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Temporary Cook Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Stoney River Steakhouse & Grill

Line Cook

Barrington, IL

$15.75 - $19.75/hr

  • Retirement

LINE COOK Stoney River Steakhouse and Grill is an upscale steakhouse, specializing in hand-cut ... proper food temps and following company specifications while maintaining a clean station and ...

HEI Hotels and Resorts

PM Cook Part Time Temporary

Chicago, IL · On-site

$26 - $28.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

About Us Imagine yourself in 1930's Chicago. Chicago celebrated its centennial by hosting the world's fair in 1933. The speakeasies and gangsters were thriving. It was a distinguished time in Chicago ...

J Alexander's

Line Cook

Deer Park, IL · On-site

$16 - $20/hr

  • Retirement

LINE COOK Stoney River Steakhouse and Grill is an upscale steakhouse, specializing in hand-cut ... proper food temps and following company specifications while maintaining a clean station and ...

J. Alexander's Restaurants

Line Cook

Oak Brook, IL

$16 - $20/hr

  • Retirement

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

Oak Brook, IL · On-site

$16 - $20/hr

  • Retirement

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

  • Retirement

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

  • Retirement

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

Deer Park, IL · On-site

$15.75 - $19.75/hr

  • Retirement

LINE COOK Stoney River Steakhouse and Grill is an upscale steakhouse, specializing in hand-cut ... proper food temps and following company specifications while maintaining a clean station and ...

J. Alexander's Restaurants

Line Cook

Northbrook, IL · On-site

$16 - $20/hr

  • Retirement

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

  • Retirement

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

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

* 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 ...

Heihotels

PM Cook Part Time Temporary

Chicago, IL · On-site

$26 - $28.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

About Us Imagine yourself in 1930's Chicago. Chicago celebrated its centennial by hosting the world's fair in 1933. The speakeasies and gangsters were thriving. It was a distinguished time in Chicago ...

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

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

* 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

$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 ...

Compass Group

HELPER COOK (FULL TIME)

Downers Grove, IL

$16 - $20.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

* 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

$16 - $20.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

* 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

$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 ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsCook JobsTemporary Cook JobsTemporary Cook Jobs in Chicago, IL

Temporary Cook information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$9

$16

$22

How much do temporary cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for temporary 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 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 Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Cook jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Temporary Cook jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Temporary Cook jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Temporary Cook jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Temporary Cook jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Temporary Cook jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Temporary Cook job openings:

Temporary Cook jobs near you
Infographic showing various Temporary 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.

Lead Cook - L'Americain - 2nd Shift

The Temporary by American Place

Waukegan, IL • On-site

$22.80 - $36/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

Who WE are:Our mission is to be Waukegan's top gaming and entertainment hub, renowned for our exceptional hospitality and guest experience. We prioritize our team's development and well-being, offering career advancement opportunities, and a culture of enjoyment and fulfillment in the workplace. With a focus on growth and excellence, we're on the lookout for adaptable, coachable individuals who share our passion for hospitality.Join us for a journey of growth and success in Lake County’s fastest-growing industry.Who WE are looking for:We are seeking a skilled and disciplined Lead Cook for L’Américain who brings a strong foundation in traditional American cuisine and a deep passion for hospitality. The ideal candidate is a detail-oriented, organized professional capable of executing precise techniques under pressure while maintaining a clean and composed work environment. This individual should possess a thorough understanding of ingredients, presentation, and timing, as well as a collaborative mindset and respect for kitchen hierarchy. We are looking for someone who leads by example demonstrating professionalism, teamwork, and a consistently positive attitude while guiding and supporting the kitchen team in all aspects of daily prep and service. Strong communication, organizational, and basic mathematical skills are essential, as is the ability to read and follow recipes, production lists, and necessary kitchen documentation. At American Place Casino, we value individuals who take pride in their work, strive for excellence, and contribute to delivering a consistently elevated dining experience for our guests.Job titles similar to this role include:
  • Line Lead
  • Station Lead
  • Prep Lead
  • Head Cook
  What is expected of YOU:
In addition to participating in prep and service, the Lead Cook oversees and supports all kitchen stations, manages closing shift responsibilities, and ensures all required paperwork and checklists are completed. You will be responsible for compiling prep and production lists, monitoring inventory, and ensuring food items are prepared and stored according to rotation and safety standards. Training and retraining of kitchen staff is a key duty, as is clear communication across shifts and with fellow team members, cooks, and leadership. Maintaining a clean, organized, and efficient workspace is mandatory, and the Lead Cook is expected to report all issues, incidents, or discrepancies to supervisors promptly. This position also involves assisting with special projects and events, participating in safety meetings, and keeping accurate records of daily operations and team performance. The Lead Cook plays a critical role in upholding kitchen standards and ensuring the smooth, efficient operation of the culinary team at L’Américain.Experience YOU will need:
  • High School Diploma or GED
  • Minimum five (5) to seven (7) years’ experience working in high-volume line cooking or production cooking in a full-service dining establishment or food service establishment, with at least two (2) years’ experience in supervisory capacity preferred.
  • Possesses the ability to read recipes, production lists and any other necessary collateral paperwork, such as diagrams and logs, to be able to perform necessary duties.
  • Must have good basic mathematical, organizational and communication skills
  • Bilingual is a plus
Physical Requirements:
  • Lift up to 25 - 30 lbs
  • Stand for long periods
  • Navigate crowded spaces
  • Flexibility in bending and reaching
  • Adaptability to casino conditions, including:
    • Bright lights
    • Noise
 Certificates, Licenses, Registrations:
  • Able to obtain/maintain necessary licenses and/or certifications as required by local gaming regulations.
  • Able to obtain/maintain Food Handlers Serv Safe certifications as required by the Lake County Health Department regulations.
 Benefits/Perks:
  • Medical, Dental, & Vision
  • Voluntary Life, AD&D, &
  • Disability Insurance
  • Volunteer Time Off,
  • Ventra Program
  • 401K + Employer Match
  • Paid Time Off
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Food and Beverage Family Meal
Salary Range:
  • $22.80-$36
 Company Statement on EOAA:American Place Casino is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.

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