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Cooks Assistant Jobs in Crete, IL (NOW HIRING)

The Cook's Assistant is a critical member of our El Hogar Del Niño Child & Family Center team, assisting the cook with preparing and serving nutritious meals and snacks for children and adults every ...

Cook's Assistant

Chicago, IL · On-site

$16.50 - $20/hr

The Cook's Assistant is a critical member of our El Hogar Del Niño Child & Family Center team, assisting the cook with preparing and serving nutritious meals and snacks for children and adults every ...

Cook Assistant

Chicago, IL · On-site

$38K - $44K/mo

Working with a team Cooks, the Cook Assistant helps prepare and serve nutritious meals while maintaining a clean, organized, and sanitary kitchen environment. The ideal candidate is committed to food ...

Assistant Cook

Homewood, IL · On-site

$16.40/hr

Position Type: Food Service/Assistant Cook/Server Date Posted: 8/5/2026 Location: Willow School Date Available: 08/17/2026 Closing Date: when filled Monday - Friday 7:00am - 2:00pm when school is in ...

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Cooks

Frankfort, IL · On-site

$13.75 - $18.50/hr

Prepare and cook a variety of dishes, ensuring high-quality presentation and taste * Help plan and ... * Assist in food preparation and ensure all ingredients are handled safely and stored properly

Sr Cook

Chicago, IL · On-site

$18.87 - $26.66/hr

Required Job Qualifications: • High School Diploma preferred. • Three years cooking experience. • Two years general cooking experience in cold food preparation and/or Cook's assistant. • ...

Sr Cook

Chicago, IL

$18.87 - $26.66/hr

Required Job Qualifications: • High School Diploma preferred. • Three years cooking experience. • Two years general cooking experience in cold food preparation and/or Cook's assistant. • ...

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Cooks Assistant information

See Crete, IL salary details

$8

$15

$20

How much do cooks assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for cooks assistant in Crete, IL is $15.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.80 and $16.59 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Cooks Assistant vs Kitchen Helper?

AspectCooks AssistantKitchen Helper
CredentialsMinimal; often no formal certificationMinimal; often no formal certification
Work EnvironmentCommercial kitchens, restaurants, cateringCommercial kitchens, restaurants, catering
Job RoleAssists cooks with food prep, cleaning, basic tasksSupports kitchen staff with cleaning, prep, and general support
Employer UsageCommonly used in hospitality and food serviceCommonly used in hospitality and food service

While both roles support kitchen operations, a Cooks Assistant typically performs more food preparation tasks under supervision, whereas a Kitchen Helper focuses on cleaning and general support. Both roles are entry-level and essential in maintaining efficient kitchen workflows.

What are some common challenges faced by a cooks assistant and how can they be overcome?

As a Cook's Assistant, you may face challenges such as working in a fast-paced environment, managing multiple tasks at once, and maintaining high standards of cleanliness and food safety. To overcome these challenges, it's important to stay organized, communicate effectively with the kitchen team, and be proactive in anticipating the needs of the cooks. Developing good time management skills and being adaptable to sudden changes in orders or priorities will also help you thrive in this role.

What is a cooks assistant?

Cooks Assistants, also known as kitchen assistants or prep cooks, support chefs and cooks in preparing food in commercial kitchens. Their duties typically include washing and chopping ingredients, cleaning workstations, organizing kitchen supplies, and sometimes assisting with basic cooking tasks. They play a crucial role in keeping the kitchen running smoothly and efficiently, ensuring that chefs have everything they need to prepare meals. This position is often an entry point into the culinary field and offers valuable hands-on experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a cooks assistant?

To thrive as a Cooks Assistant, you need a basic understanding of food preparation, kitchen safety, and sanitation practices, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, food handling certifications, and inventory systems is typically required. Strong teamwork, time management, and attention to detail are soft skills that help you excel in fast-paced kitchen environments. These skills and qualifications are vital for maintaining food quality, ensuring safety, and supporting the smooth operation of the kitchen.
What cities near Crete, IL are hiring for Cooks Assistant jobs? Cities near Crete, IL with the most Cooks Assistant job openings:

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 27 days ago


Job description

Position Type:
Assistant Cook/Assistant Cook
Date Posted:
5/18/2026
Location:
Pathways Campus
(High-Needs School)
Date Available:
TBD
Closing Date:
Until Filled
Salary and Benefits in accordance to the Cafeteria Handbook to view this document please visit www.jths.org
Attachment(s):
  • Assistant Cook Job Description.pdf