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Apprentice Cook Jobs in Portland, ME (NOW HIRING)

Black Point Inn

AM Breakfast Cook

Scarborough, ME

$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.

Black Point Inn

Line Cook

Scarborough, ME

$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.

Black Point Inn

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.

Black Point Inn

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.

All JobsApprentice Cook JobsApprentice Cook Jobs in Portland, ME

Apprentice Cook information

See Portland, ME salary details

$10

$16

$22

How much do apprentice cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 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.

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 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.

Can you get an apprenticeship in cooking?

Yes, aspiring cooks can pursue apprenticeships in cooking, which provide hands-on training in kitchens under the supervision of experienced chefs. These programs often combine practical work with classroom instruction and may lead to certification or increased job opportunities in the culinary industry.

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:

Apprentice Cook jobs near you
Infographic showing various Apprentice Cook job openings in Portland, ME as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, and 34% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $34,824 per year, or $16.7 per hour.

AM Breakfast Cook

Black Point Inn

Scarborough, ME

$22.25 - $28/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Black Point Inn is currently accepting applications for AM hot line Breakfast cooks, this position both encourages and fosters creativity and is a great chance to hone skills and grow as a chef in a beautiful boutique hotel on the ocean! Our ideal candidate possesses an open mind and willing to be part of the team with breakfast cooking experience, eggs cookery, frying, and searing. This roll can also be responsible for plating salads, desserts or composed hot dishes during lunch service. 

Location: Black Point Inn, Scarborough, ME
Hours: Full-time and part-time available, typical shifts are 7am to 3pm or 6am-2pm
Compensation: $22.25 to $28 per hour, depending on experience 
Seasonal Position:  July through October
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

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