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Cooks Prep Cooks Jobs in Cary, IL (NOW HIRING)

Kura Sushi

Sushi Prep/Line Cook

Schaumburg, IL · On-site

$17.05/hr

Check out our Benefits!- Line Cooks/Prep Cooks at Kura are: * Team players that go above and beyond * Committed to preparing and providing fresh, tasty, and quality food to our guests * Organized and ...

Blue Ribbon Restaurants-Novi

Prep Cook

Addison, IL · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

Our cooks are culinary artists! We pride ourselves on our scratch-made kitchen and provide hands on training to our Pitmasters. Our cooks are responsible for following recipes when preparing food and ...

Truluck's

Prep Cook (Fine Dining)

Rosemont, IL · On-site

$16 - $22/hr

Our prep cooks are vital in the delivery of these core values. We are here to make good things happen for other people. Who are you? We are currently seeking Professional Fine Dining Prep Cook ...

Truluck's

Prep Cook (Fine Dining)

Rosemont, IL · On-site

$16 - $22/hr

Our prep cooks are vital in the delivery of these core values. We are here to make good things happen for other people. Who are you? We are currently seeking Professional Fine Dining Prep Cook ...

Ema - Glenview

Prep Cook

Glenview, IL · On-site

$14.50 - $18.50/hr

We're hiring people to join our team as PREP COOKS! A Few of Our Prep Cook Benefits: * Restaurant Discounts * Employee Assistance Program - Focusing on a Commitment to Mental Health & Wellness * Paid ...

Lettuce Entertain You Restaurants

Prep Cook

Glenview, IL · On-site

$14.50 - $18.50/hr

We're hiring people to join our team as PREP COOKS! A Few of Our Prep Cook Benefits: * Restaurant Discounts * Employee Assistance Program - Focusing on a Commitment to Mental Health & Wellness * Paid ...

Truluck's

Prep/Pantry Cook (Fine Dining)

Rosemont, IL · On-site

$16 - $21/hr

Our prep cooks are vital in the delivery of these core values. Who are you? We are here to make good things happen for other people. We are currently seeking Professional Fine Dining Prep Cook ...

Beatrix - Fulton Market

Prep Cook

Chicago, IL · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

We're hiring PREP COOKS for the Chicago Beatrix teams in the Loop, River North, Streeterville & Fulton Market locations. INTERVIEW LOCATION: Beatrix 834 W. Fulton Market Chicago, IL 60607 A Few of ...

New

J. Alexander's Restaurants

Prep Cook

Northbrook, IL

$14.50 - $18.25/hr

We hire line and prep cooks who understand high expectations for food presentation and execution. Our restaurants typically include an open-kitchen layout with visibility from the dining room.

J. Alexander's Restaurants

Prep Cook

Northbrook, IL · On-site

$14.50 - $18.25/hr

We hire line and prep cooks who understand high expectations for food presentation and execution. Our restaurants typically include an open-kitchen layout with visibility from the dining room.

Truluck's

Prep/Pantry Cook (Fine Dining)

Rosemont, IL · On-site

$16 - $21/hr

Our prep cooks are vital in the delivery of these core values. Who are you? We are here to make good things happen for other people. We are currently seeking Professional Fine Dining Prep Cook ...

Midtown Athletic Club

Line/Prep Cook

Palatine, IL · On-site

$20/hr

Saturday: 10am-6pm What You'll Do Our Prep Cooks are the heros behind the scenes, assisting with the heart of our restaurants. They are motivated and passionate about helping others eat delicious and ...

MidTown Athletic Club

Line/Prep Cook

Palatine, IL · On-site

$20/hr

Saturday: 10am-6pm What You'll Do Our Prep Cooks are the heros behind the scenes, assisting with the heart of our restaurants. They are motivated and passionate about helping others eat delicious and ...

TCA Professional Services

Line/Prep Cook

Palatine, IL

$20/hr

Saturday: 10am-6pm What You'll Do Our Prep Cooks are the heros behind the scenes, assisting with the heart of our restaurants. They are motivated and passionate about helping others eat delicious and ...

California Pizza Kitchen

Prep Cook

Schaumburg, IL

$14 - $17.75/hr

Job Duties Our Prep Cooks maintain the highest standards for food quality and sanitation. This entry level position is responsible for following our recipes, procedures, specs, and techniques. They ...

J. Alexander's Restaurants

Prep Cook

Deer Park, IL · On-site

$14.25 - $18/hr

We hire line and prep cooks who understand high expectations for food presentation and execution. Our restaurants typically include an open-kitchen layout with visibility from the dining room.

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsCooks Prep Cooks JobsCooks Prep Cooks Jobs in Cary, IL

Cooks Prep Cooks information

See Cary, IL salary details

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How much do cooks prep cooks jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for cooks prep cooks in Cary, IL is $15.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.89 and $17.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a cook?

Cooks and prep cooks are culinary professionals who work in kitchens to prepare and cook food. Prep cooks focus on preparing ingredients by washing, chopping, and measuring, ensuring everything is ready for the main cooking process. Cooks, on the other hand, handle the actual cooking of dishes, following recipes and presentation standards. Both roles require attention to detail, good time management, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment. Together, they help ensure the kitchen runs smoothly and efficiently.

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

To thrive as a Cook or Prep Cook, you need solid food preparation skills, knowledge of kitchen safety and sanitation, and usually a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, basic knife handling techniques, and adherence to food safety certifications like ServSafe are important. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and the ability to work efficiently under pressure are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills ensure consistent food quality, safe kitchen operations, and smooth workflow in fast-paced culinary environments.

What are some common challenges faced by prep cooks in a busy kitchen environment?

Prep cooks often work in fast-paced settings where managing time efficiently and maintaining attention to detail can be challenging. They must juggle multiple tasks, such as chopping ingredients, preparing sauces, and organizing supplies, all while adhering to strict food safety standards. Communication with chefs and other kitchen staff is essential to ensure smooth operations and prevent delays during service. Adapting to changing menus or last-minute requests is also a frequent part of the role, requiring flexibility and quick thinking.

What is the difference between Cooks Prep Cooks vs Line Cooks?

AspectPrep CooksLine Cooks
ResponsibilitiesPrepare ingredients, wash, chop, and set up stationsCook dishes during service, follow recipes, and manage station
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent, food safety certification often preferredSimilar credentials, often with additional culinary training
Work EnvironmentKitchen prep areas, early shifts, less pressureFront-line cooking stations, during service hours, high-pressure environment
Industry UsageCommon in restaurants, catering, and hospitalityEssential in restaurant kitchens, culinary establishments

Prep Cooks focus on preparing ingredients and setting up stations, while Line Cooks handle cooking dishes during service. Both roles require similar credentials and work in busy kitchen environments, but their responsibilities differ based on the stage of food preparation.

Do prep cooks make good money?

Prep cooks typically earn an hourly wage that varies by location and establishment, with median pay around minimum wage to slightly above. Experienced prep cooks or those working in high-end restaurants may earn higher wages, and some may receive tips or benefits. Overall, the pay is generally considered modest compared to more advanced culinary roles.

How much do prep cooks make a year?

Prep cooks typically earn an annual salary ranging from $20,000 to $30,000, depending on experience, location, and the establishment. Many prep cooks are paid hourly, with wages often between $10 and $15 per hour, and may receive benefits or overtime pay based on the employer's policies.

What qualifications do I need to be a prep cook?

Prep cooks typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and basic cooking skills. Prior experience in food preparation, knowledge of kitchen safety, and the ability to follow recipes and instructions are often required. Some employers may also value food safety certifications such as ServSafe.

What cities near Cary, IL are hiring for Cooks Prep Cooks jobs?

Cities near Cary, IL with the most Cooks Prep Cooks job openings:

Cooks Prep Cooks jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cooks Prep Cooks job openings in Cary, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 44% Full Time, and 56% Part Time. Highlights an 67% Physical, and 33% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,098 per year, or $15.9 per hour.

Sushi Prep/Line Cook

Kura Sushi

Schaumburg, IL • On-site

$17.05/hr

Part-time

Posted 14 days ago

Kura Sushi rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 24 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

KURA SUSHI - Pioneers of the revolving sushi concept!
Interview for our location in Schaumburg
Come join the Kura Krew, a team that is passionate about food, culture and providing a unique experience!
Wages: $17.05/hour + Tips
Example earnings: $17.05/hr. + $6.00/hr. in tips = $23.05/hr. projected earnings.
*Note - Projected earnings is an example of what you could earn in this role. Actual earnings depends on actual tips earned.
*Come roll with us! - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7r-TWg_BCAY
*Must be at least 18 years of age or older to apply*
*Check out our Benefits!- https://kurasushi.com/restaurant-benefits
Line Cooks/Prep Cooks at Kura are:
  • Team players that go above and beyond
  • Committed to preparing and providing fresh, tasty, and quality food to our guests
  • Organized and possess the ability to multi-task
  • Knowledgeable about food safety standards and restaurant cleanliness
  • Eager and enthusiastic about learning and preparing sushi by Kura standards.

Schedule:
  • Full-time and Part-time hours available!
  • Availability to work days, nights, weekends, and holidays is preferred

Benefits: We value our employees' time and efforts! We offer the following benefits to eligible employees:
  • Earn solid Tips!
  • Meal discounts
  • Flexible scheduling + life-work balance
  • Career growth opportunities - we put a strong focus on promotion from within!
  • Generous employee referral program - get paid to work with your friends! (conditions apply)

About Kura Sushi USA:
Kura Sushi USA is an innovative and tech interactive Japanese restaurant established in 2008 as a subsidiary of Kura Sushi, Inc. Since the opening of the first restaurant in Osaka, Japan in 1977, the Kura Corporation has grown substantially with over 540 locations across Japan, Taiwan and the United States.
Kura Sushi is on a mission to revolutionize the sushi dining experience. As pioneers of the "revolving sushi" concept, we combine advanced technology, premium ingredients, and affordable prices to enhance the unique revolving sushi dining experience.
Kura Sushi provides equal opportunities for everyone that works for us and everyone that applies to join our team, without regard to sex or gender, gender identity, gender expression, age, race, religious creed, color, national origin, ancestry, pregnancy, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, sexual orientation, any service, past, present, or future, in the uniformed services of the United States (military or veteran status), or any other consideration protected by federal, state, or local law.
Pay Transparency: This position offers a pay rate of ($17.05 to $17.05) per hour, depending on experience and qualifications. Compensation offered is also subject to local wage and hour laws. At Kura Sushi, we are committed to pay transparency and ensuring competitive compensation for all roles

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