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Volunteer Chef Jobs in Springfield, IL (NOW HIRING)

Compass Group

SENIOR COOK (FULL TIME)

Springfield, IL · On-site

$19/hr

... chefs, we empower and uplift each other by working together, take responsibility for our ... other voluntary benefits including Critical Illness Insurance, Accident Insurance, Hospital ...

Compass Group

SENIOR COOK (FULL TIME)

Springfield, IL · On-site

$19/hr

... chefs, we empower and uplift each other by working together, take responsibility for our ... other voluntary benefits including Critical Illness Insurance, Accident Insurance, Hospital ...

Compass Group

SENIOR COOK

Springfield, IL · On-site

$19/hr

... chefs, we empower and uplift each other by working together, take responsibility for our ... other voluntary benefits including Critical Illness Insurance, Accident Insurance, Hospital ...

Compass Group

COOK (FULL TIME)

Springfield, IL · On-site

$18/hr

... chefs, we empower and uplift each other by working together, take responsibility for our ... other voluntary benefits including Critical Illness Insurance, Accident Insurance, Hospital ...

Compass Group

DISHWASHER (FULL TIME)

Springfield, IL · On-site

$16.23/hr

... chefs, we empower and uplift each other by working together, take responsibility for our ... other voluntary benefits including Critical Illness Insurance, Accident Insurance, Hospital ...

Compass Group

COOK

Springfield, IL · On-site

$18/hr

... chefs, we empower and uplift each other by working together, take responsibility for our ... other voluntary benefits including Critical Illness Insurance, Accident Insurance, Hospital ...

Compass Group

DISHWASHER (FULL TIME)

Springfield, IL · On-site

$16.23/hr

... chefs, we empower and uplift each other by working together, take responsibility for our ... other voluntary benefits including Critical Illness Insurance, Accident Insurance, Hospital ...

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All JobsVolunteer Chef JobsVolunteer Chef Jobs in Springfield, IL

Volunteer Chef information

See Springfield, IL salary details

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How much do volunteer chef jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for volunteer chef in Springfield, IL is $18.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.28 and $20.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Volunteer Chef vs Professional Chef?

AspectVolunteer ChefProfessional Chef
CredentialsMay not require formal culinary certificationsTypically requires culinary degrees or certifications
Work EnvironmentCommunity kitchens, charity events, sheltersRestaurants, hotels, catering companies
Employer & IndustryNonprofit organizations, community serviceHospitality, food service industry
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding volunteer opportunities, casual cooking rolesCareer development, professional skills

Volunteer Chefs often work in community or charity settings without formal certifications, focusing on service and outreach. Professional Chefs work in commercial kitchens, requiring culinary credentials and industry experience. The main difference lies in credentials, work environment, and career focus, though both roles involve cooking and food preparation.

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

To thrive as a Volunteer Chef, you need basic culinary skills, food safety knowledge, and often prior kitchen experience or relevant training. Familiarity with kitchen equipment, food handling certifications (like a food handler's permit), and menu planning tools are commonly required. Strong teamwork, adaptability, and excellent communication distinguish outstanding Volunteer Chefs, especially when working with diverse groups or limited resources. These skills ensure safe, efficient meal preparation and a positive impact on the community being served.

What are some common challenges faced by Volunteer Chefs, and how can they be managed effectively?

Volunteer Chefs often work with limited resources, such as donated ingredients and basic kitchen equipment, which can make meal planning and preparation more challenging. Flexibility and creativity are essential for adapting recipes and ensuring balanced meals with what's available. Additionally, Volunteer Chefs frequently collaborate with a diverse team of volunteers, so strong communication and teamwork skills help ensure smooth kitchen operations. Managing time efficiently and maintaining food safety standards are also key aspects of the role.

What are Volunteer Chefs?

Volunteer Chefs are individuals who donate their time and culinary skills to cook meals for organizations such as shelters, community kitchens, schools, or charitable events. They often work without pay to help provide nutritious food to people in need or to support fundraising efforts. Volunteer Chefs may assist with meal planning, food preparation, cooking, and sometimes serving, depending on the organization’s needs. This role is a meaningful way to give back to the community and gain valuable experience in a kitchen setting.
What are the most commonly searched types of Chef jobs in Springfield, IL? The most popular types of Chef jobs in Springfield, IL are:
What cities near Springfield, IL are hiring for Volunteer Chef jobs? Cities near Springfield, IL with the most Volunteer Chef job openings:
Volunteer Chef jobs near you

Supervisor - Saint John's Breadline

Catholic Charities Diocese of Springfield in Illinois

Springfield, IL • On-site

$50K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:

Responsible for carrying out the day-to-day operations and managerial duties of the St. John’s Breadline regarding planning, preparing and serving meals, managing kitchen staff and volunteers, and following rules and procedures including Public Health and Catholic Charities regulations, procedures, and guidelines. Will also serve guests in a courteous manner that promotes human dignity.

Duties/Responsibilities:

  • Directs Breadline employees and volunteers and performs work as necessary to ensure:
    • wholesome food items are served on a timely basis
    • all food items, both donated and purchased, are used in an efficient manner and are stored in an efficient, safe, orderly, and logical manner
    • food storage areas are maintained in a clean and safe manner
    • dishes, pots, pans, utensils, floors, kitchen equipment, walls and tables are washed daily and otherwise maintained in compliance with all Health Department and SJB regulations and guidelines
  • Enforces Breadline rules with sensitivity and firmness, while maintaining dignity and respect for the staff, guests, and volunteers. This requires that the supervisor be present in the serving area throughout the serving time. Utilizes corrective actions, as directed, to address workplace behavior that is not consistent with employee code of conduct, health and safety guidelines.
  • Directs staff in picking up food donations and supplies daily.
  • Informs Area Director of kitchen and building maintenance and/or equipment issues.
  • Serves as Head Chef; develops, plans and executes daily menu. Manages donated food with focus on decreasing food waste and increasing cost-effectiveness.
  • Recommends changes in policies, procedures and operations to the Area Director.
  • Welcomes, trains, assists and directs volunteers.
  • In conjunction with the Area Director, ensures adequate staff and volunteers are on shift. (Schedules Public Service Workers, regular volunteers and weekend group volunteers, and covers staff call-ins).
  • In conjunction with the Area Director, tracks and records meals, volunteers, community service and other data for reporting purposes in accordance with Health Department regulations.
  • Other duties as assigned

Required Knowledge/Skills/Abilities, Education and Experience:

  • Culinary Degree or Certificate, or two years’ food service management experience.
  • Knowledge of kitchen sanitation and safety regulations. Must have or be willing to become a Certified Food Protection Manager, as required by IL Dept. of Public Health.
  • Excellent organizational skills
  • Conflict management skills
  • Ability to manage a team in a fast-paced work environment
  • Ability to work a flexible schedule including weekends and holidays.
  • Valid driver’s license.
  • Sensitivity and respect for people in need and the ability to work within the philosophy of the Catholic Charities mission.


Related Job Requirements: Weekend and holiday work as required. Some travel is required. 24-hour availability.

Who We Are:

Catholic Charities is proud of its 100 year history of providing vital social services in our Diocese. As the official social service arm of the Catholic Church, we maintain a substantial presence in ten communities throughout our twenty-eight counties of central Illinois. Area Offices operate in the communities of Alton, Carlinville, Decatur, Effingham, Granite City, Mattoon, Qunicy, and Springfield. In addition, Catholic Charities manages facilities in Alton (Catholic Children's Home) and Beardstown (The St. Anne Residence). The agency has earned national reaccreditation through COA, the Council on Accreditation for Children and Family Services, which certifies that all programs meet best practice social service standards.

Our vast array of "Continuum of Care" services include professional counseling solutions, senior services and guardianship, healthcare, residential care, independent living; special education, Intact Family Services, food and clothing distribution, St. John's Breadline, Meals on Wheels in Decatur, the Crisis Assistance Program, MedAssist, Mobile Food Pantry, Catholic Charities Legal Services, the St. Anne Residence and discount resale stores. Catholic Charities seeks to respond to the needs of its communities through these diverse programs. Every year, this objective is realized as literally thousands of children and families are positively impacted by our efforts.

Catholic Charities offers a robust benefits package including:

  • Health
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Life
  • 403(b) & Pension Plan
  • Vacation, Sick, & Personal Time
  • 14.5 Holidays
  • Employee Referral Program

***Although being a member of the Catholic faith is not a requirement to be employed by Catholic Charities, it is expected and required of all employees to respect, support and uphold the mission of Catholic Charities which is “to extend to all the healing and empowering presence of Jesus”.