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Head Cook Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Hearty Boys Caterers

Event Head Chef

Chicago, IL · On-site

$30/hr

Hearty Boys Caterers is seeking an experienced Event Head Chef for gig-based, event-driven work ... Proficiency in catering-specific cooking techniques, including "cave" cooking. * Ability to adapt ...

Hearty Boys Caterers

Catering Event Cook

Chicago, IL · On-site

$20 - $26/hr

Work closely with the Head Chef to execute the event menu and maintain kitchen organization * Coordinate cooking, reheating, holding, and plating as directed by the Head Chef * Maintain food safety ...

Wing It On!

Cook

Lombard, IL

$15 - $18/hr

Cook Location: Lombard, IL, 60148Skills Required: * Flexible * Organized * Passionate Job ... Perform other duties as assigned by the Head Chef or Restaurant Manager.

Wing It On!

Cook

Lombard, IL · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

Cook Location: Lombard, IL, 60148Skills Required: * Flexible * Organized * Passionate Job ... Perform other duties as assigned by the Head Chef or Restaurant Manager.

Wings Etc Inc

Cook

Valparaiso, IN · On-site

$12 - $16/hr

You will need to read orders, understand instruction from the head chef, and talk to your fellow cooks to make sure the food is delivered hot and delicious. * Hand-Eye Coordination: Cooking requires ...

Lo key cocktail lounge

Head Line Cook

Elmhurst, IL · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Position Overview The Line Cook is responsible for preparing and executing menu items to Lo Key's standards while maintaining a clean, organized, and efficient kitchen. The ideal candidate is ...

New

Yasemi Chicago

Line Cook

Chicago, IL

$18 - $25/hr

LOOKING FOR A LINE COOKS THAT ARE OPEN TO WORK FOR BREAKFAST SHIFTS OR DINNER SHIFTS Our ideal ... To work as directed on station of assignment under Head Chef. * Set up station properly and on time ...

Yasemi Chicago

Line Cook

Chicago, IL · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

LOOKING FOR A LINE COOKS THAT ARE OPEN TO WORK FOR BREAKFAST SHIFTS OR DINNER SHIFTS Our ideal ... To work as directed on station of assignment under Head Chef. * Set up station properly and on time ...

Yasemi Chicago

Line Cook

Chicago, IL · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

LOOKING FOR A LINE COOKS THAT ARE OPEN TO WORK FOR BREAKFAST SHIFTS OR DINNER SHIFTS Our ideal ... To work as directed on station of assignment under Head Chef. * Set up station properly and on time ...

Yasemi Chicago

Line Cook

Chicago, IL

$18 - $22/hr

LOOKING FOR A LINE COOKS THAT ARE OPEN TO WORK FOR BREAKFAST SHIFTS OR DINNER SHIFTS Our ideal ... To work as directed on station of assignment under Head Chef. * Set up station properly and on time ...

Yasemi Chicago

Line Cook/Prep Cook

Chicago, IL · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Prepare and cook food according to recipes, quality and presentation standards, and food prep ... Notify Sous Chef/Head Chef of any problems or complaints as when they arise. * Be able to work in ...

Dominick's Pizza & Pasta

Line Cook

Villa Park, IL · On-site

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

We are seeking a skilled and dedicated Line Cook to join our kitchen/pizza team. The ideal ... Perform other kitchen tasks as assigned by the Head Chef or Kitchen Manager Company Description Our ...

Dominick's Pizza & Pasta

Line Cook

Villa Park, IL · On-site

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

We are seeking a skilled and dedicated Line Cook to join our kitchen/pizza team. The ideal ... Perform other kitchen tasks as assigned by the Head Chef or Kitchen Manager Company Description Our ...

Yasemi Chicago

Line Cook

Chicago, IL

$18 - $22/hr

Prepare and cook food according to recipes, quality and presentation standards, and food prep ... Notify Sous Chef/Head Chef of any problems or complaints as when they arise. * Be able to work in ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsHead Cook JobsHead Cook Jobs in Chicago, IL

Head Cook information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$9

$18

$29

How much do head cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for head cook in Chicago, IL is $18.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.33 and $20.58 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Head Cook vs Line Cook?

AspectHead CookLine Cook
CredentialsCooking experience, culinary trainingCooking experience, culinary training
Work EnvironmentKitchen leadership, menu planningFood preparation stations, fast-paced kitchen
Employer & Industry UsageRestaurants, hotels, cateringRestaurants, hotels, catering
Common Search & ComparisonLeadership, menu oversightFood prep, station work

The main difference between a Head Cook and a Line Cook is that the Head Cook oversees kitchen operations, manages staff, and plans menus, while the Line Cook focuses on preparing food at specific stations during service. Head Cooks have broader responsibilities and leadership roles, whereas Line Cooks specialize in food preparation within their assigned station.

How much do head cooks get paid?

Head cooks typically earn a median annual salary of around $50,000 to $60,000, depending on experience, location, and the type of establishment. Salaries can vary widely, with some earning over $70,000 in high-end or busy restaurants, and additional compensation may include tips or bonuses.

What are the duties of a head cook?

A head cook is responsible for overseeing kitchen operations, preparing and cooking meals, managing kitchen staff, ensuring food quality and safety standards, and maintaining inventory. They often create menus, train staff, and ensure efficient kitchen workflow.

What are the most commonly searched types of Cook jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Cook jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Head Cook jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Head Cook job openings:

Infographic showing various Head Cook job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 65% Full Time, 33% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $37,838 per year, or $18.2 per hour.

Lead Cook - L'Americain - 2nd Shift

Full House Resorts

Waukegan, IL • On-site

$22.80 - $36/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago

Full House Resorts rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

66th of 164 rated casinos

Job description

Who WE are:
Our mission is to be Waukegan's top gaming and entertainment hub, renowned for our exceptional hospitality and guest experience. We prioritize our team's development and well-being, offering career advancement opportunities, and a culture of enjoyment and fulfillment in the workplace. With a focus on growth and excellence, we're on the lookout for adaptable, coachable individuals who share our passion for hospitality.
Join us for a journey of growth and success in Lake County's fastest-growing industry.
Who WE are looking for:
We are seeking a skilled and disciplined Lead Cook for L'Américain who brings a strong foundation in traditional American cuisine and a deep passion for hospitality. The ideal candidate is a detail-oriented, organized professional capable of executing precise techniques under pressure while maintaining a clean and composed work environment. This individual should possess a thorough understanding of ingredients, presentation, and timing, as well as a collaborative mindset and respect for kitchen hierarchy. We are looking for someone who leads by example demonstrating professionalism, teamwork, and a consistently positive attitude while guiding and supporting the kitchen team in all aspects of daily prep and service. Strong communication, organizational, and basic mathematical skills are essential, as is the ability to read and follow recipes, production lists, and necessary kitchen documentation. At American Place Casino, we value individuals who take pride in their work, strive for excellence, and contribute to delivering a consistently elevated dining experience for our guests.
Job titles similar to this role include:
  • Line Lead
  • Station Lead
  • Prep Lead
  • Head Cook

What is expected of YOU:
In addition to participating in prep and service, the Lead Cook oversees and supports all kitchen stations, manages closing shift responsibilities, and ensures all required paperwork and checklists are completed. You will be responsible for compiling prep and production lists, monitoring inventory, and ensuring food items are prepared and stored according to rotation and safety standards. Training and retraining of kitchen staff is a key duty, as is clear communication across shifts and with fellow team members, cooks, and leadership. Maintaining a clean, organized, and efficient workspace is mandatory, and the Lead Cook is expected to report all issues, incidents, or discrepancies to supervisors promptly. This position also involves assisting with special projects and events, participating in safety meetings, and keeping accurate records of daily operations and team performance. The Lead Cook plays a critical role in upholding kitchen standards and ensuring the smooth, efficient operation of the culinary team at L'Américain.
Experience YOU will need:
  • High School Diploma or GED
  • Minimum five (5) to seven (7) years' experience working in high-volume line cooking or production cooking in a full-service dining establishment or food service establishment, with at least two (2) years' experience in supervisory capacity preferred.
  • Possesses the ability to read recipes, production lists and any other necessary collateral paperwork, such as diagrams and logs, to be able to perform necessary duties.
  • Must have good basic mathematical, organizational and communication skills
  • Bilingual is a plus

Physical Requirements:
  • Lift up to 25 - 30 lbs
  • Stand for long periods
  • Navigate crowded spaces
  • Flexibility in bending and reaching
  • Adaptability to casino conditions, including:
    • Bright lights
    • Noise

Certificates, Licenses, Registrations:
  • Able to obtain/maintain necessary licenses and/or certifications as required by local gaming regulations.
  • Able to obtain/maintain Food Handlers Serv Safe certifications as required by the Lake County Health Department regulations.

Benefits/Perks:
  • Medical, Dental, & Vision
  • Voluntary Life, AD&D, &
  • Disability Insurance
  • Volunteer Time Off,
  • Ventra Program
  • 401K + Employer Match
  • Paid Time Off
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Food and Beverage Family Meal

Salary Range:
  • $22.80-$36

Company Statement on EOAA:
American Place Casino is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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