1

Kitchen Help Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Kitchen Helper

Des Plaines, IL ยท On-site

$20/hr

We have an incredible opportunity for a dynamic Kitchen helper to join our growing Des Plaines, IL Team! About DO & CO We have a passion for hospitality culinary delights on every banquet floor and ...

We have an incredible opportunity for a dynamic Kitchen helper to join our growing Des Plaines, IL Team! About DO & CO We have a passion for hospitality culinary delights on every banquet floor and ...

Kitchen Helper

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$19.35/hr

We have an incredible opportunity for a dynamic Kitchen helper to join our growing Des Plaines, IL Team! About DO & CO We have a passion for hospitality culinary delights on every banquet floor and ...

Kitchen Helper

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$19.35/hr

We have an incredible opportunity for a dynamic Kitchen helper to join our growing Des Plaines, IL Team! About DO & CO We have a passion for hospitality culinary delights on every banquet floor and ...

We have an incredible opportunity for a dynamic Kitchen helper to join our growing Des Plaines, IL Team! About DO & CO We have a passion for hospitality culinary delights on every banquet floor and ...

Controls flow of traffic in kitchen * Helps out in other areas of the restaurant when needed * Completes opening and/or closing checklists * Perform other related duties, as assigned by company ...

Prep Kitchen Helper

Oak Brook, IL ยท On-site

$12 - $14/hr

Controls flow of traffic in kitchen * Helps out in other areas of the restaurant when needed * Completes opening and/or closing checklists * Perform other related duties, as assigned by company ...

Pastry Kitchen Helper

Des Plaines, IL ยท On-site

$17.50 - $26.25/hr

Nationa l Star Services is a 28-year-old facility management company providing different services all nationwide and we are now in search of Pastry Helpers to work at our location in Des Plaines, IL ...

Cook

Palos Park, IL ยท On-site

$14 - $19/hr

Ability to direct and instruct other kitchen help in job tasks and work cooperatively with Supervisors How to Apply If you are a motivated and detail-oriented individual who is passionate about ...

Cook

Palos Park, IL ยท On-site

$14 - $19/hr

... other kitchen help in job tasks and work cooperatively with Supervisors How to Apply If you are a motivated and detail-oriented individual who is passionate about delivering excellent customer ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Kitchen Help information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$9

$15

$20

How much do kitchen help jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for kitchen help in Chicago, IL is $15.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.85 and $17.07 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by kitchen help staff, and how can they be managed effectively?

Kitchen help staff often face challenges such as working in a fast-paced environment, maintaining cleanliness during busy service hours, and managing multiple tasks simultaneously. Effective communication with chefs and other kitchen staff is essential to ensure smooth operations and avoid mistakes. Staying organized, following established cleaning routines, and asking for clarification when unsure can help manage these challenges and contribute to a positive team atmosphere.

What is the difference between Kitchen Help vs Dishwasher?

AspectKitchen HelpDishwasher
Primary DutiesAssisting with food prep, cleaning, organizingLoading, unloading, and operating dishwashing equipment
Required SkillsBasic kitchen knowledge, teamworkAbility to operate dishwashing machines, attention to cleanliness
Work EnvironmentKitchen, food prep areasKitchen, dishwashing stations
CertificationsNone typically requiredNone typically required

Kitchen Help and Dishwasher roles both support kitchen operations but differ mainly in duties. Kitchen Help assists with food prep and cleaning, while Dishwashers focus on cleaning dishes and maintaining sanitation. Both roles are entry-level, require minimal certifications, and are essential in restaurant and food service settings.

What is kitchen help?

Kitchen help, also known as kitchen assistants or kitchen aides, are staff members who support the kitchen team by performing basic tasks such as cleaning, food preparation, and organizing supplies. They assist chefs and cooks by washing dishes, chopping vegetables, stocking ingredients, and maintaining cleanliness in the kitchen. Kitchen help play a crucial role in ensuring the kitchen runs smoothly and efficiently, especially during busy service times. Their work helps keep the kitchen safe, sanitary, and organized. This entry-level position is often a stepping stone to more advanced roles in food service.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as kitchen help, and why are they important?

To thrive as Kitchen Help, you need basic food preparation skills, knowledge of kitchen safety and sanitation standards, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, dishwashing machines, and sometimes food handler certifications are typically required. Strong teamwork, reliability, and the ability to work efficiently under pressure help individuals excel in this supportive role. These skills and qualities ensure smooth kitchen operations, maintain food safety, and contribute to a positive work environment.

How to work as a kitchen help?

To work as a kitchen help, you should be prepared to perform tasks such as cleaning dishes, food prep, and maintaining cleanliness in the kitchen. Good communication skills, the ability to follow safety protocols, and physical stamina are important. Some positions may require food safety certifications or prior experience in a kitchen environment.
What are popular job titles related to Kitchen Help jobs in Chicago, IL? For Kitchen Help jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Kitchen Help jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Kitchen Help jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Infographic showing various Kitchen Help job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, and 30% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $33,013 per year, or $15.9 per hour.

Kitchen Helper

DO & CO

Des Plaines, IL โ€ข On-site

$20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

We have an incredible opportunity for a dynamic Kitchen helper to join our growing Des Plaines, IL Team!
About DO & CO
We have a passion for hospitality culinary delights on every banquet floor and in the sky. With the three business segments of Airline Catering, International Event Catering, and Restaurants, Lounges & Hotels, we offer gourmet entertainment all over the world. We operate in 33 locations, 12 countries and 3 Continents, maintaining the highest standard of quality in both our products and services. We refine the classics, develop the unknown and grow constantly - sometimes beyond our own expectations.
Responsibilities:
  • Assisting senior team members in running a busy kitchen.
  • Dealing with deliveries and assisting with stock rotation.
  • Ensures all food is prepared and cooked according to specific standards.
  • Maintaining high standards of hygiene.
  • Assist chefs and cooks with basic kitchen tasks, such as preparation of Hot and Cold meals (Halal and/or Non-Halal).
  • Prepare food by washing, chopping, and dicing vegetables using knife or peeling machine.
  • Comply with all food safety and hygiene regulations as stated in the food safety management system handbook.
  • Report problems with the food safety management system to their manager and the hygiene and food safety team

Qualifications:
  • Proactive and self-organization
  • Ability to manage through a substantial workload.
  • Capability to work independently and in a team environment.
  • Ability to complete assigned tasks within the given time to meet strict deadlines.
  • Ability to accurately monitor wastage.
  • Ability to work long hours on foot and in environments with varying temperatures.
  • Flexibility to work different shifts (including nights, weekends, and holidays) based on business needs

What We Offer:
  • Pay rate: $19.35 hourly.
  • Daily Complimentary Meals (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner).
  • FT employees are eligible for 401K and medical benefits: medical, dental, and vision.
  • An organization dedicated to fostering innovation; in pursuit of cultivating creativity, embracing new ideas and leveraging our impeccable standard for hospitality.
  • Genuine career development opportunities, both nationally and internationally.
  • The chance to collaborate and represent a leading force in the luxury global gourmet entertainment industry by attending world-class events.

Diversity & Inclusion Statement
DO & CO provides equal employment opportunities. Applicants will be considered for employment without discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, disability status or any other protected characteristic.
#ChicagoIND