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Apprentice Cook Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Oregon Health & Science University

Cook 2 -relief

Portland, OR · On-site

$14.75 - $20/hr

Responsible for directing other cooks and food service workers in proper preparation and methods of ... High School Diploma or Equivalent, Apprenticeship, ACF Certification as CC; or vocational studies.

Whole Foods Market

Butcher - Full Time

Hillsboro, OR · On-site

Extensive knowledge of different cuts and cooking techniques of meat and seafood. * Ability to ... Successfully completed WFM Butcher Apprentice Program, or an equivalent training program.* * UK ...

New

Whole Foods Market

Butcher

Hillsboro, OR

$18 - $24/hr

Extensive knowledge of different cuts and cooking techniques of meat and seafood. * Ability to ... Successfully completed WFM Butcher Apprentice Program, or an equivalent training program.* * UK ...

New

Whole Foods Market

Butcher - Full Time

Hillsboro, OR · On-site

$18.50 - $30.20/hr

Extensive knowledge of different cuts and cooking techniques of meat and seafood. * Ability to ... Successfully completed WFM Butcher Apprentice Program, or an equivalent training program.* * UK ...

New

Chipotle Mexican Grill

Assistant Manager

Portland, OR · On-site

Our Apprentices have a strong desire to grow into General Managers by assisting in the day-to-day ... CMG) is cultivating a better world by serving responsibly sourced, classically cooked, real food ...

Chipotle

General Manager

Wood Village, OR

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 ...

Chipotle

Assistant Manager

Portland, OR

Our Apprentices have a strong desire to grow into General Managers by assisting in the day-to-day ... CMG) is cultivating a better world by serving responsibly sourced, classically cooked, real food ...

Chipotle Mexican Grill

General Manager

Wood Village, OR · On-site

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 ...

All JobsApprentice Cook JobsApprentice Cook Jobs in Portland, OR

Apprentice Cook information

See Portland, OR salary details

$10

$17

$23

How much do apprentice cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice cook in Portland, OR is $17.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.81 and $20.91 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 value diverse backgrounds and life experiences, and age typically does not disqualify someone from starting an apprenticeship in the culinary field.

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.

Is 40 too old to start an apprenticeship?

There is no age limit for starting an apprentice cook position, and many programs welcome mature applicants. Age can bring valuable experience and work ethic, which are beneficial in culinary apprenticeships. Employers often value diverse backgrounds and life experience regardless of age.

Can you do an apprenticeship in cooking?

Yes, an apprenticeship in cooking allows aspiring cooks to gain practical experience while working under the supervision of experienced chefs. These programs typically combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction and often lead to certification or qualification in culinary skills.

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 cooking techniques can be helpful but are not always required before starting formal training.

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, OR? The most popular types of Cook jobs in Portland, OR are:
What are popular job titles related to Apprentice Cook jobs in Portland, OR? For Apprentice Cook jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Apprentice Cook jobs in Portland, OR look for? The top searched job categories for Apprentice Cook jobs in Portland, OR are:
What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Apprentice Cook jobs? Cities near Portland, OR with the most Apprentice Cook job openings:
Apprentice Cook jobs near you
Infographic showing various Apprentice Cook job openings in Portland, OR as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $36,096 per year, or $17.4 per hour.
Cook 2 -relief

Cook 2 -relief

Oregon Health & Science University

Portland, OR • On-site

$24.58 - $31.98/hr

Other

Posted 5 days ago

Oregon Health & Science University rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 92 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

151st of 539 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Department Overview
This position coordinates and produces high quality meals, coordinates menus assembly and incorporates HACCP procedures and safe food handling practices and taking corrective action where applicable with other cooks or, at times, tray line. Responsible for directing other cooks and food service workers in proper preparation and methods of service and presentation. Responsible for the coordination of patients, guests, and staff related menu items. This position needs to be capable of covering all positions. This role is expected to be mission orientated and be flexible to adjust to business demands and requirements. The position needs to be a facilitator and coordinator in conjunction with the sous chef and executive chef.
Function/Duties of Position
Preparation/Cooking:
  • Prepare food items for patients and visitors at OHSU South hospital and CHH2 according to standardized recipes and menus or by verbal instruction given by higher-level cooks or supervisors. Perform functions according to following procedures as listed: (1) mise-en-place (put in place) all ingredients and supplies; (2) perform all required preparation; (3) cook ingredients using prescribed best method; (4) hold and serve at proper safe temperature; (5) chill as appropriate using correct food safety procedures; (6) reheat as necessary to the appropriate safe temperature; (7) properly label and date products to be stored in the various stages of production.

Food Safety & Sanitation:
  • Ensure all foods, including potentially hazardous foods, are handled in a safe and proper manner according to Food and Nutrition Standard Operating Procedures, Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP), OHSU Infection Control, and Multnomah County Health Department. Identify critical control points (CCPs) in food preparation and storage and monitor the factors that might create a food safety hazard, using corrective action when a deviation occurs.
  • CCPs include but are not limited to: hand washing, cooking, cooling, holding, thawing, temperature monitoring, cross-contamination. Effectively prepare sanitizing agents (e.g. bleach water, quat sanitizer) and clean and sanitize food preparation appliances, work areas, utensils, and equipment using dish machine or three-compartment sink method. Maintain cleanliness of assigned work area.
  • At minimum, the last 30 minutes of each shift will be dedicated to cleaning, sanitizing, and sweeping assigned work area.

Planning, Requisitioning and Preparation:
  • This position must be able to maintain adequate products and supplies for patient operations, especially being prepared for the next days and coming events. Request needed products, and supplies to be ordered; check supplies or food products delivered by suppliers, to insure they meet type, quantity, and quality specified, checked for proper temperature safety standards.
  • Must be able to make a production schedule and oversee its completion, coordinating with the patient services supervisor and the retail café supervisor to ensure complete order and adjust to last minute order when necessary. Keep records of amounts of foods prepared and left overs to adjust production schedules.

Other Duties as Assigned
Required Qualifications
  • An OR food handlers card or equivalent; AND
  • Food Protection Manager Certification with 6 months of hire; AND
  • Three years of cooking experience in an institution or commercial firm serving complete meals OR
  • An Associate's degree in Food Service Management, Foods and Hospitality Service, or a directly-related field.

Job Related Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (Competencies):
  • Basic knowledge of therapeutic diets.
  • Skill in checking trays to ensure diets have been accurately followed.
  • Ability to participate in menu planning, recipe development, and testing.

Preferred Qualifications
  • High School Diploma or Equivalent, Apprenticeship, ACF Certification as CC; or vocational studies.
  • Hotel or high volume restaurant catering experience.

Additional Details
Normal work schedule is as determined by supervisors but may change due to departmental requirements, employee will be subject to equipment noise and in a very active environment, will also be exposed to bleach and other sanitizing agents and cleaning chemicals. Employees are required to review MSDS sheets for specifics and to ensure proper handling. Employee will be exposed to smoke, steam, vapors, deep fryer exhaust, heat lamps, various production equipment, multiple interior surface materials and variable lighting conditions.
Why apply to OHSU?
We are Oregon's only public academic health center.
In addition to caring for patients, we lead groundbreaking research. We also train the next generation of health care professionals. As Portland's largest employer, we give you opportunities to learn and advance in a system of hospitals and clinics across Oregon and Southwest Washington.
All are welcome.
OHSU welcomes people of all ages, ethnicities, genders, national origins, religions and sexual orientations. We are striving to build an anti-racist, multicultural institution and encourage people with diverse backgrounds to apply.
To request reasonable accommodation, contact askhr@ohsu.edu

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About Oregon Health & Science University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) is a distinguished institution under the industry of higher education and healthcare, specifically in the field of medical science. Based in Portland, Oregon, US, it maintains a reputation for promoting research, teaching, patient care, and outreach. Established in 1887, OHSU has continually sought to redefine the parameters of healthcare delivery and biomedical discovery through its expansive catalog of programs and initiatives. A galvanizing mission drives OHSU: to improve the health and quality of life for all Oregonians through excellence, innovation, and leadership in health care, education, and research.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Portland, OR, US

Year founded

1887

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