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Apprentice Cook Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Sous Chef

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$51K - $69K/yr

Familiarizes newly hired chefs and cooks with practices of kitchen and oversees training of cook apprentices * Establishes and enforces nutrition and sanitation standards for restaurant * Achieves ...

Sous Chef

Oxon Hill, MD · On-site

$50K - $68K/yr

Familiarizes newly hired chefs and cooks with practices of kitchen and oversees training of cook apprentices * Establishes and enforces nutrition and sanitation standards for restaurant * Achieves ...

Executive Chef

Washington, DC · On-site

$80K - $111K/yr

Familiarizes newly hired chefs and cooks with practices of kitchen and oversees training of cook apprentices * Establishes and enforces nutrition and sanitation standards for restaurant * Achieves ...

Sous Chef

Washington, DC · On-site

$56K - $76K/yr

Familiarizes newly hired chefs and cooks with practices of kitchen and oversees training of cook apprentices * Establishes and enforces nutrition and sanitation standards for restaurant * Achieves ...

Sous Chef

Washington, DC · On-site

$56K - $76K/yr

Familiarizes newly hired chefs and cooks with practices of kitchen and oversees training of cook apprentices * Establishes and enforces nutrition and sanitation standards for restaurant * Achieves ...

Executive Chef

Washington, DC

$81K - $111K/yr

Familiarizes newly hired chefs and cooks with practices of kitchen and oversees training of cook apprentices * Establishes and enforces nutrition and sanitation standards for restaurant * Achieves ...

Sous Chef

Washington, DC · On-site

$56K - $76K/yr

Familiarizes newly hired chefs and cooks with practices of kitchen and oversees training of cook apprentices * Establishes and enforces nutrition and sanitation standards for restaurant * Achieves ...

Executive Chef

Oxon Hill, MD · On-site

$72K - $100K/yr

Familiarizes newly hired chefs and cooks with practices of kitchen and oversees training of cook apprentices * Establishes and enforces nutrition and sanitation standards for restaurant * Achieves ...

Executive Chef

Washington, DC · On-site

$80K - $111K/yr

Familiarizes newly hired chefs and cooks with practices of kitchen and oversees training of cook apprentices * Establishes and enforces nutrition and sanitation standards for restaurant * Achieves ...

Sous Chef

Oxon Hill, MD · On-site

$50K - $68K/yr

Familiarizes newly hired chefs and cooks with practices of kitchen and oversees training of cook apprentices * Establishes and enforces nutrition and sanitation standards for restaurant * Achieves ...

Executive Chef

Oxon Hill, MD · On-site

$72K - $100K/yr

Familiarizes newly hired chefs and cooks with practices of kitchen and oversees training of cook apprentices * Establishes and enforces nutrition and sanitation standards for restaurant * Achieves ...

Sous Chef

Washington, DC · On-site

$56K - $76K/yr

Familiarizes newly hired chefs and cooks with practices of kitchen and oversees training of cook apprentices * Establishes and enforces nutrition and sanitation standards for restaurant * Achieves ...

Sous Chef

Ashburn, VA

$51K - $69K/yr

Familiarizes newly hired chefs and cooks with practices of kitchen and oversees training of cook apprentices * Establishes and enforces nutrition and sanitation standards for restaurant * Achieves ...

Sous Chef

Washington, DC

$56K - $76K/yr

Familiarizes newly hired chefs and cooks with practices of kitchen and oversees training of cook apprentices * Establishes and enforces nutrition and sanitation standards for restaurant * Achieves ...

Sous Chef

Oxon Hill, MD

$50K - $68K/yr

Familiarizes newly hired chefs and cooks with practices of kitchen and oversees training of cook apprentices * Establishes and enforces nutrition and sanitation standards for restaurant * Achieves ...

Executive Chef

Washington, DC · On-site

$80K - $111K/yr

Familiarizes newly hired chefs and cooks with practices of kitchen and oversees training of cook apprentices * Establishes and enforces nutrition and sanitation standards for restaurant * Achieves ...

Executive Chef

Washington, DC

$80K - $111K/yr

Familiarizes newly hired chefs and cooks with practices of kitchen and oversees training of cook apprentices * Establishes and enforces nutrition and sanitation standards for restaurant * Achieves ...

Showing results 21-40

Apprentice Cook information

See Washington, DC salary details

$11

$18

$25

How much do apprentice cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice cook in Washington, DC is $18.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.77 and $22.31 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 Washington, DC?

The most popular types of Cook jobs in Washington, DC are:

What are popular job titles related to Apprentice Cook jobs in Washington, DC?

For Apprentice Cook jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Apprentice Cook jobs in Washington, DC look for?

The top searched job categories for Apprentice Cook jobs in Washington, DC are:

Infographic showing various Apprentice Cook job openings in Washington, DC as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 29% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,550 per year, or $18.5 per hour.

$29.63/hr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

Steeped in rich history and surrounded by the most iconic institutions of our nation, The Hay-Adams is the downtown Washington, D.C. hotel for discerning guests. Enveloped by views of the White House, St. John's Church, and the scenic Lafayette Park, the 5-star accommodations at The Hay-Adams are the embodiment of refined residence. Marked by Washington, D.C.'s most accommodating amenities and dedicated services, The Hay-Adams is the boutique hotel of choice for the modern luxury traveler. The Hay-Adams offers an exceptional guest experience that goes beyond a good night's sleep.
Job Description

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

1.       Maintain complete knowledge of correct maintenance and use of equipment; use equipment and tools only as intended, properly and safely.

2.       Maintain and strictly abide by state sanitation/health regulations and hotel requirements. 

3.       Meet with the Pastry or Executive Chef to review assignments, anticipated business levels, changes and other information pertinent to the job performance.

4.       Complete Opening Duties:

a.       Inspect the cleanliness and working conditions of all tools, equipment and supplies.

b.      Check production schedule and par.

c.       Establish priority items for the day.

d.       Inform the Pastry or Executive Chef of any supplies that need to be requisitioned.

5.       Prepare all menu items following recipes and yield guides, according to departmental standards.

6.       Inform the Pastry or Executive Chef of any foreseeable shortages before items run out.

7.       Inform the Food & Beverage service staff of 86'd items and the amount of available menu specials throughout the meal period.

8.       Maintain proper storage procedures as specified by Health Department and hotel requirements.

9.       Minimize waste and maintain controls to attain forecasted food cost.

Qualifications:

To perform this job successfully an individual must be able to perform each essential duty to a satisfactory standard. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge skill and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education:

High School diploma or equivalent vocational training certificate; certification of culinary training or apprenticeship preferred.

License/Certification:
Food handling certificate

Experience:
Should have a minimum of 1-2 years of experience as Pastry Cook in hotels with similar style and standards.

Basic Expectations:
Demonstrates adequate pastry skills and operations. Be able to plan and prepare for restaurant, catering and special events. Be able to read and understand catering BEOs. Shows interest in participating in menu planning for dessert items, for all hotel food outlets. 

Supervisory Responsibilities:
This position has no supervisory responsibilities.

Language Skills:
Must have good working knowledge of the English language ability to read and comprehend instructions, short correspondence, and memos. Ability to communicate in English with guests, co-workers and management to their understanding. Ability to communicate in a second language is a plus.

Mathematical Skills:
Must be able to add, subtract, multiply and divide in all units of measurement, using numbers, common fractions and decimals.

Reasoning Ability:
Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out detailed but uninvolved written or oral instructions. Ability to deal with problems involving a few concrete variables in standardized situations. Ability to perform job functions with minimal supervision. Ability to work cohesively with co-workers as part of a team. Basic computer skills.

Physical Ability:
While performing the duties of this job the employee is regularly required to talk and hear. The employee is frequently required to stand, walk and sit. The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to20-30 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.

Standards of Conduct:

The high ethical standards of The Hay-Adams must be upheld by all members of the company.  The policies relative to press relations, equal opportunity, discrimination, sexual harassment, vendor relations, etc., stated in the employee handbook and manuals are inviolable.  We pride ourselves on providing a professional caring atmosphere for clients and all fellow employees and will achieve this goal through responsible actions.

$29.63 - $29.63 an hour

The actual base pay offered is determined by several variables, including, as appropriate, the applicant's qualifications for the position, years of relevant experience, distinctive skills, level of education attained, certifications or other professional licenses held.  Base pay is one component of B. F. Saul Company & Affiliates total compensation package, which also includes access to or eligibility for healthcare benefits, a 401(k) plan, short-term and long-term disability coverage, basic life insurance, bonus plans and more 

The Hay-Adams is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace dedicated to pursuing and hiring diverse professionals.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled

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