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Apprentice Cook Jobs in Springfield, MA (NOW HIRING)

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 Springfield, MA salary details

$9

$16

$22

How much do apprentice cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice cook in Springfield, MA is $16.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.89 and $19.66 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 Springfield, MA? The most popular types of Cook jobs in Springfield, MA are:
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What job categories do people searching Apprentice Cook jobs in Springfield, MA look for? The top searched job categories for Apprentice Cook jobs in Springfield, MA are:
What cities near Springfield, MA are hiring for Apprentice Cook jobs? Cities near Springfield, MA with the most Apprentice Cook job openings:
Infographic showing various Apprentice Cook job openings in Springfield, MA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $33,918 per year, or $16.3 per hour.
General Manager

$53K - $74K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Chipotle rating

5.9

Company rating: 5.9 out of 10

Based on 1,988 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

9th of 19 rated casual dining restaurants


Job description

CULTIVATE A BETTER WORLD

Food served fast does not have to be a typical fast-food experience. Chipotle has always done things differently, both in and out of our restaurants. We are changing the face of fast food, starting conversations, and directly supporting efforts to shift the future of farming and food. We hope you will join us as we continue to learn, evolve, and shape what comes next on our mission to make better food accessible to everyone.

THE OPPORTUNITY

Chipotle is growing fast – we’re opening a restaurant almost every day, and we need leaders to grow with us! Our General Managers lead from the front and in this role, you’ll hire and develop great people, build a winning culture, and run a strong business. You’ll join a team that’s committed to Cultivating a Better World while sharpening your leadership and operations skills along the way. If building teams and growing a business excites you, keep reading to learn more!

WHAT’S IN IT FOR YOU

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance & retirement savings plan
  • Quarterly bonus program
  • Opportunities for people development bonuses
  • Tuition assistance (subject to eligibility requirements)
  • Career growth (need we say more?)
  • Paid time off
  • Holiday closures

WHAT YOU’LL DO

  • Be guest obsessed – uphold top-notch standards of excellence and hospitality
  • Ensure speed of service, accuracy, and positive guest obsessed experience
  • Be responsible for the full employee lifecycle, including recruitment and hiring, people processes and performance management
  • Train and develop crew members, shift leaders, and Apprentices, utilizing Chipotle’s training tools and resources
  • Direct our team members to deliver accurate and on-time digital orders
  • Be accountable for the day-to-day operational business of your restaurant (creating and managing a schedule, P&L control and management, sales-forecasting, recruiting and interviewing… you get the idea)
  • Ensure the dining room remains clean and the restaurant is always guest-ready
  • Uphold food safety, operational, and compliance standards
  • Be accountable for overall financial success of the restaurant, achieving annual sales & cash flow plan
  • Work a schedule that includes lunch, dinner, and weekend shifts to provide leadership across all hours of operation

WHAT YOU’LL BRING TO THE TABLE

  • A Guest Obsessed passion for hospitality
  • Friendly and enthusiastic attitude
  • Genuine enthusiasm for people development and leading others
  • Previous restaurant management experience required, including scheduling, P&L management, food safety, sales forecasting, and recruiting
  • A creative approach to marketing and driving sales (fundraisers, community engagement, etc.)

The physical work environment includes working in a fast-paced kitchen environment and interacting with customers. The role requires the ability to stand and walk around the restaurant for 10 hours a day, lift 50lbs./25kgs., and other physical activities necessary to complete the responsibilities of the job. It includes working around varied temperatures, tasting and preparing food, and strong communication with the Chipotle team and customers.

PAY TRANSPARENCY

A reasonable estimate of the current base pay range for this position is $53,000.00–$74,000.00. You are also eligible for quarterly cash bonuses based upon performance and other factors. Actual compensation offered may vary depending on skill level, experience, and/or education. Chipotle offers a competitive total rewards package, which includes medical, dental, and vision insurance, 401k, sick leave, vacation time, and much more. Visit https://jobs.chipotle.com/benefits for more details.

WHO WE ARE

Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. (NYSE: CMG) is cultivating a better world by serving responsibly sourced, classically cooked, real food with wholesome ingredients without artificial colors, flavors or preservatives. Chipotle has restaurants in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, France and Germany and is the only restaurant company of its size that owns and operates all its restaurants in North America and Europe. With employees passionate about providing a great guest experience, Chipotle is a longtime leader and innovator in the food industry. Chipotle is committed to making its food more accessible to everyone while continuing to be a brand with a demonstrated purpose as it leads the way in digital, technology and sustainable business practices. For more information or to place an order online, visit www.chipotle.com.

Chipotle Mexican Grill is an equal opportunity employer committed to fair employment practices at all levels of the organization without regard to race, ethnicity, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. As a values-driven, people-first company, we are committed to fostering a workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and have the opportunity to realize their full potential. All qualified applicants, regardless of personal characteristics, are encouraged to apply.    


Qualified applicants with disabilities may be entitled to reasonable accommodation under the terms of the Americans with Disabilities Act and/or certain state or local laws. Please contact ADAaccommodations@chipotle.com if you need an accommodation due to a disability to complete an application, job interview, and/or to otherwise participate in the hiring process. This email does not respond to non-accommodations related requests. 


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