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

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Entry Level Cook information

See DeKalb, IL salary details

$8

$15

$21

How much do entry level cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level cook in DeKalb, IL is $15.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.22 and $17.69 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as an entry level cook?

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 an entry level cook do?

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.

What is an entry level cook?

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.

How do I start working as an entry level cook with no experience?

To start as an entry level cook with no experience, focus on gaining basic kitchen skills, such as knife handling and food safety, through online courses or volunteering. Apply for entry-level positions at restaurants or cafeterias, emphasizing your willingness to learn and work in a team; some employers may provide on-the-job training. Obtaining a food handler's permit can also improve your chances of employment.

What are the most commonly searched types of Cook jobs in DeKalb, IL?

The most popular types of Cook jobs in DeKalb, IL are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Cook jobs in DeKalb, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Cook jobs in DeKalb, IL are:

What cities near DeKalb, IL are hiring for Entry Level Cook jobs?

Cities near DeKalb, IL with the most Entry Level Cook job openings:

Entry Level Cook jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Cook job openings in DeKalb, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 69% Full Time, 30% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,723 per year, or $15.7 per hour.

Carpenter Trainee (Entry-Level) - Residential Construction

QXO

Aurora, IL • On-site

$20 - $55/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago

QXO rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

118th of 419 rated retail wholesalers

Job description

QXO is a leading distributor and installer of building products serving an $800 billion market. The company's mission is to modernize the building products industry through advanced technology and a best-in-class customer experience. QXO is North America's largest distributor and installer of insulation, the second-largest distributor of roofing products, the second-largest publicly traded distributor of lumber and building materials, and the largest distributor of waterproofing products. The company is targeting $50 billion in annual revenue within the decade through accretive acquisitions and organic growth. For more information, visit QXO.com.
What you'll do:
Start Your Career in Carpentry - We'll Train You
We are the largest production residential carpentry contractor in the Chicago suburban market, and we're hiring Carpenter Trainees to join our growing team.
Our job sites are located across the 8 counties surrounding Chicago, with immediate opportunities to learn the trade and build a long-term career in residential construction while working alongside experienced Foremen and crews.
Project Locations
This role supports active residential construction projects throughout the greater Chicago area, including the following counties and communities:
  • Will County: Plainfield, Joliet, Lockport, New Lenox, Manhattan
  • DuPage County: Aurora, Naperville, Woodridge, Lombard, Warrenville
  • Kane County: Aurora, St. Charles, Elgin, Batavia, Huntley, Pingree Grove, Sugar Grove
  • Kendall County: Oswego, Yorkville, Montgomery
  • Cook County: Tinley Park, Schaumburg, Bartlett, Lemont, Hoffman Estates, Northbrook
  • Lake County: Mundelein, Volo
  • McHenry County: Huntley, Crystal Lake, Johnsburg
  • DeKalb County: DeKalb, Sycamore, Genoa, Cortland, Maple Park, Sandwich, Somonauk, Kingston

Travel between project sites may be required based on business needs.
What You'll Do
  • Assist with framing, sheathing, exterior trim, and general carpentry tasks
  • Support work on decks, interior trim, and residential structures
  • Work directly with Foremen and crew members to complete daily tasks safely and efficiently
  • Help with material handling, staging, and jobsite setup
  • Use hand and power tools under supervision
  • Maintain a clean, safe, and organized jobsite

Work Environment
  • Residential construction sites
  • Outdoor work in varying weather conditions
  • Physically active role (lifting, climbing, bending)
  • Overtime available based on project needs

What you'll bring:
  • No experience required - we will train you
  • Strong work ethic and reliability
  • Willingness to learn and take direction from Foremen and team leads
  • Comfortable working outdoors in active construction environments
  • Ability to lift up to 75 lbs. (team lift when needed)

What you'll earn:
  • Health Care Benefits
  • 401(k) with employer match
  • Paid Time Off

QXO is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We value diversity and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender or sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected status.
To comply with Pay Transparency laws, employers must disclose an annual salary range. Actual offers depend on factors such as location, experience, skills, and market data. This position may also offer variable compensation.
#CarpenterJobs #SkilledTrades #ConstructionJobs #FinishCarpenter #NowHiring #ChicagoJobs #ResidentialConstruction #HiringNow
Salary Range:
USD $20.00 - USD $55.00 /Hr.

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