Cook
Chicago, IL · On-site
$14.50 - $19.25/hr
Cook CHARACTERISTICS OF THE CLASS : Under supervision, prepares foods using a variety of cooking methods at a Chicago Public Schools' facility; and performs related duties as required. ESSENTIAL ...
Cook
Chicago, IL · On-site
$14.50 - $19.25/hr
Cook CHARACTERISTICS OF THE CLASS : Under supervision, prepares foods using a variety of cooking methods at a Chicago Public Schools' facility; and performs related duties as required. ESSENTIAL ...
Cook
Westmont, IL · On-site
$14 - $18.75/hr
Cook Westmont, IL Join our team at Nexus of Westmont as a Cook, where you will play a vital role in preparing delicious meals for our customers. As a Cook, you will be responsible for food ...
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Cook
Westmont, IL · On-site
$14 - $18.75/hr
Cook Westmont, IL Join our team at Nexus of Westmont as a Cook, where you will play a vital role in preparing delicious meals for our customers. As a Cook, you will be responsible for food ...
Cook
Oak Brook, IL · On-site
$19 - $20/hr
At this location, our cooks e arn $19-$20 / hour. Be part of the excitement and freshness of a "Scratch Kitchen" We hand-craft everything in our kitchens. We are looking for talented individuals that ...
Cook
Oak Brook, IL · On-site
$19 - $20/hr
At this location, our cooks e arn $19-$20 / hour. Be part of the excitement and freshness of a "Scratch Kitchen" We hand-craft everything in our kitchens. We are looking for talented individuals that ...
Cook
Naperville, IL · On-site
$17 - $20/hr
Title : Cook Employment type : Hourly : The Cook prepares meals by chopping vegetables, slicing meats, making salads, and cooking / assembling appetizers & entrees. In addition, the Kitchen team ...
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Cook
Naperville, IL · On-site
$17 - $20/hr
Title : Cook Employment type : Hourly : The Cook prepares meals by chopping vegetables, slicing meats, making salads, and cooking / assembling appetizers & entrees. In addition, the Kitchen team ...
Cook
Arlington Heights, IL · On-site
$14.25 - $19/hr
The Cook is responsible for the quality, quantity, tastiness, and freshness of all Hot Choice Buffet products. The Cook pays special attention to speed, cleanliness, organization, and product ...
Cook
Arlington Heights, IL · On-site
$14.25 - $19/hr
The Cook is responsible for the quality, quantity, tastiness, and freshness of all Hot Choice Buffet products. The Cook pays special attention to speed, cleanliness, organization, and product ...
Cook
Naperville, IL · On-site
$18 - $20/hr
At this location, our cooks e arn $18-$20 / hour. Be part of the excitement and freshness of a "Scratch Kitchen" We hand-craft everything in our kitchens. We are looking for talented individuals that ...
Cook
Naperville, IL · On-site
$18 - $20/hr
At this location, our cooks e arn $18-$20 / hour. Be part of the excitement and freshness of a "Scratch Kitchen" We hand-craft everything in our kitchens. We are looking for talented individuals that ...
Cook
Vernon Hills, IL · On-site
$18 - $20/hr
At this location, our cooks e arn $18-$20 / hour. Be part of the excitement and freshness of a "Scratch Kitchen" We hand-craft everything in our kitchens. We are looking for talented individuals that ...
Cook
Vernon Hills, IL · On-site
$18 - $20/hr
At this location, our cooks e arn $18-$20 / hour. Be part of the excitement and freshness of a "Scratch Kitchen" We hand-craft everything in our kitchens. We are looking for talented individuals that ...
Cook
Buffalo Grove, IL · On-site
$18.25 - $21.50/hr
At this location, our cooks e arn $18.25 - $21.50 / hour. Be part of the excitement and freshness of a "Scratch Kitchen" We hand-craft everything in our kitchens. We are looking for talented ...
Cook
Buffalo Grove, IL · On-site
$18.25 - $21.50/hr
At this location, our cooks e arn $18.25 - $21.50 / hour. Be part of the excitement and freshness of a "Scratch Kitchen" We hand-craft everything in our kitchens. We are looking for talented ...
Cook
Des Plaines, IL · On-site
$13.75 - $18.25/hr
... dedicated Cooks to join our kitchen team. Whether you specialize in the line, sauté, grill, or fry station, you'll play a key role in delivering high-quality meals and unforgettable dining ...
Cook
Des Plaines, IL · On-site
$13.75 - $18.25/hr
... dedicated Cooks to join our kitchen team. Whether you specialize in the line, sauté, grill, or fry station, you'll play a key role in delivering high-quality meals and unforgettable dining ...
Cook
Algonquin, IL · On-site
$13.75 - $18.25/hr
The Cook is responsible for the quality, quantity, tastiness, and freshness of all Hot Choice Buffet products. The Cook pays special attention to speed, cleanliness, organization, and product ...
Cook
Algonquin, IL · On-site
$13.75 - $18.25/hr
The Cook is responsible for the quality, quantity, tastiness, and freshness of all Hot Choice Buffet products. The Cook pays special attention to speed, cleanliness, organization, and product ...
Cook
Aurora, IL · On-site
$15 - $16.50/hr
The Cook is responsible for the quality, quantity, tastiness, and freshness of all Hot Choice Buffet products. The Cook pays special attention to speed, cleanliness, organization, and product ...
Cook
Aurora, IL · On-site
$15 - $16.50/hr
The Cook is responsible for the quality, quantity, tastiness, and freshness of all Hot Choice Buffet products. The Cook pays special attention to speed, cleanliness, organization, and product ...
Cook
Des Plaines, IL · On-site
$13.75 - $18.25/hr
... dedicated Cooks to join our kitchen team. Whether you specialize in the line, sauté, grill, or fry station, you'll play a key role in delivering high-quality meals and unforgettable dining ...
Quick apply
Cook
Des Plaines, IL · On-site
$13.75 - $18.25/hr
... dedicated Cooks to join our kitchen team. Whether you specialize in the line, sauté, grill, or fry station, you'll play a key role in delivering high-quality meals and unforgettable dining ...
Cook
Vernon Hills, IL · On-site
$13.75 - $18.25/hr
... dedicated Cooks to join our kitchen team. Whether you specialize in the line, sauté, grill, or fry station, you'll play a key role in delivering high-quality meals and unforgettable dining ...
Cook
Vernon Hills, IL · On-site
$13.75 - $18.25/hr
... dedicated Cooks to join our kitchen team. Whether you specialize in the line, sauté, grill, or fry station, you'll play a key role in delivering high-quality meals and unforgettable dining ...
Cook
$17 - $20/hr
Now Hiring Part-Time We are looking for Cooks to join our awesome team. Competitive pay based on experience, pay range: $17-$20 an hour Key Accountabilities Station Set Up, Prepping Food, Cooking ...
Cook
$17 - $20/hr
Now Hiring Part-Time We are looking for Cooks to join our awesome team. Competitive pay based on experience, pay range: $17-$20 an hour Key Accountabilities Station Set Up, Prepping Food, Cooking ...
Cook
Chicago, IL · On-site
$14.50 - $19.25/hr
Cook CHARACTERISTICS OF THE CLASS : Under supervision, prepares foods using a variety of cooking methods at a Chicago Public Schools' facility; and performs related duties as required. ESSENTIAL ...
Cook
Chicago, IL · On-site
$14.50 - $19.25/hr
Cook CHARACTERISTICS OF THE CLASS : Under supervision, prepares foods using a variety of cooking methods at a Chicago Public Schools' facility; and performs related duties as required. ESSENTIAL ...
Prep Cook / Line Cook
West Dundee, IL · On-site
$15.50 - $19.50/hr
Line Cook Reports To Chef We are looking for an experienced Cook to join our team! You will be preparing and cooking a variety of dishes for restaurant guests to enjoy. You are passionate about ...
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Prep Cook / Line Cook
West Dundee, IL · On-site
$15.50 - $19.50/hr
Line Cook Reports To Chef We are looking for an experienced Cook to join our team! You will be preparing and cooking a variety of dishes for restaurant guests to enjoy. You are passionate about ...
Cook
Vernon Hills, IL · On-site
$13.75 - $18.25/hr
... dedicated Cooks to join our kitchen team. Whether you specialize in the line, sauté, grill, or fry station, you'll play a key role in delivering high-quality meals and unforgettable dining ...
Quick apply
Cook
Vernon Hills, IL · On-site
$13.75 - $18.25/hr
... dedicated Cooks to join our kitchen team. Whether you specialize in the line, sauté, grill, or fry station, you'll play a key role in delivering high-quality meals and unforgettable dining ...
Cook
Rolling Meadows, IL · On-site
$14 - $18.75/hr
A Wingstop cook is responsible to prepare quality food that tastes great and is consistent from day-to-day. This position is critical to Wingstop Restaurants; ensuring compliance with company ...
Cook
Rolling Meadows, IL · On-site
$14 - $18.75/hr
A Wingstop cook is responsible to prepare quality food that tastes great and is consistent from day-to-day. This position is critical to Wingstop Restaurants; ensuring compliance with company ...
Cook
Mchenry, IL · On-site
$13.75 - $18.50/hr
A Wingstop cook is responsible to prepare quality food that tastes great and is consistent from day-to-day. This position is critical to Wingstop Restaurants; ensuring compliance with company ...
Cook
Mchenry, IL · On-site
$13.75 - $18.50/hr
A Wingstop cook is responsible to prepare quality food that tastes great and is consistent from day-to-day. This position is critical to Wingstop Restaurants; ensuring compliance with company ...
Cooks information
See Elgin, IL salary details
$8.79 - $9.98
2% of jobs
$9.98 - $11.17
4% of jobs
$11.17 - $12.36
9% of jobs
$13.54 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$12.36 - $13.54
10% of jobs
$13.54 - $14.73
14% of jobs
The median wage is $15.52 / hr.
$14.73 - $15.92
16% of jobs
$15.92 - $17.11
15% of jobs
$17.54 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$17.11 - $18.30
12% of jobs
$18.30 - $19.48
9% of jobs
$19.48 - $20.67
5% of jobs
$20.67 - $21.86
3% of jobs
$8
$15
$21
How much do cooks jobs pay per hour?
As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for cooks in Elgin, IL is $15.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.32 and $17.84 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What is the difference between Cooks vs Chefs?
| Aspect | Cooks | Chefs |
|---|---|---|
| Credentials | May require food safety certifications or culinary training | Often have formal culinary education or extensive experience |
| Work Environment | Work in restaurants, cafeterias, or catering services | Typically lead kitchen operations, may own or manage kitchens |
| Industry Usage | Commonly employed in various food service settings | Usually hold leadership roles in kitchens |
| Search & Comparison Intent | People compare Cooks with Chefs to understand roles, skills, and career paths |
While both Cooks and Chefs work in food preparation, Cooks generally perform specific cooking tasks under supervision, whereas Chefs often have leadership roles, oversee kitchen operations, and possess advanced culinary skills. The choice depends on experience, training, and career goals within the culinary industry.
What are careers in cooking?
Careers in cooking include roles such as chefs, line cooks, pastry cooks, and kitchen managers. These positions typically require culinary skills, knowledge of food safety, and the ability to work in fast-paced environments. Opportunities exist in restaurants, hotels, catering, and institutional food service settings.
What jobs can I do with cooking?
A cook can work in various food service roles such as restaurant chef, line cook, catering chef, or pastry chef. These positions often require knowledge of food preparation, safety standards, and kitchen equipment, and may involve working flexible hours in fast-paced environments.
What are popular job titles related to Cooks jobs in Elgin, IL?
For Cooks jobs in Elgin, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Cooks jobs in Elgin, IL look for?
The top searched job categories for Cooks jobs in Elgin, IL are:
What cities near Elgin, IL are hiring for Cooks jobs?
Cities near Elgin, IL with the most Cooks job openings:
Job description
CLASS TITLE: Cook
CHARACTERISTICS OF THE CLASS: Under supervision, prepares foods using a variety of cooking methods at a Chicago Public Schools' facility; and performs related duties as required.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: Submits requests for food commodities used in the preparation of a variety of foods, including, soups, sauces, gravies, dressings, vegetables, puddings, meat, fish, fowl, and desserts; prepares foods using a variety of cooking methods, including, baking, basting, blanching, braising, broiling, deep frying, roasting, sautéing, steaming, and stewing; prepares meals with an understanding of minimal loss of nutritional value; prepares food items in accordance with accepted practices and techniques established by the Chicago Public Schools' Department of Food Services, using current menus and recipes as furnished by the department; makes calculations for the purpose of increasing and decreasing recipes; operates food service equipment in accordance with accepted safety practices and policies; weighs, measures, and proportions ingredients; performs a variety of food preparation duties prior to cooking food, including, washing, peeling, cutting, chopping, dicing, mixing, blending, folding, slicing, and breading of food items; maintains sanitation levels in work areas; properly stores fresh and prepared foods; cleans all equipment after usage, including ranges, work tables, counter tops, and cooking utensils; maintains adequate levels of supplies; assists in serving food when necessary; follows departmental personal hygiene requirements.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Training and Experience. 2 years of previous work experience as a cook with large volume cooking responsibility in an institutional setting; or an equivalent combination of training and experience.
Certificate Requirement. Must possess a valid State Sanitation Certificate within twelve months from date of hire.
Knowledge, Abilities, and Skill. Good knowledge of methods used in cooking a variety of foods in large quantities, good knowledge of the cooking characteristics of various food items, good knowledge of basic nutrition principles.
Ability to follow written and oral instructions and to work from recipes, ability to work in a school setting, ability to stand for long periods of time.
Good skill in the application of the principles and techniques of cooking in large quantities, good skill in the care and use of cooking utensils and equipment.
Physical Requirements. Medium Work: Exerting twenty (20) to fifty (50) pounds of force occasionally, or ten (10) to fifteen (15) pounds of force frequently, or greater than negligible up to ten (10) pounds of force constantly to move objects.
CHARACTERISTICS OF THE CLASS: Under supervision, prepares foods using a variety of cooking methods at a Chicago Public Schools' facility; and performs related duties as required.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: Submits requests for food commodities used in the preparation of a variety of foods, including, soups, sauces, gravies, dressings, vegetables, puddings, meat, fish, fowl, and desserts; prepares foods using a variety of cooking methods, including, baking, basting, blanching, braising, broiling, deep frying, roasting, sautéing, steaming, and stewing; prepares meals with an understanding of minimal loss of nutritional value; prepares food items in accordance with accepted practices and techniques established by the Chicago Public Schools' Department of Food Services, using current menus and recipes as furnished by the department; makes calculations for the purpose of increasing and decreasing recipes; operates food service equipment in accordance with accepted safety practices and policies; weighs, measures, and proportions ingredients; performs a variety of food preparation duties prior to cooking food, including, washing, peeling, cutting, chopping, dicing, mixing, blending, folding, slicing, and breading of food items; maintains sanitation levels in work areas; properly stores fresh and prepared foods; cleans all equipment after usage, including ranges, work tables, counter tops, and cooking utensils; maintains adequate levels of supplies; assists in serving food when necessary; follows departmental personal hygiene requirements.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Training and Experience. 2 years of previous work experience as a cook with large volume cooking responsibility in an institutional setting; or an equivalent combination of training and experience.
Certificate Requirement. Must possess a valid State Sanitation Certificate within twelve months from date of hire.
Knowledge, Abilities, and Skill. Good knowledge of methods used in cooking a variety of foods in large quantities, good knowledge of the cooking characteristics of various food items, good knowledge of basic nutrition principles.
Ability to follow written and oral instructions and to work from recipes, ability to work in a school setting, ability to stand for long periods of time.
Good skill in the application of the principles and techniques of cooking in large quantities, good skill in the care and use of cooking utensils and equipment.
Physical Requirements. Medium Work: Exerting twenty (20) to fifty (50) pounds of force occasionally, or ten (10) to fifteen (15) pounds of force frequently, or greater than negligible up to ten (10) pounds of force constantly to move objects.