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

Khepri Kitchen

Lead Line Cook

Mount Prospect, IL · On-site

$23 - $27/hr

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

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 ...

Lettuce Entertain You Restaurants

Lead Line Cook

Oak Brook, IL · On-site

$17.50 - $22.25/hr

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 ...

Antico Posto

Lead Line Cook

Oak Brook, IL · On-site

$17.50 - $22.25/hr

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 ...

Salted

Lead Line Cook

Chicago, IL · On-site

$21 - $26/hr

Referral bonus program Lead Line Cook Responsibilities * Prepare and cook food items to perfection, accurately following our Salted culinary standards. * Maintain compliance with sanitation ...

Salted

Lead Line Cook

Chicago, IL · On-site

$21 - $26/hr

Referral bonus program Lead Line Cook Responsibilities * Prepare and cook food items to perfection, accurately following our Salted culinary standards. * Maintain compliance with sanitation ...

Joe's Stone Crab - Chicago

Lead Line Cook

Chicago, IL · On-site

$17.75 - $22.75/hr

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 · On-site

$17.75 - $22.75/hr

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 ...

Antico Posto

PM Lead Line Cook

Oak Brook, IL

$15 - $24/hr

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 ...

Antico Posto

PM Lead Line Cook

Oak Brook, IL · On-site

$15 - $24/hr

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 ...

Covenant Living

Lead Line Cook

Carol Stream, IL · On-site

$19.13 - $25.43/hr

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

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 ...

New

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 ...

Salted

Open House Hiring Event - Salted

Chicago, IL · On-site

$18 - $26/hr

Lead Line Cook ($21-$26) and Line Cook ($18-$23 hourly) Part-time and Full-time schedules are available . PM /Weekend availability may be required. If you're unable to attend our hiring event, apply ...

Salted

Open House Hiring Event - Salted

Chicago, IL · On-site

$18 - $26/hr

Lead Line Cook ($21-$26) and Line Cook ($18-$23 hourly) Part-time and Full-time schedules are available . PM /Weekend availability may be required. If you're unable to attend our hiring event, apply ...

Sifted LLC

Line Cook

Chicago, IL · On-site

$22/hr

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 ...

Sand Hospitality

Line Cook

Schaumburg, IL · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

Line Cook Holiday Inn Chicago - Schaumburg | Schaumburg, IL Pay Range: $16.00 - $19.00 per Hour Join Our Culinary Team Are you passionate about cooking and creating exceptional guest experiences? The ...

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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 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for lead line cook in Chicago, IL is $19.81, 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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,215 per year, or $19.8 per hour.

Lead Line Cook

Khepri Kitchen

Mount Prospect, IL • On-site

$23 - $27/hr

Full-time

PTO

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

Benefits:
  • Competitive salary
  • Opportunity for advancement
  • Paid time off
  • 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 passionate about serving thoughtfully prepared, made-from-scratch food alongside specialty coffee and seasonal menus. We're looking for an experienced Lead Line Cook / Kitchen Team Lead who thrives in a fast-paced kitchen, takes pride in consistency, and enjoys working with a collaborative team.
If you're dependable, organized, and ready to grow with a restaurant that values craftsmanship and hospitality, we'd love to meet you.
Position Details:
  • Full-time
  • Starting at $23/hour
  • 90-day introductory period with a performance review and opportunity for a pay increase
  • Consistent weekly schedule
  • Thursday through Monday
  • Shifts are either:
    • 10:30 AM – 6:30 PM
    • 1:30 PM – 9:30 PM
  • Tuesdays and Wednesdays off every week
What You'll Do:
  • Prepare ingredients and set up stations for daily service
  • Execute brunch and lunch service with speed, consistency, and attention to detail
  • Help maintain high standards for food quality, cleanliness, and organization
  • Support seasonal menu changes and daily specials
  • Collaborate with the kitchen team to keep service running efficiently
  • Assist with occasional catering, events, and special menu offerings
  • Keep workstations stocked, clean, and ready for service
  • Lead by example through professionalism, teamwork, and a strong work ethic
What This Role Is Not

To set clear expectations, this position does not include:
  • Ordering inventory
  • Employee scheduling
  • Full kitchen management responsibilities
Qualifications:
  • Previous line cook experience required
  • Experience working in a scratch kitchen strongly preferred
  • Able to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment
  • Strong organizational and time management skills
  • Reliable, dependable, and punctual
  • Positive attitude with excellent communication skills
  • Team-oriented mindset
  • Weekend availability required
Why Join Khepri Kitchen?
  • Stable, full-time schedule
  • Fixed days off every week
  • Opportunity for performance-based wage growth
  • Creative, seasonal menu with made-from-scratch cooking
  • Small, supportive, and collaborative team
  • Community-focused restaurant culture
  • Opportunities for professional growth and development
If you're looking for a kitchen where quality matters, teamwork is valued, and you'll have the opportunity to grow, we'd love to hear from you.