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Kitchen Cook Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Old Tinley Pub

Kitchen Cook

Tinley Park, IL · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

Old Tinley Pub is looking for a reliable Cook to join our kitchen team. This role involves preparing and cooking menu items while maintaining quality, consistency, and cleanliness in a fast-paced ...

Pete's Fresh Market

Kitchen Cook

Orland Park, IL · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

Title Kitchen Cook Pay Grade Non-Exempt Major Department Hot Foods Minor Department Kitchen Reports to Head Cook, Hot Foods Department Manager Job Summary : The line cook is responsible for preparing ...

Pete's Fresh Market

Kitchen Cook

Villa Park, IL · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

Title Kitchen Cook Pay Grade Non-Exempt Major Department Hot Foods Minor Department Kitchen Reports to Head Cook, Hot Foods Department Manager Job Summary : The line cook is responsible for preparing ...

Pete's Fresh Market

Kitchen Cook

New Lenox, IL · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

Title Kitchen Cook Pay Grade Non-Exempt Major Department Hot Foods Minor Department Kitchen Reports to Head Cook, Hot Foods Department Manager Job Summary : The line cook is responsible for preparing ...

Pete's Fresh Market

Kitchen Cook

Matteson, IL · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

Title Kitchen Cook Pay Grade Non-Exempt Major Department Hot Foods Minor Department Kitchen Reports to Head Cook, Hot Foods Department Manager Job Summary : The line cook is responsible for preparing ...

Pete's Fresh Market

Kitchen Cook

Oak Park, IL · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

Title Kitchen Cook Pay Grade Non-Exempt Major Department Hot Foods Minor Department Kitchen Reports to Head Cook, Hot Foods Department Manager Job Summary : The line cook is responsible for preparing ...

Lake Forest Place LLC

Kitchen Cook

Lake Forest, IL

$18.35 - $26.98/hr

Are you looking for a team where you can bring your passion, strengths, and best self as a Kitchen Cook? At Lake Forest Place, you'll join a mission‑driven community where employees work together ...

Presbyterian Homes & Services

Kitchen Cook

Lake Forest, IL · On-site

$18.35 - $26.98/hr

Are you looking for a team where you can bring your passion, strengths, and best self as a Kitchen Cook? At Lake Forest Place, you'll join a mission-driven community where employees work together to ...

Marriott Oak Brook

Kitchen Cook

Oak Brook, IL · On-site

$20 - $21/hr

... kitchen related equipment. * Ability to physically self-demonstrate culinary techniques, i.e., cutting, cooking principles, plate presentation, safety and sanitation practices. * Ability to create ...

Pasta Mia LTD

PIZZA AND KITCHEN COOKS

Bartlett, IL

$11 - $17/hr

ITALIAN RESTAURANT, LOOKING FOR EXPERIENCED PIZZA MAKER AND ALSO KITCHEN COOK. ITALIAN DISHES, PASTAS, SANDWICHES, SALADS, SPECIALS, ETC. ALSO DAILY PREP WORK AND CLEANING. Company Description Pasta ...

Pasta Mia LTD

PIZZA AND KITCHEN COOKS

Bartlett, IL · On-site

$11 - $17/hr

ITALIAN RESTAURANT, LOOKING FOR EXPERIENCED PIZZA MAKER AND ALSO KITCHEN COOK. ITALIAN DISHES, PASTAS, SANDWICHES, SALADS, SPECIALS, ETC. ALSO DAILY PREP WORK AND CLEANING. Company Description Pasta ...

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All JobsKitchen Cook JobsKitchen Cook Jobs in Chicago, IL

Kitchen Cook information

See Chicago, IL salary details

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How much do kitchen cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for kitchen cook in Chicago, IL is $16.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.56 and $18.17 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a kitchen cook do?

A kitchen cook is responsible for preparing, cooking, and presenting food according to recipes and restaurant standards. They handle various tasks such as chopping ingredients, monitoring food safety, maintaining cleanliness, and ensuring meals are served on time. Kitchen cooks may also assist in menu planning, inventory management, and training new staff. Their role is essential to creating a positive dining experience for customers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a kitchen cook?

To thrive as a Kitchen Cook, you need strong culinary skills, knowledge of food safety standards, and often a high school diploma or culinary training. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, POS systems, and food handling certifications (such as ServSafe) is typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and the ability to work efficiently under pressure are standout soft skills for this position. These skills ensure consistent food quality, safe kitchen operations, and smooth service in a fast-paced environment.

What are some typical challenges kitchen cooks face during busy service hours, and how can they be managed?

Kitchen cooks often encounter high-pressure situations during peak meal times, which can lead to stress and a fast-paced work environment. Managing these challenges involves strong organizational skills, effective communication with team members, and the ability to prioritize tasks quickly. Many kitchens rely on 'mise en place' (everything in its place) to ensure ingredients and tools are ready before service begins, helping cooks stay efficient and focused. Developing these habits not only improves performance but also builds resilience and teamwork in a professional kitchen.

What is the difference between Kitchen Cook vs Line Cook?

AspectKitchen CookLine Cook
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; culinary training often preferredHigh school diploma or equivalent; culinary training often preferred
Work EnvironmentKitchen, various stations, prep and cooking areasKitchen, specific station, fast-paced cooking line
Employer & Industry UsageRestaurants, hotels, catering servicesRestaurants, hotels, catering services
Common Search & ComparisonKitchen Cook vs Line Cook

Both Kitchen Cooks and Line Cooks work in similar culinary environments, often sharing credentials and industry settings. The main difference is that Kitchen Cooks may have broader responsibilities, including prep work and overseeing multiple stations, while Line Cooks focus specifically on preparing dishes at a designated station during service. Understanding these roles helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus within the culinary industry.

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

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

Kitchen Cook jobs near you
Infographic showing various Kitchen Cook job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, 27% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,372 per year, or $16.5 per hour.

Kitchen Cook

Old Tinley Pub

Tinley Park, IL • On-site

$17 - $20/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

Old Tinley Pub is looking for a reliable Cook to join our kitchen team. This role involves preparing and cooking menu items while maintaining quality, consistency, and cleanliness in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities:

  • Prepare and cook menu items according to recipes and standards

  • Coordinate food prep with service times

  • Follow food safety and sanitation guidelines

  • Operate and maintain kitchen equipment

  • Keep the kitchen clean and organized

Qualifications:

  • Previous cooking or kitchen experience preferred

  • Familiarity with kitchen equipment and basic cooking techniques

  • Strong attention to detail

  • Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment