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Part Time Cook Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Woodridge Interventions

Cook Part-Time

Woodridge, IL · On-site

$20.50/hr

Cook Part-Time Location: Woodridge Interventions, 2221 64th St. Woodridge, Il 60517 Wage: $20.50 per hour Job Type: Part-time COOK Essential Functions: * Comprehensive knowledge of food preparation ...

Compass Group

COOK (PART TIME)

Aurora, IL

$14 - $18.50/hr

* We are hiring immediately for part time COOK positions. * Location : Sonova - 444 North Commerce Street, Aurora, IL 60504. Note: online applications accepted only. * Schedule : Part time schedule.

Canteen

COOK (PART TIME)

Aurora, IL · On-site

$13.50 - $18/hr

* We are hiring immediately for part time COOK positions. * Location : Sonova - 444 North Commerce Street, Aurora, IL 60504. Note: online applications accepted only. * Schedule : Part time schedule.

Compass Group

COOK (PART TIME)

Hinsdale, IL

$21/hr

* We are hiring immediately for part time COOK positions. * Location : Advent Health Hinsdale - 120 North Oak Street, Hinsdale, IL 60521. Note: online applications accepted only. * Schedule : Part time ...

Morrison Healthcare

COOK (PART TIME)

Hinsdale, IL · On-site

$21/hr

* We are hiring immediately for part time COOK positions. * Location : Advent Health Hinsdale - 120 North Oak Street, Hinsdale, IL 60521. Note: online applications accepted only. * Schedule : Part time ...

Compass Group

COOK (PART TIME)

Lake Forest, IL

$19.50/hr

* We are hiring immediately for part time COOK positions. * Location : Grainger - 100 Grainger Parkway, Lake Forest, IL 60045. Note: online applications accepted only. * Schedule : Part time schedule.

Flik Hospitality Group

COOK (PART TIME)

Lake Forest, IL · On-site

$19.50/hr

* We are hiring immediately for part time COOK positions. * Location : Grainger - 100 Grainger Parkway, Lake Forest, IL 60045. Note: online applications accepted only. * Schedule : Part time schedule.

Compass Group

COOK (PART TIME)

Palos Park, IL · On-site

$18.50/hr

Morrison Living is hiring immediately for a part time COOK position. * Location : Peace Village - 10300 Village Circle Drive, Palos Park, IL 60464. * Schedule : Part time schedule. Hours and days may ...

Morrison Living

COOK (PART TIME)

Palos Park, IL · On-site

$18.50/hr

Morrison Living is hiring immediately for a part time COOK position. * Location : Peace Village - 10300 Village Circle Drive, Palos Park, IL 60464. * Schedule : Part time schedule. Hours and days may ...

Sophy

Cook

Chicago, IL · On-site

$20/hr

Looking for a part time cook to safely and efficiently prepare and cook food that will keep our customers coming back. Our goal is to have customers tell us that our food and service is excellent!

Sophy - Hyde Park

Cook

Chicago, IL

$20/hr

Looking for a part time cook to safely and efficiently prepare and cook food that will keep our customers coming back. Our goal is to have customers tell us that our food and service is excellent!

Compass Group

COOK (FULL TIME AND PART TIME)

Geneva, IL · On-site

$24/hr

Unidine is hiring immediately for full time and part time COOK positions. * Location : GreenFields of Geneva - 0N801 Friendship Way, Geneva, IL 60134. * Schedule : Full time and part time schedules ...

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Part Time Cook information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$9

$16

$22

How much do part time cook jobs pay per hour?

As of May 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for part time cook in Chicago, IL is $16.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.89 and $18.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Part Time Cook, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Part Time Cook, you need a solid understanding of basic cooking techniques, food safety, and kitchen hygiene, often supported by a food handler's permit or similar certification. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment and inventory management systems is highly beneficial. Strong teamwork, time management, and adaptability are essential soft skills for succeeding during busy service hours. These skills ensure high-quality food preparation, operational efficiency, and a safe, collaborative kitchen environment.

What are some common challenges faced by part-time cooks, and how can they effectively manage their workload during busy shifts?

Part-time cooks often face challenges such as managing multiple orders simultaneously, adapting to different kitchen routines, and quickly learning new menu items. To handle these demands, it's important to stay organized, communicate clearly with team members, and prioritize tasks efficiently. Many kitchens foster a collaborative environment where cooks support each other during peak times, so being a team player and asking for help when needed can greatly reduce stress. Additionally, maintaining a positive attitude and being open to feedback helps part-time cooks improve their skills and adapt to the fast-paced nature of the job.

What are part time cooks?

Part time cooks are culinary professionals who work fewer hours than full-time kitchen staff, typically preparing and cooking food in restaurants, cafeterias, or other food service establishments. Their responsibilities may include chopping ingredients, cooking meals according to recipes, maintaining kitchen cleanliness, and assisting with inventory. Part time cooks often work flexible hours, such as evenings or weekends, and may fill in during busy periods or staff shortages. This role is ideal for those seeking work-life balance or supplemental income while gaining valuable cooking experience.

What is the difference between Part Time Cook vs Part Time Chef?

AspectPart Time CookPart Time Chef
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent, food safety certificationSimilar credentials, often with additional culinary training
Work EnvironmentRestaurants, cafeterias, catering servicesUpscale restaurants, hotels, private clubs
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in casual dining and institutional settingsFound in fine dining and high-end establishments
Search & Comparison IntentPeople looking for flexible kitchen rolesIndividuals seeking more advanced culinary positions

The main difference between a Part Time Cook and a Part Time Chef lies in their experience level, responsibilities, and the type of establishment they work in. Cooks typically perform basic food preparation, while Chefs often have more culinary training and may oversee kitchen operations. Both roles require food safety certifications and are common in various food service settings, but Chefs usually work in higher-end environments and have more advanced skills.

What are the most commonly searched types of Cook jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Cook jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Part Time Cook jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Part Time Cook job openings:
Part Time Cook jobs near you
Infographic showing various Part Time Cook job openings in Chicago, IL as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Part Time. Highlights an 99% In-person, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,372 per year, or $16.5 per hour.
Part-Time Cook (Food Service)

Part-Time Cook (Food Service)

Glenview Public School District #34

Glenview, IL • On-site

$16.28 - $20.02/hr

Part-time

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Position Type:
Support Staff/Cook
Date Posted:
2/9/2026
Location:
District
Date Available:
Upon Filling
Description:
Part-Time Cook (3.5 hours a day each) needed for the 2025 - 26 school year.
Responsibilities:
  • Assist in food preparation of the day by sanitizing food preparation areas, reading menus, collecting supplies, and turning on equipment
  • Assist with breakfast program as needed
  • Prepare, cook, and serve food according to proper codes
  • Follow standard operating procedures
  • Assist in daily cleaning of all food preparation and service areas (including equipment and all serving items)
  • Interacts with the Food Services Director, principal, teachers and students on a regular basis
  • Assist with cashier responsibilities as needed
  • Assist in ordering supplies, maintaining inventory, and completing daily reports
  • Post students' daily lunch account deposits to PowerSchool and prepare deposit
  • Interacts with building administration, teachers and students on a regular basis
  • May take over for Lead Cook when necessary
  • Other duties as assigned by supervisor

Qualifications:
Kitchen experience a plus, computer knowledge a must.
  • High school diploma
  • Strong interest in cooking and working with children
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills
  • Basic math and computer skills a must
  • Successful completion of district food service test
  • Completion of Illinois Sanitation Certificate within first year of employment
  • May require filling in for other staff within building or at another location - must provide own transportation.

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Pay Rate: $16.28-$20.02 per hour depending on experience. This position is a union position and covered by the GPA contract.
Benefits:
  • 8 paid holidays
  • Sick & personal days

Working Conditions:
  • 3.5 hours per day, Monday-Friday (10 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.)
  • Cooks are paid 191 days during the school year including 8 paid holidays

This position requires the ability to lift and carry up to 36 pounds and to push or pull up to 100 pounds; to climb ladders, stoop, bend, kneel to put away supplies; and to balance large trays. It also requires strong vision and hearing for communication with students and staff and for proper preparation of food and reading labels.
Application Procedure:
Please apply online.

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