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Temporary Cook Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Uni

Temporary - Cook I

Campus, IL · On-site

$18.27/hr

Serving up the #1 college food in Iowa, UNI Dining Services has temporary Cook I positions open. Under direct supervision, prepares quality foods for meals in student dining center for the Department ...

Golf VX Corp

Kitchen Team Member

Arlington Heights, IL · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

Knowledge of grill temps, cooking techniques, and sanitation procedures. * Reliable transportation. * Ability to work nights, weekends, and holidays. * Food handler's license (within 30 days of hire)

Schooners Restaurant

Fry Cook / Scratch Cook

Peoria, IL · On-site

$25K - $40K/yr

Fry Cook - Scratch Kitchen (Peoria, IL) We are looking for an experienced Fry Cook who takes pride ... Manage oil quality, temps, and timing to ensure every plate is perfect. * Work Fast: Maintain high ...

Sifted LLC

Line Cook

Chicago, IL · On-site

$22/hr

Own daily pack out temperatures (Temp items at final cooking temp for proteins, temp all items before getting packed out, re-therm hot items if necessary, give daily sheet to Managing Chef on day to ...

Brookdale Senior Living, Inc.

Cook

Vernon Hills, IL · On-site

$16.98 - $22.21/hr

Temporary associates are not benefits eligible but may participate in the company's 401(k) program ... cooking procedures and methods of grilling, baking and boiling as a critical part of your role.

Brookhaven Market

Kitchen Prep/Cook

Willowbrook, IL · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

Daily Kitchen Flow You'll punch in and set up your station like a pro (tools out, temps checked, game on). The day moves in quick rounds--prep, cook, portion, repeat--so the prepared foods case stays ...

Brookhaven Market

Kitchen Prep/Cook

Burr Ridge, IL · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

Daily Kitchen Flow You'll punch in and set up your station like a pro (tools out, temps checked, game on). The day moves in quick rounds-prep, cook, portion, repeat-so the prepared foods case stays ...

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Temporary Cook information

See Illinois salary details

$8

$15

$21

How much do temporary cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for temporary cook in Illinois is $15.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.03 and $17.45 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Temporary Cook, you need strong food preparation skills, knowledge of kitchen safety, and experience with various cooking techniques, often supported by a food handler’s certification. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, point-of-sale systems, and food storage protocols is typically required. Adaptability, time management, and teamwork are vital soft skills for success in fast-paced, changing environments. These competencies ensure efficient service, food quality, and seamless integration into different kitchen teams.

What is the difference between Temporary Cook vs Full-Time Cook?

AspectTemporary CookFull-Time Cook
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; food safety certification often preferredSame as temporary; often requires additional experience or certifications
Work EnvironmentShort-term assignments in various settings like events, catering, or seasonal kitchensLong-term employment in restaurants, hotels, or institutional kitchens
Employment DurationTemporary, project-based, or seasonalPermanent, ongoing employment
Employer UsageEvent companies, catering services, temp agenciesRestaurants, hotels, hospitals, schools

Temporary Cooks typically work on short-term or seasonal projects, often through agencies or for specific events, while Full-Time Cooks are employed permanently in a consistent work environment. Both roles require similar credentials and certifications, but their employment terms and work settings differ significantly.

What is a temporary cook?

Temporary cooks are culinary professionals hired for a limited period to prepare and cook food in a variety of settings, such as restaurants, catering events, hotels, or institutional kitchens. They often fill in during staff shortages, busy seasons, or special events. Temporary cooks may be employed through staffing agencies or directly by employers, and their assignments can range from a single shift to several weeks. They are expected to adapt quickly to different kitchen environments and follow the specific recipes, safety, and hygiene standards of each workplace.
What are the most commonly searched types of Cook jobs in Illinois? The most popular types of Cook jobs in Illinois are:
What are popular job titles related to Temporary Cook jobs in Illinois? For Temporary Cook jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Temporary Cook jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Temporary Cook jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Temporary Cook jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Temporary Cook job openings:
Temporary Cook jobs near you
Infographic showing various Temporary Cook job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $32,307 per year, or $15.5 per hour.

Temporary - Cook I

Uni

Campus, IL • On-site

$18.27/hr

Part-time

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

If you are a current University of Northern Iowa employee and would like to apply for this position, login to UNI Works and type "Find Jobs" in the search bar to view and apply for open positions.

Full Consideration Date:

Applications are being continuously accepted.

Job Description:

Join the team making it happen! Serving up the #1 college food in Iowa, UNI Dining Services has temporary Cook I positions open.

Under direct supervision, prepares quality foods for meals in student dining center for the Department of Housing and Dining; cleans and secures kitchen areas following preparation of meals; directs student and temporary employees in the service of prepared food, the cleaning of the kitchen; and performs other related duties as assigned.We are seeking skilled, organized and hard working team oriented individuals who have the ability to work efficiently in a fast paced environment. In addition, applicants must have good communication skills and positive attitudes.

Temporary positions are limited to a maximum of 1040 hours per fiscal year. Hourly rate is $18.27.

Minimum Eligibility Requirements:

Ability to read, write, and follow instructions.

Application Instructions:

To apply for this position, please click on "Apply" and complete the Employment Application. A resume and cover letter are not required for this position but can be attached when applying. If you have questions regarding this application process, please email careers-support@uni.edu or call 319-273-2422.


Iowa's cost of living is among the lowest in the nation and the Common Sense Institute ranks Iowa #1 for paycheck stretch. UNI enhances this advantage with an excellent benefits package for eligible non-temporary positions. Visit our Compensation Tools page to explore your estimated total compensation, compare Waterloo-Cedar Falls cost of living to other major cities or review the paycheck stretch ranking details. Learn more about the Cedar Valley at https://livethevalley.com/.


If you would like general assistance with the application process or an accommodation due to a disability, please contact Human Resource Services at hrs-employment@uni.edu or call (319) 273-2422.


All offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes a review of conviction history. A conviction does not automatically preclude University employment. Rather, the University considers conviction information on a case-by-case basis and assesses the nature of the offense, the circumstances surrounding it, the proximity in time of the conviction, and its relevance to the position.


UNI is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any status protected by federal and/or state law.


Campus Security & Crime Statistics, in compliance with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act, information on crime statistics for recent years, Public Safety personnel and programs, building access, reporting crimes, safety suggestions, and policies, programs, and services regarding alcohol, drugs, and sexual abuse, is available in the UNI Annual Security and Fire Report. A paper copy is available from the Department of Public Safety, 030 Gilchrist Hall, University of Northern Iowa, Cedar Falls, IA 50614. Department of Public Safety, 030 Gilchrist Hall, University of Northern Iowa, Cedar Falls, IA 50614.


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