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Cooking Chef Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

PF Changs

Line Cook

Lombard, IL

$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 ...

Market and Main Local Eatery

Sous Chef

Troy, IL · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

The Sous Chef is the second-in-command in the kitchen, working closely with the Executive Chef to ... Line Cooking & Expedite Service: Step in as needed during busy service periods, including cooking ...

Ignotz Ristorante

$50K - $62K/yr

Proven experience as a Sous Chef or Lead Line Cook in an Italian restaurant. * Thorough knowledge of traditional Italian cooking techniques, sauces, pastas, meats, seafood, and daily specials.

New

Ignotz Ristorante

Sous Chef

Chicago, IL

$50K - $62K/yr

Proven experience as a Sous Chef or Lead Line Cook in an Italian restaurant. * Thorough knowledge of traditional Italian cooking techniques, sauces, pastas, meats, seafood, and daily specials.

New

Mott St

Sous Chef

Chicago, IL · On-site

$60K - $65K/yr

MOTT ST is seeking a SOUS CHEF to join our leadership team. For more than 13 years, Mott St has ... Supervise, train, and mentor line cooks and kitchen staff * Step in to lead the kitchen in the ...

Daisy's Po' Boy and Tavern

Sous Chef

Chicago, IL · On-site

$51K - $69K/yr

Sous Chef Position Requirements: Full Essential Responsibilities: * Be available to fill in as ... Assists other cooks during emergencies or rush periods * Inspect and clean food preparation areas ...

Daisy's Po' Boy and Tavern

Sous Chef

Chicago, IL · On-site

$51K - $69K/yr

Sous Chef Position Requirements: Full Essential Responsibilities: * Be available to fill in as ... Assists other cooks during emergencies or rush periods * Inspect and clean food preparation areas ...

Great Coast Commons

Sous Chef

Kenilworth, IL · On-site

$65K - $72K/yr

Experienced Line Cook Ready to Step Up Considered Step-up candidates will be considered toward the entry range. Experienced Sous Chefs with proven service leadership, prep systems, ordering, and team ...

Dinebrands

Kitchen

Marion, IL

$13 - $16.50/hr

We're looking for talented Cooks: We offer great restaurant culinary careers for cooks with back-of-house cooking, chef, saute cook, or grill cook kitchen experience in a high-volume restaurant ...

S.K.Y. Restaurant

Sous Chef

Chicago, IL · On-site

$60K - $65K/yr

Led by Chef Stephen Gillanders, S.K.Y. is the flagship concept of SMG Restaurants, known for ... A thoughtful, curious cook who thrives in a high-performance kitchen. * Passionate about quality ...

The Budlong Hot Chicken

Pizza Chef

Chicago, IL · On-site

$17 - $19.50/hr

Cooking skills * Dependable and organized Schedule: Monday to Friday, 7am to 4pm No weekend shifts Experience: Minimum of 2 years of experience as a Pizza Chef

Dine Brands Global, Inc.

Kitchen

Marion, IL · On-site

$13 - $16.50/hr

We're looking for talented Cooks: We offer great restaurant culinary careers for cooks with back-of-house cooking, chef, sauté cook, or grill cook kitchen experience in a high-volume restaurant ...

Parker Hospitality

Sous Chef - Skokie

Skokie, IL · On-site

$65K - $74K/yr

Job Summary The Sous Chef supports the Executive Chef and Executive Sous Chef in the daily ... Train and mentor Line Cooks, Prep Cooks, and BOH staff to maintain high performance and consistency.

Parker Hospitality

Sous Chef - Skokie

Skokie, IL · On-site

$50K - $67K/yr

Job Summary The Sous Chef supports the Executive Chef and Executive Sous Chef in the daily ... Train and mentor Line Cooks, Prep Cooks, and BOH staff to maintain high performance and consistency.

O'Charley's Team Members

Prep Cooks

Marion, IL · On-site

$13.25 - $16.50/hr

... cooking, chef / kitchen experience in a high volume restaurant environment. * Apply * View All Jobs About O'Charley's Restaurant + Bar Want to be part of a team that's more like friends and family ...

SWRG INC

Sous Chef- Chicago

Chicago, IL

$51K - $69K/yr

Generally, all BOH hourly positions other than cooks; in larger-volume restaurants with more employees, cooks/designated cooks may also directly report to the Sous Chef. DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

S&W OF BOSTON LLC

Sous Chef- Chicago

Chicago, IL · On-site

$65K/yr

Generally, all BOH hourly positions other than cooks; in larger-volume restaurants with more employees, cooks/designated cooks may also directly report to the Sous Chef. DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

Vets Hired

Chef - On Board Customer Service

Chicago, IL · On-site

Job Summary The Chef/Line Cook is responsible for preparing and serving freshly made full-course meals in an onboard kitchen. This role handles all aspects of food preparation, cooking, plating, food ...

Brindille

Chef de Partie

Chicago, IL · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

A cook had a family crisis emergency unfortunately. Must love cooking and able to adapt to working ... chef in the kitchen cooking next to you. Will train, teach and inspire. Send resume to Carrie ...

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All JobsCooking Chef JobsCooking Chef Jobs in Illinois

Cooking Chef information

See Illinois salary details

$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?

AspectCooking ChefLine Cook
CredentialsCooking certification or culinary degree often preferredBasic culinary training or apprenticeship
Work EnvironmentKitchen, often overseeing kitchen operationsKitchen station, focused on specific dishes
Employer & IndustryRestaurants, hotels, catering servicesRestaurants, food service establishments
Job FocusMenu planning, supervising staff, quality controlPreparing 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:

Cooking Chef jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cooking Chef job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, and 27% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $49,638 per year, or $23.9 per hour.

Line Cook

PF Changs

Lombard, IL

$19 - $23/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 14 days ago

P.F. Chang's rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 97 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

34th of 88 rated restaurants

Job description

P.F. Chang's Pay Range (based on experience): $19.00 - $23.00 / hour

Benefits we offer for this position:

All team members:

  • Competitive pay

  • Flexible scheduling

  • Paid on the job training

  • Opportunities for advancement - we promote from within

  • Discounted meals

  • Employee referral program

  • Exclusive team member discounts

  • Closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas at most locations

For qualifying team members:

  • 401(k) retirement plan (based on hours worked)

  • Medical, dental and vision insurance (based on hours worked)

  • Paid sick leave (in qualifying jurisdictions)

Hiring immediately for full-time and part-time hourly Line Cooks, Wok Cooks, Cooks, Chef De Parties, or Station Chefs.

Job Summary:

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 guidelines.

Job Responsibilities:

  • Prepare and cook all food items to company specifications

  • Plates prepared foods based on chef's guidance

  • Responsible for the setup, operation, break down, and cleaning of all kitchen equipment

  • May need to assist with washing dishes, sweeping/mopping floors, cleaning and maintaining equipment, sanitizing utensils, etc.

  • Uphold our high restaurant kitchen sanitation and food service safety standards

Job Requirements:

  • Previous experience is not required - we will train you!

  • Have a current Food Handler's Card where applicable, or we will help you obtain.

  • A love for food and an eye for detail with cooking; knowing weights, measurements, and volumes.

  • Ability to learn restaurant menu and recipes.

  • Knowledge of all chemicals used in the building.

  • Excellent customer service skills and etiquette.

  • Ability to multi-task in a fast-paced teamwork environment.

  • Flexibility to work a variety of shifts.

  • Comfortable standing for extended periods of time, able to lift up to 30 lbs. and continuously bend, reach and twist.

  • Must be at least 18 years old.

Why work for us?

Because it's more than a job. We are passionate people doing meaningful work, motivated by our purpose: To Celebrate Life. Family. Food.

Apply Now

  • Search for jobs by keyword or location.

  • Gather your work history, and if applicable, prepare your resume for submission.

  • Click "Apply Now" to submit your application.

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