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Cooks Helper Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

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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 ...

doco

Kitchen Helper

Chicago, IL

$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 ...

doco

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 ...

doco

Kitchen Helper

Chicago, IL

$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 ...

Pace Suburban Bus

Mechanic Helper

Bridgeview, IL

$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 ...

Pace Suburban Bus

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 ...

Pace Suburban Bus

Mechanic Helper

Elgin, IL · On-site

$33.10/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 ...

Pace Suburban Bus

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 ...

Pace Suburban Bus

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 ...

Pace Suburban Bus

Mechanic Helper

Markham, IL

$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 ...

Pace Suburban Bus

Mechanic Helper

North Aurora, IL

$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 ...

Ravinia Green

Be Seen First

Line Cooks

Riverwoods, IL · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

Ready to join a dynamic company in the hospitality and service industry where people help drive the ... Job Summary As a Cook 2, you are responsible for the set-up, food preparation, and organization of ...

Ravinia Green

Be Seen First

Line Cooks

Riverwoods, IL · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

Ready to join a dynamic company in the hospitality and service industry where people help drive the ... Job Summary As a Cook 2, you are responsible for the set-up, food preparation, and organization of ...

Friend that Cooks

Personal Chef - Chicago

Chicago, IL · On-site

$27.01/hr

Much more Who We're Looking For Experienced line cooks, sous chefs, and culinary professionals who are passionate about food and helping people. If you're ready to leave the restaurant grind behind ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsCooks Helper JobsCooks Helper Jobs in Illinois

Cooks Helper information

See Illinois salary details

$9

$16

$20

How much do cooks helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 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 the difference between Cooks Helper vs Kitchen Assistant?

AspectCooks HelperKitchen Assistant
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentCommercial kitchens, restaurants, cafeteriasCommercial kitchens, restaurants, catering services
Employer & Industry UsageFood service establishments, hotels, hospitalsFood service establishments, catering, hospitality
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

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 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 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 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 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:
Cooks Helper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cooks Helper job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 63% Full Time, 36% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $34,792 per year, or $16.7 per hour.

Kitchen Helper

doco

Chicago, IL • On-site

$19.35/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

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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