ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Cooks Helper Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Pace Suburban Bus

Mechanic Helper (2)

Evanston, IL

$33.39/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 (3)

Waukegan, IL

$33.49/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 (3)

Elgin, IL · On-site

$17.75 - $21.75/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 (2)

Evanston, IL · On-site

$33.39/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 ...

Jobletics Pro Inc.

Be Seen First

COOKS - Join Our Growing Team!

Chicago, IL · On-site

$17.50 - $18.01/hr

Cook - Join Our Culinary Team! We're looking for a skilled and reliable Hot production cook to join ... Our goal is simple, keep you working and help you succeed. If you're reliable, professional, and ...

Pie Five Pizza

Prep Kitchen Helper

Skokie, IL · On-site

$12 - $14/hr

Prepares and cooks pizzas * Assists with preparation of other menu items such as spicy wings, salads, and desserts * Complies with all portion sizes, quality standards, policies, and procedures.

Pie Five Pizza

Prep Kitchen Helper

Oak Brook, IL · On-site

$12 - $14/hr

Prepares and cooks pizzas * Assists with preparation of other menu items such as spicy wings, salads, and desserts * Complies with all portion sizes, quality standards, policies, and procedures.

Pimacounty

$17.90 - $19.46/hr

Do you love to prep and cook ... Help support our community and have a positive impact. Apply today! Distinguishing Characteristics:

Bottleneck Management

Prep Cook

Naperville, IL · On-site

$14.25 - $18/hr

Prep Cooks help prepare and maintain assigned par levels of food items. They produce all proteins, sauces, dressing, and stocks from scratch; they are the heart of the kitchen. Prep Cook upholds the ...

Bottleneck Management

Prep Cook

Chicago, IL · On-site

$14.75 - $18.50/hr

Prep Cooks help prepare and maintain assigned par levels of food items. They produce all proteins, sauces, dressing, and stocks from scratch; they are the heart of the kitchen. Prep Cook upholds the ...

Dairy Queen

Cook

Belleville, IL · On-site

$15/hr

We are looking for someone to work as a team player, follow instructions, and help us delight our customers with delicious food from our menu. In addition to cooking prowess, great communication and ...

doco

Pastry Helper

Chicago, IL

$16.25 - $20.50/hr

We have an incredible opportunity for a dynamic, energetic, and eager Pastry Helper in Des Plaines ... Responsibilities: * Assist pastry production team, chefs, and cooks with mixing pastry products ...

DO & CO

Pastry Helper

Des Plaines, IL · On-site

$19.35/hr

We have an incredible opportunity for a dynamic, energetic, and eager Pastry Helper in Des Plaines ... Responsibilities: * Assist pastry production team, chefs, and cooks with mixing pastry products ...

doco

Pastry Helper

Chicago, IL

$16.25 - $20.50/hr

We have an incredible opportunity for a dynamic, energetic, and eager Pastry Helper in Des Plaines ... Responsibilities: * Assist pastry production team, chefs, and cooks with mixing pastry products ...

Bella Milano

Cook

Springfield, IL · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

Teamwork: Individuals that are willing to take time to help other's succeed, thrive in our ... We pride ourselves in our exceptional service, and we expect nothing less from our cooks.

Bella Milano

Cook

Springfield, IL · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

Teamwork: Individuals that are willing to take time to help other's succeed, thrive in our ... We pride ourselves in our exceptional service, and we expect nothing less from our cooks.

Bella Milano

Cook

O Fallon, IL · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

Teamwork: Individuals that are willing to take time to help other's succeed, thrive in our ... We pride ourselves in our exceptional service, and we expect nothing less from our cooks.

Bella Milano

Cook

O Fallon, IL · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

Teamwork: Individuals that are willing to take time to help other's succeed, thrive in our ... We pride ourselves in our exceptional service, and we expect nothing less from our cooks.

previous page

Showing results 41-60

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 7, 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.

Mechanic Helper (2)

Pace Suburban Bus

Evanston, IL

$33.39/hr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Job Description:

Under the direction of the Superintendent of Maintenance, or designate, the Mechanic Helper is responsible for performing preventive maintenance inspections and general repairs on all Company vehicles and equipment, but not limited to:

  1. Making all types of service calls.
  2. Performing shift duties as needed.
  3. Completing all required documents and accounting for all materials used in accordance with work order systems.
  4. Performing other duties as assigned or required. 

Qualifications

Age:

Must be 18 years of age or older.

Education:

High school diploma or equivalency. 

Experience:

Must have at least one (1) year previous experience in diesel and gasoline vehicle repair and/or relevant technical school training. 

Must have a good work history and safe driving record of three (3) years. 

Certifications:

Must attend Pace's Mechanic Training Program and pass examination for position.

Must have or obtain within 60 days of being hired, a valid "B" Commercial Driver's license with air brake endorsements

Proficiencies:

Must have or purchase a good starter set of hand tools sufficient for performing the duties of the position. 

Must be able to operate all company equipment and have knowledge of the service area

Physical Requirements:

Must be capable of lifting 75 pounds to waist height, maintaining and carrying that weight for a minimum of ten feet.

This is a safety sensitive position.

Working Conditions:

Work is performed in a garage setting with exposure to loud noises and noxious odors, and outdoors with exposure to inclement weather. The performance of these duties may be required 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. This position is not eligible for hybrid schedule or telecommuting.

Salary:

$33.39/hr

This is a bargained for position (Union) subject to the terms of a Collective Bargaining Agreement.

BENENFITS SUMMARY 

Pace, the Suburban Bus Division of the Regional Transportation Authority ("Pace"), was established to aid and assist public transportation in the six-county northeastern Illinois area consisting of 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 manner that will not discriminate against any person because of actual or perceived race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, ancestry, pregnancy, marital or civil union status, citizenship status, disability, military or veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, order of protection status, childbirth, medical conditions related to pregnancy or childbirth, genetic information, or any other protected characteristic defined under applicable law.

Thank you for your interest in Pace. If you are having difficulty completing this application or require other assistance, please contact Devlin Collins at devlin.collins@pacebus.com. 

Apply