Food Service Worker (Cook)

Company: Lawrence Hall
Location: Chicago
Posted on: February 17, 2026

Job Description:

Job Description Job Description Who we are Lawrence Hall is a Chicago-based nonprofit social services agency that provides therapeutic, wellness, and skill development services to youth, families, and neighborhoods affected by lasting trauma. We foster healing and growth through empowerment, respect, safety, and teamwork. About the Role As a Cook, you'll prepare and serve meals that support health, comfort, and community. You'll be part of a mission-driven team committed to creating a safe and caring environment for young people aged 6 to 21. This is a great fit for someone with kitchen experience who values consistency, teamwork, and making a daily difference in the lives of youth. In this role, you will: Prepare and cook meals that meet state nutrition and food safety guidelines Serve meals with care, track servings, and help ensure youth feel welcomed and respected Receive, rotate, and stock deliveries in dry and refrigerated storage Clean and sanitize the kitchen and maintain all equipment Support a trauma-informed environment by practicing respectful communication and supporting healing interactions Collaborate with staff and caregivers to promote a positive, supportive mealtime experience Who we ' re looking for Required: High school diploma or equivalent 1-3 years of experience in food service Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) certificate Willingness to complete Therapeutic Crisis Intervention (TCI) training Ability to pass background check and drug screen Preferred: Experience working with youth or in trauma-informed settings Knowledge of adolescent development and strength-based approaches Additional Information This full-time position is located onsite at our Francisco Campus at 4833 N Francisco Ave, Chicago, IL 60625. In this position, you'll be required to work Monday to Friday, 9am–5pm, with occasional evenings. Physical duties include bending, lifting, and moving kitchen equipment and supplies. Must be comfortable working around youth ages 6 to 21 Compensation, Benefits & Perks We care about the well-being of our employees and are proud to offer a comprehensive and competitive total rewards package that includes: Hourly rate: $17.31 - $19/hour, based on experience. Average of 17–25 days PTO 9 holidays Medical insurance - HMO and PPO options Dental insurance - HMO and PPO options Vision insurance 401(k) with up to 5% employer match and auto-vesting Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) - Medical and Dependent Care Pre-tax Commuter benefits - Parking and Transit 100% employer-paid Basic Life and AD&D Insurance Voluntary Life Insurance for Employees, Spouses, and Children Accident and Critical Illness Insurance Short-Term and Long-Term Disability 100% employer- paid Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for free counseling and life resources Wellness Reimbursement Program Employee Referral Bonus up to $1,500 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) for licensed employees Public Service Loan Forgiveness How to Apply Submit your application here. We look forward to learning more about you! Frequently cited statistics show that women and underrepresented groups apply to jobs only if they meet 100% of the necessary skills and abilities. Lawrence Hall encourages you to apply even if you do not have experience in all areas of essential functions. We look forward to your application. This position meets the FLSA requirements for Non-Exempt Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/D/V Following job offer acceptance, all new hires are required to complete a background check through the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). Individuals who have lived outside of Illinois may also be subject to out-of-state checks, which can take up to eight weeks to process. While these checks are pending, candidates should continue completing all other pre-boarding requirements. Employment may begin once all pre-boarding steps are complete and DCFS clearance has been received.

Keywords: Lawrence Hall, Des Plaines , Food Service Worker (Cook), Hospitality & Tourism , Chicago, Illinois