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Cooking Jobs in Springfield, IL (NOW HIRING)

Head Cook Minimum Qualifications: * Knowledge of balanced meal planning established by state and federal guidelines * Must have food an Illinois Food Handler's license * Must be able to do basic ...

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 ...

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 ...

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

... 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

$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 - $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

$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 ...

Head Cook Minimum Qualifications: * Knowledge of balanced meal planning established by state and federal guidelines * Must have food an Illinois Food Handler's license * Must be able to do basic ...

Cook - Sunny Acres

Petersburg, IL

$13.75 - $18.50/hr

Cooking experience in a long-term care setting, hospitality industry, or restaurant preferred * Be able to work independently or in a team environment * Current Sanitation Certification (facility ...

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 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

$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 ...

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 ...

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Cooking information

See Springfield, IL salary details

$9

$16

$21

How much do cooking jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 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 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 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 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 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 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 May 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, and 21% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $35,266 per year, or $17 per hour.

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Position Type:
Food Services/Cook
Date Posted:
5/28/2025
Location:
North Mac Food Service
Date Available:
08/01/2025
Closing Date:
07/01/2025Position: Head Cook
Minimum Qualifications:
  1. Knowledge of balanced meal planning established by state and federal guidelines
  2. Must have food an Illinois Food Handler's license
  3. Must be able to do basic physical and visual activities
  4. Criminal background checks are required

Reports to: Building Principals
Contract Year: Subject to individual contract
Salary: Subject to collective bargaining agreement
The Basic Function of this position:
  1. To be responsible for supervising the cooks
  2. To be responsible for planning, preparing, and serving breakfast and lunch to the students and staff in the building
  3. To be responsible for the cleanliness of the lunchroom facilities and equipment
  4. Perform all duties assigned by the administration
Major Responsibilities:
  1. Supervision
  2. Menu Planning
  3. Procurement of Supplies
  4. Food Preparation and Service
  5. Maintenance of Facilities and Equipment
  6. Record Keeping
  7. Miscellaneous
Major Responsibility No. 1: Supervision
Key Duties:
  1. Provide input to building principal on daily performance of cooks and cafeteria staff as requested
  2. Supervise the cafeteria staff on a daily basis
  3. Obtain substitute cooks as needed
Major Responsibility No. 2: Menu Planning
Key Duties:
  1. Coordinate with administration to prepare a four-week menu plan in advance in accordance with state and federal guidelines
  2. Prepare alternate daily menus for use when circumstances require change
Major Responsibility No. 3: Procurement of Supplies
Key Duties:
  1. Order government commodities and other supplies
  2. Be responsible for the necessary produce, groceries, and supplies being available in the cafeteria
Major Responsibility No. 4: Food Preparation and Service
Key Duties:
  1. Direct lunch preparation
  2. Assist with food preparation
  3. Assist with serving lunch
  4. Oversee dish washing
  5. Begin following day's food preparation, as needed
Major Responsibility No. 5: Maintenance of Facilities and Equipment
Key Duties:
  1. Be responsible for monitoring the proper cleaning and care of all equipment (stoves, mixers, steam tables, dishwasher, sinks, refrigerators, etc.)
  2. Be responsible for monitoring the cleanliness of all work surfaces and kitchen floors
  3. Be responsible for compliance with state health and safety codes
  4. Be responsible for obtaining maintenance service for equipment
  5. Be responsible for requisitioning needed equipment
Major Responsibility No. 6: Record Keeping
Key Duties:
  1. Maintain an inventory of government commodities
  2. Maintain a weekly inventory of food and supplies
  3. Verify and sign invoices of commodities and supplies when delivered
Major Responsibility No. 7: Miscellaneous
Key Duties:
  1. Provide the services of one lunchroom staff member in the kitchen if an outside group uses the facility, as requested
  2. Prepare food for special banquets or other events and activities as requested by administration
  3. Assist teachers with special food or facility requests, when possible
  4. Check the security of the equipment and facility prior to leaving
  5. Supervise student workers in the cafeteria
  6. Perform related duties as required and/or assigned by administration