Chef - Chicago

Amtrak

Join Amtrak as a Chef/Line Cook, preparing meals on dining cars and ensuring passenger satisfaction while working in a dynamic kitchen environment.

Last checked on June 5, 2026. We may earn a commission when you click through.

Advertisement

Overall, working as a Chef at Amtrak offers blend culinary skills with travel, but be prepared for the challenges of working on a train.

✓ Good pay starting at $21.00/hour ✓ Comprehensive benefits package ✓ Unique work environment aboard trains

Chef - Chicago

Amtrak

Updated 1 day ago
Apply now

You'll be redirected to careers.amtrak.com

Chicago Full-Time

Overall, working as a Chef at Amtrak offers blend culinary skills with travel, but be prepared for the challenges of working on a train.

About this role

Your success is a train ride away! As we move America’s workforce toward the future, Amtrak connects businesses and communities across the country. We employ more than 20,000 diverse, energetic professionals in a variety of career fields throughout the United States.

The safety of our passengers, our employees, the public and our operating environment is our priority, and the success of our railroad is due to our employees. Are you ready to join our team? Our values of ‘Do the Right Thing, Excel Together and Put Customers First’ are at the heart of what matters most to us, and our Core Capabilities, ‘Building Trust, Accountability, Effective Communication, Customer Focus, and Proactive Safety & Security’ are what every employee needs to know and do to be most impactful at Amtrak.

By living the Amtrak values, focusing on our capabilities, and actively embracing and fostering diverse ideas, backgrounds, and perspectives, together we will honor our past and make Amtrak a company of the future. SUMMARY OF DUTIES: The Chef/Line Cook is responsible for meal preparation in the kitchen on board our dining cars. The Chef/Line Cook must have the ability to offer our passengers a wide variety of full-course meals that are freshly prepared in our kitchens.

They must assist with loading/unloading, verification, handling and storage of all food and service products as well as cooking, plating, supplies, food prep, pantry, and providing to the servers all items on the current menu. They will wash any and all utensils, pots and pans, and will keep the entire lower level of the car clean. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: • Prepare full-course meals for Amtrak passengers.

• Assist with all phases of meal preparations. • Wash all items used in the preparation of meals in compliance with FDA sanitation regulations and standards. • Must complete all end-point duties.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: • Previous work experience in a restaurant as a Chef/Line Cook. • High School Diploma/GED COMMUNICATIONS AND INTERPERSONAL SKILLS: Must have excellent written and oral communication skills.The hourly range is $21.00 – $21.00 (with opportunity for increases, as per the applicable collective bargaining agreement, after beginning employment). Amtrak offers a comprehensive benefit package that includes health, dental and vision plans; wellness programs; flexible spending accounts; 401K retirement plan; life insurance; paid time off; reimbursement of education; Public Service Loan Forgiveness eligibility; Railroad Retirement sickness and retirement benefits; and rail pass privileges.

Some benefits are subject to the collective bargaining agreement. Learn more about our benefits offerings here. Requisition ID:166125 Posting Location(s):Illinois Relocation Offered:No Travel Requirements:Up to 100% You power our progress through your performance.

We want your work at Amtrak to be more than a job. We want your career at Amtrak to be a fulfilling experience where you find challenging work, rewarding opportunities, respect among colleagues, and attractive compensation. Amtrak maintains a culture that values high performance and recognizes individual employee contributions.

Amtrak is committed to a safe workplace free of drugs and alcohol. All Amtrak positions requires a pre-employment background check that includes prior employment verification, a criminal history check and a pre-employment drug screen. Candidates who test positive for marijuana will be disqualified, regardless of any state or local statute, ordinance, regulation, or other law that legalizes or decriminalizes the use or possession of marijuana, whether for medical, recreational, or other use.

Amtrak's pre-employment drug testing program is administered in accordance with DOT regulations and applicable law. In accordance with DOT regulations (49 CFR § 40.25), Amtrak is required to obtain prior drug and alcohol testing records for applicants/employees intending to perform safety-sensitive duties for covered Department of Transportation positions. If an applicant/employee refuses to provide written consent for Amtrak to obtain these records, the individual will not be permitted to perform safety-sensitive functions.

In accordance with federal law governing security checks of covered individuals for providers of public transportation (Title 6 U.S.C. §1143), Amtrak is required to screen applicants for any permanent or interim disqualifying criminal offenses. Note that any education requirement listed above may be deemed satisfied if you have an equivalent combination of education, training and experience.

Amtrak is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race/color, to include traits historically associated with race, including but not limited to, hair texture and hairstyles such as braids, locks and twists, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth and related conditions, such as lactation), national origin/ethnicity, disability (intellectual, mental and physical), veteran status, marital status, ancestry, sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression, genetic information, citizenship or any other personal characteristics protected by law.

About the Company

Amtrak connects businesses and communities across the U.S. with over 20,000 employees committed to safety and customer service.

Key Highlights

  • Full-time position with meal preparation responsibilities
  • Competitive pay at $21.00 per hour
  • Comprehensive benefits including health, dental, and 401K
  • Opportunities for growth within a large organization
  • Focus on teamwork and customer service

💡 Honest Take: This position is ideal for those passionate about food service but may not suit those looking for a traditional restaurant environment.

Pros

  • Good pay starting at $21.00/hour
  • Comprehensive benefits package
  • Unique work environment aboard trains
  • Emphasis on teamwork and safety
  • Opportunities for advancement

Cons

  • Requires working in a confined space
  • Potentially long hours and shifts
  • Meals must be prepared under pressure
  • Less predictable hours compared to standard kitchens
  • May not suit those seeking a typical restaurant experience

Best For: This is for those looking to combine culinary skills with travel and a passion for customer service.

Watch Out: Be ready for the fast pace and pressure of cooking for passengers while on the move.

Apply for this position

You'll be redirected to careers.amtrak.com

What Customers Say

Employees appreciate the competitive pay and benefits, but note the challenges of working in a confined space with a fast-paced environment.

Expert Review

If you’re considering a culinary career outside the conventional kitchen, Amtrak's Chef position offers a unique twist. You'll be responsible for preparing meals on dining cars, ensuring that passengers have a memorable dining experience. The pay is competitive at $21.00 per hour, ppealing for entry-level cooks looking to start their journey.

The benefits package is comprehensive, including health, dental, vision, and a 401K plan, which is often a major draw for many workers. Amtrak emphasizes teamwork and safety, ensuring that employees are well-supported in their roles. However, it’s essential to be aware that the job comes with challenges, such as preparing meals in a confined space and dealing with the pressures of serving customers while the train is in motion.

For those who thrive in dynamic environments and are passionate about customer service, this role could be a perfect fit. But if you prefer the predictability of a standard restaurant kitchen, this may not be the ideal situation. Overall, Amtrak provides a distinct career path for culinary enthusiasts looking to make their mark on the rails.

You might also like

Cook

Marriott Vacations Worldwide · San Diego

Related Articles