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Cooking Jobs in Springfield, IL (NOW HIRING)

Cook

Springfield, IL · On-site

$15 - $25/hr

Prepping, seasoning, and cooking food according to recipes, quantity calls, and specification while maintaining portion control systems * Inspecting food preparation and serving areas, tools, and ...

Cook

Springfield, IL · On-site

$15 - $25/hr

Prepping, seasoning, and cooking food according to recipes, quantity calls, and specification while maintaining portion control systems * Inspecting food preparation and serving areas, tools, and ...

So, if you're making pancakes for breakfast or cooking breakfast for dinner, every shift is a chance to work with heart, hustle, and a team that's got your back. So if you're someone who.... * Takes ...

Cook

Springfield, IL · On-site

$15 - $25/hr

Prepping, seasoning, and cooking food according to recipes, quantity calls, and specification while maintaining portion control systems * Inspecting food preparation and serving areas, tools, and ...

... and cooking food according to recipes, quantity calls, and specification while maintaining portion control systems Inspecting food preparation and serving areas, tools, and equipment to ensure ...

Cook

Springfield, IL · On-site

$19/hr

Cook About Cedarhurst: Cedarhurst Senior Living is a leading provider of senior living communities, dedicated to enriching the lives of residents through exceptional care and personalized services.

Cook

Springfield, IL · On-site

$19/hr

Cook About Cedarhurst: Cedarhurst Senior Living is a leading provider of senior living communities, dedicated to enriching the lives of residents through exceptional care and personalized services.

Cook

Springfield, IL · On-site

$15 - $17/hr

So, if you're making pancakes for breakfast or cooking breakfast for dinner, every shift is a chance to work with heart, hustle, and a team that's got your back. So if you're someone who.... * Takes ...

Cook

Springfield, IL · On-site

$19/hr

Cook About Cedarhurst: Cedarhurst Senior Living is a leading provider of senior living communities, dedicated to enriching the lives of residents through exceptional care and personalized services.

Apply Early

Cook

Springfield, IL · On-site

$15 - $17/hr

So, if you're making pancakes for breakfast or cooking breakfast for dinner, every shift is a chance to work with heart, hustle, and a team that's got your back. So if you're someone who.... * Takes ...

Cook

Lincoln, IL · On-site

$15 - $16.50/hr

So, if you're making pancakes for breakfast or cooking breakfast for dinner, every shift is a chance to work with heart, hustle, and a team that's got your back. So if you're someone who.... * Takes ...

Cook

Lincoln, IL · On-site

$15 - $16.50/hr

So, if you're making pancakes for breakfast or cooking breakfast for dinner, every shift is a chance to work with heart, hustle, and a team that's got your back. So if you're someone who.... * Takes ...

As a Prep Cook your responsibilities would include: * Reading a prep sheet * Following Texas Roadhouse legendary recipes * Keeping the walk-in refrigerator clean and organized * Maintaining and using ...

Prep Cook

Springfield, IL · On-site

$15 - $21/hr

As a Prep Cook your responsibilities would include: * Reading a prep sheet * Following Texas Roadhouse legendary recipes * Keeping the walk-in refrigerator clean and organized * Maintaining and using ...

Line Cook

Springfield, IL · On-site

$15 - $20/hr

Strong knife skills and basic cooking knowledge * Ability to multitask, stay organized, and work in a fast-paced kitchen * Team first attitude and passion for high quality food * Able to stand and ...

Dietary Cook

Chatham, IL · On-site

$16.50 - $19/hr

Responsibilities Responsible for the preparation and cooking of food in the community. Ensure that all meals are prepared and presented according to Company standards. • Provide a high level of ...

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Dietary Cook

Springfield, IL · On-site

$16.50 - $19/hr

Responsibilities Responsible for the preparation and cooking of food in the community. Ensure that all meals are prepared and presented according to Company standards. • Provide a high level of ...

Apply Early

Prepares the woks: cleans with water first, woks are heated to an appropriate temperature using gas, and oil is added to the wok for the cooking process. * Cooks soups first and then meats.

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Cooking information

See Springfield, IL salary details

$9

$16

$21

How much do cooking jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for cooking in Springfield, IL is $16.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.00 and $18.80 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a cook do?

A cook is responsible for preparing and cooking food in a variety of settings, such as restaurants, cafeterias, or private households. Duties typically include following recipes, measuring ingredients, operating kitchen equipment, and ensuring food safety standards are met. Cooks may also be involved in menu planning, inventory management, and collaborating with other kitchen staff to deliver high-quality meals on time.

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

Cooks in fast-paced kitchens often deal with high-pressure situations, especially during peak dining hours when multiple orders need to be prepared quickly and accurately. Maintaining consistency in taste and presentation while juggling various tasks can be demanding. Communication and teamwork are crucial, as cooks must coordinate closely with other kitchen staff and servers to ensure timely service. Adapting to last-minute menu changes or handling special dietary requests can also add to the complexity of the role.

What is the difference between Cooking vs Food Preparation Worker?

AspectCookingFood Preparation Worker
CredentialsMay require food safety certificationsTypically no formal certifications needed
Work EnvironmentCommercial kitchens, restaurants, cateringFood production lines, cafeterias, fast food outlets
Job DutiesPreparing, cooking, and presenting dishesChopping, assembling ingredients, basic food prep
Industry UsageRestaurants, hotels, catering servicesFood manufacturing, cafeterias, quick-service restaurants

Cooking involves preparing and cooking dishes, often requiring culinary skills and certifications. Food Preparation Workers focus on basic food assembly and prep tasks, usually without formal credentials. Both roles are essential in food service environments but differ in complexity and responsibilities.

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

To thrive as a Cook, foundational skills in food preparation, kitchen safety, and menu planning are essential, often supported by a culinary degree or relevant experience. Familiarity with kitchen equipment, food safety certifications (such as ServSafe), and inventory management systems is typically required. Attention to detail, time management, teamwork, and adaptability are crucial soft skills for success in a busy kitchen environment. These abilities ensure consistent food quality, efficient operations, and a positive dining experience for customers.
What are the most commonly searched types of Cooking jobs in Springfield, IL? The most popular types of Cooking jobs in Springfield, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Cooking jobs in Springfield, IL? For Cooking jobs in Springfield, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Cooking jobs in Springfield, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Cooking jobs in Springfield, IL are:
What cities near Springfield, IL are hiring for Cooking jobs? Cities near Springfield, IL with the most Cooking job openings:
Infographic showing various Cooking job openings in Springfield, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 59% Full Time, 40% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $35,266 per year, or $17 per hour.
Cook

$15 - $25/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 29 days ago


Red Lobster rating

5.9

Company rating: 5.9 out of 10

Based on 256 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

45th of 86 rated restaurants


Job description

Overview
Why You Want to Work Here:
  • We offer weekly pay and competitive wages
  • Flexible scheduling
  • Options for medical, dental and vision starting at less than $10/week
  • Life insurance, short-term disability and voluntary benefits
  • 401(k) retirement savings plan with a company match after 1 year of service
  • Anniversary pay (must meet eligibility requirements)
  • Discounted shift meals and a 25% discount when dining as a guest
  • Opportunities - we train and provide career opportunities so you can advance and grow

Who We Are:
It all began with a single family-owned restaurant and the vision to give people something special: a connection to seafood and the coast. Over fifty years later, every seat in our over 500 restaurant family is an extension of that founding passion. We proudly set the table for our guests' favorite meals and moments because we are more than just a place to eat and work. We are part of the communities we serve, and this is where new friends become familiar faces.
Your responsibilities as a Cook will include, but are not limited to:
  • Setting up and stocking prep and line stations
  • Cleaning, sanitizing, and organizing the kitchen area, equipment, and utensils
  • Checking the quality and freshness of ingredients
  • Prepping, seasoning, and cooking food according to recipes, quantity calls, and specification while maintaining portion control systems
  • Inspecting food preparation and serving areas, tools, and equipment to ensure observance of safe, sanitary food-handling practices
  • Substituting for or assisting other cooks and kitchen positions during peak business periods

What it Takes to Succeed (Physical Job Requirements)
  • Must meet the minimum age requirement and authorized to work in the country you are applying
  • Culinary experience preferred
  • Ability to bend, reach, stoop and lift up to 60 pounds safely
  • Ability to move about the restaurant and remain standing for an 8 - 12 hour shift
  • Team player with attention to detail and ability to multi-task

The physical demands described above are representative of those that must be met by employees to successfully perform this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.
BIG plans are on the horizon for Red Lobster. Our team and restaurants are great today, but our future is even better. There is no better time than now to be a part of the Red Lobster Family!
***We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer who provides a welcoming workplace for everyone. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, or veteran status***
Pay Range
USD $15.00 - USD $25.00 /Hr.

What Red Lobster employees say

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