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Lead Line Cook Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Oak and Honey

Lead Line Cook

Chicago, IL

$19 - $22/hr

The Lead Line Cook plays an important role in maintaining a smooth and organized kitchen during service while helping ensure that every dish leaving the kitchen meets Oak & Honey's standards for ...

New

Aba - Chicago & The Dalcy

Lead Line Cook

Chicago, IL · On-site

$23 - $28/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

A Few of Our Lead Line Cook Benefits: * Restaurant Discounts * Employee Assistance Program - Focusing on a Commitment to Mental Health & Wellness * Paid Vacation for Qualifying Employees * Blue Cross ...

New

Aba

Lead Line Cook

Chicago, IL · On-site

$23 - $28/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

A Few of Our Lead Line Cook Benefits: * Restaurant Discounts * Employee Assistance Program - Focusing on a Commitment to Mental Health & Wellness * Paid Vacation for Qualifying Employees * Blue Cross ...

Aba - Chicago & The Dalcy

Lead Line Cook

Chicago, IL

$17.75 - $22.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

A Few of Our Lead Line Cook Benefits: * Restaurant Discounts * Employee Assistance Program - Focusing on a Commitment to Mental Health & Wellness * Paid Vacation for Qualifying Employees * Blue Cross ...

Lettuce Entertain You Restaurants

Lead Line Cook

Chicago, IL

$17.75 - $22.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

A Few of Our Lead Line Cook Benefits: * Restaurant Discounts * Employee Assistance Program - Focusing on a Commitment to Mental Health & Wellness * Paid Vacation for Qualifying Employees * Blue Cross ...

Khepri Kitchen

Lead Line Cook

Mount Prospect, IL · On-site

$23 - $27/hr

  • PTO

Training & development Lead Line Cook / Kitchen Team Lead Khepri Kitchen | Mount Prospect, IL Join a scratch kitchen where quality, teamwork, and community come first. At Khepri Kitchen, we're ...

Khepri Kitchen

Lead Line Cook

Chicago, IL · On-site

$23 - $27/hr

  • PTO

Training & development Lead Line Cook / Kitchen Team Lead Khepri Kitchen | Chicago, IL Join a scratch kitchen where quality, teamwork, and community come first. At Khepri Kitchen, we're passionate ...

Antico Posto

Lead Line Cook

Oak Brook, IL · On-site

$17.50 - $22.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

A Few of Our Lead Line Cook Benefits: * Restaurant Discounts * Employee Assistance Program - Focusing on a Commitment to Mental Health & Wellness * Paid Vacation for Qualifying Employees * Blue Cross ...

Lettuce Entertain You Restaurants

Lead Line Cook

Oak Brook, IL · On-site

$17.50 - $22.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

A Few of Our Lead Line Cook Benefits: * Restaurant Discounts * Employee Assistance Program - Focusing on a Commitment to Mental Health & Wellness * Paid Vacation for Qualifying Employees * Blue Cross ...

Parachute HiFi

Lead Line Cook

Chicago, IL

$17.05/hr

PARACHUTE HiFi IS LOOKING FOR A LEAD LINE COOK! We're looking for a solid, experienced line cook who takes pride in owning their station. Someone who comes in prepared, stays organized, works clean ...

Parachute HiFi

Lead Line Cook

Chicago, IL

$28 - $33/hr

PARACHUTE HiFi IS LOOKING FOR A LEAD LINE COOK! We're looking for a solid, experienced line cook who takes pride in owning their station. Someone who comes in prepared, stays organized, works clean ...

Parachute HiFi

Lead Line Cook

Chicago, IL

$28 - $33/hr

PARACHUTE HiFi IS LOOKING FOR A LEAD LINE COOK! We're looking for a solid, experienced line cook who takes pride in owning their station. Someone who comes in prepared, stays organized, works clean ...

Covenant Living

Lead Line Cook

Carol Stream, IL · On-site

$19.13 - $25.43/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Lead Line Cook will accurately and efficiently prepare, portion, cook, and present a variety of hot and/or cold food items for various meal periods: to include Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, and ...

Au Cheval - Chicago

Lead Line Cook

Chicago, IL

$23 - $26/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Au Cheval , a part of Hogsalt, is seeking a seasoned Lead Line Cook ($23/hr-$26/hr) who is ready to take the next step in their culinary career. Ideal candidates are experienced Line Cooks with good ...

Emmett's Brewing Company

Lead Line Cook

Palatine, IL · On-site

$18 - $21/hr

The Lead Line Cook is a key member of our kitchen staff, responsible for the preparation, cooking, and presentation of dishes according to the restaurant's standards. Key Qualifications: * Proficient ...

Steingold's Bakehouse

Lead Line Cook

Chicago, IL

$18 - $20/hr

The line cook/prep is passionate about our cuisine, customer service and pays attention to detail. Line cooks work in a fast-paced environment with an array of equipment specified to Steingolds Food ...

Sifted LLC

Line Cook

Chicago, IL · On-site

$22/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Monday through Friday // 6:30am - 2:30pm The Line cook will be responsible for checking in with the Lead Line cook. Line cooks should be comfortable working in one or multiple stations daily and ...

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All JobsLead Line Cook JobsLead Line Cook Jobs in Chicago, IL

Lead Line Cook information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$11

$19

$26

How much do lead line cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for lead line cook in Chicago, IL is $19.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.12 and $21.83 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a lead line cook?

Lead line cooks are experienced culinary professionals responsible for overseeing a particular section or station in the kitchen, ensuring that food is prepared correctly and on time. They supervise other line cooks, help with kitchen organization, and maintain high standards for food quality and safety. Lead line cooks often collaborate with the head chef and sous chef, assist with menu planning, and may train new kitchen staff. Their leadership is crucial to a kitchen's smooth and efficient operation.

What are some common challenges lead line cooks face when managing a busy kitchen shift?

Lead Line Cooks often juggle multiple tasks during peak hours, from overseeing food preparation and plating to coordinating with kitchen staff and communicating with front-of-house teams. Common challenges include maintaining consistency and quality under pressure, managing inventory shortages, and quickly resolving unexpected issues, such as equipment malfunctions or staff absences. Effective time management, clear communication, and adaptability are essential to ensure smooth operations and uphold high culinary standards during busy shifts.

What is the difference between Lead Line Cook vs Line Cook?

AspectLead Line CookLine Cook
ResponsibilitiesOversees station, mentors staff, ensures qualityPrepares dishes, follows recipes, maintains station
CredentialsExperience, culinary skills, leadershipBasic culinary training, experience preferred
Work EnvironmentFast-paced kitchen, supervisory roleKitchen station, food prep

The Lead Line Cook typically has more experience and takes on supervisory duties, overseeing other cooks and ensuring quality standards. The Line Cook focuses on preparing dishes according to recipes and maintaining station efficiency. Both roles require culinary skills, but the Lead Line Cook also demonstrates leadership and organizational abilities.

Do lead line cooks make a lot of money?

Lead line cooks typically earn an hourly wage that ranges from minimum wage to higher rates depending on experience, location, and establishment type. In some cases, they can earn additional income through tips, especially in busy restaurants. Overall, their salary is generally moderate compared to executive chef roles but can increase with skill and responsibility.

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

To thrive as a Lead Line Cook, you need strong culinary skills, food safety knowledge, and experience in high-volume kitchens, usually supported by a culinary degree or equivalent experience. Familiarity with kitchen equipment, inventory systems, and food safety certifications like ServSafe are typically required. Leadership, teamwork, and the ability to stay calm under pressure are crucial soft skills in this role. These skills ensure efficient kitchen operations, maintain food quality and safety, and foster a positive work environment.
Lead Line Cook jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lead Line Cook job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,216 per year, or $19.8 per hour.

Lead Line Cook

Oak and Honey

Chicago, IL

$19 - $22/hr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

Position Overview

Oak & Honey is looking for a dependable, experienced, and hardworking Lead Line Cook to join our kitchen team. The Lead Line Cook plays an important role in maintaining a smooth and organized kitchen during service while helping ensure that every dish leaving the kitchen meets Oak & Honey’s standards for quality, consistency, presentation, and timing.

This position is ideal for someone who has strong line-cooking experience, takes pride in their work, stays calm under pressure, and can naturally take a leadership role during service.

Responsibilities
  • Prepare and execute menu items according to Oak & Honey recipes, standards, and plating specifications.
  • Work efficiently on assigned stations during breakfast, lunch, and dinner service.
  • Lead by example and help maintain a positive, professional kitchen environment.
  • Assist with directing the line during service and keeping ticket times under control.
  • Ensure all stations are properly stocked, organized, and ready for service.
  • Complete daily prep according to prep lists and production needs.
  • Communicate clearly with the Executive Chef, kitchen leadership, and other line cooks.
  • Monitor food quality, portion sizes, temperatures, and presentation.
  • Assist with training and coaching new and less-experienced kitchen employees.
  • Help ensure proper food handling, sanitation, and food safety procedures are followed at all times.
  • Maintain a clean and organized workstation throughout the shift.
  • Assist with opening and closing kitchen duties as assigned.
  • Properly label, date, rotate, and store food according to restaurant standards.
  • Communicate low inventory, prep shortages, equipment issues, and other concerns to kitchen leadership.
  • Help manage the flow of service by communicating with the front of house and expo team when necessary.
  • Assist with receiving deliveries and proper storage of products when assigned.
  • Reduce food waste by following proper preparation, storage, and portioning procedures.
  • Follow all Oak & Honey policies, procedures, and employee handbook guidelines.
  • Perform additional kitchen duties as assigned by the Executive Chef or kitchen management.
Leadership Expectations

As a Lead Line Cook, you are expected to help set the standard for the rest of the kitchen team. You should:

  • Arrive on time and ready to work.
  • Maintain a professional and positive attitude during busy services.
  • Help hold the kitchen team accountable to Oak & Honey standards.
  • Step in and assist other stations when needed.
  • Communicate problems instead of allowing them to affect service.
  • Treat coworkers, managers, vendors, and guests with professionalism and respect.
  • Help create a kitchen culture based on teamwork, accountability, cleanliness, and consistency.
Qualifications
  • 2+ years of professional restaurant kitchen experience preferred.
  • Previous line-cook experience required.
  • Previous leadership or lead-cook experience preferred.
  • Strong knowledge of basic cooking techniques and kitchen operations.
  • Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced, high-volume restaurant.
  • Ability to remain calm and organized during busy services.
  • Strong communication and teamwork skills.
  • Ability to follow recipes and detailed instructions consistently.
  • Knowledge of proper food safety and sanitation procedures.
  • Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 50 lbs.
  • Must be available to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.
  • Food Handler Certification/ServSafe certification preferred.
What We’re Looking For

We are looking for someone who is reliable, hardworking, organized, and passionate about food.

The Lead Line Cook should be someone who can confidently run their station, recognize what needs to be done before being asked, and help the entire kitchen succeed during service.

More detail about Oak and Honey, please visit https://culinaryagents.com/entities/819131-Oak-and-Honey