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Apprentice Cook Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Part-Time Cook

Morristown, TN · On-site

$13.25 - $16/hr

School Nutrition/Part Time Cook Date Posted: 7/1/2026 Location: Morristown Hamblen High School West ... CAFETERIA WORKER 1. Vocational education 2. Apprentice training 3. On-the-job training 4. Essential ...

Part-Time Cook

Morristown, TN · On-site

$13.25 - $16/hr

School Nutrition/Part Time Cook Date Posted: 7/1/2026 Location: Morristown Hamblen High School East ... CAFETERIA WORKER 1. Vocational education 2. Apprentice training 3. On-the-job training 4. Essential ...

Part-Time Cook

Morristown, TN · On-site

$13.25 - $16/hr

School Nutrition/Part Time Cook Date Posted: 7/1/2026 Location: Morristown Hamblen High School East ... CAFETERIA WORKER 1. Vocational education 2. Apprentice training 3. On-the-job training 4. Essential ...

Part-Time Cook

Morristown, TN · On-site

$13.25 - $16/hr

School Nutrition/Part Time Cook Date Posted: 7/2/2026 Location: West View Middle School Date ... CAFETERIA WORKER 1. Vocational education 2. Apprentice training 3. On-the-job training 4. Essential ...

Part-Time Cook

Morristown, TN · On-site

$13.25 - $16/hr

School Nutrition/Part Time Cook Date Posted: 7/1/2026 Location: Morristown Hamblen High School East ... CAFETERIA WORKER 1. Vocational education 2. Apprentice training 3. On-the-job training 4. Essential ...

Full Time Cook

Morristown, TN · On-site

$13.25 - $16/hr

School Nutrition/Part Time Cook Date Posted: 2/24/2026 Location: Morristown Hamblen High School ... CAFETERIA WORKER 1. Vocational education 2. Apprentice training 3. On-the-job training 4. Essential ...

Part-Time Cook

Morristown, TN · On-site

$13 - $17/hr

School Nutrition/Part Time Cook Date Posted: 7/1/2026 Location: Manley Elementary School Date ... CAFETERIA WORKER 1. Vocational education 2. Apprentice training 3. On-the-job training 4. Essential ...

Part-Time Cook

Russellville, TN · On-site

$12.75 - $16.50/hr

Position Type: School Nutrition/Part Time Cook Date Posted: 7/1/2026 Location: Russellville ... CAFETERIA WORKER 1. Vocational education 2. Apprentice training 3. On-the-job training 4. Essential ...

Cook

Cleveland, TN

$13.50 - $16.75/hr

... apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the Sailor's status, training, and current Navy policy. Pay, Benefits & Service Pay, benefits, and service ...

Cook

Brighton, TN

$14.75 - $18.25/hr

... apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the Sailor's status, training, and current Navy policy. Pay, Benefits & Service Pay, benefits, and service ...

Cook

Bluff City, TN

$13 - $16.25/hr

... apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the Sailor's status, training, and current Navy policy. Pay, Benefits & Service Pay, benefits, and service ...

Cook

Thompsons Station, TN

$15.50 - $19.25/hr

... apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the Sailor's status, training, and current Navy policy. Pay, Benefits & Service Pay, benefits, and service ...

Cook

Monterey, TN

$12.25 - $15.25/hr

... apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the Sailor's status, training, and current Navy policy. Pay, Benefits & Service Pay, benefits, and service ...

Cook

Blaine, TN

$13.25 - $16.50/hr

... apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the Sailor's status, training, and current Navy policy. Pay, Benefits & Service Pay, benefits, and service ...

Cook

Newport, TN

$13.75 - $17/hr

... apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the Sailor's status, training, and current Navy policy. Pay, Benefits & Service Pay, benefits, and service ...

TN

$14 - $17.50/hr

... apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the Sailor's status, training, and current Navy policy. Pay, Benefits & Service Pay, benefits, and service ...

Cook

Greeneville, TN

$14.25 - $17.75/hr

... apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the Sailor's status, training, and current Navy policy. Pay, Benefits & Service Pay, benefits, and service ...

Cook

Shelbyville, TN

$13.75 - $17/hr

... apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the Sailor's status, training, and current Navy policy. Pay, Benefits & Service Pay, benefits, and service ...

Cook

Johnson City, TN

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

... apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the Sailor's status, training, and current Navy policy. Pay, Benefits & Service Pay, benefits, and service ...

Cook

Jefferson City, TN

$14 - $17.50/hr

... apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the Sailor's status, training, and current Navy policy. Pay, Benefits & Service Pay, benefits, and service ...

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Apprentice Cook information

See Tennessee salary details

$8

$14

$20

How much do apprentice cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice cook in Tennessee is $14.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.64 and $17.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Can you get an apprenticeship in cooking?

Yes, aspiring cooks can pursue apprenticeships in cooking, which provide hands-on training in professional kitchens. These programs often combine work experience with classroom instruction and may require a minimum age or prior food service experience. Apprenticeships help develop skills such as food preparation, safety, and kitchen operations.

What is a cooking apprenticeship?

A cooking apprenticeship is a structured training program where an apprentice cook learns culinary skills, kitchen operations, and food preparation under the supervision of experienced chefs. It often involves hands-on work, skill development, and may lead to certification or qualification in culinary arts.

Is 27 too old for an apprenticeship?

Apprentice cooks can be of any age, including 27, as apprenticeships are open to individuals seeking to develop culinary skills regardless of age. Many programs welcome mature learners who bring life experience and a strong work ethic, and age is rarely a barrier to entry in culinary apprenticeships.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Apprentice Cook, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Apprentice Cook, you need a basic understanding of food preparation, kitchen safety, and hygiene standards, often gained through culinary training or a relevant apprenticeship. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, food handling certifications, and point-of-sale systems is typically required. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn are important soft skills for this role. These abilities ensure efficient kitchen operations, high-quality food output, and a safe, collaborative work environment.

What are some common challenges faced by apprentice cooks during their training period?

Apprentice cooks often encounter challenges such as adjusting to the fast-paced kitchen environment, mastering basic cooking techniques under pressure, and learning to follow strict hygiene and safety standards. Balancing learning new skills with performing routine prep work can feel demanding, but it’s a valuable part of building a solid foundation. Regular feedback from experienced chefs and teamwork with other kitchen staff help apprentices grow and adapt quickly.

Can I join culinary school with no experience?

Apprentice cooks can often enroll in culinary school without prior experience, as programs are designed to teach foundational skills. Basic knowledge of kitchen safety, hygiene, and a strong interest in cooking can be beneficial, but formal experience is not always required for admission. Culinary schools typically provide hands-on training to develop necessary skills for a cooking career.

What is the difference between Apprentice Cook vs Line Cook?

AspectApprentice CookLine Cook
CredentialsBasic culinary training or no formal certificationExperience or culinary certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentTraining kitchen, supervised environmentFast-paced kitchen, independent responsibilities
Job RoleLearning and assisting, gaining skillsPreparing dishes, executing menu items

The main difference between an Apprentice Cook and a Line Cook is experience level and responsibilities. Apprentice Cooks are in training, focusing on learning skills under supervision, while Line Cooks are experienced professionals responsible for preparing specific dishes in a busy kitchen. Both roles are essential in culinary operations, with Apprentice Cooks progressing toward full Line Cook responsibilities as they gain experience.

What are apprentice cooks?

Apprentice cooks are individuals who are learning the basics of cooking and kitchen operations under the supervision of experienced chefs. They assist with food preparation, basic cooking tasks, cleaning, and maintaining kitchen equipment while developing their culinary skills. This role is often part of a formal apprenticeship or training program, designed to provide hands-on experience and foundational knowledge in the culinary arts. Apprentice cooks gradually take on more responsibilities as they gain experience and proficiency in the kitchen.
What are the most commonly searched types of Cook jobs in Tennessee? The most popular types of Cook jobs in Tennessee are:
What are popular job titles related to Apprentice Cook jobs in Tennessee? For Apprentice Cook jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Apprentice Cook jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Apprentice Cook jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Apprentice Cook jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Apprentice Cook job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Apprentice Cook jobs in TN? For Apprentice Cook jobs in TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Apprentice Cook job openings in Tennessee as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $30,892 per year, or $14.9 per hour.

$13.25 - $16/hr

Part-time

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

Position Type:
School Nutrition/Part Time Cook
Date Posted:
7/1/2026
Location:
Morristown Hamblen High School West
Date Available:
07/01/2026
QUALIFICATIONS
1. Experience as a substitute in the School Nutrition Program so that with appropriate training employee may serve in the specific role for which employed
2. Physical examination, to include a tuberculin test or lung x-ray upon being employed
3. Able to read, write, speak, and understand English
4. Meets health and physical requirements
JOB GOAL
To maintain cafeteria work area and equipment and utensils in a clean and orderly condition
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
1. Assists in the preparation of food portions and prepares cafeteria counter
2. Serves students and staff from the cafeteria counter
3. Transfers supplies and equipment between storage and work area
4. Cleans work tables, walls, refrigerators, meat blocks, tables, counters, and furnishings
5. Washes pots, pans, trays, and dishes
6. Maintains the trash and garbage collection area in a neat and sanitary fashion
7. Assumes responsibility for knowing and following the safety rules and proper procedures associated with the responsibilities of the job
8. Attends all school system inservice meetings and training classes for cafeteria workers
9. Observes all state and local regulations relating to cafeteria operation
10. Abstains from the use of tobacco and alcohol while on the job
11. Performs other duties as assigned
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
This job may require lifting of objects that exceed 50 lbs., with frequent lifting and/or carrying of objects weighing up to 30 lbs. Other physical demands that may be required are as follows:
1. Pushing
2. Pulling
3. Climbing
4. Stooping
5. Crouching
6. Reaching
7. Kneeling
8. Talking
9. Hearing
10. Seeing
VOCATIONAL PREPARATION The required vocational preparation may come from any of the following:
CAFETERIA WORKER
1. Vocational education
2. Apprentice training
3. On-the-job training
4. Essential experience
5. T.E.A.M. training
TEMPERAMENT (Personal traits)
1. Adaptability to performing a variety of duties, often changing from one task to another of a different nature without loss of efficiency or composure 2. Adaptability to accepting responsibility for the direction, control, or planning of an activity
3. Adaptability to making generalizations, evaluations, or decisions based on sensory or judgmental criteria
4. Adaptability to dealing with people
CAPACITY AND ABILITY REQUIREMENTS
Specific capacities and abilities may be required of an individual in order to learn or adequately perform a task or job duty.
1. Intelligence: Ability to understand instructions and underlying principles; ability to reason and make judgments
2. Verbal: Ability to understand meanings of words and the ideas associated with them
3. Manual Dexterity: Ability to move the fingers and rapidly and accurately manipulate small objects with the fingers
4. Color Discrimination: Ability to perceive or recognize similarities or differences in colors or shades or other values of the same color
WORK CONDITIONS
May experience some discomfort due to exposure to noise and temperature and as a result of standing for periods of time
TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT
1. 179-day contract; hours per day determined by school need
a. 177 student days (adjusted accordingly with school cancellation due to inclement weather)
b. 2 days for inservice or other assigned duties
2. School Nutrition hourly salary scale
IMMEDIATE SUPERVISOR Cafeteria Manager and Principal
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this position. They are not intended to be a complete list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so assigned.