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Line Cook Jobs in Crystal Lake, IL (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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

Line Cook

Carpentersville, IL · On-site

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

Join Our Team as a Line Cook! Are you passionate about cooking and creating unforgettable dining experiences? Do you thrive in a fast-paced, team-oriented kitchen environment? The Randall Oaks Golf ...

Line Cook

Carpentersville, IL · On-site

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

Join Our Team as a Line Cook! Are you passionate about cooking and creating unforgettable dining experiences? Do you thrive in a fast-paced, team-oriented kitchen environment? The Randall Oaks Golf ...

Line Cook

Carpentersville, IL · On-site

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

Join Our Team as a Line Cook! Are you passionate about cooking and creating unforgettable dining experiences? Do you thrive in a fast-paced, team-oriented kitchen environment? The Randall Oaks Golf ...

Join the Team as a Line Cook at Bullseye Pub & Eatery! Are you passionate about cooking and thrive in a fast-paced, social work environment? Bullseye Pub & Eatery, a locally owned neighborhood pub in ...

New

Line Cook

Carpentersville, IL · On-site

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

Join Our Team as a Line Cook! Are you passionate about cooking and creating unforgettable dining experiences? Do you thrive in a fast-paced, team-oriented kitchen environment? The Randall Oaks Golf ...

Line Cook

Gurnee, IL · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

As a Line Cook, you will be committed to safe food handling, cleanliness, and sanitation standards while preparing food with proper safety equipment, tools, and recipe specifications. Line Cook ...

Line Cook

Bloomingdale, IL · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

As a Line Cook, you will be committed to safe food handling, cleanliness, and sanitation standards while preparing food with proper safety equipment, tools, and recipe specifications. Line Cook ...

Line Cook

Bloomingdale, IL · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

As a Line Cook, you will be committed to safe food handling, cleanliness, and sanitation standards while preparing food with proper safety equipment, tools, and recipe specifications. Line Cook ...

Line Cook

Gurnee, IL · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

As a Line Cook, you will be committed to safe food handling, cleanliness, and sanitation standards while preparing food with proper safety equipment, tools, and recipe specifications. Line Cook ...

Line Cook

Kenosha, WI · On-site

$15.78 - $19.03/hr

Line Cook $15.78-19.03/hr Line Cook Line Cook Range: $15.78 - $19.03 Red Robin isn't your typical burger restaurant. We're a team filled with unbridled energy, magnetic personalities, and a passion ...

Line Cook

Hoffman Estates, IL · On-site

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

At Main Event, our Line Cooks prepare unforgettably delicious food that keep our Guests coming back for more! As a Line Cook, you are passionate about our ingredients, food quality standards and ...

Line Cook

Hoffman Estates, IL · On-site

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

At Main Event, our Line Cooks prepare unforgettably delicious food that keep our Guests coming back for more! As a Line Cook, you are passionate about our ingredients, food quality standards and ...

As a Line Cook, you will be committed to safe food handling, cleanliness, and sanitation standards while preparing food with proper safety equipment, tools, and recipe specifications. Line Cook ...

Line Cook

Algonquin, IL · On-site

$15 - $19/hr

As a Line Cook, you will be committed to safe food handling, cleanliness, and sanitation standards while preparing food with proper safety equipment, tools, and recipe specifications. Line Cook ...

Line Cook

Lake Geneva, WI · On-site

$15.25 - $19/hr

Line Cook - Seasonal Classification: Non-Exempt Hourly Seasonal Department: Culinary Job Summary: In addition to daily preparation of food as deemed necessary by Executive Chef and Sous Chef, the ...

Line Cook

Schaumburg, IL · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

As a Line Cook, you will be committed to safe food handling, cleanliness, and sanitation standards while preparing food with proper safety equipment, tools, and recipe specifications. Line Cook ...

Line Cook

Schaumburg, IL · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

As a Line Cook, you will be committed to safe food handling, cleanliness, and sanitation standards while preparing food with proper safety equipment, tools, and recipe specifications. Line Cook ...

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Line Cook information

See Crystal Lake, IL salary details

$9

$16

$21

How much do line cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for line cook in Crystal Lake, IL is $16.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.66 and $18.41 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a line cook?

Line cooks are culinary professionals who work in restaurant kitchens, responsible for preparing and cooking food according to recipes and standards set by the chef. They typically work at specific stations along the kitchen 'line,' such as grill, sauté, or fry, ensuring each dish is cooked correctly and presented well. Line cooks must manage their time efficiently, maintain food safety standards, and communicate effectively with other kitchen staff to ensure a smooth operation during busy service periods.

What is a line cook?

A line cook is a restaurant staff member who works in the kitchen, usually working a particular station on the line during service. As a line cook, your responsibilities and duties may include setting your station mise en place, firing food to order, and plating food. Line cooks work at a station, for example, the grill or fryer, but they are cross-trained to work any position in the kitchen. Your job is to work as a team with the entire kitchen staff to prepare meals that are consistently high in quality and delivered rapidly to the front of the house.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a line cook, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Line Cook, you need strong culinary skills, attention to detail, and knowledge of food safety, typically gained through experience or culinary training. Familiarity with kitchen equipment, point-of-sale (POS) systems, and health code certifications such as ServSafe are often required. Teamwork, adaptability, and the ability to perform well under pressure are essential soft skills in this fast-paced role. These skills and qualities ensure efficient kitchen operations, high-quality food, and a safe dining experience for customers.

What are common challenges faced by line cooks, and how can they be overcome?

Line cooks often face fast-paced environments where multitasking and time management are essential. Managing multiple orders simultaneously and maintaining consistency in food quality can be challenging, especially during peak hours. Building strong communication with the kitchen team and staying organized at your station can help you overcome these challenges. Additionally, developing efficient prep habits and staying calm under pressure will contribute to your success as a line cook.

What is the difference between Line Cook vs Prep Cook?

AspectLine CookPrep Cook
ResponsibilitiesPrepares menu items during service, follows recipes, manages stationPrepares ingredients, washes, chops, and preps food for cooking
Work EnvironmentKitchen during service hours, fast-pacedKitchen during prep hours, less hectic
CredentialsFood handler’s permit often required, culinary training optionalFood handler’s permit, basic culinary skills
Industry UsageCommonly employed in restaurants, hotels, cateringFound in similar settings, supports line cooks

While both roles work in kitchens and require food safety knowledge, a Line Cook actively prepares dishes during service, whereas a Prep Cook focuses on preparing ingredients beforehand. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

Do line cooks make money?

Line cooks typically earn an hourly wage that varies by location, experience, and establishment, with many earning between minimum wage and $15-$20 per hour. Some may receive tips, which can significantly increase total earnings, especially in busy restaurants. Salaries can also increase with experience, certifications, and working in high-end or high-volume kitchens.

How to get hired as a line cook?

To get hired as a line cook, candidates should have basic cooking skills, knowledge of kitchen safety and sanitation, and experience with kitchen equipment. Preparing a resume highlighting relevant experience and certifications, such as food safety training, can improve chances. Applying directly to restaurants or through job boards and demonstrating a strong work ethic are also important steps.

What are the most commonly searched types of Line Cook jobs in Crystal Lake, IL?

The most popular types of Line Cook jobs in Crystal Lake, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Line Cook jobs in Crystal Lake, IL?

For Line Cook jobs in Crystal Lake, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Line Cook jobs in Crystal Lake, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Line Cook jobs in Crystal Lake, IL are:

What cities near Crystal Lake, IL are hiring for Line Cook jobs?

Cities near Crystal Lake, IL with the most Line Cook job openings:

Infographic showing various Line Cook job openings in Crystal Lake, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $34,507 per year, or $16.6 per hour.

Line Cook

Schaumburg, IL • On-site

$16 - $19/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

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 Holiday Inn Chicago-Schaumburg is seeking a skilled and motivated Line Cook to join our culinary team. This position plays a key role in delivering high-quality meals for hotel guests, restaurant patrons, business travelers, meetings, banquets, and special events.
As a Line Cook, you'll work in a hospitality environment where teamwork, quality, and guest satisfaction are top priorities. Whether preparing breakfast, lunch, dinner, or banquet meals, you'll have the opportunity to showcase your culinary skills while contributing to a memorable dining experience.
Position Summary
The Line Cook is responsible for preparing and cooking menu items according to established recipes, presentation standards, and food safety guidelines. This role prepares meats, seafood, poultry, vegetables, soups, sauces, and other food products while ensuring consistency, quality, and timely service.
The ideal candidate thrives in a busy kitchen environment, takes pride in food quality, and works effectively both independently and as part of a team.
Essential Responsibilities
  • Prepare, cook, and present menu items according to recipes and quality standards.
  • Operate grills, fryers, ovens, broilers, and other commercial kitchen equipment.
  • Prepare meats, seafood, poultry, vegetables, soups, sauces, and specialty menu items.
  • Set up and stock line stations before service periods.
  • Maintain proper food rotation, storage, labeling, and inventory control procedures.
  • Follow established portion sizes, cooking methods, and presentation standards.
  • Assist with food preparation and prep work during non-peak periods.
  • Ensure all dishes are plated and garnished according to restaurant specifications.
  • Maintain cleanliness and organization of workstations and kitchen areas.
  • Follow all food safety, sanitation, and health department requirements.
  • Communicate effectively with kitchen leadership and fellow team members.
  • Assist with opening, side work, and closing responsibilities.
  • Support banquet, catering, and special event food preparation as needed.
  • Deliver exceptional guest service through quality food and efficient execution.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications
Required Skills
  • Strong commitment to guest service and hospitality.
  • Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced restaurant or hotel kitchen environment.
  • Excellent organizational and time management skills.
  • Ability to follow verbal and written instructions.
  • Positive attitude and strong teamwork skills.
  • Basic math and computer skills.
  • Ability to maintain professionalism during busy service periods.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Previous Line Cook, Prep Cook, Restaurant Cook, Hotel Cook, Banquet Cook, or Kitchen Team experience preferred.
  • Experience working in a hotel, restaurant, banquet, catering, or hospitality environment preferred.
  • Knowledge of food safety and sanitation practices.

Physical Requirements
  • Ability to stand and walk for extended periods throughout the shift.
  • Frequent lifting, carrying, bending, reaching, and repetitive movements.
  • Ability to work safely around hot surfaces, commercial kitchen equipment, and sharp utensils.
  • Ability to lift and move products, supplies, and equipment as required.
  • Must wear approved non-slip footwear and follow all safety procedures.

Why Join Holiday Inn Chicago-Schaumburg?
Join a high-energy hospitality team serving hotel guests, business travelers, conferences, meetings, banquets, sports teams, and special events. This position offers the opportunity to develop your culinary skills, work alongside experienced hospitality professionals, and play a direct role in creating exceptional dining experiences for guests every day.
If you're looking for a Line Cook job in Schaumburg, IL where you can grow your culinary experience and be part of a successful hotel restaurant operation, apply today.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.