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Culinary Apprenticeship Program Jobs in Bloomington, IL

Culinary Apprenticeship Program information

See Bloomington, IL salary details

$9

$15

$21

How much do culinary apprenticeship program jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for culinary apprenticeship program in Bloomington, IL is $15.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.37 and $18.89 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a culinary apprenticeship program?

A Culinary Apprenticeship Program is a structured training initiative that combines classroom instruction with hands-on experience in a professional kitchen. Participants, often called apprentices, work under the supervision of experienced chefs to learn essential cooking techniques, kitchen operations, and food safety practices. These programs typically last from one to three years and are designed to prepare individuals for a career in the culinary industry. Apprenticeships may lead to certifications and sometimes even job placement upon completion.

What types of hands-on experiences can I expect during a culinary apprenticeship program?

During a Culinary Apprenticeship Program, you'll gain practical experience in professional kitchens by rotating through various stations such as garde manger, pastry, and hot line. You'll work under the guidance of experienced chefs, learning essential techniques like knife skills, food safety, and plating. These real-world experiences help you build confidence, adapt to the fast-paced kitchen environment, and develop teamwork skills. By the end of the program, you'll be well-prepared for entry-level culinary positions and have a solid foundation for further advancement in the culinary industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a culinary apprenticeship program?

To succeed in a Culinary Apprenticeship Program, you need a basic understanding of cooking techniques, food safety, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with kitchen equipment, recipe management systems, and certification in food handling (such as ServSafe) is often required. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and a willingness to learn set apprentices apart in busy kitchen environments. These skills and qualities ensure that apprentices can master foundational culinary tasks, maintain a safe workspace, and grow into skilled culinary professionals.

What is the difference between Culinary Apprenticeship Program vs Line Cook?

AspectCulinary Apprenticeship ProgramLine Cook
CredentialsTypically requires high school diploma; some programs may need basic culinary knowledgeHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentStructured training in kitchens, often with classroom componentsFast-paced kitchen stations, preparing dishes under supervision
PurposeTo develop foundational culinary skills and industry knowledgeTo execute specific kitchen tasks and prepare menu items

The Culinary Apprenticeship Program provides comprehensive training and education for aspiring chefs, combining classroom learning with hands-on experience. In contrast, a Line Cook focuses on executing specific kitchen duties within a fast-paced environment. While apprenticeships aim to build broad skills for future advancement, line cooks are more specialized in daily kitchen operations.

What are popular job titles related to Culinary Apprenticeship Program jobs in Bloomington, IL?

For Culinary Apprenticeship Program jobs in Bloomington, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Culinary Apprenticeship Program jobs in Bloomington, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Culinary Apprenticeship Program jobs in Bloomington, IL are:

*2nd Shift* Maintenance Technician

Sandridge Food Corporation

Morton, IL • On-site

$22 - $28.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday


Key responsibilities

  • Perform preventive maintenance and service of production and facility equipment, including checking and changing filters, lubricating motors, and replacing filters and oil.

  • Identify and repair electrical and machinery problems promptly, and document all routine inspections and maintenance activities.

  • Work safely with production equipment, follow lock out/tag out safety procedures, and perform facility maintenance tasks such as painting and snow removal.


Sandridge Crafted Foods rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

90th of 444 rated food and drinks producers


Job description

Sandridge Food Corporation is built on a foundation of innovation, quality and commitment to the customer. We provide services and fresh food solutions for the foodservice and retail industries. A leader in the North American refrigerated foods industry for more than 50 years, Sandridge specializes in fresh refrigerated deli salads, sides, soups, sauces and specialty dishes. Our fresh, never frozen, products are created by culinary experts and designed to please the taste enthusiast.
Position Purpose:
The maintenance technician position is responsible for performing highly diversified duties to install, troubleshoot, repair and maintain production and facility equipment according to safety, predictive and productive maintenance systems and processes to support the achievement of the site's business goals and objectives.
Key Specific Responsibilities:
  • Comply with Sandridge food safety and food quality programs.
  • Preventive maintenance and service of all equipment in oven rooms, warehouse and production floors to include roll stock, multi-vac, grinder, slicer, conveyor scale, stein tenderizer, etc. This includes checking/changing filters on heating and cooling as needed.
  • Document all routine inspections and maintenance.
  • Identify electrical and machinery problems as they arise and repair each promptly.
  • Lubricate all refrigeration motors and change filters, oil motors and shaft bearings, and change oil in vacuum pumps.
  • Service and maintain company facility and grounds (i.e. painting, snow removal).
  • Work safely with production equipment and understand lock out / tag out safety requirements.
  • Work safely with sharp, pointed electrical, etc. objects.
  • Follow all Sandridge-Morton Core Values and be a team player
  • Other duties as assigned

Qualifications for Position (Experience, Education and Licensure):
Minimum (required):
  • High school diploma or GED required
  • Completion of a craft apprenticeship, or an equivalent number of years of education and production maintenance experience.
  • 4+ years of manufacturing experience; strong HVAC, mechanical and industrial skills.
  • Physical ability to bend, crouch and lift objects throughout the day.
  • Be physically capable of lifting, pushing, pulling 50 lbs. on a frequent basis.
  • Ability to pay close attention to detail and follow appropriate chain of command
  • Good communications skills
  • Must have the ability to read, interpret, and understand electrical schematics and diagrams to support troubleshooting and maintenance activities.

We offer the opportunity to develop and grow your career, and are committed to promotion from within. Sandridge is an equal opportunity at will employer. It is the policy of the Sandridge Food Corporation to ensure equal employment to all applicable federal regulations and guidelines. Employment discrimination against employees and applicants due to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, age, military status or veteran status is illegal.

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