

$15/hr

Professional cooking: 1 year (Preferred) Cooking: 1 year (Preferred) Line cook: 1 year (Preferred ... Assist other employees as needed Follow directions given by Manager or Supervisor Know and ...

Cook

Elk Grove Village, IL · On-site

$15 - $17/hr

... Assist other employees as needed Follow directions given by Manager or Supervisor Know and ... Professional cooking: 1 year (Preferred) Cooking: 1 year (Preferred) Line cook: 1 year (Preferred ...

Cook

Villa Park, IL · On-site

$16/hr

Professional cooking: 1 year (Preferred) Cooking: 1 year (Preferred) Line cook: 1 year (Preferred ... Assist other employees as needed Follow directions given by Manager or Supervisor Know and ...

Cook

Elgin, IL · On-site

$12 - $14/hr

... Assist other employees as needed Follow directions given by Manager or Supervisor Know and ... Professional cooking: 1 year (Preferred) Cooking: 1 year (Preferred) Line cook: 1 year (Preferred ...

Showing results 41-60

Cooking Assistant information

What is a cooking assistant?

Cooking Assistants, sometimes known as kitchen assistants or prep cooks, are entry-level staff members who support chefs and cooks in the preparation and organization of food in a kitchen. Their duties typically include washing and chopping ingredients, maintaining cleanliness, organizing supplies, and occasionally assisting with simple cooking tasks. Cooking Assistants play a crucial role in ensuring the kitchen runs efficiently and that food is prepared quickly and safely.

What are some common challenges faced by cooking assistants during busy service periods?

Cooking Assistants often experience high-pressure situations during peak meal times, where quick and accurate preparation of ingredients is crucial. Managing multiple tasks simultaneously—such as chopping vegetables, prepping proteins, and maintaining a clean workstation—can be challenging but is essential for a smooth kitchen operation. Clear communication with chefs and other kitchen staff helps prevent mistakes and ensures timely service. Adapting to a fast-paced environment and staying organized are key to overcoming these challenges.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a cooking assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cooking Assistant, you need basic culinary knowledge, food safety awareness, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with kitchen equipment, food handling procedures, and certifications like a Food Handler’s Permit are typically required. Strong teamwork, time management, and attention to detail are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills and qualifications ensure efficient food preparation, a safe kitchen environment, and smooth collaboration within the culinary team.

What is the difference between Cooking Assistant vs Kitchen Helper?

AspectCooking AssistantKitchen Helper
Required CredentialsBasic culinary skills, sometimes food safety certificationMinimal credentials, on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentCommercial kitchens, restaurants, cateringRestaurants, cafeterias, food prep areas
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly employed in food service establishmentsOften used interchangeably with Cooking Assistant, but more general

The Cooking Assistant and Kitchen Helper roles both support kitchen operations, but Cooking Assistants typically have more culinary responsibilities and may require basic food safety knowledge. Kitchen Helpers usually perform more general support tasks with less emphasis on cooking skills. Both roles are essential in food service environments, but Cooking Assistants often have a slightly higher skill requirement and more involvement in food preparation.

What are the duties of a cooking assistant?

A cooking assistant helps prepare ingredients, follows recipes, and maintains cleanliness in the kitchen. They may also assist with cooking tasks, organize supplies, and ensure food safety standards are met, often working under the supervision of chefs or cooks.

What are the most commonly searched types of Cooking jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Cooking jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Cooking Assistant jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Cooking Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Cooking Assistant job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution.

$14 - $18.75/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

) Cook
ALIYA of Palatine is seeking a reliable and dedicated Cook to join our Dietary team. The Cook is responsible for preparing nutritious, high-quality meals that meet the dietary needs and preferences of our residents while maintaining a clean, safe, and sanitary kitchen environment. This role plays an important part in supporting resident satisfaction and overall quality of care.
Job Summary
The Cook prepares meals according to established menus, recipes, and resident dietary requirements while following all food safety, sanitation, and infection control standards. The ideal candidate is dependable, detail-oriented, and passionate about providing excellent service to our residents.
Evening & Night Shift
Responsibilities
  • Prepare and cook meals according to planned menus, recipes, and resident dietary requirements.
  • Follow modified diets, therapeutic diets, portion control guidelines, and special dietary instructions.
  • Ensure meals are prepared, portioned, and served according to scheduled meal times.
  • Maintain cleanliness and sanitation of the kitchen, equipment, work areas, and food storage areas.
  • Follow all food safety guidelines, infection prevention practices, and regulatory requirements.
  • Assist with food preparation, meal service, inventory management, and proper storage of food supplies.
  • Ensure food is labeled, dated, and stored appropriately according to safety standards.
  • Monitor food quality, presentation, and temperature to support resident satisfaction.
  • Work collaboratively with Dietary staff and facility leadership to maintain efficient kitchen operations.
  • Assist with additional kitchen duties, including cleaning, stocking, and dish area support as needed.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications
  • Previous cooking experience required.
  • Healthcare, skilled nursing facility, long-term care, or institutional food service experience preferred.
  • Knowledge of food preparation techniques, sanitation standards, and food safety regulations.
  • Ability to follow recipes, menus, and dietary instructions accurately.
  • Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
  • Reliable, team-oriented, and committed to providing quality service.
  • Food Handler Certification preferred.

Benefits
  • Medical Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
  • Life Insurance
  • Critical Illness Insurance
  • Short-Term Disability Insurance
  • Accident Insurance
  • Hospital Indemnity Insurance
  • 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan
  • On-Demand Pay
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Tuition Reimbursement

Join Our Team
At ALIYA of Palatine, our Dietary team plays an essential role in creating a positive dining experience for our residents. As a Cook, you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact by preparing meals that support resident health, comfort, and quality of life. Join our team and become part of an organization dedicated to providing exceptional care.