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1St Cook Jobs (NOW HIRING)

RWJBarnabas Health

First Cook

Lakewood, NJ · On-site

$18.54 - $21.31/hr

First Cook Location: MMC Southern Campus Department Name: Dietary-Management Req #: 0000254637 Status: Hourly Shift: Day Pay Range: $18.54 - $21.31 per hour Pay Transparency: The above reflects the ...

RWJBarnabas Health

First Cook

Lakewood, NJ · On-site

$18.54 - $21.31/hr

First Cook Location: MMC Southern Campus Department Name: Dietary-Management Req #: 0000254637 Status: Hourly Shift: Day Pay Range: $18.54 - $21.31 per hour Pay Transparency: The above reflects the ...

RWJBarnabas Health

First Cook

Lakewood, NJ · On-site

$18.54 - $21.31/hr

First Cook Location: MMC Southern Campus Department Name: Dietary-Management Req #: 0000254637 Status: Hourly Shift: Day Pay Range: $18.54 - $21.31 per hour Pay Transparency: The above reflects the ...

blueplate

Be Seen First

First Cook

Mullica Hill, NJ · On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Busy South Jersey Restaurant looking for a First cook to complete our team. Candidate should be well rounded in sautee, pasta making and also some short order cookery. Looking for a candidate that ...

LSG Sky Chefs

First Cook

Des Plaines, IL

$22/hr

Touhy Ave., Des Plaines, IL60018 FIRST COOK Job Requirements &Responsibilities The First Cook is a key member of our culinary team and works in close cooperation with our team of Chefs and Second ...

RWJBarnabas Health

First Cook

Lakewood, NJ · On-site

$18.54 - $21.31/hr

First Cook Location: MMC Southern Campus Department Name: Dietary-Management Req #: 0000254637 Status: Hourly Shift: Day Pay Range: $18.54 - $21.31 per hour Pay Transparency: The above reflects the ...

RWJBarnabas Health

First Cook

Newark, NJ · On-site

$23.40/hr

First Cook Location: Newark Beth Israel Medical Ctr Department Name: Dietary Management Req #: 0000248731 Status: Hourly Shift: Day Pay Range: $23.40 - $23.40 per hour Pay Transparency: The above ...

blueplate

Be Seen First

First Cook

Mullica Hill, NJ · On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Busy South Jersey Restaurant looking for a First cook to complete our team. Candidate should be well rounded in sautee, pasta making and also some short order cookery. Looking for a candidate that ...

RWJBarnabas Health

First Cook

Newark, NJ · On-site

$23.40/hr

First Cook Location: Newark Beth Israel Medical Ctr Department Name: Dietary Management Req #: 0000248731 Status: Hourly Shift: Day Pay Range: $23.40 - $23.40 per hour Pay Transparency: The above ...

RWJBarnabas Health

First Cook

Newark, NJ · On-site

$23.40/hr

First Cook Location: Newark Beth Israel Medical Ctr Department Name: Dietary Management Req #: 0000248731 Status: Hourly Shift: Day Pay Range: $23.40 - $23.40 per hour Pay Transparency: The above ...

Brookhaven at Lexington

First Cook

Lexington, MA · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

Brookhaven at Lexington, a prestigious, private retirement community in Lexington MA is currently seeking a First Cook. This is a full time 40 hour per week position and the ideal candidate will have ...

Bennington College

First Cook

Bennington, VT · On-site

$22.96/hr

The First Cook is responsible for the preparation of all menu items for assigned meals and general food production. All dining employees must comply with applicable sanitation, health, and safety ...

RWJBarnabas Health

First Cook

Newark, NJ · On-site

$23.40/hr

First Cook Location: Newark Beth Israel Medical Ctr Department Name: Dietary Management Req #: 0000248731 Status: Hourly Shift: Day Pay Range: $23.40 - $23.40 per hour Pay Transparency: The above ...

Bennington College

First Cook

Bennington, VT · On-site

$22.96/hr

The First Cook is responsible for the preparation of all menu items for assigned meals and general food production. All dining employees must comply with applicable sanitation, health, and safety ...

NYULMC

First Cook

New York, NY · On-site

$17.50 - $22/hr

We have an exciting opportunity to join our team as a First Cook. In this role, the successful candidate is responsible for performing work of moderate difficulty in preparation of various menu items ...

Equum Medical

First Cook

Dedham, MA

$16.50 - $20.50/hr

Follow modified diets in accordance with diet spreads as approved by Sous Chef / First cook, or the consulting dietitian. * Read and execute Banquet Event Orders (BEO) to handle functions ...

Mass General Brigham

First Cook

Boston, MA · On-site

$17.50 - $21.75/hr

As a member of the Room Service team, in the role as First Cook, the individual will be tasked to assist and deliver in a pleasant, friendly, and timely manner patient specific high-quality food and ...

Maine Medical Center

First Cook

Portland, ME · On-site

$16.25 - $20.50/hr

Summary The First Cook role performs a variety of duties normally performed in serving customers, preparing food, transporting and emptying trash receptacles, cleaning the kitchen, serving and ...

BronxCare Health System

First Cook

Bronx, NY · On-site

$32.74 - $33.27/hr

Overview Performs a variety of tasks and operations to prepare and cook foods for patients, visitors, employees and others as directed, following standard practices and procedures in compliance with ...

ASM Global

First Cook

Ithaca, NY · On-site

$15.50 - $19.25/hr

Cook menu items in cooperation with the rest of the kitchen staff. * Answer, report and follow the ... Date, FIFO (First In, First Out) * Take and document temperatures of all refrigerators and freezers ...

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All Jobs1St Cook Jobs

1st Cook information

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$10

$17

$23

How much do 1st cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for 1st cook in the United States is $17.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How do I start working as a cook with no experience?

To start working as a first cook with no experience, focus on gaining basic culinary skills through online courses or cooking classes, and seek entry-level kitchen positions such as prep cook or dishwasher to build experience. Demonstrating a willingness to learn, good work ethic, and teamwork can help you advance in the culinary field.

What are some common challenges faced by a 1st Cook, and how can they be addressed?

A 1st Cook often faces challenges such as managing high-pressure situations during peak service times, coordinating with kitchen staff to ensure timely meal preparation, and maintaining consistency in food quality. Effective communication, strong organizational skills, and adaptability are key to overcoming these obstacles. Proactively preparing ingredients, delegating tasks efficiently, and staying calm under pressure can help ensure smooth kitchen operations and successful service.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a 1st Cook, and why are they important?

To thrive as a 1st Cook, you need a solid background in culinary techniques, food safety standards, and menu planning, often supported by a culinary diploma or certificate. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, inventory management systems, and HACCP protocols is typically required. Strong time management, teamwork, and leadership skills help a 1st Cook excel in a fast-paced kitchen environment. These abilities ensure high-quality food preparation, efficient kitchen operations, and a safe dining experience for guests.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

A 1st Cook in high-end restaurants, private clubs, or cruise ships can earn around $10,000 monthly with extensive experience and specialized skills. Achieving this income typically requires years of culinary expertise, strong work ethic, and sometimes certifications, but a formal degree is not always necessary.

What does a first cook do?

A first cook is responsible for preparing and cooking food according to recipes and standards, supervising kitchen staff, and ensuring quality and safety in food preparation. They often oversee kitchen operations, manage inventory, and may assist in menu planning. Strong cooking skills, knowledge of food safety, and leadership abilities are essential for this role.

What are 1st Cooks?

A 1st Cook is a senior kitchen staff member responsible for preparing and cooking food according to recipes and quality standards. They often oversee other cooks, ensure food safety and cleanliness, and coordinate meal production during busy service times. 1st Cooks may also assist with menu planning, inventory management, and training new staff. Their experience and leadership are essential in maintaining efficient kitchen operations.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Jobs that can pay $2,000 a day typically include high-level positions such as specialized surgeons, senior corporate executives, or successful entrepreneurs. Certain freelance professionals like consultants, lawyers, or project managers with extensive experience and a strong client base may also reach this earning level, especially with long hours or high-value projects.

What is the difference between 1St Cook vs Sous Chef?

Aspect1St CookSous Chef
CredentialsCooking experience, culinary certifications often preferredSimilar credentials, often with more experience
Work EnvironmentKitchen, restaurant, hotel kitchensSame as 1St Cook, often with supervisory duties
Employer & IndustryRestaurants, hotels, catering servicesSame as 1St Cook, with added leadership role

The 1St Cook and Sous Chef roles are closely related, both requiring culinary skills and experience in professional kitchens. The main difference is that the Sous Chef typically holds a supervisory position, assisting the Executive Chef and overseeing kitchen operations, while the 1St Cook focuses on preparing dishes and maintaining quality standards. Both roles are essential in culinary establishments, with the Sous Chef often acting as the second-in-command.

What cities are hiring for 1St Cook jobs? Cities with the most 1St Cook job openings:
What states have the most 1St Cook jobs? States with the most job openings for 1St Cook jobs include:
1st Cook jobs near you
First Cook

First Cook

RWJBarnabas Health

Lakewood, NJ • On-site

$18.54 - $21.31/hr

Other

Posted 4 days ago

RWJBarnabas Health rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 323 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

188th of 876 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Job Title: First Cook

Location: MMC Southern Campus

Department Name: Dietary-Management

Req #: 0000254637

Status: Hourly

Shift: Day

Pay Range: $18.54 - $21.31 per hour

Pay Transparency:

The above reflects the anticipated hourly wage range for this position if hired to work in New Jersey.

The compensation offered to the candidate selected for the position will depend on several factors, including the candidate's educational background, skills and professional experience.

Job Overview:

The First Cook position prepares and cooks food for hospital patients, employees, and visitors.

Qualifications:

Required:

  • High School diploma or equivalent
  • Knowledge of cooking methods and procedures

Scheduling Requirements:

  • Variable days and hours during the week, with shifts starting as early as 5:30am and ending as late as 7:30pm
  • Every other weekend
  • Per Diem

Essential Functions:

  • Alert Supervisor to problems and needs concerning equipment and food supplies
  • Appropriately prepares food as per therapeutic instructions
  • Assist in the care, maintenance, cleaning, and sanitizing of work areas, equipment and supplies
  • Clearly labels and dates all food items
  • Detect and report spoiled or unattractive food, defective supplies/equipment or other unusual conditions. Recommend corrective action. Maintains inventory, receives, inspects and stocks perishable and non-perishable items
  • Evaluate food preparation and effect or recommend changes to improve operations
  • Follows standardized recipes for modified and regular meals
  • Maintains order in dry and refrigerated storage areas; rotating first-in first-out basis
  • Observes and monitors food quality and temperature on patient tray line and cafeteria serving area
  • Review menu and assemble foods, supplies, and equipment for daily food preparation
  • Review patient satisfaction results, when appropriate, and aids in correcting problems
  • Utilize leftovers, avoid waste
  • Serves on tray assembly line in assigned position
  • Prepares food for special functions as needed
  • Performs all other duties as assigned

What RWJBarnabas Health employees say

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About RWJBarnabas Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

RWJBarnabas Health is New Jersey’s largest integrated health care delivery system, providing treatment and services to more than three million patients each year. Throughout RWJBarnabas Health, our dedicated physicians, nurses, and health professionals are committed to providing the highest quality of patient care and health education to the community and region. We aim to truly make a unique impact in local communities throughout New Jersey. From vastly improving the health of local residents to creating educational and career opportunities, this combination greatly benefits the state. We understand the growing and evolving needs of residents in New Jersey - whether that be enhancing the coordination for treating complex health conditions or improving community health through local programs and education.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

West Orange, NJ, US

Year founded

2015

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