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Fresh Prep Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Culver's

Prep Cook

Glenview, IL

$16 - $18/hr

Prepare fresh ingredients to support smooth kitchen operations * Maintain cleanliness and organization of prep areas * Assist in food preparation following Culver's quality standards * Work ...

Culver's

Prep Cook

Glenview, IL · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

Prepare fresh ingredients to support smooth kitchen operations * Maintain cleanliness and organization of prep areas * Assist in food preparation following Culver's quality standards * Work ...

Golden Corral

Food Prep Person

Arlington Heights, IL · On-site

$13.25 - $16.25/hr

The freshness of our Cold Choice Buffet makes a statement about our buffet being fresh and of high-quality. Operational Excellence: * Prepares prep items according to Golden Corral product ...

Golden Corral

Food Prep Person

Algonquin, IL · On-site

$12.75 - $15.75/hr

The freshness of our Cold Choice Buffet makes a statement about our buffet being fresh and of high-quality. Operational Excellence: * Prepares prep items according to Golden Corral product ...

Lazy Dog Restaurants LLC

Prep Cook

Vernon Hills, IL · On-site

$19/hr

Prep Cook: At this location prep cooks e arn $19 / hour. If you thrive on flawless food handling ... Ensure only "fresh" high quality ingredients are used when preparing all recipes. * Ensure the ...

Fox Valley Chick LLC

Prep Team Member

Batavia, IL · On-site

$16/hr

Chicken Salad Chick is growing and we're looking for an energetic Morning Prep Team Member to help us serve fresh, made-from-scratch favorites every day. This is a great opportunity if you enjoy ...

Lazy Dog Restaurants LLC

Prep Cook

Northbrook, IL · On-site

$17.50/hr

Prep Cook: At this location prep cooks e arn $17.50 / hour. Monday-Friday: 11am-Midnight Saturday ... Ensure only "fresh" high quality ingredients are used when preparing all recipes. * Ensure the ...

The Cheesecake Factory

Prep Cook

Oak Brook, IL

$17.50 - $21/hr

Overview With a commitment to scratch cooking using fresh, high-quality ingredients, our Prep Cooks prepare hundreds of recipes for our delicious dishes. You'll work alongside a supportive kitchen ...

The Cheesecake Factory

Prep Cook

Orland Park, IL

$17.50 - $21/hr

Overview With a commitment to scratch cooking using fresh, high-quality ingredients, our Prep Cooks prepare hundreds of recipes for our delicious dishes. You'll work alongside a supportive kitchen ...

The Cheesecake Factory

Prep Cook

Naperville, IL

$17.50 - $21.50/hr

Overview With a commitment to scratch cooking using fresh, high-quality ingredients, our Prep Cooks prepare hundreds of recipes for our delicious dishes. You'll work alongside a supportive kitchen ...

The Cheesecake Factory

Prep Cook

Schaumburg, IL

$17.50 - $21/hr

Overview With a commitment to scratch cooking using fresh, high-quality ingredients, our Prep Cooks prepare hundreds of recipes for our delicious dishes. You'll work alongside a supportive kitchen ...

The Cheesecake Factory

Prep Cook

Chicago, IL

$18.50 - $22.75/hr

Overview With a commitment to scratch cooking using fresh, high-quality ingredients, our Prep Cooks prepare hundreds of recipes for our delicious dishes. You'll work alongside a supportive kitchen ...

The Cheesecake Factory

Prep Cook

Skokie, IL · On-site

$18 - $20.75/hr

Overview With a commitment to scratch cooking using fresh, high-quality ingredients, our Prep Cooks prepare hundreds of recipes for our delicious dishes. You'll work alongside a supportive kitchen ...

Cooper's Hawk

Prep Cook

Downers Grove, IL · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

At Cooper's Hawk, our Prep Cooks bring heart to every recipe and precision to every task ... By preparing fresh, high-quality ingredients, they set the tone for a great dining experience.

Cooper's Hawk

Prep Cook

Naperville, IL · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

A t Cooper's Hawk, our Prep Cooks bring heart to every recipe and precision to every task ... By preparing fresh, high-quality ingredients, they set the tone for a great dining experience.

Cooper's Hawk

Prep Cook

Merrillville, IN · On-site

$14 - $17.75/hr

A t Cooper's Hawk, our Prep Cooks bring heart to every recipe and precision to every task ... By preparing fresh, high-quality ingredients, they set the tone for a great dining experience.

Cooper's Hawk

Prep Cook

Oak Lawn, IL · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

At Cooper's Hawk, our Prep Cooks bring heart to every recipe and precision to every task ... By preparing fresh, high-quality ingredients, they set the tone for a great dining experience.

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All JobsFresh Prep JobsFresh Prep Jobs in Chicago, IL

Fresh Prep information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$9

$14

$18

How much do fresh prep jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for fresh prep in Chicago, IL is $14.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.88 and $15.87 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Fresh Prep?

Fresh Prep workers are employees who prepare fresh ingredients and meals in food service settings, such as restaurants, cafeterias, or meal kit companies. Their duties typically include washing, chopping, and portioning produce, as well as assembling salads, sandwiches, or meal kits. Fresh Prep workers help ensure that food is prepared safely, efficiently, and according to quality standards. This role is essential for maintaining a smooth kitchen operation and delivering fresh, high-quality meals to customers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Fresh Prep?

To thrive as a Fresh Prep worker, you need a basic understanding of food safety, kitchen hygiene, and efficient food preparation techniques, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, food handling certifications, and inventory management systems is typically required. Attention to detail, time management, and teamwork are crucial soft skills for this role. These skills ensure food quality, safety compliance, and a productive, collaborative work environment in fast-paced food service operations.

What are some common challenges faced by Fresh Prep team members and how are they typically addressed?

Fresh Prep team members often navigate challenges such as maintaining food safety standards during busy shifts and managing time efficiently to ensure all ingredients are prepped according to schedule. Working as part of a team in a fast-paced kitchen environment also requires strong communication and adaptability. Most organizations address these challenges by providing thorough training, clear protocols, and encouraging open communication among staff. Regular feedback and supportive supervision help team members grow and improve their workflow.

What is the difference between Fresh Prep vs Food Prep?

AspectFresh PrepFood Prep
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; food safety certification often preferredHigh school diploma or equivalent; food safety certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentCommercial kitchens, meal kit assembly linesCommercial kitchens, catering services, meal preparation areas
Industry UsageMeal kit delivery companies, food service providersRestaurants, catering, food manufacturing
Job FocusAssembling meal kits, portioning ingredientsPreparing ingredients, cooking, portioning

Fresh Prep and Food Prep roles both involve working in food service environments with similar credentials and certifications. Fresh Prep focuses on assembling meal kits and portioning ingredients, while Food Prep encompasses a broader range of food preparation tasks including cooking and ingredient prep. Both roles are essential in the food industry but differ mainly in scope and specific responsibilities.

What are popular job titles related to Fresh Prep jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Fresh Prep jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Fresh Prep jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Fresh Prep jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Fresh Prep jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Fresh Prep job openings:

Fresh Prep jobs near you
Infographic showing various Fresh Prep job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, and 54% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $30,662 per year, or $14.7 per hour.

Prep Cook

Culver's

Glenview, IL

$16 - $18/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Culver's rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 2,016 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 20 rated casual dining restaurants

Job description

Culver's Urgent Hiring: Immediate Opening for a Skilled Prep Cook

Are you looking for a fun and loving work environment where your culinary skills can shine? Do you want to be part of a dynamic team that values enthusiasm and dedication?

Join Culver's, a beloved family-owned brand known for its delicious ButterBurgers® and creamy Fresh Frozen Custard. Since 1984, we've focused not just on food but on creating a welcoming experience for every guest. As a talented Prep Cook, you'll gain valuable kitchen experience while enjoying great benefits and a flexible schedule.

What You'll Do

  • Prepare fresh ingredients to support smooth kitchen operations
  • Maintain cleanliness and organization of prep areas
  • Assist in food preparation following Culver’s quality standards
  • Work collaboratively with the kitchen team to ensure timely service

Why Work With Us

  • Flexible day shifts with 8-hour schedules
  • Paid time off to support your work-life balance
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance for your well-being
  • Employee discounts on our delicious menu items

Who You Are

  • Motivated and enthusiastic about food and guest experience
  • Reliable and able to work on-site in a fast-paced environment
  • Ready to learn and grow your culinary skills
  • Team player who enjoys a fun and supportive atmosphere

Location: Culver's - Glenview

If you’re ready to join a loving team and build your career with Culver’s, apply now and start your delicious journey today!

In 1984, Craig and Lea Culver, along with Craig’s parents George and Ruth, opened the very first Culver's in the family’s beloved hometown of Sauk City, Wisconsin, and began serving ButterBurgers® and Frozen Custard.
Craveable as our signature combination is, the Culver family knew right away that although the business is centered around the food, it is really about the people. While folks can vividly recall the first time they bit into a ButterBurger or tasted a scoop of rich, creamy Fresh Frozen Custard, it’s our way of welcoming guests that truly makes Culver’s delicious.

What Culver's employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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Get the full story on Breakroom

Culver's logo

About Culver's

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

In 1984, Craig and Lea Culver, along with Craig’s parents George and Ruth, opened the very first Culver's in the family’s beloved hometown of Sauk City, Wisconsin, and began serving ButterBurgers® and Frozen Custard. Craveable as our signature combination is, the Culver family knew right away that although the business is centered around the food, it is really about the people. While folks can vividly recall the first time they bit into a ButterBurger or tasted a scoop of rich, creamy Fresh Frozen Custard, it’s our way of welcoming guests that truly makes Culver’s delicious.

Industry

Food services and drinking places and restaurants

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Prairie du Sac, WI, US

View All Culver's Jobs