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

California Pizza Kitchen

Prep Cook

Schaumburg, IL

$14 - $17.75/hr

If so, then being a Prep Cook at CPK may be for you! Our team members bring California creativity ... This entry level position is responsible for following our recipes, procedures, specs, and ...

Cpk

Prep Cook

Schaumburg, IL

$15 - $17/hr

If so, then being a Prep Cook at CPK may be for you! Our team members bring California creativity ... This entry level position is responsible for following our recipes, procedures, specs, and ...

East Bank Club

Prep Cook - The Market

Chicago, IL · On-site

$21/hr

The Prep Cook is responsible for the preparation, cooking, and servicing of all hot bar menu items ... This role is considered entry-level. Job Responsibilities: * Preparation, cooking, and servicing of ...

East Bank Club

Prep Cook - The Market

Chicago, IL · On-site

$21/hr

The Prep Cook is responsible for the preparation, cooking, and servicing of all hot bar menu items ... This role is considered entry-level. Job Responsibilities: * Preparation, cooking, and servicing of ...

East Bank Club

Prep Cook - The Market

Chicago, IL

$21/hr

The Prep Cook is responsible for the preparation, cooking, and servicing of all hot bar menu items ... This role is considered entry-level. Job Responsibilities: * Preparation, cooking, and servicing of ...

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 ...

Davidson Hospitality Group

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 ...

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 ... cook, prep cook, drive-thru cashier or any other restaurant or service-oriented role - we have a ...

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 ... cook, prep cook, drive-thru cashier or any other restaurant or service-oriented role - we have a ...

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 ... cook, prep cook, drive-thru cashier or any other restaurant or service-oriented role - we have a ...

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 ... cook, prep cook, drive-thru cashier or any other restaurant or service-oriented role - we have a ...

Raising Cane's

Cook

Mount Prospect, IL · On-site

$15.50/hr

We are looking to immediately hire entry level and experienced Cooks who can thrive in an upbeat ... cook, prep cook, drive-thru cashier or any other restaurant or service-oriented role - we have a ...

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 ... cook, prep cook, drive-thru cashier or any other restaurant or service-oriented role - we have a ...

Raising Cane's

Cook

Mount Prospect, IL · On-site

$15.50/hr

We are looking to immediately hire entry level and experienced Cooks who can thrive in an upbeat ... cook, prep cook, drive-thru cashier or any other restaurant or service-oriented role - we have a ...

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

Entry Level Prep Cook information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$9

$16

$21

How much do entry level prep cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level prep cook in Chicago, IL is $16.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.13 and $17.84 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are entry level prep cooks?

Entry level prep cooks are kitchen workers who assist chefs and cooks by preparing ingredients and performing basic cooking tasks. Their duties often include washing and chopping vegetables, measuring ingredients, organizing the kitchen, and ensuring that all food items are ready for use. Prep cooks are essential for maintaining an efficient workflow in restaurants and other food establishments, especially during busy periods. This position is a great starting point for those interested in a culinary career, as it provides hands-on experience in a professional kitchen.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Prep Cook, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Prep Cook, you need basic culinary knowledge, knife skills, and a willingness to follow recipes and food safety standards, typically with a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, proper food handling procedures, and sometimes a food handler's certification are important. Attention to detail, teamwork, and the ability to work efficiently under pressure are standout soft skills. These abilities ensure consistent food quality, maintain kitchen safety, and support smooth kitchen operations in a fast-paced environment.

How to become a prep cook?

To become a prep cook, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and basic cooking skills. Gaining experience through entry-level kitchen jobs or culinary training programs can help develop necessary skills such as knife handling and food safety. On-the-job training is common, and a willingness to work early mornings, evenings, or weekends is often required.

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

AspectEntry Level Prep CookLine Cook
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; basic culinary skillsSimilar; may require more experience or certifications
Work EnvironmentKitchen prep area, assisting with ingredient preparationCooking stations, actively preparing dishes during service
Employer UsageEntry-level position in restaurants, hotels, cateringMore experienced role, often with specific station responsibilities

While both roles work in restaurant kitchens, an Entry Level Prep Cook primarily focuses on preparing ingredients and assisting with basic tasks, whereas a Line Cook actively cooks and manages specific stations during service. The prep cook position is ideal for those starting in the culinary industry, with opportunities to advance to a line cook role with experience.

What are some typical challenges faced by entry level prep cooks, and how can they overcome them?

Entry level prep cooks often face challenges such as managing time efficiently during busy meal periods, maintaining consistency in food preparation, and adapting quickly to the fast-paced kitchen environment. To overcome these challenges, it's important to stay organized, communicate clearly with team members, and follow recipes and instructions closely. Developing good knife skills and a strong sense of teamwork will also help new prep cooks work more efficiently and confidently as they gain experience.

How to get a prep cook job with no experience?

Entry level prep cook positions often do not require prior experience; instead, employers look for reliability, willingness to learn, and basic kitchen skills. Candidates can improve their chances by demonstrating a positive attitude, punctuality, and a willingness to follow instructions, and may consider completing food safety certifications to enhance their application.

Is a prep cook an entry level job?

Yes, a prep cook position is typically considered an entry level job in the culinary industry. It usually requires basic cooking skills, such as knife handling and food preparation, and often does not require prior professional experience. Many restaurants hire prep cooks as a starting point for a culinary career.

How to get into cooking with no experience?

Entry level prep cooks can start by gaining basic kitchen knowledge, such as food safety and knife skills, through online tutorials or cooking classes. Volunteering or working in fast-food or cafeteria settings can provide practical experience and help build foundational skills for a culinary career.
What are the most commonly searched types of Prep Cook jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Prep Cook jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Entry Level Prep Cook jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Prep Cook job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,612 per year, or $16.2 per hour.
Prep Cook

Prep Cook

California Pizza Kitchen

Schaumburg, IL

$14 - $17.75/hr

Part-time

Posted 5 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 87 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? If so, then being a Prep Cook at CPK may be for you! Our team members 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 Prep Cooks maintain the highest standards for food quality and sanitation. This entry level position is responsible for following our recipes, procedures, specs, and techniques. They assist in the receiving of goods, daily inventory of prepared foods, and maintain proper storage and rotation of products. They practice and teach safe/sanitary handling of cutting boards, counter tops, knives, and equipment. They maintain the proper temperature of equipment and perform station opening/closing and side work duties each shift.

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

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