ZipRecruiter

Log In

2

Entry Level Kitchen Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

California Pizza Kitchen

Host

Deer Park, IL

$9 - $12/hr

This is an entry level position. We look forward to meeting you! California Pizza Kitchen is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against any applicant for employment based on race ...

California Pizza Kitchen

Host

Geneva, IL

This is an entry level position. We look forward to meeting you! California Pizza Kitchen is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against any applicant for employment based on race ...

California Pizza Kitchen

Dishwasher

Geneva, IL

$12.75 - $16.25/hr

At California Pizza Kitchen, R.O.C.K.S is our philosophy for a culture that rocks! For over 35 ... This entry level position requires the cleaning of all dishes, glassware, pots, and pans in a ...

California Pizza Kitchen

Prep Cook

Schaumburg, IL

$14 - $17.75/hr

At California Pizza Kitchen, R.O.C.K.S is our philosophy for a culture that rocks! For over 35 ... This entry level position is responsible for following our recipes, procedures, specs, and ...

California Pizza Kitchen

Host

Deer Park, IL

This is an entry level position. We look forward to meeting you! California Pizza Kitchen is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against any applicant for employment based on race ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsKitchen JobsEntry Level Kitchen JobsEntry Level Kitchen Jobs in Illinois

Entry Level Kitchen information

See Illinois salary details

$8

$14

$19

How much do entry level kitchen jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level kitchen in Illinois is $14.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.03 and $16.06 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Entry Level Kitchen vs Line Cook?

AspectEntry Level KitchenLine Cook
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; basic culinary trainingSimilar credentials; some experience preferred
Work EnvironmentFast-paced kitchen, assisting with prep and basic tasksCooking on the line, preparing dishes during service
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level position in restaurants, hotels, cateringMid-level position in kitchens, often requiring some experience

Entry Level Kitchen roles focus on basic kitchen tasks and prep work, serving as an introduction to culinary work. Line Cooks are more experienced, responsible for cooking dishes during service. Both roles share similar credentials and work environments, but Line Cooks typically require more skills and experience.

Can I work in an entry level kitchen with no experience?

Entry level kitchen positions often do not require prior experience and are suitable for beginners. Employers typically look for a willingness to learn, good work ethic, and the ability to follow instructions; basic skills like knife handling and food safety knowledge can be learned on the job. Certifications such as a food handler's permit may be required or preferred.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level kitchen worker?

To thrive as an Entry Level Kitchen Worker, you need basic food preparation skills, knowledge of food safety guidelines, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with kitchen equipment, sanitation procedures, and sometimes a food handler’s certification are typically required. Strong teamwork, time management, and the ability to follow instructions are important soft skills in this role. These skills ensure efficient kitchen operations, maintain food safety standards, and support a positive working environment.

What is the easiest job in an entry level kitchen?

The easiest job in an entry-level kitchen is often a dishwasher or dish pit worker, as it requires minimal skills and involves basic tasks like cleaning dishes and kitchenware. These roles typically do not require prior experience and may have flexible schedules, making them accessible for beginners.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level kitchen staff and how can they be overcome?

Entry level kitchen staff often face challenges such as working in a fast-paced environment, managing multiple tasks simultaneously, and learning to follow strict food safety protocols. It's important to stay organized, communicate clearly with team members, and be open to feedback from more experienced colleagues. Consistent practice, asking questions when unsure, and being adaptable can help new team members quickly build confidence and improve their performance.

How to start working in an entry level kitchen with no experience?

To start working in an entry level kitchen with no experience, apply for positions such as dishwasher, prep cook, or entry-level cook, which often require minimal skills. Gaining basic knowledge of food safety, cleanliness, and kitchen tools can improve your chances, and being willing to learn and work flexible hours is important for entry-level roles.

What is an entry level kitchen job?

Entry level kitchen jobs are positions in restaurant or food service kitchens that require little to no previous experience. Common roles include dishwasher, prep cook, or kitchen assistant. These jobs involve basic tasks such as washing dishes, prepping ingredients, cleaning, and assisting chefs or cooks. Entry level kitchen jobs are a great way to learn fundamental kitchen skills, gain experience in the food industry, and advance to higher positions over time.

What are the most commonly searched types of Kitchen jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Kitchen jobs in Illinois are:

Entry Level Kitchen jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Kitchen job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, and 26% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $31,055 per year, or $14.9 per hour.

Host

California Pizza Kitchen

Deer Park, IL

$9 - $12/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Re-posted 16 days ago

California Pizza Kitchen rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 28 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 88 rated restaurants

Job description

At California Pizza Kitchen, R.O.C.K.S is our philosophy for a culture that rocks!

For over 35 years we’ve built a culture of Respect, amazing Opportunities, open Communication, acts of Kindness, and epic Service.

Are you ready to join our team and start your #ROCKSolid career?

The Perks

  • Competitive Compensation
  • Flexible Shifts
  • Full and Part-Time Opportunities
  • Benefits
  • Excellent Training Program
  • Unlimited Career Advancement Opportunities
  • Team Member Dining Discounts
  • Diverse Culture
  • Holiday Closures

Epic Service!

Do you love working in a dynamic, fun atmosphere? Do you have a passion for food and an adventurous spirit? Do you like to have friends visit and show them your hospitality? If so, then being a Host at CPK may be for you! Our Hosts bring California creativity to every meal by making each guest their top priority. They ensure that each guest has a memorable dining experience by living out the CPK High 5:

  • We love CPK and we want you to notice.
  • We encourage everyone to have fun and be who they (really) are.
  • We always work as a team to better serve our guests.
  • We’re obsessed with service details.
  • We sell what’s on our menu because we’re passionate about our food and drinks.

Job Duties

Our Hosts are warm, inviting individuals who greets our guests and makes them feel welcome. They inform guests when there is a wait with accurate wait times, while monitoring the wait list. They maintain the highest standard of service, sanitation, and hospitality. Our Hosts work closely with the store management and other employees to create a Team Concept. This is an entry level position.

We look forward to meeting you!

California Pizza Kitchen is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against any applicant for employment based on race, color, religion, national origin, age, gender, or any other legally protected classification. Everyone has a seat at our table.

A full job description, including physical demands of the job is available upon request.

What California Pizza Kitchen employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

California Pizza Kitchen logo

About California Pizza Kitchen

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

California Pizza Kitchen (CPK), based in Los Angeles, California, US, operates in the restaurant industry, particularly renowned for its unique style of pizza. Established in 1985 by attorneys Rick Rosenfield and Larry Flax, CPK quickly gained popularity for its innovative recipes, including the iconic BBQ Chicken Pizza. With a firm commitment to quality and creativity, the mission at CPK is to give a unique dining experience where authentic California-style cuisine is presented in imaginative ways. The company's offerings extend beyond pizzas to include a wide variety of salads, pastas, soups, sandwiches and desserts among other items.

Industry

Food services and drinking places

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Los Angeles, CA, US

Year founded

1985

View All California Pizza Kitchen Jobs

Apply