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Apprentice Cook Jobs in Rochdale, MA (NOW HIRING)

U.S. Navy

Cook

Marlborough, MA

$16.50 - $20.75/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 ...

U.S. Navy

Cook

Worcester, MA

$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 ...

U.S. Navy

Cook

Woonsocket, RI

$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 ...

U.S. Navy

Cook

Leominster, MA

$16.50 - $20.75/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 ...

All JobsApprentice Cook JobsApprentice Cook Jobs in Rochdale, MA

Apprentice Cook information

See Rochdale, MA salary details

$9

$16

$22

How much do apprentice cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice cook in Rochdale, MA is $16.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.94 and $19.71 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 cities near Rochdale, MA are hiring for Apprentice Cook jobs? Cities near Rochdale, MA with the most Apprentice Cook job openings:
Apprentice Cook jobs near you
Infographic showing various Apprentice Cook job openings in Rochdale, MA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 68% Full Time, and 32% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $34,039 per year, or $16.4 per hour.
Apprentice - Dining Services

Apprentice - Dining Services

Healthcare Services Group, Inc.

Rochdale, MA

$23 - $25/hr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

Healthcare Services Group rating

4.9

Company rating: 4.9 out of 10

Based on 458 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

191st of 210 rated facilities management

Job description

Overview

Role: Dining Apprentice

Join our team as a Dining Services Apprentice at Healthcare Services Group (HCSG)! Our Leadership Empowerment Apprentice Program (LEAP) offers you the opportunity to learn and grow at a well-established company with almost 50 years of experience. As our newest associate, you’ll participate in a custom interactive program designed to guide you through on-the-job learning and related technical instruction.


Responsibilities

12-Month Program Overview:

  • General Training & Comprehension: Learn and perform the job assignments of dietary aides, cooks, and dishwashers. You will operate and teach others how to use a variety of industrial kitchen equipment while being able to perform the essential job functions to assist as needed.
  • Leadership Development: Lead small groups of line staff in food preparation, serving, and clean-up activities on varying shifts as needed, enhancing your leadership skills.
  • Policies & Procedures: Learn to provide leadership, support, and guidance to ensure food quality standards, inventory levels, food safety guidelines, and customer service expectations are met. This includes following facility menus and applicable federal, state, and local standards per our established policies and procedures.
  • Reporting: Train in maintaining records of income and expenditures, food, supplies, personnel, and equipment in a report format to be delivered to HCSG and facility management.
  • Training: Be responsible for all training, quality control, and in-servicing staff to meet HCSG standards. This includes touring the kitchen several times daily to assess work quality and document findings.
  • Leadership: Learn to manage responsibilities such as payroll submission, staffing patterns, effective coaching and discipline, purchasing, maintaining inventory, and budgeting.
  • Communication: Effectively communicate all directives from client managers, building occupants, and administrators to HCSG staff.
  • Safety: Utilize protective gear for all appropriate functions and safely use cleaning solutions while adhering to safety precautions. Report equipment or cleaning product needs or malfunctions to your supervisor in a timely manner.
  • Punctuality: Maintain consistent attendance and punctuality, ensuring timely completion of assigned tasks according to the schedule.
  • Customer Experience: Positively represent HCSG by following instructions and being courteous and cooperative with supervisors, co-workers, and client staff.
  • Resident Experience: Foster positive, pleasant, and tactful interactions with residents, staff, and facility guests

Qualifications

  • High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
  • Demonstrate a positive attitude and the ability to follow oral and written instructions, performing routine, repetitive tasks daily.
  • Specialized training in foodservice management and nutrition is desirable.
  • Certified Dietary Manager or Certified Food Service Manager designation is required in accordance with CMS and/or state/county law.
  • Basic computer skills with the ability to maintain records and complete reports, including web-based reporting.
  • May be required to complete an approved sanitation and safety course.
  • Current ServSafe and/or Food Handler certification is required based on state/county law.
  • Must be punctual and able to report to work as scheduled.
  • Compliance with COVID-19 vaccination policies as required by state, local, and/or customers.
  • Must be able to lift/carry a maximum of 50 pounds, push/pull a maximum of 50 pounds, and stand, sit, bend, and walk for extended periods.
  • Must be able to perform routine, repetitive tasks continuously and work around food and cleaning products.
  • Must reside in the service area.

Ready to Join Us?

If you’re ready to kickstart your career in environmental services management and be part of a supportive and dedicated team, apply now and begin making a difference at HCSG!

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