Kitchen Helper
Chicago, IL · On-site
$19.35/hr
We have an incredible opportunity for a dynamic Kitchen helper to join our growing Des Plaines, IL ... Ensures all food is prepared and cooked according to specific standards. * Maintaining high ...
Kitchen Helper
Chicago, IL · On-site
$19.35/hr
We have an incredible opportunity for a dynamic Kitchen helper to join our growing Des Plaines, IL ... Ensures all food is prepared and cooked according to specific standards. * Maintaining high ...
Kitchen Helper
Chicago, IL · On-site
$19.35/hr
We have an incredible opportunity for a dynamic Kitchen helper to join our growing Des Plaines, IL ... Ensures all food is prepared and cooked according to specific standards. * Maintaining high ...
Kitchen Helper
Chicago, IL · On-site
$19.35/hr
We have an incredible opportunity for a dynamic Kitchen helper to join our growing Des Plaines, IL ... Ensures all food is prepared and cooked according to specific standards. * Maintaining high ...
Mechanic Helper
Bridgeview, IL · On-site
$31.27/hr
... Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry, and Will Counties. As an equal opportunity employer, Pace seeks to employ qualified personnel in all job classifications and to provide equal opportunities in a ...
Mechanic Helper
Bridgeview, IL · On-site
$31.27/hr
... Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry, and Will Counties. As an equal opportunity employer, Pace seeks to employ qualified personnel in all job classifications and to provide equal opportunities in a ...
Mechanic Helper
Bridgeview, IL · On-site
$31.27/hr
... Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry, and Will Counties. As an equal opportunity employer, Pace seeks to employ qualified personnel in all job classifications and to provide equal opportunities in a ...
Mechanic Helper
Bridgeview, IL · On-site
$31.27/hr
... Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry, and Will Counties. As an equal opportunity employer, Pace seeks to employ qualified personnel in all job classifications and to provide equal opportunities in a ...
Mechanic Helper
Markham, IL · On-site
$32.52/hr
... Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry, and Will Counties. As an equal opportunity employer, Pace seeks to employ qualified personnel in all job classifications and to provide equal opportunities in a ...
Mechanic Helper
Markham, IL · On-site
$32.52/hr
... Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry, and Will Counties. As an equal opportunity employer, Pace seeks to employ qualified personnel in all job classifications and to provide equal opportunities in a ...
Mechanic Helper
North Aurora, IL · On-site
$30.62/hr
... Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry, and Will Counties. As an equal opportunity employer, Pace seeks to employ qualified personnel in all job classifications and to provide equal opportunities in a ...
Mechanic Helper
North Aurora, IL · On-site
$30.62/hr
... Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry, and Will Counties. As an equal opportunity employer, Pace seeks to employ qualified personnel in all job classifications and to provide equal opportunities in a ...
Mechanic Helper
North Aurora, IL · On-site
$30.62/hr
... Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry, and Will Counties. As an equal opportunity employer, Pace seeks to employ qualified personnel in all job classifications and to provide equal opportunities in a ...
Mechanic Helper
North Aurora, IL · On-site
$30.62/hr
... Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry, and Will Counties. As an equal opportunity employer, Pace seeks to employ qualified personnel in all job classifications and to provide equal opportunities in a ...
Mechanic Helper
Markham, IL · On-site
$32.52/hr
... Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry, and Will Counties. As an equal opportunity employer, Pace seeks to employ qualified personnel in all job classifications and to provide equal opportunities in a ...
Mechanic Helper
Markham, IL · On-site
$32.52/hr
... Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry, and Will Counties. As an equal opportunity employer, Pace seeks to employ qualified personnel in all job classifications and to provide equal opportunities in a ...
Food Service Substitutes
Mount Vernon, IL · On-site
$13.25 - $17.75/hr
Food Service/Cook Date Posted: 1/1/2019 Location: District 80 Office Date Available: As Needed Closing Date: On-Going Food Service Department Cook or Cook Helper Substitutes ( This position is to be ...
Food Service Substitutes
Mount Vernon, IL · On-site
$13.25 - $17.75/hr
Food Service/Cook Date Posted: 1/1/2019 Location: District 80 Office Date Available: As Needed Closing Date: On-Going Food Service Department Cook or Cook Helper Substitutes ( This position is to be ...
Substitute Cook
Mount Vernon, IL · On-site
$13.25 - $17.75/hr
Vernon Township High School District #201 is seeking a substitute cook/helper position for the 2020-2021 School Year. Applications, letters of interest and resumes can be submitted using the ...
Substitute Cook
Mount Vernon, IL · On-site
$13.25 - $17.75/hr
Vernon Township High School District #201 is seeking a substitute cook/helper position for the 2020-2021 School Year. Applications, letters of interest and resumes can be submitted using the ...
Food Prep Helper
Bloomington, IL · On-site
$16.50 - $19/hr
Food Prep Helper Location: ILLINOIS WESLEYAN UNIVERSITY - 55267006 Workdays/shifts: Varying shifts ... May have basic cooking responsibilities, i.e., cook vegetables, chicken for salads. * Attends work ...
New
Food Prep Helper
Bloomington, IL · On-site
$16.50 - $19/hr
Food Prep Helper Location: ILLINOIS WESLEYAN UNIVERSITY - 55267006 Workdays/shifts: Varying shifts ... May have basic cooking responsibilities, i.e., cook vegetables, chicken for salads. * Attends work ...
New
Food Prep Helper
$16 - $19/hr
Food Prep Helper Location: ILLINOIS WESLEYAN UNIVERSITY - 55267001 Workdays/shifts : Varying shifts ... May have basic cooking responsibilities, i.e., cook vegetables, chicken for salads. * Attends work ...
New
Food Prep Helper
$16 - $19/hr
Food Prep Helper Location: ILLINOIS WESLEYAN UNIVERSITY - 55267001 Workdays/shifts : Varying shifts ... May have basic cooking responsibilities, i.e., cook vegetables, chicken for salads. * Attends work ...
New
Food Prep Helper
$16.50 - $19/hr
Food Prep Helper Location: ILLINOIS WESLEYAN UNIVERSITY - 55267006 Workdays/shifts : Varying shifts ... May have basic cooking responsibilities, i.e., cook vegetables, chicken for salads. * Attends work ...
New
Food Prep Helper
$16.50 - $19/hr
Food Prep Helper Location: ILLINOIS WESLEYAN UNIVERSITY - 55267006 Workdays/shifts : Varying shifts ... May have basic cooking responsibilities, i.e., cook vegetables, chicken for salads. * Attends work ...
New
Food Prep Helper
Bloomington, IL · On-site
$16 - $19/hr
Food Prep Helper Location: ILLINOIS WESLEYAN UNIVERSITY - 55267001 Workdays/shifts: Varying shifts ... May have basic cooking responsibilities, i.e., cook vegetables, chicken for salads. * Attends work ...
New
Food Prep Helper
Bloomington, IL · On-site
$16 - $19/hr
Food Prep Helper Location: ILLINOIS WESLEYAN UNIVERSITY - 55267001 Workdays/shifts: Varying shifts ... May have basic cooking responsibilities, i.e., cook vegetables, chicken for salads. * Attends work ...
New
Food Prep Helper
$17 - $18/hr
Food Prep Helper Location: WILLIAM RAINEY HARPER COLLEGE - 42335001 Workdays/shifts : WEEKDAYS ONLY ... May have basic cooking responsibilities, i.e., cook vegetables, chicken for salads. * Attends work ...
Food Prep Helper
$17 - $18/hr
Food Prep Helper Location: WILLIAM RAINEY HARPER COLLEGE - 42335001 Workdays/shifts : WEEKDAYS ONLY ... May have basic cooking responsibilities, i.e., cook vegetables, chicken for salads. * Attends work ...
Food Prep Helper
Palatine, IL · On-site
$17 - $18/hr
Food Prep Helper Location: WILLIAM RAINEY HARPER COLLEGE - 42335001 Workdays/shifts: WEEKDAYS ONLY ... May have basic cooking responsibilities, i.e., cook vegetables, chicken for salads. * Attends work ...
Food Prep Helper
Palatine, IL · On-site
$17 - $18/hr
Food Prep Helper Location: WILLIAM RAINEY HARPER COLLEGE - 42335001 Workdays/shifts: WEEKDAYS ONLY ... May have basic cooking responsibilities, i.e., cook vegetables, chicken for salads. * Attends work ...
Food Prep Helper
Lake Forest, IL · On-site
$17.50/hr
Food Prep Helper Location: LAKE FOREST ACADEMY - 46120001 Workdays/shifts : Varying shifts, days ... May have basic cooking responsibilities, i.e., cook vegetables, chicken for salads. * Attends work ...
Food Prep Helper
Lake Forest, IL · On-site
$17.50/hr
Food Prep Helper Location: LAKE FOREST ACADEMY - 46120001 Workdays/shifts : Varying shifts, days ... May have basic cooking responsibilities, i.e., cook vegetables, chicken for salads. * Attends work ...
Food Prep Helper
$16 - $19/hr
Food Prep Helper Location: ILLINOIS WESLEYAN UNIVERSITY - 55267001 Workdays/shifts : Varying shifts ... May have basic cooking responsibilities, i.e., cook vegetables, chicken for salads. * Attends work ...
New
Food Prep Helper
$16 - $19/hr
Food Prep Helper Location: ILLINOIS WESLEYAN UNIVERSITY - 55267001 Workdays/shifts : Varying shifts ... May have basic cooking responsibilities, i.e., cook vegetables, chicken for salads. * Attends work ...
New
Food Prep Helper
$17.50/hr
Food Prep Helper Location: LAKE FOREST ACADEMY - 46120001 Workdays/shifts : Varying shifts, days ... May have basic cooking responsibilities, i.e., cook vegetables, chicken for salads. * Attends work ...
Food Prep Helper
$17.50/hr
Food Prep Helper Location: LAKE FOREST ACADEMY - 46120001 Workdays/shifts : Varying shifts, days ... May have basic cooking responsibilities, i.e., cook vegetables, chicken for salads. * Attends work ...
Food Prep Helper
Lake Forest, IL · On-site
$17.50/hr
Food Prep Helper Location: LAKE FOREST ACADEMY - 46120001 Workdays/shifts: Varying shifts, days ... May have basic cooking responsibilities, i.e., cook vegetables, chicken for salads. * Attends work ...
Food Prep Helper
Lake Forest, IL · On-site
$17.50/hr
Food Prep Helper Location: LAKE FOREST ACADEMY - 46120001 Workdays/shifts: Varying shifts, days ... May have basic cooking responsibilities, i.e., cook vegetables, chicken for salads. * Attends work ...
Cooks Helper information
See Illinois salary details
$9.55 - $10.57
1% of jobs
$10.57 - $11.58
3% of jobs
$11.58 - $12.60
2% of jobs
$12.60 - $13.62
1% of jobs
$13.62 - $14.63
9% of jobs
$14.96 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$14.63 - $15.65
26% of jobs
$15.65 - $16.67
6% of jobs
The median wage is $16.81 / hr.
$16.67 - $17.68
7% of jobs
$17.68 - $18.70
11% of jobs
$19.05 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$18.70 - $19.72
21% of jobs
$19.72 - $20.73
11% of jobs
$9
$16
$20
How much do cooks helper jobs pay per hour?
As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for cooks helper in Illinois is $16.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $19.09 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What is a cooks helper?
Cooks Helpers assist chefs and cooks in the preparation and serving of food in restaurants, cafeterias, or other food service establishments. Their duties often include washing and chopping vegetables, preparing ingredients, cleaning work areas, and sometimes helping with basic cooking tasks. They play a vital role in ensuring the kitchen runs smoothly and efficiently by supporting the culinary team with day-to-day tasks. Cooks Helpers may also be responsible for stocking supplies and disposing of kitchen waste. This position is often an entry point for those interested in pursuing a career in the culinary arts.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a cooks helper, and why are they important?
To thrive as a Cooks Helper, you need basic food preparation skills, knowledge of kitchen hygiene, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with kitchen equipment, food safety protocols, and inventory systems is often required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and a strong work ethic are important soft skills that help you stand out in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining efficient kitchen operations, ensuring food safety, and supporting chefs in delivering quality meals.
What are some common challenges faced by a cooks helper, and how can they be addressed?
As a Cook's Helper, one common challenge is working efficiently in a fast-paced kitchen environment, especially during peak hours. Staying organized, communicating clearly with chefs and fellow kitchen staff, and mastering time management are key to overcoming this. Additionally, adapting quickly to changing priorities and maintaining strict food safety standards are essential. Seeking feedback and being proactive in learning new tasks can also help you succeed and potentially advance to higher kitchen positions.
What is the difference between Cooks Helper vs Kitchen Assistant?
| Aspect | Cooks Helper | Kitchen Assistant |
|---|---|---|
| Required Credentials | High school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job training | High school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job training |
| Work Environment | Commercial kitchens, restaurants, cafeterias | Commercial kitchens, restaurants, catering services |
| Employer & Industry Usage | Food service establishments, hotels, hospitals | Food service establishments, catering, hospitality |
| Common Search & Comparison | Yes | Yes |
Both Cooks Helper and Kitchen Assistant roles typically require similar credentials and work in fast-paced kitchen environments. While their duties may overlap, Cooks Helpers often assist with food prep and basic cooking tasks, whereas Kitchen Assistants may focus more on cleaning, prep work, and supporting kitchen staff. Understanding these differences can help job seekers find the right position in the food service industry.
What are the most commonly searched types of Cooks jobs in Illinois?
The most popular types of Cooks jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Cooks Helper jobs?
Cities in Illinois with the most Cooks Helper job openings:
$19.35/hr
Full-time
Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement
Re-posted 20 days ago
Job description
We have an incredible opportunity for a dynamic Kitchen helperto join our growingDes Plaines, ILTeam!
About DO & CO
We have a passion for hospitality culinary delights on every banquet floor and in the sky. With the three business segments of Airline Catering, International Event Catering, and Restaurants, Lounges & Hotels, we offer gourmet entertainment all over the world. We operate in 33 locations, 12 countries and 3 Continents, maintaining the highest standard of quality in both our products and services. We refine the classics, develop the unknown and grow constantly – sometimes beyond our own expectations.
Responsibilities:
- Assisting senior team members in running a busy kitchen.
- Dealing with deliveries and assisting with stock rotation.
- Ensures all food is prepared and cooked according to specific standards.
- Maintaining high standards of hygiene.
- Assist chefs and cooks with basic kitchen tasks, such as preparation of Hot and Cold meals (Halal and/or Non-Halal).
- Prepare food by washing, chopping, and dicing vegetables using knife or peeling machine.
- Comply with all food safety and hygiene regulations as stated in the food safety management system handbook.
- Report problems with the food safety management system to their manager and the hygiene and food safety team
Qualifications:
- Proactive and self-organization
- Ability to manage through a substantial workload.
- Capability to work independently and in a team environment.
- Ability to complete assigned tasks within the given time to meet strict deadlines.
- Ability to accurately monitor wastage.
- Ability to work long hours on foot and in environments with varying temperatures.
- Flexibility to work different shifts (including nights, weekends, and holidays) based on business needs
What We Offer:
- Pay rate: $19.35 hourly.
- Daily Complimentary Meals (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner).
- FT employees are eligible for 401K and medical benefits: medical, dental, and vision.
- An organization dedicated to fostering innovation; in pursuit of cultivating creativity, embracing new ideas and leveraging our impeccable standard for hospitality.
- Genuine career development opportunities, both nationally and internationally.
- The chance to collaborate and represent a leading force in the luxury global gourmet entertainment industry by attending world-class events.
Diversity & Inclusion Statement
DO & CO provides equal employment opportunities. Applicants will be considered for employment without discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, disability status or any other protected characteristic.
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