ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Jail Cook Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Trinity Services Group

Cook

Waukegan, IL · On-site

$22/hr

This position is located onsite inside of a jail/correctional facility. Our ideal Cook excels at the following: * Passionate about food and service * Have a understanding of food handling regulations

Trinity Services Group

Cook

Waukegan, IL · On-site

$22/hr

This position is located onsite inside of a jail/correctional facility. Our ideal Cook excels at the following: * Passionate about food and service * Have a understanding of food handling regulations

Trilogy

Recovery Counselor (Reentry)

Chicago, IL · On-site

$22.89/hr

Collaborate with CCSO and internal Trilogy team to identify, outreach, and connect with referrals in Cook County Jail's Residential Treatment Units and Cermak Hospital. * Support coverage of one ...

Trilogy Inc

Recovery Counselor (Reentry)

Chicago, IL

$22.89 - $26.32/hr

Collaborate with CCSO and internal Trilogy team to identify, outreach, and connect with referrals in Cook County Jail's Residential Treatment Units and Cermak Hospital. * Support coverage of one ...

Trinity Services Group

Food Service Worker

Wheaton, IL · On-site

$20/hr

You will work onsite inside of a jail/correctional facility. Our ideal Food Service Supervisor ... Use kitchen utensils/equipment to cook food according to recipes. Use proper utensils to serve ...

Trinity Services Group

Food Service Worker

Wheaton, IL · On-site

$20/hr

You will work onsite inside of a jail/correctional facility. Our ideal Food Service Supervisor ... Use kitchen utensils/equipment to cook food according to recipes. Use proper utensils to serve ...

Trinity Services Group

Food Service Worker

Wheaton, IL · On-site

$20/hr

You will work onsite inside of a jail/correctional facility. Our ideal Food Service Supervisor ... Use kitchen utensils/equipment to cook food according to recipes. Use proper utensils to serve ...

All JobsJail Cook JobsJail Cook Jobs in Chicago, IL

Jail Cook information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$9

$16

$22

How much do jail cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for jail cook in Chicago, IL is $16.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.89 and $18.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a jail cook?

Jail Cooks are food service workers responsible for preparing and serving meals to inmates in correctional facilities. They follow strict guidelines to ensure food safety and meet nutritional requirements while working under supervision. Jail Cooks may also be responsible for maintaining kitchen cleanliness, managing inventory, and sometimes supervising inmate kitchen helpers. Their work is essential to the daily operations of jails and prisons. The role requires attention to detail, the ability to follow rules, and a commitment to safety and security.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a jail cook, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Jail Cook, you need experience in large-scale food preparation, knowledge of food safety standards, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, inventory management systems, and food handler certifications are typically required. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work efficiently under pressure help someone excel in this role. These skills ensure meals are prepared safely, efficiently, and in compliance with institutional regulations, supporting the health and well-being of inmates.

What are some common challenges faced by jail cooks and how can they be managed?

Jail cooks often work in fast-paced environments where they must prepare large quantities of food on a strict schedule while adhering to safety and security protocols. Managing limited resources and accommodating dietary restrictions—such as religious or medical needs—are common challenges. Effective communication with correctional officers and adherence to sanitation standards are crucial for maintaining a safe and efficient kitchen. Learning to adapt recipes and stay organized can help manage these challenges and ensure meal service runs smoothly.

What is the difference between Jail Cook vs Food Service Worker in correctional facilities?

AspectJail CookFood Service Worker in correctional facilities
CertificationsFood safety certification often requiredFood safety certification often required
Work EnvironmentCorrectional facility kitchens, secure environmentCorrectional facility kitchens, secure environment
Employer & IndustryJails, prisons, detention centersJails, prisons, detention centers
Job DutiesPreparing meals, following menus, maintaining hygienePreparing meals, assisting with food service, maintaining hygiene

Both Jail Cooks and Food Service Workers in correctional facilities work in secure environments preparing and serving food. Jail Cooks typically have more responsibility for meal planning and cooking, while Food Service Workers assist with food distribution and support kitchen operations. Both roles require food safety certifications and are essential in correctional food services.

What are popular job titles related to Jail Cook jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Jail Cook jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Jail Cook jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Jail Cook jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Jail Cook jobs near you
Infographic showing various Jail Cook job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 7% As Needed, 64% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 4% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $34,372 per year, or $16.5 per hour.

Cook

Trinity Services Group

Waukegan, IL • On-site

$22/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Wage Rate$22.00/hourOverview

Are you looking for a career with premium benefits and the potential for growth? At Trinity Services Group, we have created something special, a better place to work and grow. Many employees start just expecting a paycheck but end up with a rewarding career. We provide exceptional training and a clear career path. 

We also offer a $250 bonus for completing our Rookie's Fast Track Program within the first 60 days! 

We now also offer DailyPay providing you immediate access to earned wages. Work Today, Get Paid Today!

We are proud to be a military and veteran friendly employer.

Benefits

We care about our employees and offer benefits that support your health, finances, and career growth.

Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance

DailyPay - Work Today, Get Paid Today

401(k) Retirement Plan with Company Match

Paid Time Off (PTO)

Tuition Reimbursement

Paid Training

Career Advancement Opportunities

Life Insurance & AD&D Coverage

Voluntary Benefits including Short-Term Disability, Long-Term Disability, Critical Illness, Accident Coverage, and more.

About This Position

*Must be available to work some weekends and holidays*

9:30am to 6pm

The Cook prepares a variety of food items following assigned work instructions, menus and guidelines while following food safety and food handling procedures. The Cook also shows experience preparing hot and cold food items and all standardized knife cuts. You will exercise problem-solving skills to resolve issues that potentially arise. You will follow recipes, while managing their assigned station with team members to produce dishes promptly.

You will report to a Food Service Director.  This position is located onsite inside of a jail/correctional facility.

Our ideal Cook excels at the following:

  • Passionate about food and service

  • Have a understanding of food handling regulations

  • Desire to always learn more

  • Work as a team member

  • Adapt to changes quickly

  • Flexible

Essential Functions/Main Responsibilities

  • Refers to Daily Prep List at the start of each shift for assigned tasks and completes opening and closing checklists daily.

  • Set up workstation with all needed ingredients and cooking equipment.

  • Must be comfortable using and operating a variety of equipment including ovens, stoves, slicers, and mixers.

  • Handle, stores, labels, and rotates all products following applicable state laws.

  • You will have physical demands such as lifting, bending, pushing, kneeling, walking, and standing for extended periods of time.

  • Be able to stand and be on your feet for much of the scheduled shift.

  • Other responsibilities as determined by our needs.

What You'll Need
  • We require a high school diploma or GED, and that you are at least 18 years of age.
  • At least one (1) year of relevant cooking experience required.
  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
  • Prior experience cooking or kitchen experience in a cafeteria or large volume production facility.
  • Experience with safety procedures as typical in a cafeteria or food service environment.
EEO Statement

Equal Employment Employer as to all protected groups, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

We maintain a drug-free workplace.

A copy of our Privacy Policy and CA Employee Privacy Notice can be found here: https://tkcholdings.com/privacy-policy-108

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

Apply