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Line Cooks And Prep Cooks Jobs in Springfield, IL

Cook

Springfield, IL · On-site

$14 - $18.50/hr

This position cooks, prepares, and packages product. Essential Job Duties: * Cook, prepare, and ... Operate dresser, front swamp, back swamp, grill, and food prep stations as assigned * Comply with ...

Cook

Taylorville, IL · On-site

$13.25 - $18/hr

This position cooks, prepares, and packages product. Job Duties: * Cook, prepare, and package food ... Operate dresser, front swamp, back swamp, grill, and food prep stations as assigned * Comply with ...

Cook

Springfield, IL · On-site

$15 - $25/hr

Setting up and stocking prep and line stations * Cleaning, sanitizing, and organizing the kitchen ... Substituting for or assisting other cooks and kitchen positions during peak business periods What ...

Cook

Taylorville, IL · On-site

$13.25 - $18/hr

This position cooks, prepares, and packages product. Job Duties: * Cook, prepare, and package food ... Operate dresser, front swamp, back swamp, grill, and food prep stations as assigned * Comply with ...

Cook

Springfield, IL · On-site

$15 - $25/hr

Setting up and stocking prep and line stations * Cleaning, sanitizing, and organizing the kitchen ... Substituting for or assisting other cooks and kitchen positions during peak business periods What ...

Setting up and stocking prep and line stations Cleaning, sanitizing, and organizing the kitchen ... cooks and kitchen positions during peak business periods What it Takes to Succeed (Physical Job ...

Cook

Springfield, IL · On-site

$15 - $25/hr

Setting up and stocking prep and line stations * Cleaning, sanitizing, and organizing the kitchen ... Substituting for or assisting other cooks and kitchen positions during peak business periods What ...

Line Cook

Springfield, IL · On-site

$15 - $19.50/hr

Role Overview Our Kitchen, or as we like to say at Chili's our Heart of House, Team Members are responsible for setting the pace for a great shift, every shift. They provide dependable, fast service ...

Cook

Springfield, IL · On-site

$16/hr

Prepares and cooks food items according to recipes, quality standards, presentation standards, and ... Oversees a specific station in the kitchen, ensuring all prep work and cooking duties are performed ...

Prepares and cooks food items according to recipes, quality standards, presentation standards, and ... Oversees a specific station in the kitchen, ensuring all prep work and cooking duties are performed ...

Prepares and cooks food items according to recipes, quality standards, presentation standards, and ... Oversees a specific station in the kitchen, ensuring all prep work and cooking duties are performed ...

Prepares and cooks food items according to recipes, quality standards, presentation standards, and ... Oversees a specific station in the kitchen, ensuring all prep work and cooking duties are performed ...

Prepares and cooks food items according to recipes, quality standards, presentation standards, and ... Oversees a specific station in the kitchen, ensuring all prep work and cooking duties are performed ...

Showing results 41-60

Line Cooks And Prep Cooks information

See Springfield, IL salary details

$9

$16

$21

How much do line cooks and prep cooks jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for line cooks and prep cooks in Springfield, IL is $16.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.00 and $18.80 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are line cooks and prep cooks?

Line cooks and prep cooks are culinary professionals who work in restaurant kitchens to prepare and assemble food. Prep cooks focus on getting ingredients ready by washing, chopping, and portioning foods before cooking starts. Line cooks handle the actual cooking during service, working on specific stations such as grill, sauté, or fry, and ensuring dishes are prepared according to recipes and restaurant standards. Both roles require attention to detail, teamwork, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment.

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

To thrive as a Line Cook or Prep Cook, you need proficiency in food preparation, knife skills, and knowledge of kitchen safety and sanitation, often backed by a high school diploma or culinary training. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, recipes, and inventory management systems is commonly required. Strong teamwork, time management, and the ability to work well under pressure are standout soft skills in this environment. These abilities ensure efficient kitchen operations, consistent food quality, and a safe, collaborative workplace.

What are some common challenges line cooks and prep cooks face during busy service hours, and how can they be managed?

Line cooks and prep cooks often encounter high-pressure situations during peak meal times, where speed and accuracy are essential. Managing multiple orders at once while maintaining food quality and adhering to safety standards can be challenging. Effective communication with the kitchen team, strong organizational skills, and prioritizing tasks help navigate these busy periods. Many kitchens use checklists and clear station setups to streamline workflow and reduce stress. With experience, cooks develop strategies to stay calm and efficient, which is highly valued in the industry.

What is the difference between Line Cooks And Prep Cooks vs Dishwashers?

AspectLine Cooks And Prep CooksDishwashers
Primary ResponsibilitiesPreparing ingredients, cooking dishes, assembling mealsCleaning dishes, utensils, and kitchen equipment
Required SkillsCooking techniques, food prep, time managementEfficiency, attention to cleanliness, basic physical stamina
Work EnvironmentKitchen, fast-paced, food service industryKitchen, cleaning area, food service industry
Common CertificationsFood Handler’s Permit, culinary training (optional)Food Handler’s Permit (sometimes required)

While Line Cooks And Prep Cooks focus on preparing and cooking food, Dishwashers primarily handle cleaning tasks in the kitchen. Both roles are essential in a restaurant setting, but they differ significantly in responsibilities and skills required.

Do line cooks make more than prep cooks?

Yes, line cooks generally earn higher wages than prep cooks because they have more responsibilities, such as cooking and plating dishes during service. Prep cooks typically focus on preparing ingredients and assisting line cooks, often earning lower pay due to the less complex nature of their tasks. Wage differences can vary based on experience, location, and establishment type.

How to get hired as a line cook?

To get hired as a line cook, applicants should have previous kitchen experience, basic cooking skills, and knowledge of food safety standards. Preparing a professional resume highlighting relevant skills and certifications, such as ServSafe, can improve chances. Demonstrating reliability, teamwork, and a willingness to work flexible hours also helps secure a position.

Where do line cooks make the most money?

Line cooks tend to earn the highest wages in regions with a high cost of living and a strong hospitality industry, such as major metropolitan areas or popular tourist destinations. Factors like experience, skill level, and the type of establishment also influence earning potential, with upscale restaurants often paying more than casual eateries.

What cities near Springfield, IL are hiring for Line Cooks And Prep Cooks jobs?

Cities near Springfield, IL with the most Line Cooks And Prep Cooks job openings:

Cook

Sonic

Springfield, IL • On-site

$14 - $18.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago


Sonic Drive-In rating

4.7

Company rating: 4.7 out of 10

Based on 1,627 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

80th of 106 rated fast food restaurants


Job description

Position: Cook

Immediate Supervisor: Manager on Duty (MOD)

Status:Nonexempt


Position Summary: This position cooks, prepares, and packages product.


Essential Job Duties:

  • Cook, prepare, and package food product pursuant to operational and quality standards
  • Operate dresser, front swamp, back swamp, grill, and food prep stations as assigned
  • Comply with all company policies, procedures, and operational standards
  • Perform regular cleaning and sanitation duties - including trash disposal, mopping, sweeping, washing dishes and food preparation tools, wiping counters, sanitizing food preparation areas, cleaning equipment, and emptying used grease - pursuant to operational standards
  • Regular attendance


ADDITIONAL DUTIES:

  • Report customer or employee complaints/issues to MOD
  • Move and stock food product weighing up to 50 pounds
  • Perform other job-related duties as assigned or required


Time/Shift Expectations: Irregular hours; nights; weekends; and holidays


Qualifications and Job Requirements:

  • Knowledge/Skills
  • General restaurant or retail knowledge
  • Basic math and reading skills
  • Effective verbal and written communication skills
  • Ability to follow directions
  • Multi-tasking skills

Work Environment: Continuous standing, bending, reaching, moving, stooping, stretching, and lifting in a restaurant environment; frequent exposure to heat and hot liquid shortening while cooking; frequent exposure to freezer when stocking food items; occasional exposure to extreme temperatures based on variable weather conditions


Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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