ZipRecruiter

Log In

2

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

East Bank Club

Prep Cook - The Market

Chicago, IL

$21/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Rate of Pay: $21.00 per hour. This role is considered entry-level. Job Responsibilities ... Culinary degree is a plus. * Good knife skills. * Must be positive, collaborative, and committed to ...

East Bank Club

Prep Cook - The Market

Chicago, IL · On-site

$21/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Rate of Pay: $21.00 per hour. This role is considered entry-level. Job Responsibilities ... Culinary degree is a plus.   * Good knife skills. * Must be positive, collaborative, and ...

East Bank Club

Prep Cook - The Market

Chicago, IL · On-site

$21/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Rate of Pay: $21.00 per hour. This role is considered entry-level. Job Responsibilities ... Culinary degree is a plus. * Good knife skills. * Must be positive, collaborative, and committed to ...

Andretti Indoor Karting & Games

Prep Cook

Schaumburg, IL · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

  • Retirement

... culinary creations crafted in our kitchens. * We are DRIVEN to develop, train and promote from our entry level positions! * Support for ongoing professional development and training. Skills amp;

Andretti Indoor Karting & Games

Prep Cook IL

Schaumburg, IL · On-site

$18 - $24/hr

  • Retirement

... culinary creations crafted in our kitchens. * We are DRIVEN to develop, train and promote from our entry level positions! * Support for ongoing professional development and training. Skills ...

East Bank Club

Line Cook

Chicago, IL · On-site

$24/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This role is considered entry-level. Full Time Schedules: Monday-Sunday: 6:00am-3:30pm Schedule ... Culinary degree is a plus. * Good knife skills. * Must have availability to work evening shifts ...

East Bank Club

Line Cook

Chicago, IL

$24/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This role is considered entry-level. Full Time Schedules: Monday-Sunday: 6:00am-3:30pm Schedule ... Culinary degree is a plus. * Good knife skills. * Must have availability to work evening shifts ...

East Bank Club

Sundeck Cook - Seasonal

Chicago, IL · On-site

$19/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This role is considered entry-level. Schedule: Monday: 9:00am-5:00pm Tuesday: 9:00am-5:00pm ... Culinary degree is a plus. * Good knife skills. * Must have availability to work evening shifts ...

East Bank Club

Line Cook

Chicago, IL · On-site

$24/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This role is considered entry-level. Full Time Schedules: Monday-Sunday: 6:00am-3:30pm Schedule ... Culinary degree is a plus. * Good knife skills. * Must have availability to work evening shifts ...

Sysco

Sales Representative

Chicago, IL

$47K - $78K/yr

  • Retirement

... Culinary Manager or Chef looking for career development opportunities? Join Sysco's World Class ... Career pathing opportunities for both entry level, and experienced individuals * Opportunity to be ...

Sysco Corporation

Sales Representative

Des Plaines, IL · On-site

$47K - $78K/yr

  • Retirement

... Culinary Manager or Chef looking for career development opportunities? Join Sysco's World Class ... Career pathing opportunities for both entry level, and experienced individuals * Opportunity to be ...

Sysco

Sales Consultant - Cincinnati

Chicago, IL · On-site

$69K - $86K/yr

  • Retirement

Career pathing opportunities for both entry level, and experienced individuals * Opportunity to be ... Culinary Arts) degree. * 1 year of outside foodservice sales experience preferred * Restaurant ...

Sysco Corporation

Sales Representative

Des Plaines, IL · On-site

$47K - $78K/yr

  • Retirement

... Culinary Manager or Chef looking for career development opportunities? Join Sysco's World Class ... Career pathing opportunities for both entry level, and experienced individuals * Opportunity to be ...

Sysco Corporation

Sales Consultant - Cincinnati

Chicago, IL · On-site

$69K - $86K/yr

  • Retirement

Career pathing opportunities for both entry level, and experienced individuals * Opportunity to be ... Culinary Arts) degree. * 1 year of outside foodservice sales experience preferred * Restaurant ...

Sysco Corporation

Sales Representative

Des Plaines, IL · On-site

$47K - $78K/yr

  • Retirement

... Culinary Manager or Chef looking for career development opportunities? Join Sysco's World Class ... Career pathing opportunities for both entry level, and experienced individuals * Opportunity to be ...

Sysco

Mandarin Sales Consultant

Chicago, IL · On-site

$67K - $84K/yr

  • Retirement

Career pathing opportunities for both entry level, and experienced individuals * Opportunity to be ... Culinary Arts) degree. * 1 year of outside foodservice sales experience preferred * Restaurant ...

Sysco Corporation

Mandarin Sales Consultant

Chicago, IL · On-site

$67K - $84K/yr

  • Retirement

Career pathing opportunities for both entry level, and experienced individuals * Opportunity to be ... Culinary Arts) degree. * 1 year of outside foodservice sales experience preferred * Restaurant ...

Sysco

Sales Representative

Chicago, IL

$47K - $78K/yr

  • Retirement

... Culinary Manager or Chef looking for career development opportunities? Join Sysco's World Class ... Career pathing opportunities for both entry level, and experienced individuals * Opportunity to be ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsCulinary JobsEntry Level Culinary JobsEntry Level Culinary Jobs in Chicago, IL

Entry Level Culinary information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$9

$19

$34

How much do entry level culinary jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level culinary in Chicago, IL is $19.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.58 and $19.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are entry level culinary jobs?

Entry level culinary jobs are positions in the food industry that require little to no prior professional kitchen experience. These roles often include responsibilities such as food preparation, assisting chefs, maintaining cleanliness, and following recipes. Common job titles include prep cook, line cook, dishwasher, or kitchen assistant. Entry level culinary jobs are a great way to learn basic kitchen skills, gain hands-on experience, and start a career in the culinary field. Advancement is possible with experience, training, and dedication.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level culinary professional?

To thrive as an Entry Level Culinary professional, a basic understanding of food preparation, kitchen safety, and sanitation is essential, often supported by a high school diploma or culinary coursework. Familiarity with commercial kitchen tools, knives, and food handling certifications like ServSafe are typically required. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and a willingness to learn make someone stand out in this role. These skills and qualities are vital for maintaining a safe, efficient kitchen and delivering high-quality dishes to customers.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level culinary professionals in a commercial kitchen?

Entry-level culinary professionals often find the fast-paced environment of a commercial kitchen challenging, especially during peak service hours when multitasking is essential. Adapting to strict hygiene standards, learning efficient prep techniques, and communicating effectively with the kitchen team are also common hurdles. However, with time and practice, many newcomers quickly develop the stamina, organizational skills, and teamwork necessary to thrive and advance in the culinary industry.

What is the difference between Entry Level Culinary vs Entry Level Cook?

AspectEntry Level CulinaryEntry Level Cook
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; culinary school preferredHigh school diploma or equivalent; culinary training beneficial
Work EnvironmentRestaurants, hotels, catering servicesKitchen settings in restaurants, cafes, hotels
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly used in hospitality and food service industriesPrimarily used in restaurant kitchens and food establishments
Search & Comparison IntentPeople exploring entry-level culinary roles and career pathsIndividuals seeking basic cooking positions in food service

Entry Level Culinary and Entry Level Cook roles often overlap, with both requiring similar credentials and work environments. The term 'Entry Level Culinary' may encompass a broader range of food service positions, including prep cooks and kitchen assistants, while 'Entry Level Cook' specifically refers to basic cooking roles. Both are ideal starting points for those interested in a culinary career in hospitality settings.

What are the most commonly searched types of Culinary jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Culinary jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Culinary jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Entry Level Culinary jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Culinary jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Culinary jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Entry Level Culinary jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Culinary job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, 28% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,608 per year, or $19.5 per hour.

Prep Cook - The Market

East Bank Club

Chicago, IL

$21/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago

East Bank Club rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

37th of 63 rated gym and leisure clubs

Job description

Are you passionate about food, hospitality, and fitness? East Bank Club is looking to add a Prep Cook for our hot bar! The Prep Cook is responsible for the preparation, cooking, and servicing of all hot bar menu items. You will maintain all food products at proper holding temperatures and ensure the cleanliness and organization of the assigned station.
Rate of Pay: $21.00 per hour. This role is considered entry-level.

Job Responsibilities:

  • Preparation, cooking, and servicing of all menu items.
  • Maintain service, production, and preparation specials on all menu items.
  • Maintain all food products at proper holding temperatures.
  • Keep area neat and organized at all times - Products properly labeled, dated, and rotated - Coolers clean and organized at all times.
  • Proper requisitioning and transfer of all needed items for the station.
  • All other job duties as assigned by management.

Requirements

  • Must be authorized to work in the USA. We use E-Verify.
  • Previous experience in high-volume broiler, saute, and cold food production is highly desired.
  • Culinary degree is a plus.
  • Good knife skills.
  • Must be positive, collaborative, and committed to healthy communication and quality work.
  • Must have availability to work evening shifts, mid-shift, morning shifts and this is including weekends and holidays.
  • Must be able to lift 50lbs.
  • Must be on your feet for the majority of the shift.
  • Ability to make movements with fingers, hands, wrists, and arms.
  • Ability to grasp and reach, sometimes above shoulder level.
  • Ability to stoop, kneel and crouch.

Benefits

Time Off & Retirement

  • Paid Time Off
  • 401(k) with company match up to 3%
  • Value Sharing (Profit sharing)
  • Holiday Bonus
  • Paid Parental Leave


Health & Wellness:

  • Comprehensive health, vision, and dental insurance
  • HSA and FSA enrollment options
  • Short- & Long-Term Disability options
  • Life Insurance: Basic coverage equivalent to annual income, with voluntary options for additional coverage
  • Long-Term Care options: Coverage up to 50% of annual income
  • Accident and Critical Illness Insurance
  • EAP (Employee Assistance Program)
  • Pet Insurance through MetLife


Employee Perks:

  • Free workout privileges
  • Employee discounts in the Pro Shop, Spa & Salon services and in the Market
  • Parking and transit benefits (pre-tax deduction)
  • Access to Tickets at Work discounts
  • Tuition reimbursement

East Bank Club is an Equal Opportunity Employer and drug/smoke-free workplace.

What East Bank Club employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply