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Kitchen Intern Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Georgia

Food Svc Worker 3 Driver

Decatur, IL

$32K/yr

This position washes dishes, pots & pans, mops the kitchen floors to ensure compliance with food ... An equivalent combination of knowledge, education, job or intern experience, training, or ...

All JobsKitchen Intern JobsKitchen Intern Jobs in Illinois

Kitchen Intern information

See Illinois salary details

$8

$18

$30

How much do kitchen intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for kitchen intern in Illinois is $18.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.18 and $20.58 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a kitchen intern?

Kitchen Interns are entry-level team members who work in a restaurant or food service kitchen to gain hands-on experience in food preparation, safety, and kitchen operations. They typically assist chefs and cooks with tasks such as prepping ingredients, maintaining cleanliness, and learning basic cooking techniques. The role is designed to give aspiring culinary professionals practical exposure and training that can help them advance in the hospitality industry.

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

To thrive as a Kitchen Intern, you need basic culinary knowledge, food safety awareness, and a willingness to learn, often supported by a high school diploma or enrollment in a culinary program. Familiarity with kitchen equipment, safety standards, and inventory systems is helpful in this role. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and a positive attitude help you stand out in a fast-paced kitchen environment. These skills and qualities are essential for maintaining kitchen efficiency, ensuring food safety, and supporting the overall success of the culinary team.

What are some common challenges that kitchen interns face during their internship, and how can they overcome them?

Kitchen interns often encounter fast-paced environments where multitasking and time management are crucial. Adapting to the physical demands and maintaining attention to detail under pressure can be challenging, especially during busy service hours. To overcome these challenges, interns should communicate proactively with their team, ask questions when uncertain, and observe experienced chefs to learn efficient techniques. Developing a strong work ethic and embracing feedback can help interns grow and succeed in the role.

What is the difference between Kitchen Intern vs Kitchen Assistant?

AspectKitchen InternKitchen Assistant
CredentialsMay be a student or trainee, no formal certification requiredOften requires basic food safety or sanitation certifications
Work EnvironmentLearning-focused, often in training or educational settingsOperational, assisting with daily kitchen tasks
Employer & Industry UsageRestaurants, hotels, culinary schoolsRestaurants, catering services, hotels
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between a Kitchen Intern and a Kitchen Assistant is that a Kitchen Intern is typically a student or trainee gaining experience, often without formal certifications, while a Kitchen Assistant is a more operational role requiring basic food safety knowledge. Interns focus on learning, whereas Assistants support daily kitchen functions.

Can I work in a kitchen intern with no experience?

Kitchen intern positions often do not require prior experience, as they are designed to provide training and hands-on learning. Employers typically look for enthusiasm, a willingness to learn, and the ability to follow safety and hygiene standards. Basic skills like teamwork and punctuality can help in securing such roles.

What are the most commonly searched types of Kitchen jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Kitchen jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Kitchen Intern jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Kitchen Intern job openings:

Kitchen Intern jobs near you

Student Food Service Intern

City Colleges of Chicago

Chicago, IL • On-site

$17 - $19/hr

Full-time, Internship

Re-posted 9 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Assist cooks with preparation of hot and cold food, salads, and beverages.

  • Maintain sanitation and orderliness of kitchen equipment and work area.

  • Help with inventorying food, supplies, and equipment, and keep daily inventory checklists.

City Colleges Of Chicago rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

236th of 628 rated colleges and universities

Job description

FOOD SERVICE INTERN

WASHBURNE CULINARY AND HOSPITALITY INSTITUTE

KENNEDY-KING COLLEGE

Primary Objective: Get ready to savor the flavor of opportunity at the Washburne Culinary and Hospitality Institute Enterprise Group! As we gear up for the grand unveiling of our culinary delights, we're on the lookout for passionate individuals to join our team and bring our vision to life.

Explore the tantalizing roles awaiting you:

**Coffee Connoisseur** Picture yourself as the maestro behind our vibrant coffee bar, crafting perfect brews and creating unforgettable moments for our students.

**Marketing Maven & Inventory Wizard** Dive into the dynamic world of marketing and inventory management, where every strategy and stock count play a crucial role in our success story.

**Catering Extraordinaire** Join our team of event magicians, where you'll turn ordinary occasions into extraordinary experiences through your culinary prowess and attention to detail.

**Hospitality Hero** As a guest service attendant, you'll be the welcoming face of Washburne, ensuring each visitor feels valued and cared for from the moment they step through our doors for hospitality service.

**Culinary Crafts** Embark on a culinary journey like no other as you prepare delectable dishes that tantalize taste buds and leave a lasting impression on every palate.

If you're ready to unleash your passion and creativity in a vibrant culinary environment, we invite you to join us on this exciting adventure. Embrace the opportunity to be part of something extraordinary at Washburne Culinary and Hospitality Institute Enterprise Group.

Duties & Responsibilities:
  1. Assist cooks with preparation of a variety of hot and cold food, salads and beverages as assigned.
  2. Prepare food for delivery and/or serving, packing food properly for safety and delivery.
  3. Assist in maintaining routine records related to kitchen operation, output and inventory.
  4. Assist in maintaining kitchen equipment in a sanitary and orderly condition.
  5. Assist in inventorying food, kitchen equipment, supplies and orderly condition.
  6. Keep daily checklist of inventory of food/equipment upon return to kitchen.
  7. Wash dishes, utensils, pots and pans; maintain established sanitary standards; clean stove, steam kettles, ovens and other standing kitchen equipment; sweep and mop floors.
  8. Operate kitchen equipment and report all major repairs or servicing needs to proper authority.
  9. Assist in dining room set-up and clean-up of meals.
  10. Perform related duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

  1. Must be a current student in the Culinary Arts program
  2. Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet time schedules.
  3. Understand and follow oral and written instructions.
  4. Interpret and apply proper sanitation and safety procedures for institutional food preparation.
  5. Meet the physical requirements necessary to safely and effectively perform assigned duties.
  6. Maintain effective work relationships with those contacted in the performance of required duties.
  7. Ability to lift and carry 25-50 pounds.

Salary Range: $17.00 or $19.00 per hour. 

Offered rate will be determined based on whether assigned location is on campus or off campus.

We are an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. 

Thank you for your interest in City Colleges of Chicago.

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