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Apprentice Cook Jobs in Portland, ME (NOW HIRING)

Previous experience as a line cook in a similar property, culinary school or completion of apprenticeship program preferred, or proven experience in higher volume and/or fine dining kitchens.

Previous experience as a line cook in a similar property, culinary school or completion of apprenticeship program preferred, or proven experience in higher volume and/or fine dining kitchens.

Line Cook

Scarborough, ME · On-site

$22.25 - $28/hr

Previous experience as a line cook in a similar property, culinary school or completion of apprenticeship program preferred, or proven experience in higher volume and/or fine dining kitchens.

AM Breakfast Cook

Scarborough, ME · On-site

$22.25 - $28/hr

Previous experience as a line cook in a similar property, culinary school or completion of apprenticeship program preferred, or proven experience in higher volume and/or fine dining kitchens.

Cook

Westbrook, ME · On-site

$16.25 - $20.25/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

Bath, ME · On-site

$16 - $20/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

Biddeford, ME · On-site

$16.75 - $21/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

Portland, ME · On-site

$16.25 - $20.50/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

South Portland, ME · On-site

$16.50 - $20.50/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

Saco, ME · On-site

$16.75 - $21/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

Auburn, ME · On-site

$17.25 - $21.50/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 ...

Train and develop crew members, shift leaders, and Apprentices, utilizing Chipotle's training tools ... CMG) is cultivating a better world by serving responsibly sourced, classically cooked, real food ...

Apprentice Cook information

See Portland, ME salary details

$10

$16

$22

How much do apprentice cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice cook in Portland, ME is $16.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.28 and $20.14 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 Portland, ME? The most popular types of Cook jobs in Portland, ME are:
What are popular job titles related to Apprentice Cook jobs in Portland, ME? For Apprentice Cook jobs in Portland, ME, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Apprentice Cook jobs in Portland, ME look for? The top searched job categories for Apprentice Cook jobs in Portland, ME are:
What cities near Portland, ME are hiring for Apprentice Cook jobs? Cities near Portland, ME with the most Apprentice Cook job openings:
Infographic showing various Apprentice Cook job openings in Portland, ME as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, and 14% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $34,824 per year, or $16.7 per hour.
Line Cook

$22.25 - $28/hr

Other

Posted 7 hours ago


Job description

Black Point Inn is currently accepting applications for hot line cooks, this position both encourages and fosters creativity and is a great chance to hone skills and grow as a chef, you'll have many chances to develop specials! Line cooks will help with food preparation, accurate plating of menu items to ensure our guests a dining experience that exceeds their expectations. Our ideal candidate possesses an open mind and willing to be part of the team.

Location: Black Point Inn, Scarborough, ME
Hours: Full-time and part-time available, typical shifts are 7am to 3pm or 2:30pm to 10:30pm
Compensation: $22.25 to $28 per hour, depending on experience 
Seasonal Position:  July through November
Start date: July
Benefits: Discounted stays and food & beverage at affiliated properties
Experience:
Previous culinary experience is preferred, but not required.

JOB SUMMARY:

Preparation of food to be served complying with all applicable sanitation, health, and personal hygiene standards, following established food production programs and procedures.  Our Line Chefs work closely with Executive Chef/Sous Chef to help guarantee our guests a dining experience which exceeds their expectations.

SUMMARY OF ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

  • Ensure that all mise en place is prepared for respective stations as well as proper forecasting of prep needs for assigned station.

  • Prepare food products and execute dishes meeting the standards of the Executive Chef, Hotel Management and our guests, ensuring that food production is coordinated with meal hours so that quality, temperature, and appearance of food are preserved.

  • Ability to safely operate kitchen equipment including, but not limited to, ovens, stoves, dishwashers, slicers, steamers, mixers and chef knives.

  • Handle and communicate special orders and guest complaints in a professional manner. Have a basic understanding of food allergies and cross contamination issues to ensure safety of diners.

  • Maintain food safety, work station and personal cleanliness and sanitation standards as required by the Maine Department of Health and Human Services, OSHA, and MEMIC, as well as general maintenance and upkeep of kitchen equipment.

  • Know who to notify in case of broken equipment or unsafe/unsanitary conditions.

  • Must be able to manually handle/lift product up to 60 pounds between knee and chest

  • Must have bilateral fine manipulation of both hands which may be repetitive for entire shift

  • Must be vertically mobile working in limited space for entire shift

  • Protect the assets of this property and the Migis Hotel Group.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

  • Must be eligible to work in the United States of America.

  • Previous experience as a line cook in a similar property, culinary school or completion of apprenticeship program preferred, or proven experience in higher volume and/or fine dining kitchens.

  • Ability to communicate in English, both orally and written, with guests and employees, some of whom will require high levels of patience, tact and diplomacy.

  • Ability to understand verbal directions, as well as written menus, recipes, labels on foods and chemicals, and other workplace safety signage.

  • Ability to work under pressure and deal with stressful situations during busy periods.


Employment Type: OTHER