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Apprentice Cook Jobs in Erie, PA (NOW HIRING)

Senior Line Cook

Erie, PA · On-site

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

Mentor entry-level cooks and culinary apprentices; oversee daily prep and production * Execute back-of-house (BOH) operations following F&B procedures, health codes, and federal guidelines * Ensure ...

Lead Line Cook

Erie, PA · On-site

$16.75 - $21.25/hr

Basic cooking skills including sautéing, broiling, frying, roasting, butchery, garde manger, ... Culinary education or apprenticeship preferred but not mandatory. * Ability to stand and move at a ...

Lead Line Cook

Erie, PA

$16.75 - $21.25/hr

Basic cooking skills including sautéing, broiling, frying, roasting, butchery, garde manger, ... Culinary education or apprenticeship preferred but not mandatory. * Ability to stand and move at a ...

Lead Line Cook

Erie, PA · On-site

$16.75 - $21.25/hr

Basic cooking skills including sautéing, broiling, frying, roasting, butchery, garde manger, ... Culinary education or apprenticeship preferred but not mandatory. * Ability to stand and move at a ...

Apprentice Cook information

See Erie, PA salary details

$9

$15

$21

How much do apprentice cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice cook in Erie, PA is $15.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.51 and $19.09 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 is an apprentice cook?

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 Erie, PA? The most popular types of Cook jobs in Erie, PA are:
What are popular job titles related to Apprentice Cook jobs in Erie, PA? For Apprentice Cook jobs in Erie, PA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Apprentice Cook jobs in Erie, PA look for? The top searched job categories for Apprentice Cook jobs in Erie, PA are:
What cities near Erie, PA are hiring for Apprentice Cook jobs? Cities near Erie, PA with the most Apprentice Cook job openings:
Infographic showing various Apprentice Cook job openings in Erie, PA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 65% Full Time, and 35% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,976 per year, or $15.9 per hour.

$18 - $25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago


Job description


This is a great opportunity for an entry level technician with a strong mechanical aptitude to break into an exciting and rewarding trade!


Hot & Cold PM Apprentice

AIS Commercial Parts and Service, a Tech24 Company

Location: Erie, Pennsylvania

Compensation Range: $18-$25 per hour plus the opportunity to earn a generous quarterly incentive bonus


Why Join AIS?

At AIS, we invest in our technicians so you can focus on what you do best. Here’s what you can expect when you join our team:

  • Weekly Pay – Reliable pay, every week
  • Fully Equipped for Success – Company vehicle, gas card, uniforms, and phone provided
  • Work-Life Balance – Generous paid time off, paid holidays, and your birthday off
  • Comprehensive Benefits – Medical, dental, vision, and short-term disability coverage (effective 1st of the month following your date of hire)
  • Company-Paid Protection – Long-term disability and basic life insurance at no cost to you
  • Comprehensive Training Opportunities - Advance your skills through manufacturer-certified programs, company training, or a blend of both
  • Retirement Planning Made Easy – 401(k) with company match and immediate vesting
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – Free, confidential counseling and support for you and your family, including financial and legal resources

About the Center

AIS Commercial Parts & Service is an industry leader in the commercial food equipment parts & service industry. Our service technicians and customer service representatives use their technical and customer service skills to troubleshoot, repair, and provide preventive maintenance and OEM replacement parts to restaurants, chain accounts, and large facilities, such as hotels, hospitals, cafeterias and schools. AIS is currently looking for individuals with experience in the following areas:

  • Commercial or residential cooking equipment, HVAC or refrigeration repair.
  • Facilities Maintenance.
  • Training available for individuals with a strong electrical and mechanical background.

Position Summary

As part of the AIS team and Tech24 network, the Hot & Cold PM Apprentice supports senior technicians in performing preventative maintenance (PM) on both commercial cooking (hot side) and refrigeration (cold side) equipment. This entry-level to early-career role is designed for individuals who are mechanically inclined and eager to grow in the skilled trades. The PM Apprentice will focus primary on preventative maintenance, safety inspections, basic repairs, and learning advance diagnostics under the guidance of experienced technicians. This is a hands-on training role with a clear path forward becoming fully qualified Commercial Foodservice and Refrigeration Technician


Key Responsibilities

  • Assist senior technicians with preventative maintenance on commercial cooking and refrigeration equipment
  • Perform routine PM tasks including cleaning components, inspecting parts, replacing wear items, checking electrical connections, and verifying proper equipment operations
  • Learn to identify early signs of equipment failure and communicate findings to senior technicians
  • Support basic troubleshooting and minor repairs under supervision
  • Accurately document maintenance activities, parts used, and service notes in the company system
  • Maintain organized truck inventory and proper tool management
  • Follow all safety guidelines, including proper handling of electrical and refrigeration systems
  • Deliver professional, courteous customer service while onsite
  • Participate in structured training programs and technical development opportunities
  • Gradually take on more responsibilities as skills and certifications are earned


Qualifications

  • 0-2 years of mechanical, HVAC, foodservice equipment, refrigeration, or related technical experience preferred
  • Trade school, technical school, or mechanical aptitude strongly preferred
  • Valid drivers' license with a clean driving record required
  • Basic mechanical and electrical aptitude
  • Strong willingness to learn and receive coaching
  • Ability to read basic wiring diagrams and technical instructions
  • Strong work ethic and ability to work both independently and as part of a team
  • Ability to lift up to 50+ lbs. and work in varying indoor / outdoor conditions
  • Ability to climb ladders, work from heights, and crawl in tight quarters
  • EPA certification preferred (or willingness to obtain within a year)
  • Must be willing to participate in an on-call rotation as skills progress

Compensation Transparency

The advertised pay range for this position is $18-$25 per hour. Final compensation will be determined based on factors such as prior technical experience, mechanical aptitude, certifications, and overall qualifications. As an apprentice-level role, compensation reflects a training-focused position with significant growth opportunity as skills and certifications are achieved.

AIS Commercial Parts and Service is An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status, age, or any other federally protected class.

For more information about Tech24 and our career opportunities visit https://www.mytech24.com/careers/