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Entry Level Cook Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Hyatt

Entry level Cook - Sixes & Eights

Chicago, IL

$27.33/hr

The Entry Level Cook is a culinary position that requires basic culinary skills or related cooking experience and good communication skills. This position will work within one of our 3 outlets. Hyatt ...

White Lodging Services Corporation

Prep Cook

Chicago, IL · On-site

$26.50 - $27/hr

WHAT YOU'LL DO • An Entry Level Cook is a Culinarian in training position, the full and all job duties will be learned and practiced • Utilize company F&B procedures as well as health department ...

Hotel Lincoln

FT Prep Cook

Chicago, IL

$22/hr

Join our exceptional team as an Entry Level Cook. We are seeking a passionate individual with a strong desire to learn and grow in the culinary world. Bring your high energy, enthusiasm, and ...

Hotel Lincoln

FT Prep Cook

Chicago, IL · On-site

$22/hr

Join our exceptional team as an Entry Level Cook. We are seeking a passionate individual with a strong desire to learn and grow in the culinary world. Bring your high energy, enthusiasm, and ...

Hotel Lincoln

FT Prep Cook

Chicago, IL · On-site

$22/hr

Join our exceptional team as an Entry Level Cook. We are seeking a passionate individual with a strong desire to learn and grow in the culinary world. Bring your high energy, enthusiasm, and ...

Davidson Hospitality Group

FT Prep Cook

Chicago, IL · On-site

$22/hr

Join our exceptional team as an Entry Level Cook. We are seeking a passionate individual with a strong desire to learn and grow in the culinary world. Bring your high energy, enthusiasm, and ...

Hyatt

Pantry Cook - Entry Level

Chicago, IL

$27.33/hr

The Entry Level Cook is a culinary position that requires basic culinary skills or related cooking experience and good communication skills. This position will work within one of our 3 outlets. Hyatt ...

Raising Cane's

Cook

Schaumburg, IL · On-site

$15.50/hr

We are looking to immediately hire entry level and experienced Cooks who can thrive in an upbeat and fast-paced food service environment.We are hiring immediately for Cooks that can work all shifts ...

Raising Cane's

Cook

Harwood Heights, IL · On-site

$15.50/hr

We are looking to immediately hire entry level and experienced Cooks who can thrive in an upbeat and fast-paced food service environment. We are hiring immediately for Cooks that can work all shifts ...

Raising Cane's

Cook

Schaumburg, IL · On-site

$15.50/hr

We are looking to immediately hire entry level and experienced Cooks who can thrive in an upbeat and fast-paced food service environment. We are hiring immediately for Cooks that can work all shifts ...

Raising Cane's

Cook

Schaumburg, IL · On-site

$15.50/hr

We are looking to immediately hire entry level and experienced Cooks who can thrive in an upbeat and fast-paced food service environment. We are hiring immediately for Cooks that can work all shifts ...

Raising Cane's

Cook

Harwood Heights, IL · On-site

$15.50/hr

We are looking to immediately hire entry level and experienced Cooks who can thrive in an upbeat and fast-paced food service environment. We are hiring immediately for Cooks that can work all shifts ...

Raising Cane's

Cook

Harwood Heights, IL · On-site

$15.50/hr

We are looking to immediately hire entry level and experienced Cooks who can thrive in an upbeat and fast-paced food service environment.We are hiring immediately for Cooks that can work all shifts ...

Raising Cane's

Cook - Morning Shift

Morton Grove, IL · On-site

$15.50/hr

We are looking to immediately hire entry level and experienced Cooks who can thrive in an upbeat and fast-paced food service environment. We are hiring immediately for Cooks that can work all shifts ...

Raising Cane's

Cook - Morning Shift

Algonquin, IL · On-site

$15.50/hr

We are looking to immediately hire entry level and experienced Cooks who can thrive in an upbeat and fast-paced food service environment. We are hiring immediately for Cooks that can work all shifts ...

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All JobsEntry Level Cook JobsEntry Level Cook Jobs in Chicago, IL

Entry Level Cook information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$9

$16

$22

How much do entry level cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level cook in Chicago, IL is $16.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.89 and $18.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to get a first line cook job?

To get a first line cook job, gain basic cooking skills through culinary classes or on-the-job training, and obtain relevant certifications such as food safety. Build a strong work ethic, demonstrate reliability, and prepare a resume highlighting any kitchen experience or related skills to increase your chances of employment in a restaurant environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Entry Level Cook position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Cook, you need basic cooking skills, familiarity with food safety standards, and the ability to follow recipes and instructions, often gained through high school education or culinary training programs. Exposure to kitchen equipment like grills, fryers, ovens, and knowledge of food handling certifications (such as ServSafe) are typically expected. Attention to detail, reliability, strong communication, and teamwork are valuable soft skills in this role. These qualifications help ensure delicious, safe meals are prepared efficiently while maintaining a positive, productive kitchen environment.

What does a typical workday look like for an Entry Level Cook?

As an Entry Level Cook, your workday often starts with prepping ingredients and setting up your workstation according to the day's menu. Throughout your shift, you'll prepare and cook dishes under the supervision of senior cooks or kitchen managers, assist with cleaning and organization, and restock supplies as needed. The pace can be fast, especially during meal rushes, and you’ll frequently collaborate with other kitchen staff to ensure orders are accurate and timely. This hands-on experience helps you build essential culinary skills and fosters a strong understanding of team operations in a professional kitchen.

Is cook 1 entry level?

Yes, a Cook 1 position is typically considered entry-level in the culinary industry. It usually requires basic cooking skills, such as food preparation and following recipes, and often serves as a starting point for a culinary career. Advancement may require gaining experience and developing additional skills like knife techniques or kitchen safety certifications.

How do I start working as a cook with no experience?

Entry level cooks can start by gaining basic kitchen skills through online tutorials or cooking classes, and volunteering or working as a dishwasher to learn kitchen operations. Applying for entry-level positions that offer on-the-job training and demonstrating a willingness to learn can help you gain experience and develop necessary skills such as food safety and knife handling.

How much does a beginner cook make?

Entry-level cooks typically earn between $10 and $15 per hour, depending on location, establishment, and experience. Starting salaries may increase with additional skills, certifications, and experience in the kitchen environment.

What is an Entry Level Cook job?

An Entry Level Cook is responsible for basic food preparation and assisting in the kitchen under the supervision of senior chefs. Duties may include chopping ingredients, following recipes, maintaining cleanliness, and ensuring food safety standards. This position helps individuals gain hands-on experience in a professional kitchen setting. It is a great starting point for those looking to advance in the culinary field.

What are the most commonly searched types of Cook jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Cook jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Cook jobs in Chicago, IL? For Entry Level Cook jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Cook jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Cook jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Entry Level Cook jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Entry Level Cook job openings:
Entry Level Cook jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Cook job openings in Chicago, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $34,372 per year, or $16.5 per hour.
Entry level Cook - Sixes & Eights

Entry level Cook - Sixes & Eights

Hyatt

Chicago, IL

$27.33/hr

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Hyatt Hotels rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 251 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

22nd of 106 rated hotels

Job description

Whether traveling for business or pleasure, Hyatt Regency McCormick Place has everything you'll need under one hotel roof with over 1258 guest rooms, 53 suites and 13,000 sq. ft. of meeting space. In addition, our conference center boasts nearly 30,000 sq. ft. of meeting space.  You will rest comfortably in spacious rooms and suites. Enjoy international cuisine at Third Star, ramen bowls at Sixes & Eights or meet for drinks at ARC Bar. Relax in our indoor pool and reenergize in the 24-hour StayFit Gym. If you are hosting a meeting or event, our hotel gives you direct access to more than 2.8 million square feet of space at the country's largest convention center.

At Hyatt, we believe our guests select Hyatt because of our caring and attentive associates who are focused on providing authentic hospitality and meaningful experiences to each and every guest. Hyatt is a place where high expectations aren't just met-they're exceeded. It's a place of outstanding rewards, where talent opens doors to exciting challenges in the hospitality industry.

The Entry Level Cook is a culinary position that requires basic culinary skills or related cooking experience and good communication skills. This position will work within one of our 3 outlets. Hyatt Regency McCormick Place Chicago offers an exciting culinary scene that celebrates Chicago. Each of our restaurants and bars feature unique menus and stunning spaces, all located near McCormick Place Convention Center. Drawing inspiration from the 1893 World's Fair, Third Star serves artisanal cuisine with international flavors. Take a journey through Southeast Asian street food in the casual, colorful Sixes & Eights. Lit with the glow of thousands of Edison bulbs, Arc Bar offers a modern edge that's intimate, yet high energy.

Sixes & Eights: Named for the favorable numbers of Japanese and Chinese history, Sixes & Eights offers an eclectic culinary experience that elevates the bold flavors of Southeast Asian street food. Order from the a la carte menu to build your own rice, ramen or pho bowl, or try a Chef's Special for a unique snack or simple meal.

Hyatt associates work in an environment that demands exceptional performance yet reaps great rewards.  Whether it's career opportunities, job enrichment or a supportive work environment; if you are ready for this challenge, then we are ready for you.

Wage information The hourly wage for this position is $27.33

Shift Information This position requires a flexible schedule 

Benefits

As a Full-Time colleague, you will be eligible for Health Insurance, paid vacation, paid holidays, FREE and discounted hotel rooms, and many more benefits! 

 
Click here to spend a 'day in the life' of a hospitality professional at a full-service hotel via our virtual reality experience.
  • A culinary degree is preferred
  • Previous culinary experience is strongly preferred
  • Must be able to perform all basic and intermediate cooking skills
  • A true desire to satisfy the needs of others in a fast-paced environment.
  • Ability to stand for long periods of time
  • Capable of performing repetitious duties
  • Fair verbal, and written communication skills are required
  • Must have flexible availability to work all shifts, days, nights, weekends, and holidays

This is a great opportunity to get a start with Hyatt as a cook.  For immediate consideration of the cook position, click Apply Now and complete an application for the cook position on the Hyatt Careers Site!

All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status

What Hyatt Hotels employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Hyatt logo

About Hyatt

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Hyatt, we believe in the power of belonging and creating a culture of care, where our colleagues become family. Since 1957, our colleagues and our guests have been at the heart of our business and helped Hyatt become one of the best, and fastest-growing hospitality brands in the world. Our transformative growth and the addition of new hotels, brands, and business lines can open the door for exciting career and growth opportunities for our colleagues. As we continue to grow, we never lose sight of what's most important: People. We turn trips into journeys, encounters into experiences, and jobs into careers.

Industry

Hospitality services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Chicago, IL, US

Year founded

1957

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