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First Job Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

SkyChefs

First Cook

Des Plaines, IL

$22/hr

FIRST COOK Job Requirements &Responsibilities The First Cook is a key member of our culinary team and works in close cooperation with our team of Chefs and Second Cooks preparing and producing meals ...

New Lenox School District 122

1st Grade Teacher

New Lenox, IL · On-site

$48K - $61K/yr

Now Hiring: 1st Grade Teacher New Lenox School District 122 is seeking a full-time 1st Grade Teacher for the 2026-2027 school year. Position Details * Assignment: 1st Grade Teacher * Number of ...

Insight

SURGICAL FIRST ASSISTANT

Chicago, IL · On-site

$33.50 - $43.50/hr

GENERAL SUMMARY The Surgical First Assist (SFA) is a highly skilled, clinically proficient professional who works directly under the supervision of the attending surgeon to provide advanced ...

Insight

SURGICAL FIRST ASSISTANT

Chicago, IL

$33.50 - $43.50/hr

GENERAL SUMMARY The Surgical First Assist (SFA) is a highly skilled, clinically proficient professional who works directly under the supervision of the attending surgeon to provide advanced ...

OTTO Engineering

Assembler 1st shift

Carpentersville, IL · On-site

$15.25/hr

Assembler 1st shift Do you enjoy handicraft hobbies such as Legos, making jewelry, or putting together model kits? The Assembler position at OTTO Engineering might be a good fit for you! Why should ...

Durex Industries

Assembler 1st Shift

Cary, IL · On-site

$16.25 - $20.25/hr

Assembler 1st Shift Composed of Chromalox,Durex Industries, Vulcanic, and Thermocoax businesses, Electrical ThermalSolutions (ETS), part of Spirax Group, creates electrical process heating ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsFirst Job JobsFirst Job Jobs in Chicago, IL

First Job information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$31.4K

$45.5K

$54.6K

How much do first job jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for first job in Chicago, IL is $45,494.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,700.00 and $50,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are 'First Jobs'?

First jobs are typically entry-level positions that individuals take early in their careers, often as their initial work experience. These roles can range from part-time or temporary jobs to internships and apprenticeships in various industries. First jobs help people develop basic workplace skills, build their resumes, and gain valuable insights into their career interests. They can also provide a stepping stone to more advanced positions as individuals gain confidence and experience. Many people use their first job as an opportunity to learn about professional expectations, teamwork, and time management.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

High-paying jobs that can reach $4,000 a week without a degree often include roles such as commercial truck drivers, sales managers, real estate brokers, and skilled trades like electricians or plumbers. These positions typically require specialized training, certifications, or experience, and may involve long hours or physically demanding work.

What are some common challenges people face in their first job and how can they overcome them?

Starting your first job can come with challenges such as adapting to a professional environment, managing time effectively, and learning workplace expectations. It’s normal to feel overwhelmed at first, but seeking feedback, asking questions, and observing experienced colleagues can help you adjust more smoothly. Building strong communication skills and being proactive in your responsibilities will also support your growth. Remember, most employers appreciate a willingness to learn and a positive attitude as you develop your skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in your first job, and why are they important?

To thrive in your first job, you generally need basic organizational skills, reliability, and a willingness to learn, along with any specific educational or training requirements for the position. Familiarity with common office software, point-of-sale systems, or role-specific tools may also be necessary. Strong communication, teamwork, and a positive attitude help new employees stand out and adapt quickly. These qualities are crucial for building a solid professional reputation, meeting expectations, and setting the foundation for future career growth.

How to make $10,000 a month without a degree?

First jobs that can generate $10,000 a month without a degree typically involve high-demand skills such as sales, digital marketing, or technical trades like plumbing or electrical work. Building expertise, gaining certifications, and gaining experience in these fields can help increase earning potential, often through entrepreneurship, freelancing, or working in commission-based roles.

What jobs pay $700 a day?

Jobs that can pay $700 a day include specialized roles such as freelance consultants, high-level contractors, certain medical professionals like anesthesiologists, and skilled trades such as electricians or plumbers with experience. These positions often require specific skills, certifications, or significant experience, and may involve freelance work, project-based assignments, or working in high-demand environments.

What is the best job for a first job?

The best first job is typically entry-level positions such as retail associate, food service worker, or administrative assistant, which require minimal experience and help develop basic skills like communication and time management. These roles often offer flexible hours and on-the-job training, making them suitable for those starting their careers.
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for First Job jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most First Job job openings:
First Job jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Job job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,494 per year, or $21.9 per hour.

First Cook

SkyChefs

Des Plaines, IL

$22/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

World class airline catering.





Join an award-winning Airline Catering companyWork for SkyChefs and give your career a brand new flavor!

SkyChefs is best known as one of the world's largest airline catering and hospitality companies, for over 75 years. Our Customer Service Center in Des Plaines, near O'Hare airport, is one of our flagship locations in the U.S., serving major airline customers. We are growing and looking for ambitious individuals to join our culinary team and work in a dynamic, team-based and fast-paced environment.


FIRST COOK
Job Requirements &Responsibilities

The First Cook is a key member of our culinary team and works in close cooperation with our team of Chefs and Second Cooks preparing and producing meals to meetour airline customer requirements.

A strong candidate for this position is one who has a)formal culinary school training, and/or 3-5 years of experience in ahigh volume, fast-paced production environment; b)Excellent knife skills, c) solid proficiency in various cooking methods and use of use of cookware.

More specifically:

  • Culinary degree or cooking certification preferred or at least 1 year of experience prepping in a high-volume institutional catering environment.
  • Understanding of basic cooking techniques
  • Knowledge and use of different cutting techniques
  • Ability to understand and follow superior (Cook I and above) instructions.
  • Must be able to use fingers/hands to handle cooking tools and equipment
  • Understanding of Food hygiene standards and HACCP Compliance.
  • Ability to speak, read and understand English.
  • Must be able to lift and push 50+ lbs
  • Must be able to stand, bend, lift and move intermittently during shift of 8+ hours.
  • Must be flexible and able to react to changing priorities.
  • Comply with all work rules and regulations.
  • Work assigned schedule which may include nights, weekends and holidays.
  • Work overtime when required.
  • Wear Personal Protective Equipment as required.
  • Pass a criminal background check and drug screen.

EnvironmentalRequirements:


-May beexposed toextreme temperature changes and noise.

-This position requires to be active, walking, heavy lifting and pushing 50+ lbs.


-Regularly stands, bends, lifts, and moves intermittently during shifts of 8+ hours.

-Exposed to hot surfaces.

Benefits:
  • Full-time, permanent work, steady employment throughout the year / at least 40 hours / week plus overtime opportunities.
  • Short distance - local route to O'Hare airport
  • Weekly pay
  • Health, dental, vision and life insurance after 30 days of employment
  • 401(k) plan
  • Paid vacations, sick days and holiday paid after 1 year of employment
  • Free parking
  • Credit Union
  • Free Meal with Every Shift Worked
  • Free uniforms, Personal Protective Equipment and Safety shoes.


If you have any questions and/or would like more information about the First Cookposition, call our Recruiting Team at (847) 505-2102.