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Side Chef Jobs in Pontiac, IL (NOW HIRING)

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Side Chef information

See Pontiac, IL salary details

$9

$22

$41

How much do side chef jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for side chef in Pontiac, IL is $22.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.62 and $28.80 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a side chef?

A side chef, often referred to as a sous chef, is the second-in-command in a professional kitchen. They assist the head chef in managing kitchen operations, supervising other staff, and ensuring that dishes are prepared to high standards. Side chefs are responsible for tasks like preparing ingredients, overseeing cooking stations, and helping with menu planning. Their role is essential for maintaining kitchen efficiency and food quality.

What are some common challenges a side chef faces when supporting the head chef in a busy kitchen?

As a Side Chef, one of the most common challenges is managing multiple tasks simultaneously, such as prepping ingredients, ensuring food quality, and assisting with plating, all while maintaining clear communication with the Head Chef and other team members. The fast-paced environment requires strong organizational skills and the ability to quickly adapt to changing priorities or sudden high-volume orders. Additionally, Side Chefs are often responsible for stepping in during absences or rush periods, which demands flexibility and a strong understanding of kitchen operations. Developing efficient workflows and fostering positive teamwork are key to overcoming these challenges.

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

To thrive as a Side Chef, you need a solid understanding of culinary techniques, food safety, and kitchen operations, often gained through culinary school or relevant kitchen experience. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, recipe management software, and safe food handling certifications is commonly required. Strong teamwork, time management, and communication skills help Side Chefs excel in fast-paced kitchen environments. These abilities ensure efficient food preparation, maintain high standards of quality and safety, and support overall kitchen success.

What is the difference between Side Chef vs Line Cook?

AspectSide ChefLine Cook
CredentialsFood safety certification, culinary trainingFood safety certification, culinary training
Work EnvironmentAssists main kitchen staff, supports prep and platingPrepares dishes on the line during service
Employer & Industry UsageRestaurants, catering, hotelsRestaurants, hotels, catering
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between a Side Chef and a Line Cook is that a Side Chef typically supports the kitchen team by assisting with prep, plating, and other tasks, while a Line Cook focuses on preparing dishes during service on the kitchen line. Both roles require culinary skills and certifications, but the Side Chef often has a broader support role, whereas the Line Cook is more directly involved in cooking during busy hours.

What cities near Pontiac, IL are hiring for Side Chef jobs?

Cities near Pontiac, IL with the most Side Chef job openings:

Side Chef jobs near you
Infographic showing various Side Chef job openings in Pontiac, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,607 per year, or $22.9 per hour.

ASSISTANT KITCHEN MANAGER (SOUS CHEF)

Wally s Operating Company LLC

Pontiac, IL • On-site

$55K - $65K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

Assistant Kitchen Manager/Sous Chef

Leadership Role at Wally’s | Bonus Eligible | Full Benefits

Lead a High-Volume Kitchen. Build a Team. Deliver Great Food.

Wally’s is looking for a hands-on kitchen leader who thrives in a fast-paced environment and takes pride in quality, consistency, and team development.

As a Sous Chef / Assistant Kitchen Manager, you’ll work side-by-side with the Executive Chef to run daily kitchen operations, develop your team, and ensure every item we serve meets Wally’s standards.

If you enjoy leading people, staying busy, and being part of a high-energy kitchen, this is the role for you.

Why Wally’s?

We take care of our leaders:

  • Quarterly Bonus Opportunities
  • 401(k) with 5% Company Match
  • Company-Paid Medical Plan Option
  • Dental, Vision, Life Insurance
  • PTO + Disability Coverage (STD/LTD)
  • HSA & FSA Options
What You’ll Do

You’ll be a key leader in the kitchen, responsible for:

???? Leading the Kitchen Team
Set the tone, support your team, and drive a strong, accountable culture.

???? Developing People
Train, coach, and grow team members into high performers.

???? Owning Food Quality
Ensure consistency across all products—from BBQ and smoked meats to bakery and grab-and-go items.

???? Driving Food Safety
Hold the highest standards in sanitation, handling, and compliance.

???? Supporting Operations
Help manage inventory, food cost, and daily performance.

???? Delivering Great Guest Experiences
Make sure every guest leaves satisfied—quick service, great food, no excuses.

What We’re Looking For
  • 2–3 years of kitchen or food service leadership experience
  • Experience leading or supervising a team
  • Strong communication and problem-solving skills
  • Ability to perform in a high-volume, fast-paced kitchen
  • Flexible schedule (weekends & holidays included)
  • Reliable, team-focused, and ready to lead from the front
Why This Role Stands Out

This isn’t a back-of-house support role—this is a leadership position with real impact.

You’ll:

  • Help run one of the busiest kitchens in the region
  • Build and develop a team
  • Be part of a growing company with opportunity to advance

Morning and Evening Shifts
6 AM - 2 PM, 2 PM - 10 PM
40