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Cooking Job Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Description Position at Great Lakes South Town Up to $5,000 sign-on bonus for qualifying technicians "If you have at least 3 years of experience working with commercial kitchen and cooking equipment ...

COMMERCIAL COOKING TECHNICIAN

Lansing, IL ยท On-site

$25 - $50/hr

Description Position at Great Lakes South Town Up to $5,000 sign-on bonus for qualifying technicians "If you have at least 3 years of experience working with commercial kitchen and cooking equipment ...

COMMERCIAL COOKING TECHNICIAN

Gary, IN ยท On-site

$25 - $50/hr

Description Position at Great Lakes South Town Up to $5,000 sign-on bonus for qualifying technicians "If you have at least 3 years of experience working with commercial kitchen and cooking equipment ...

Showing results 21-40

Cooking Job information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$9

$17

$22

How much do cooking job jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for cooking job in Chicago, IL is $17.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $18.99 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive in a cooking job, you need strong culinary skills, knowledge of food safety, and often a culinary degree or relevant kitchen experience. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, inventory management systems, and food handling certifications is typically required. Attention to detail, creativity, time management, and teamwork are standout soft skills in this field. These abilities ensure consistently high food quality, efficient kitchen operations, and a positive dining experience for customers.

What is the difference between Cooking Job vs Food Preparation Worker?

AspectCooking JobFood Preparation Worker
CredentialsNone required, culinary training preferredHigh school diploma or equivalent
Work EnvironmentRestaurants, hotels, catering servicesFood processing plants, kitchens, cafeterias
Industry UsageCommonly used in hospitality and food serviceUsed in food manufacturing and institutional settings
Job FocusPreparing and cooking mealsPreparing ingredients, assembling dishes

Cooking jobs primarily involve preparing and cooking meals in restaurants or catering settings, often requiring culinary skills and training. Food preparation workers focus on preparing ingredients and assembling dishes, typically in food manufacturing or institutional environments. While both roles involve food handling, cooking jobs emphasize culinary techniques, whereas food prep roles concentrate on ingredient preparation.

What is a cooking job?

Cooking jobs involve preparing, cooking, and presenting food in various settings such as restaurants, hotels, cafeterias, and private homes. People in these roles may work as chefs, cooks, line cooks, or kitchen assistants, and are responsible for following recipes, ensuring food safety, and maintaining kitchen cleanliness. Cooking jobs often require creativity, efficiency, and the ability to work under pressure, especially during busy meal times. Depending on the position, formal culinary training or on-the-job experience may be necessary.

What are some common challenges faced by cooks in a busy kitchen environment?

Cooks in busy kitchens often face challenges such as managing time efficiently during rush periods, maintaining consistency in food quality, and handling multiple orders simultaneously. Strong communication with the kitchen team and front-of-house staff is crucial for smooth service. Adapting to last-minute menu changes or special dietary requests is also common, requiring flexibility and a calm demeanor under pressure.
What are popular job titles related to Cooking Job jobs in Chicago, IL? For Cooking Job jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Cooking Job jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Cooking Job jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Cooking Job jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Cooking Job job openings:
Infographic showing various Cooking Job job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,596 per year, or $17.1 per hour.

Senior Commercial Cooking Equipment Technician

REFRIGERATION AND EQUIPMENT SERVICES LLC

Addison, IL โ€ข On-site

$35 - $42/wk

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

Senior Commercial Cooking Equipment Technician
 
Full-Time | Guaranteed 40 Hours | $35–$42 per Hour
We are seeking a high-level Commercial Cooking Equipment Technician to service advanced food production and bakery equipment. This is not entry-level service work — we are looking for an experienced professional who can diagnose and repair complex commercial kitchen equipment independently.
 
Compensation & Benefits
  • $35–$42 per hour (based on experience)
  • Guaranteed 40 hours per week
  • Overtime required as needed
  • Health Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Life Insurance
  • Paid Vacation
  • Paid Sick Time
  • Company Vehicle 
  • Company Cell Phone
 
What You’ll Be Working On
  • Commercial ovens (deck, rack, rotational, combi)
  • Proofers and bakery systems
  • Large planetary mixers
  • Dough dividers / rounders
  • Sheeters and specialty production equipment
  • Steam and gas systems
  • Electric controls and safety circuits
 
Required Qualifications
  • 5+ years commercial cooking equipment service experience
  • Strong electrical troubleshooting skills (208/240/480V, 3-phase)
  • Ability to read and interpret wiring diagrams
  • Experience diagnosing control boards, relays, contactors, and gas systems
  • Mechanical aptitude (drives, belts, chains, gear systems)
  • Ability to work independently and manage service calls
  • Clean driving record
  • Willingness to participate in on-call rotation
  • Overtime availability when required
 
Who This Role Is NOT For
  • Residential appliance technicians
  • Refrigeration-only technicians
  • Parts changers without diagnostic skill
 
We are looking for a professional technician who takes pride in their work, communicates clearly with customers, and wants stable, long-term employment with guaranteed hours and full benefits.
Apply with resume and references.