Cook
Blue Island, IL · On-site
$13.50 - $18.25/hr
Work the food line during mealtimes. * Ensure that all food meets safety guidelines and that all ... You have basic computer skills. Entry level proficiency with Excel and Word is required. * You ...
Cook
Blue Island, IL · On-site
$13.50 - $18.25/hr
Work the food line during mealtimes. * Ensure that all food meets safety guidelines and that all ... You have basic computer skills. Entry level proficiency with Excel and Word is required. * You ...
Cook
Chicago, IL · On-site
$20 - $22/hr
Work the food line during mealtimes. * Ensure that all food meets safety guidelines and that all ... You have basic computer skills. Entry level proficiency with Excel and Word is required. * You ...
Cook
Chicago, IL · On-site
$20 - $22/hr
Work the food line during mealtimes. * Ensure that all food meets safety guidelines and that all ... You have basic computer skills. Entry level proficiency with Excel and Word is required. * You ...
Cook
Oak Brook, IL · On-site
$22/hr
Work the food line during mealtimes. * Ensure that all food meets safety guidelines and that all ... You have basic computer skills. Entry level proficiency with Excel and Word is required. * You ...
Cook
Oak Brook, IL · On-site
$22/hr
Work the food line during mealtimes. * Ensure that all food meets safety guidelines and that all ... You have basic computer skills. Entry level proficiency with Excel and Word is required. * You ...
Cook
$13.50 - $18.25/hr
Work the food line during mealtimes. * Ensure that all food meets safety guidelines and that all ... You have basic computer skills. Entry level proficiency with Excel and Word is required. * You ...
Cook
$13.50 - $18.25/hr
Work the food line during mealtimes. * Ensure that all food meets safety guidelines and that all ... You have basic computer skills. Entry level proficiency with Excel and Word is required. * You ...
Cook
Oak Brook, IL · On-site
$22/hr
Work the food line during mealtimes. * Ensure that all food meets safety guidelines and that all ... You have basic computer skills. Entry level proficiency with Excel and Word is required. * You ...
Cook
Oak Brook, IL · On-site
$22/hr
Work the food line during mealtimes. * Ensure that all food meets safety guidelines and that all ... You have basic computer skills. Entry level proficiency with Excel and Word is required. * You ...
Cook
Chicago, IL · On-site
Work the food line during mealtimes. * Ensure that all food meets safety guidelines and that all ... You have basic computer skills. Entry level proficiency with Excel and Word is required. * You ...
Quick apply
Cook
Chicago, IL · On-site
Work the food line during mealtimes. * Ensure that all food meets safety guidelines and that all ... You have basic computer skills. Entry level proficiency with Excel and Word is required. * You ...
Cook
Blue Island, IL · On-site
$13.50 - $18.25/hr
Work the food line during mealtimes. * Ensure that all food meets safety guidelines and that all ... You have basic computer skills. Entry level proficiency with Excel and Word is required. * You ...
Quick apply
Cook
Blue Island, IL · On-site
$13.50 - $18.25/hr
Work the food line during mealtimes. * Ensure that all food meets safety guidelines and that all ... You have basic computer skills. Entry level proficiency with Excel and Word is required. * You ...
Cook
$20 - $22/hr
Work the food line during mealtimes. * Ensure that all food meets safety guidelines and that all ... You have basic computer skills. Entry level proficiency with Excel and Word is required. * You ...
Cook
$20 - $22/hr
Work the food line during mealtimes. * Ensure that all food meets safety guidelines and that all ... You have basic computer skills. Entry level proficiency with Excel and Word is required. * You ...
Reel Sizzle Cook
Country Club Hills, IL · On-site
$16.50/hr
Ability to keep the line and prep area organized, stocked and clean. * Follow direction of the ... Experienced Job Level: Entry Level Travel: No Job Posting: Jul 4, 2026, 3:46:36 PM Hourly/Yearly ...
Reel Sizzle Cook
Country Club Hills, IL · On-site
$16.50/hr
Ability to keep the line and prep area organized, stocked and clean. * Follow direction of the ... Experienced Job Level: Entry Level Travel: No Job Posting: Jul 4, 2026, 3:46:36 PM Hourly/Yearly ...
ZE Cook, PT
Gurnee, IL · On-site
$16.50/hr
Ability to keep the line and prep area organized, stocked and clean. * Follow direction of the ... Experienced Job Level: Entry Level Job Posting: Jul 9, 2026, 8:18:27 PM Hourly/Yearly Wage: $16.5 ...
ZE Cook, PT
Gurnee, IL · On-site
$16.50/hr
Ability to keep the line and prep area organized, stocked and clean. * Follow direction of the ... Experienced Job Level: Entry Level Job Posting: Jul 9, 2026, 8:18:27 PM Hourly/Yearly Wage: $16.5 ...
Cook Full Time
Park Ridge, IL · On-site
Work the food line during mealtimes. * Ensure that all food meets safety guidelines and that all ... You have basic computer skills. Entry level proficiency with Excel and Word is required. * You ...
Quick apply
Cook Full Time
Park Ridge, IL · On-site
Work the food line during mealtimes. * Ensure that all food meets safety guidelines and that all ... You have basic computer skills. Entry level proficiency with Excel and Word is required. * You ...
Entry Level Line Cook information
See Illinois salary details
$9.55 - $10.63
1% of jobs
$10.63 - $11.71
2% of jobs
$11.71 - $12.79
5% of jobs
$12.79 - $13.87
8% of jobs
$14.47 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$13.87 - $14.95
15% of jobs
$14.95 - $16.03
14% of jobs
The median wage is $16.30 / hr.
$16.03 - $17.11
19% of jobs
$17.90 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$17.11 - $18.19
15% of jobs
$18.19 - $19.27
12% of jobs
$19.27 - $20.35
5% of jobs
$20.35 - $21.43
4% of jobs
$9
$16
$21
How much do entry level line cook jobs pay per hour?
As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level line cook in Illinois is $16.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.66 and $18.41 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
Can I be a restaurant cook if I have no job experience?
Entry level line cook positions typically do not require prior professional experience, as employers often provide on-the-job training. Having basic cooking skills, a willingness to learn, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment are important for starting in this role.
What are some common challenges new entry-level line cooks face, and how can they overcome them?
New entry-level line cooks often face challenges such as working efficiently under pressure, mastering kitchen equipment quickly, and accurately following recipes in a fast-paced environment. To overcome these hurdles, it's helpful to stay organized, communicate clearly with team members, and actively seek feedback from more experienced cooks. Building good time management skills and being open to learning will help you adapt quickly and become a valuable member of the kitchen team.
Can I get a cooking job with no experience?
Entry level line cook positions often do not require prior experience, as employers may provide on-the-job training. Basic skills such as the ability to follow instructions, work efficiently, and maintain cleanliness are important. Certifications like a food handler's permit can also improve chances of hiring.
How to become a line cook with no experience?
To become an entry-level line cook with no experience, focus on gaining basic kitchen skills, such as knife handling and food safety, through online courses or volunteering. Apply to restaurants that offer on-the-job training and demonstrate a strong work ethic, reliability, and willingness to learn during interviews.
What are entry level line cooks?
Entry level line cooks are kitchen staff who assist in the preparation and cooking of food under the supervision of chefs or more experienced cooks. They typically work at specific stations, such as grilling, sautéing, or assembling dishes, and are responsible for following recipes, preparing ingredients, and maintaining cleanliness in their work area. These positions are often the starting point for a culinary career, offering opportunities to learn kitchen techniques and gain practical experience in a professional setting.
What is the difference between Entry Level Line Cook vs Prep Cook?
| Aspect | Entry Level Line Cook | Prep Cook |
|---|---|---|
| Credentials | High school diploma or equivalent; basic culinary skills | High school diploma or equivalent; basic culinary skills |
| Work Environment | Fast-paced kitchen stations during service | Prepping ingredients before service, often in a separate area |
| Employer & Industry Usage | Restaurants, cafes, hotels | Restaurants, catering, hotels |
| Common Search & Comparison | Yes | Yes |
Entry Level Line Cooks and Prep Cooks both require basic culinary skills and work in restaurant kitchens. The main difference is that Line Cooks work during service at specific stations, while Prep Cooks focus on preparing ingredients beforehand. Both roles are essential for smooth kitchen operations and often overlap in skills and environment.
Are line cooks entry-level?
Line cooks are often considered entry-level positions in the culinary industry, suitable for individuals with basic cooking skills and a willingness to learn. Many employers provide on-the-job training, and some require minimal prior experience, making it accessible for beginners. Advancement typically involves gaining experience and developing specialized skills or certifications.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Line Cook, and why are they important?
To thrive as an Entry Level Line Cook, you need a basic understanding of food preparation, kitchen safety, and hygiene, often supported by a food handler certification. Familiarity with kitchen equipment, point-of-sale (POS) systems, and common culinary tools is typically required. Strong teamwork, the ability to follow directions, and time management are vital soft skills in this fast-paced environment. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining kitchen efficiency, food safety, and delivering a consistent dining experience.
What are the most commonly searched types of Line Cook jobs in Illinois? The most popular types of Line Cook jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Entry Level Line Cook jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Entry Level Line Cook job openings:
Full-time
Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO
Posted 13 days ago
Job description
Company Description
Additional Information
Do you have HEART? We are looking for individuals who can embrace our mission to purposely brighten and enrich the lives of those we serve with HEART; Hospitality, Excellence, Appreciation, Respect & Teamwork. In this role you will be responsible for providing high quality meals to the residents, guests and staff.
Job Description$20.00 Hourly ( Full time)
- Prepare all food using the daily planner and SLC standard recipes.
- Work the food line during mealtimes.
- Ensure that all food meets safety guidelines and that all kitchen areas meet sanitation guidelines.
- Ensure resident and guest satisfaction by responding quickly to needs and requests.
- Maintain a positive and professional demeanor toward all residents, visitors and co-workers.
- Experience in production cooking and/or preparing therapeutic diets is preferred.
- You need to be able to communicate clearly and effectively in English.
- You have and/or are willing to obtain the necessary food handling and sanitation licenses.
- You have basic computer skills. Entry level proficiency with Excel and Word is required.
- You possess the ability to make independent decisions when circumstances warrant such action.
- You have the ability to solve practical problems and deal with variables in situations where only limited standardization exists.
- You can maintain a positive and friendly demeanor toward the residents and your co-workers.
Additional Information
Senior Lifestyle offers a comprehensive benefits plan to eligible team members including health, dental, vision, retirement benefits, short-term disability, long-term disability, and paid time off. All Senior Lifestyle positions are eligible to use DailyPay, an application that allows you to access your earned but unpaid wages before your next payday. Senior Lifestyle requires that all employees provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination unless exempt due to medical, religious, or personal beliefs. Government requirements or exclusions may apply.