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Summer Cooking Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Sous Chef

Chicago, IL

$55K - $75K/yr

About US Summer House Santa Monica offers a California-inspired, chef-driven menu that includes ... including food prep and cooking, ensure adequate inventory levels of food and supplies, and ...

Sous Chef

Chicago, IL · On-site

$55K - $75K/yr

About US Summer House Santa Monica offers a California-inspired, chef-driven menu that includes ... including food prep and cooking, ensure adequate inventory levels of food and supplies, and ...

... cooking up an interest in future career opportunities and allowing you to make an impact in a ... Summer Hours. Offices close at 1 p.m. on Friday. * You don't have to stress about getting to your ...

Line Cook

Park Ridge, IL · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

We focus on scratch cooking and artisanal practices while creating memorable experiences for our ... There are approximately 200 Employees in the summer season and 150 in the winter season * The Club ...

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Summer Cooking information

What is a summer cooking job?

A Summer Cooking job typically involves preparing and cooking meals in a seasonal setting, such as a summer camp, resort, or restaurant. Responsibilities may include food prep, following recipes, maintaining kitchen cleanliness, and ensuring food safety. These jobs are often fast-paced and require teamwork. They provide great experience for those interested in the culinary field or looking for temporary seasonal work.

What is a typical day like for someone working in a summer cooking job?

A typical day in a Summer Cooking role often involves preparing ingredients, cooking meals or snacks, following set menus or recipes, and maintaining a clean kitchen area. Depending on the setting, you may also serve food, interact with campers or guests, and assist in planning themed meals or special events. Collaboration with other kitchen staff and clear communication with supervisors are crucial for smooth daily operations. You'll need to adapt to varying group sizes and dietary needs, keeping the work dynamic and rewarding for those who enjoy a fast-paced, community-oriented environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the summer cooking position, and why are they important?

To thrive in a Summer Cooking position, strong culinary skills, knowledge of food safety, and experience working in a kitchen environment are essential, often supported by a food handler's certificate. Familiarity with kitchen tools, basic cooking equipment, and food preparation systems is commonly required. Effective teamwork, adaptability, and strong time management help individuals excel in high-paced environments and ensure a positive experience for guests or participants. These skills are important to deliver quality meals efficiently and maintain safety standards during busy summer operations.

What are the most commonly searched types of Cooking jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Cooking jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Summer Cooking jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Summer Cooking job openings:

Infographic showing various Summer Cooking job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 41% Full Time, 50% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 6% Contract, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

Job Type
Full-time, Part-time, Temporary
Description
To prepare and serve meals for summer camp staff and participants. This is a seasonal position (Mid-May thru Early August).
Requirements
Job Qualifications:
  • Ability to obtain Sanitation license (Knowledge of safety procedures, including safe temperatures at which ingredients must be kept and to which food must be prepared to avoid foodborne illness)
  • Ability to lift 25lbs or more with assistance
  • Ability to work as part of a team and able to work independently
  • Interpersonal skills to interact with volunteers, other staff and children ages 5-18
  • Calm demeanor to work in a Christian environment around children
  • Comprehension and organization to follow directions and safety protocols
  • Manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination to handle tools, such as knife techniques for chopping, slicing, cutting and dicing
  • Ability to stand for a few hours (breaks are great here!)
  • Ability to use a meat slicer, convection ovens, flat top grill, outdoor grill, dish machine and various other commercial kitchen equipment and tools safely

Brief Description of Job Duties:
  • Follow recipes, including measuring, weighing, mixing & cooking instructions
  • Bake, grill, steam and boil meats, vegetables, fish, poultry and other foods
  • Prepare foods according to USDA guidelines as required by the Summer Food Service Program
  • Check in and serve children, staff & volunteers indoors and outdoors
  • Maintain a clean and safe work & dining area, including handling utensils, equipment and dishes
  • Handle, store, label ingredients and food following FIFO and government regulations
  • Maintain food safety and sanitation standards
  • Follow all government guidelines regarding COVID-19