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Apprentice Cook Jobs in Tacoma, WA (NOW HIRING)

Provincial Senior Living

Prep Cook/Cook

Normandy Park, WA · On-site

$22 - $24/hr

On-call/Interim Cook Provincial Senior Living proudly manages lifestyle-driven Independent Living ... Culinary apprenticeship or training preferred. * Food Services Sanitation Certificate. If having a ...

Solstice at Normandy Park

Prep Cook/Cook

Normandy Park, WA

$16.25 - $20.50/hr

On-call/Interim Cook Provincial Senior Living proudly manages lifestyle-driven Independent Living ... Culinary apprenticeship or training preferred. * Food Services Sanitation Certificate. If having a ...

Seattle Children's Hospital

Cook II

Seattle, WA · On-site

$23.15 - $34.73/hr

The Cook II is responsible for preparing food products utilizing basic and advanced cooking ... Preferred Culinary Degree or Formalized Apprenticeship. Experience with food production in a ...

LSG Sky Chefs

Sous Chef - Commercial Production

Seattle, WA · On-site

$78K - $82K/yr

... cooking or Apprenticeship or Certification from culinary school required • Knowledge of food and hygiene regulations (HACCP) • Understand and demonstrate concepts of financial controls (ex: keep ...

SkyChefs

Sous Chef - Commercial Production

Seattle, WA · On-site

$78K - $82K/yr

... cooking or Apprenticeship or Certification from culinary school required • Knowledge of food and hygiene regulations (HACCP) • Understand and demonstrate concepts of financial controls (ex: keep ...

SkyChefs

Head Chef

Seattle, WA · On-site

$90K - $105K/yr

Five years of experience in commercial cooking. * Apprenticeship or Graduation from an accredited culinary school * Additional certifications (e.g. diet chef, industrial chef, design chef,) or ...

JCSI

Head Chef

Seattle, WA

$90K - $105K/yr

Minimum 5 years of commercial cooking experience in a high-volume kitchen such as airline catering ... Culinary degree or completion of an accredited culinary apprenticeship. * Strong knowledge of HACCP ...

LSG Sky Chefs

Head Chef

Seattle, WA · On-site

$90K - $105K/yr

Five years of experience in commercial cooking. * Apprenticeship or Graduation from an accredited culinary school * Additional certifications (e.g. diet chef, industrial chef, design chef,) or ...

Whole Foods Market

Butcher

University Place, WA · 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 ...

Chipotle Mexican Grill

Assistant Manager

Seattle, WA · On-site

$25.65 - $28.24/hr

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 ...

All JobsApprentice Cook JobsApprentice Cook Jobs in Tacoma, WA

Apprentice Cook information

See Tacoma, WA salary details

$10

$17

$23

How much do apprentice cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice cook in Tacoma, WA is $17.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.95 and $21.15 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 Tacoma, WA?

The most popular types of Cook jobs in Tacoma, WA are:

What are popular job titles related to Apprentice Cook jobs in Tacoma, WA?

For Apprentice Cook jobs in Tacoma, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Apprentice Cook jobs in Tacoma, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Apprentice Cook jobs in Tacoma, WA are:

What cities near Tacoma, WA are hiring for Apprentice Cook jobs?

Cities near Tacoma, WA with the most Apprentice Cook job openings:

Apprentice Cook jobs near you
Infographic showing various Apprentice Cook job openings in Tacoma, WA as of August 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 $36,553 per year, or $17.6 per hour.

STEP-Culinary Apprentice (Must be a Nisqually Tribal Member)

Nisqually Red Wind Casino

Olympia, WA

$18.18/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

Description

POSITION OBJECTIVE: Provide career positions to Nisqually Tribal Members in support of the Nisqually Indian Tribe. Provide guidance, growth opportunities, and skills to enable the advancement of the Nisqually Tribal Members in developing careers and lifelong work skills.


Our Mission: To enhance the continued economic viability and quality of life for the Nisqually Indian Tribe, our Team Members, and the neighboring communities.

Our Vision: Creating incredible experiences.

Our Core Values: Integrity, Communication, Accountability, Respect, Teamwork

JOB SUMMARY: This position provides an opportunity for Nisqually Tribal Members to gain the skills necessary for the position of Lead Line Cook. Apprenticeship in the supervision of the Culinary Department. A hands-on learning experience as a Dish Washer, TDR Attendant, Prep Cook, Line Cook I, Line Cook II, and Lead Line Cook.

Requirements

Required Skills and Knowledge:

  • Nisqually Tribal Member.
  • Ability to obtain Food Handlers Permit.
  • Willingness to study toward and earn a GED or high school diploma.
  • Ability to learn all aspects of the Culinary Department.
  • Ability to follow detailed procedures, accept guidance, and correct actions.
  • Ability to learn and use basic computer skills.
  • Ability to work within time constraints and stay on task.
  • Ability to learn communication skills, both verbal and written.
  • Ability to work independently and use sound judgment.
  • Positive customer service and teamwork skills.
  • Ability to work all shifts, including weekends and holidays.
  • Ability to obtain a Class II Gaming License.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Ability to bend, reach, push, pull, squat, and lift to 50 pounds regularly and continuously.
  • Ability to stand and/or walk around continuously during the assigned shift.
  • Ability to be able to reach with hands and arms.
  • Manual and finger dexterity for operating a personal computer and routine paperwork.
  • Ability to tolerate a noisy, smoke-filled environment.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS OF THE JOB:

  • Knowledge of departmental Guest Service Standards.
  • Knowledge of casino promotions.
  • Assist the back-of-house staff by performing the essential functions of the dishwasher, prep cook, Buffet Runner, Line Cook I, Line Cook II, and Lead Line Cook positions.
  • Learn the operation of the Food Department, including the back-of-the-house food preparation according to established standards.
  • Comply with all portion sizes, quality standards, department rules, policies, and procedures, and maintain sanitary standards.
  • Give superior guest service, both internal and external, at all times.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Rev. 6.26.2023

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