Cook
Rockford, IL · On-site
$14 - $18.75/hr
... preparation, cooking, chef / kitchen experience in a high volume restaurant environment. We are an Equal Opportunity / E-Verify Employer. This is not intended to be all-inclusive. As a SPB ...
Cook
Rockford, IL · On-site
$14 - $18.75/hr
... preparation, cooking, chef / kitchen experience in a high volume restaurant environment. We are an Equal Opportunity / E-Verify Employer. This is not intended to be all-inclusive. As a SPB ...
Cook
$12.75 - $17.25/hr
... preparation, cooking, chef / kitchen experience in a high volume restaurant environment. We are an Equal Opportunity / E-Verify Employer. This is not intended to be all-inclusive. As a SPB ...
Cook
$12.75 - $17.25/hr
... preparation, cooking, chef / kitchen experience in a high volume restaurant environment. We are an Equal Opportunity / E-Verify Employer. This is not intended to be all-inclusive. As a SPB ...
Line Cook / Prep Cook / Pizza Cook
Peoria, IL · On-site
$15.50 - $19.50/hr
... cooking, chef / kitchen experience in a high volume restaurant environment. We are an Equal Opportunity / E-Verify Employer Skills & Requirements Qualifications
Line Cook / Prep Cook / Pizza Cook
Peoria, IL · On-site
$15.50 - $19.50/hr
... cooking, chef / kitchen experience in a high volume restaurant environment. We are an Equal Opportunity / E-Verify Employer Skills & Requirements Qualifications
Line Cook / Prep Cook / Pizza Cook
Peoria, IL · On-site
$15.50 - $19.50/hr
... cooking, chef / kitchen experience in a high volume restaurant environment. We are an Equal Opportunity / E-Verify Employer
Line Cook / Prep Cook / Pizza Cook
Peoria, IL · On-site
$15.50 - $19.50/hr
... cooking, chef / kitchen experience in a high volume restaurant environment. We are an Equal Opportunity / E-Verify Employer
Personal Chef - Chicago
Chicago, IL · On-site
$27.01/hr
At Friend That Cooks, you can keep doing what you love while building a career that leaves room for the rest of your life. As a Personal Chef, you'll create customized menus, shop for fresh ...
Quick apply
Personal Chef - Chicago
Chicago, IL · On-site
$27.01/hr
At Friend That Cooks, you can keep doing what you love while building a career that leaves room for the rest of your life. As a Personal Chef, you'll create customized menus, shop for fresh ...
Prep Cooks
$13.25 - $16.50/hr
... cooking, chef / kitchen experience in a high volume restaurant environment.
Prep Cooks
$13.25 - $16.50/hr
... cooking, chef / kitchen experience in a high volume restaurant environment.
Line Cooks
$14.50 - $18.25/hr
... house cooking, chef, saute cook or grill cook experience in a high volume restaurant environment. * *Coupon will be awarded after interview has been completed. Not valid on Combo Appetizer. No ...
Line Cooks
$14.50 - $18.25/hr
... house cooking, chef, saute cook or grill cook experience in a high volume restaurant environment. * *Coupon will be awarded after interview has been completed. Not valid on Combo Appetizer. No ...
Prep Cooks
$13.25 - $16.50/hr
... cooking, chef / kitchen experience in a high volume restaurant environment.
Prep Cooks
$13.25 - $16.50/hr
... cooking, chef / kitchen experience in a high volume restaurant environment.
Line Cooks
Marion, IL · On-site
$14.50 - $18.25/hr
... house cooking, chef, saute cook or grill cook experience in a high volume restaurant environment. * *Coupon will be awarded after interview has been completed. Not valid on Combo Appetizer. No ...
Line Cooks
Marion, IL · On-site
$14.50 - $18.25/hr
... house cooking, chef, saute cook or grill cook experience in a high volume restaurant environment. * *Coupon will be awarded after interview has been completed. Not valid on Combo Appetizer. No ...
Line Cook
$15.50 - $19.50/hr
A Line Cook, Wok Cook, Cook, Chef De Partie, or Station Chef accommodates guest's needs by preparing food according to established recipes and procedures as well as following safety and sanitation ...
Line Cook
$15.50 - $19.50/hr
A Line Cook, Wok Cook, Cook, Chef De Partie, or Station Chef accommodates guest's needs by preparing food according to established recipes and procedures as well as following safety and sanitation ...
Line Cook
Orland Park, IL · On-site
$15.50 - $19.50/hr
A Line Cook, Wok Cook, Cook, Chef De Partie, or Station Chef accommodates guest's needs by preparing food according to established recipes and procedures as well as following safety and sanitation ...
Line Cook
Orland Park, IL · On-site
$15.50 - $19.50/hr
A Line Cook, Wok Cook, Cook, Chef De Partie, or Station Chef accommodates guest's needs by preparing food according to established recipes and procedures as well as following safety and sanitation ...
Line Cook
$18.50 - $22.50/hr
A Line Cook, Wok Cook, Cook, Chef De Partie, or Station Chef accommodates guest's needs by preparing food according to established recipes and procedures as well as following safety and sanitation ...
Line Cook
$18.50 - $22.50/hr
A Line Cook, Wok Cook, Cook, Chef De Partie, or Station Chef accommodates guest's needs by preparing food according to established recipes and procedures as well as following safety and sanitation ...
Line Cook
$19 - $23/hr
A Line Cook, Wok Cook, Cook, Chef De Partie, or Station Chef accommodates guest's needs by preparing food according to established recipes and procedures as well as following safety and sanitation ...
Line Cook
$19 - $23/hr
A Line Cook, Wok Cook, Cook, Chef De Partie, or Station Chef accommodates guest's needs by preparing food according to established recipes and procedures as well as following safety and sanitation ...
Line Cook
Schaumburg, IL · On-site
$19 - $23/hr
A Line Cook, Wok Cook, Cook, Chef De Partie, or Station Chef accommodates guest's needs by preparing food according to established recipes and procedures as well as following safety and sanitation ...
Line Cook
Schaumburg, IL · On-site
$19 - $23/hr
A Line Cook, Wok Cook, Cook, Chef De Partie, or Station Chef accommodates guest's needs by preparing food according to established recipes and procedures as well as following safety and sanitation ...
Line Cook
$19 - $23/hr
A Line Cook, Wok Cook, Cook, Chef De Partie, or Station Chef accommodates guest's needs by preparing food according to established recipes and procedures as well as following safety and sanitation ...
Line Cook
$19 - $23/hr
A Line Cook, Wok Cook, Cook, Chef De Partie, or Station Chef accommodates guest's needs by preparing food according to established recipes and procedures as well as following safety and sanitation ...
Line Cook
$19 - $23/hr
A Line Cook, Wok Cook, Cook, Chef De Partie, or Station Chef accommodates guest's needs by preparing food according to established recipes and procedures as well as following safety and sanitation ...
Line Cook
$19 - $23/hr
A Line Cook, Wok Cook, Cook, Chef De Partie, or Station Chef accommodates guest's needs by preparing food according to established recipes and procedures as well as following safety and sanitation ...
Line Cook
$19 - $23/hr
A Line Cook, Wok Cook, Cook, Chef De Partie, or Station Chef accommodates guest's needs by preparing food according to established recipes and procedures as well as following safety and sanitation ...
Line Cook
$19 - $23/hr
A Line Cook, Wok Cook, Cook, Chef De Partie, or Station Chef accommodates guest's needs by preparing food according to established recipes and procedures as well as following safety and sanitation ...
Line Cook
$19 - $23/hr
A Line Cook, Wok Cook, Cook, Chef De Partie, or Station Chef accommodates guest's needs by preparing food according to established recipes and procedures as well as following safety and sanitation ...
Quick apply
Line Cook
$19 - $23/hr
A Line Cook, Wok Cook, Cook, Chef De Partie, or Station Chef accommodates guest's needs by preparing food according to established recipes and procedures as well as following safety and sanitation ...
Line Cook
Northbrook, IL · On-site
$19 - $23/hr
A Line Cook, Wok Cook, Cook, Chef De Partie, or Station Chef accommodates guest's needs by preparing food according to established recipes and procedures as well as following safety and sanitation ...
Line Cook
Northbrook, IL · On-site
$19 - $23/hr
A Line Cook, Wok Cook, Cook, Chef De Partie, or Station Chef accommodates guest's needs by preparing food according to established recipes and procedures as well as following safety and sanitation ...
Line Cook
$19 - $23/hr
A Line Cook, Wok Cook, Cook, Chef De Partie, or Station Chef accommodates guest's needs by preparing food according to established recipes and procedures as well as following safety and sanitation ...
Quick apply
Line Cook
$19 - $23/hr
A Line Cook, Wok Cook, Cook, Chef De Partie, or Station Chef accommodates guest's needs by preparing food according to established recipes and procedures as well as following safety and sanitation ...
Cooking Chef information
See Illinois salary details
$9.78 - $12.83
4% of jobs
$12.83 - $15.88
18% of jobs
$16.26 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$15.88 - $18.93
23% of jobs
The median wage is $20.18 / hr.
$18.93 - $21.98
12% of jobs
$21.98 - $25.03
11% of jobs
$27.79 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$25.03 - $28.08
8% of jobs
$28.08 - $31.13
7% of jobs
$31.13 - $34.18
5% of jobs
$34.18 - $37.23
4% of jobs
$37.23 - $40.28
5% of jobs
$40.28 - $43.33
2% of jobs
$9
$23
$43
How much do cooking chef jobs pay per hour?
As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for cooking chef in Illinois is $23.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.30 and $30.05 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What does a cooking chef do?
A Cooking Chef is responsible for preparing, cooking, and presenting meals in restaurants, hotels, or other food establishments. They often design menus, select ingredients, and ensure food quality and safety standards are met. Chefs may also supervise kitchen staff, manage inventory, and maintain a clean and organized kitchen environment. Their role is essential in delivering delicious, visually appealing dishes that satisfy customers. Cooking Chefs often work in fast-paced settings and need strong culinary skills, creativity, and attention to detail.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a cooking chef, and why are they important?
To thrive as a Cooking Chef, you need strong culinary skills, a deep understanding of food safety, and often a culinary arts degree or relevant certification. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, recipe management systems, and inventory software is typically required. Creativity, leadership, and the ability to work under pressure are essential soft skills in this role. These skills ensure high-quality food preparation, efficient kitchen operations, and a positive dining experience for guests.
What are some common challenges cooking chefs face when managing a busy kitchen, and how can they overcome them?
Cooking Chefs often encounter challenges such as coordinating multiple orders during peak hours, maintaining food quality under pressure, and managing a diverse kitchen team. Effective communication, strong organizational skills, and the ability to stay calm under pressure are essential for overcoming these challenges. Many chefs implement systems for prep work, delegate tasks efficiently, and foster a collaborative environment to ensure smooth kitchen operations and consistent quality.
What is the difference between Cooking Chef vs Line Cook?
| Aspect | Cooking Chef | Line Cook |
|---|---|---|
| Credentials | Cooking certification or culinary degree often preferred | Basic culinary training or apprenticeship |
| Work Environment | Kitchen, often overseeing kitchen operations | Kitchen station, focused on specific dishes |
| Employer & Industry | Restaurants, hotels, catering services | Restaurants, food service establishments |
| Job Focus | Menu planning, supervising staff, quality control | Preparing dishes according to recipes and standards |
The Cooking Chef typically has more responsibilities, including supervising kitchen staff and managing menus, while a Line Cook focuses on preparing specific dishes. Both roles are essential in culinary operations, but the Cooking Chef often requires more experience and culinary education.
Can I be a cooking chef with no experience?
Becoming a cooking chef typically requires some culinary skills and knowledge, but many entry-level positions are available for those without formal experience. Gaining basic cooking skills, completing culinary courses, or starting as a kitchen assistant can help build the necessary experience to advance in a chef role.
Is 25 too late to become a cooking chef?
Becoming a cooking chef at 25 is not too late, as many chefs start their careers in their twenties or later. Success in the culinary field depends on skills, training, and experience, which can be gained through culinary schools, apprenticeships, or on-the-job training at any age.
What type of cooking chef gets paid the most?
Executive chefs and head chefs typically earn the highest salaries among cooking chefs, especially in fine dining restaurants or luxury hotels. Their compensation reflects leadership responsibilities, extensive experience, and specialized skills, often supplemented by bonuses and profit sharing.
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Cooking Chef jobs?
Cities in Illinois with the most Cooking Chef job openings:
$14 - $18.75/hr
Part-time
Medical, Dental, Vision, Life
Re-posted 20 days ago
Job description
NOW HIRING / IMMEDIATELY HIRING:
LINE COOKS, PREP COOKS & PIZZA COOKS
Craft beer isn't just a trend to us. It's a way of life. After 40 years of serving up the highest quality beers, great food and good times, the vibe at Old Chicago keeps getting better.
After drawing our first pint in 1976, we've continued to pull some impressive local and international beers at over 100 locations. We still build our pizzas and taproom fare from scratch - one delicious, fresh ingredient at a time, but the most important ingredient is YOU!
Come help craft our made-from-scratch, mouth-watering recipes that provide exceptional dining experiences for our guests! These culinary roles will be responsible for creating all of the dishes on our menu and duties will include preparing and cooking a variety of different dishes.
Your commitment to us:
Requirements:
Old Chicago Pizza (OCP) is a well established, full service restaurant concept that has growth opportunities for team members in a full service casual dining restaurant company focusing on beer, pizza and American food. At Old Chicago you can grow your career with us. We offer great restaurant culinary careers for prep cooks (concinero / cocinera / Jefe / Jefa) who have back of house preparation, cooking, chef / kitchen experience in a high volume restaurant environment.
We are an Equal Opportunity / E-Verify Employer. This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. As a SPB Hospitality Team Member you may be asked to perform additional related duties to meet ongoing needs.
Skills & Requirements Qualifications
LINE COOKS, PREP COOKS & PIZZA COOKS
- Part-time or full-time hours at a highly competitive rate of pay.
- Comprehensive benefits program offered to all team members - including medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurance plus voluntary benefits.
- Flexible scheduling to accommodate school, life and family.
- Advancement Opportunities.
- Team Member discounts.
Craft beer isn't just a trend to us. It's a way of life. After 40 years of serving up the highest quality beers, great food and good times, the vibe at Old Chicago keeps getting better.
After drawing our first pint in 1976, we've continued to pull some impressive local and international beers at over 100 locations. We still build our pizzas and taproom fare from scratch - one delicious, fresh ingredient at a time, but the most important ingredient is YOU!
Come help craft our made-from-scratch, mouth-watering recipes that provide exceptional dining experiences for our guests! These culinary roles will be responsible for creating all of the dishes on our menu and duties will include preparing and cooking a variety of different dishes.
Your commitment to us:
- Ensuring the highest quality food is properly executed by adhering to our recipe procedures.
- Preparing a variety of food with different methods of preparation and using a variety of tools and equipment.
- Following company safety and sanitation policies and procedures.
- Communicating clearly and respectfully with Managers and Team Members.
Requirements:
- Must be 18 years of age to operate kitchen equipment
- Previous kitchen / culinary / chef experience is preferred, but not required.
- Experience and knowledge of kitchen equipment including but not limited to knives, slicer, mixer, stoves, ovens, broiler and pizza oven desired
- Flexible to work a variety of shifts.
Old Chicago Pizza (OCP) is a well established, full service restaurant concept that has growth opportunities for team members in a full service casual dining restaurant company focusing on beer, pizza and American food. At Old Chicago you can grow your career with us. We offer great restaurant culinary careers for prep cooks (concinero / cocinera / Jefe / Jefa) who have back of house preparation, cooking, chef / kitchen experience in a high volume restaurant environment.
We are an Equal Opportunity / E-Verify Employer. This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. As a SPB Hospitality Team Member you may be asked to perform additional related duties to meet ongoing needs.
Skills & Requirements Qualifications