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Temp Cook Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

J. Alexander's Restaurants

Line Cook

Northbrook, IL · On-site

$16 - $20/hr

LINE COOK J. Alexander's Restaurant is a contemporary American restaurant, known for its daily ... proper food temps and following company specifications while maintaining a clean station and ...

J Alexander's

Line Cook

Northbrook, IL · On-site

$16 - $20/hr

LINE COOK J. Alexander's Restaurant is a contemporary American restaurant, known for its daily ... proper food temps and following company specifications while maintaining a clean station and ...

J. Alexander's Restaurants

Line Cook

Northbrook, IL

$16 - $20/hr

LINE COOK J. Alexander's Restaurant is a contemporary American restaurant, known for its daily ... proper food temps and following company specifications while maintaining a clean station and ...

J. Alexander's Restaurants

Line Cook

Oak Brook, IL · On-site

$16 - $20/hr

LINE COOK J. Alexander's Restaurant is a contemporary American restaurant, known for its daily ... proper food temps and following company specifications while maintaining a clean station and ...

Compass Group

HELPER COOK

Downers Grove, IL · On-site

$16 - $20.50/hr

* We are hiring immediately for full time HELPER COOK positions. * Location : Community High School ... temporary layoff. However, depending on business needs, you may be required to work year-round ...

Family Focus

Cook (Childcare Center)

Chicago, IL · On-site

$17.66/hr

Cook Location: Family Focus - South Shore Supervisor: Site Director Welcome to Family Focus, where ... If such tasks are not of a temporary nature, they should be added to this list of designated job ...

Family Focus

Cook (Childcare Center)

Chicago, IL · On-site

$17.66/hr

Cook Location: Family Focus - South Shore Supervisor: Site Director Welcome to Family Focus, where ... If such tasks are not of a temporary nature, they should be added to this list of designated job ...

Chartwells K12

HELPER COOK (FULL TIME)

Downers Grove, IL · On-site

$16 - $20.50/hr

* We are hiring immediately for full time HELPER COOK positions. * Location : Community High School ... temporary layoff. However, depending on business needs, you may be required to work year-round ...

Compass Group

HELPER COOK (FULL TIME)

Downers Grove, IL · On-site

$16 - $20.50/hr

* We are hiring immediately for full time HELPER COOK positions. * Location : Community High School ... temporary layoff. However, depending on business needs, you may be required to work year-round ...

Compass Group

HELPER COOK (FULL TIME)

Downers Grove, IL · On-site

$16 - $20.50/hr

* We are hiring immediately for full time HELPER COOK positions. * Location : Community High School ... temporary layoff. However, depending on business needs, you may be required to work year-round ...

Rock IT Tacos

Cook

Cicero, IL · On-site

$15 - $19/hr

Position Title Department Reports to Cook Back of House Kitchen Manager Employment Status FLSA Status Effective Date ☐ Temporary ☒ Full-Time ☒ Part-Time ☒ Non-Exempt ☐ Exempt 11/1/2023 ...

Yay Lunch

Lead Cook - St. Charles

Saint Charles, IL · On-site

$22/hr

About the Role (STP) The Lead Cook is the engine of the Yay kitchen. You're the first one in and ... Production moves on schedule, temps are verified, and food hits the line looking and tasting ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsCook JobsTemp Cook JobsTemp Cook Jobs in Chicago, IL

Temp Cook information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$9

$16

$22

How much do temp cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for temp cook in Chicago, IL is $16.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.85 and $18.56 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a temp cook?

Temp cooks are culinary professionals who work on a temporary basis, often filling in for permanent staff at restaurants, catering companies, hotels, or other food service establishments. They may be hired through staffing agencies or directly by businesses to cover short-term needs such as staff shortages, special events, or busy seasons. Temp cooks are expected to quickly adapt to different kitchens, follow recipes and safety standards, and maintain high food quality. Their work can vary from basic food prep to full meal preparation, depending on the assignment. This role offers flexibility and exposure to different culinary environments.

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

To thrive as a Temp Cook, you need solid culinary skills, knowledge of food safety standards, and prior kitchen experience, often supported by a food handler certification. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, point-of-sale (POS) systems, and basic inventory management are commonly required. Strong time management, adaptability, and effective communication help temp cooks excel in varied, fast-paced environments. These skills ensure consistent food quality, safe kitchen operations, and seamless integration into different teams and settings.

How do I become a temp cook with no experience?

To become a temp cook with no experience, start by gaining basic cooking skills through online tutorials or cooking classes. Apply to staffing agencies or temp agencies that place cooks, and be willing to work flexible hours; some positions may require food safety certifications like ServSafe. Demonstrating a positive attitude and willingness to learn can help you secure entry-level temporary cooking jobs.

What is the difference between Temp Cook vs Part-Time Cook?

AspectTemp CookPart-Time Cook
CredentialsFood Handler’s Permit, basic culinary skillsFood Handler’s Permit, basic culinary skills
Work EnvironmentTemporary assignments, varied locationsConsistent schedule, same location
Employment TypeShort-term, project-basedRegular, scheduled hours
Industry UsageEvent catering, seasonal workRestaurants, cafes, catering

Temp Cooks typically work on short-term assignments at various locations, often for events or seasonal needs, requiring similar credentials as part-time cooks. Part-Time Cooks have a regular schedule at a specific establishment, providing consistent service. Both roles require basic culinary skills and food safety certifications, but differ mainly in employment duration and work setting.

What are some common challenges temp cooks face when adapting to new kitchens and teams?

Temp Cooks often work in unfamiliar kitchens with varying equipment, menus, and workflows, which can make it challenging to quickly integrate and perform efficiently. They must be able to learn new procedures rapidly, adapt to different team dynamics, and maintain high standards under time constraints. Strong communication skills and flexibility are essential, as Temp Cooks regularly collaborate with permanent staff and must uphold consistency in food quality despite changing environments.
What are the most commonly searched types of Cook jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Cook jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Temp Cook jobs near you
Infographic showing various Temp Cook job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, 28% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,345 per year, or $16.5 per hour.

Line Cook

J. Alexander's Restaurants

Northbrook, IL • On-site

$16 - $20/hr

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

LINE COOK

J. Alexander's Restaurant is a contemporary American restaurant, known for its daily scratch made wood-fired cuisine.

We strive to provide the highest-quality food and service in the hospitality industry, while fostering a culture of working hard, paying attention to details, and providing our guests with the best, all-around dining experience possible. We have immense pride in being a leader in the hospitality industry. It’s a part of the company DNA.

Our compensation is at the top of the industry, but life is more than a paycheck. A workplace needs to inspire both professional and personal growth while motivating their leaders to reach their goals. And you can find that with us.

Why Choose Us:

  • Competitive Compensation
  • Flexible scheduling
  • 401(k) with Company Match
  • Opportunity for Upward Growth

Requirements:

  • Must be 18 years of age to operate kitchen equipment.
  • 1 yr. previous kitchen / culinary / chef experience is preferred, but not required.
  • Experience and knowledge of kitchen equipment including but not limited to knives, slicer, mixer, stoves, and ovens required.
  • Flexible to work a variety of shifts.

Job Description:  Our restaurants operate professional, fast-paced, scratch kitchens. We hire line and prep cooks who understand high expectations for food presentation and execution. Our restaurants typically include an open-kitchen layout with visibility from the dining room. Coordination of designated positions requires strong communication and teamwork with other employees, including assembler, expo, and all members of management. This position must manage ticket orders for proteins and is responsible for the execution of proper food temps and following company specifications while maintaining a clean station and workspace. Proper sanitation protocols must be followed. Responsibilities also include opening duties and closing cleaning duties.

We are an Equal Opportunity / E-Verify Employer. This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. As an SPB Hospitality Team Member you may be asked to perform additional related duties to meet ongoing needs.

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