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Army Cook Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Cook

Oakland, CA · On-site

$16 - $21.50/hr

Cook (DN9K4301) DEPARTMENT: (402 Emergency Shelter 2) Oakland Garden Street LOCATION: Oakland, CA ... The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian ...

Cook

Oakland, CA · On-site

$16.50 - $22/hr

Cook (DN9K4301) DEPARTMENT: (402 Emergency Shelter 2) Oakland Garden Street LOCATION: Oakland, CA ... The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian ...

Cook

Oakland, CA

$16.50 - $22/hr

Cook (DN9K4301) DEPARTMENT: (402 Emergency Shelter 2) Oakland Garden Street LOCATION: Oakland, CA ... The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian ...

Prep Cook

Scotts Valley, CA · On-site

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

The prep cook assists the Food Services Manager with the daily operations of the kitchen and dining ... The Salvation Army will attempt to satisfy requests if the accommodation needed is reasonable and ...

The prep cook assists the Food Services Manager with the daily operations of the kitchen and dining ... The Salvation Army will attempt to satisfy requests if the accommodation needed is reasonable and ...

Cook

Lodi, CA · On-site

$15 - $20/hr

The Salvation Army Mission Statement: The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an ... Covering days off for the Chef and other cooks as well as any vacation or sick days off they may ...

Cook

Lodi, CA

$15 - $20/hr

The Salvation Army Mission Statement: The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an ... Covering days off for the Chef and other cooks as well as any vacation or sick days off they may ...

Cook-On Call

Lodi, CA · On-site

$15 - $20/hr

The Salvation Army Mission Statement: The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an ... Covering days off for the Chef and other cooks as well as any vacation or sick days off they may ...

Cook - SC/ Alegria-11-205

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$15 - $20.25/hr

Mission Statement The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the ... The Cook will also maintain the cleanliness and sanitation of all food preparation areas.

Cook

Lodi, CA

$15 - $20/hr

The Salvation Army Mission Statement: The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an ... Covering days off for the Chef and other cooks as well as any vacation or sick days off they may ...

Cook

Oakland, CA · On-site

$16 - $21.50/hr

The Salvation Army Mission Statement: The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an ... Understand proper serving sizes and healthy cooking procedures for * Practice safe food handling ...

The Salvation Army Mission Statement: The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an ... BASIC PURPOSE The purpose of the Camp Cook is to prepare high quality meals for all campers and ...

New

The Salvation Army Mission Statement: The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an ... Covering days off for the Chef and other cooks as well as any vacation or sick days off they may ...

$23.65/hr

This Full-Time position is with Child & Youth Services at Sierra Army Depot, CA . Morale Welfare ... Develop and revise standardized recipes, coordinate cooking in large quantities using complex ...

Cook

Oakland, CA · On-site

$21/hr

The Salvation Army Mission Statement: The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an ... Understand proper serving sizes and healthy cooking procedures for * Practice safe food handling ...

The Salvation Army Mission Statement: The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an ... BASIC PURPOSE The purpose of the Camp Cook is to prepare high quality meals for all campers and ...

New

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Army Cook information

See California salary details

$8

$15

$21

How much do army cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for army cook in California is $15.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.27 and $17.79 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do Army cooks make?

Army cooks, also known as food service specialists, typically earn a base salary that ranges from approximately $25,000 to $35,000 per year for entry-level positions. With experience, rank advancements, and additional responsibilities, their pay can increase, and they may also receive benefits such as housing allowances and healthcare.

What are some common challenges faced by army cooks in field environments, and how can they prepare for them?

Army Cooks often encounter unique challenges when preparing meals in field environments, such as limited equipment, unpredictable weather, and the need to serve large groups quickly. To succeed, it's important to be adaptable, well-organized, and able to follow strict food safety standards under pressure. Familiarity with field kitchen equipment and efficient teamwork are crucial, as cooks often collaborate closely with supply and logistics personnel to ensure timely meal delivery. Regular training and practice in simulated field conditions help Army Cooks build the necessary skills and confidence to overcome these challenges.

Can you be an Army Cook?

Yes, you can become an Army Cook by meeting the military's enlistment requirements, which include age, education, and physical fitness standards. Training is provided at basic training and through specialized culinary courses, and cooks are responsible for preparing meals in various military settings. Prior cooking experience or culinary skills can be beneficial but are not always mandatory.

What is the difference between Army Cook vs Army Food Service Specialist?

AspectArmy CookArmy Food Service Specialist
CertificationsBasic food safety and sanitation trainingSame as Army Cook, plus additional food service management
Work EnvironmentKitchen, dining facilities, field kitchensKitchen, dining facilities, logistics settings
Job DutiesPreparing meals, cooking, food presentationPreparing meals, managing food service operations, inventory

The Army Cook and Army Food Service Specialist roles share many similarities, including certifications and work environments. However, the Food Service Specialist often has additional responsibilities related to managing food operations and logistics, making it a broader role within military food services.

What does an army cook do?

An Army Cook is responsible for preparing, cooking, and serving meals to soldiers and other military personnel. They work in a variety of settings, from dining facilities on base to field kitchens during training exercises or deployments. Their duties include menu planning, food safety, inventory management, and maintaining kitchen equipment. Army Cooks play a vital role in ensuring troops are well-nourished and ready for their missions. They also adhere to strict food safety and sanitation standards to keep everyone healthy.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an army cook, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Army Cook, you need basic culinary skills, knowledge of food safety regulations, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often supplemented by military food service training. Familiarity with large-scale kitchen equipment, inventory management systems, and military food preparation protocols is important. Attention to detail, teamwork, and the ability to work efficiently under pressure are critical soft skills for this role. These skills ensure the timely delivery of safe, nutritious meals that support the health and morale of military personnel in diverse and demanding environments.
What are popular job titles related to Army Cook jobs in California? For Army Cook jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Army Cook jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Army Cook jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Army Cook jobs? Cities in California with the most Army Cook job openings:
Infographic showing various Army Cook job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, 32% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $32,903 per year, or $15.8 per hour.

$16 - $21.50/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 14 days ago


Salvation Army rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 360 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

571st of 771 rated non-profit organizations


Job description

POSITION: Cook (DN9K4301)
DEPARTMENT: (402 Emergency Shelter 2) Oakland Garden Street
LOCATION: Oakland, CA
SUPERVISOR: Food Services Manager
STATUS: Non-Exempt / Full-time
The Salvation Army Mission Statement:
The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian Church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love for God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.
BASIC PURPOSE
To provide for the nutritional needs of Family Center residents and the children of the Booth Memorial Child Development Center.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Responsible for preparation of all foods for daily consumption and special events.
  • Supervise all volunteers and community service workers.
  • Monitor cleanliness of dining table provisions and/or appropriate coverings.
  • Maintain cleanliness of stainless-steel fixtures/walls in kitchen, coffee area, and outreach area when used.
  • Proper utilization of all cleaning of all ovens, oven hoods, and filters.
  • Receive deliveries as relates to the activities of the kitchen and dining facility.
  • Report all emergencies, accidents, or equipment breakdown immediately to the Kitchen Supervisor or Executive Director.
  • Monitor the cleanliness and organization of the pantry and other warehouse facilities used for the storage of food and other kitchen items, thus keeping the kitchen compliant with the Health and Safety Codes.
  • Manage shopping/purchases list in conjunction with kitchen supervisor.
  • Prepare childcare and family center meals as outlined in weekly menus.
  • Transport meals to Center from Shelter.
  • Provide alternative foods for those with allergies and medical exemption.
  • Keep daily records of food preparation, transportation and servings to meet funding source requirements.
  • Attend trainings, workshops and/or meetings regarding child and adult food program for CCACFP.
  • Replace and Update all Daily Operational Worksheets Monthly.
  • Assist with Training and Employee Development.
  • Maintain Inventory of all Booth Equipment and Small wares. Silverware, Cups, ect.
  • Perform all duties as assigned.
  • Be mindful at all times of his/her role as a representative.
  • Attend all staff meetings.
  • Follow all Food Safety and Sanitation Procedure.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND OTHER QUALIFICATIONS REQUIREMENTS
  • Customer Service, crisis intervention and mediation skills are essential to this position.
  • Must be skilled to apply procedures and operate varied equipment for purposes of performing standard operations.
  • Must have the ability to interact with others professionally and possess initiative, adaptability and responsibility to work with volunteers, other staff, and client families.
  • Education or experience working with the homeless population.
  • Working knowledge of a commercial kitchen.
  • Understand proper serving sizes and healthy cooking procedures for food.
  • Practice safe food handling procedures at all times.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS
  • Must possess a valid California Class C Driver License, and ability to drive a Salvation Army vehicle
  • Must be 21 years or older.
  • Authorize The Salvation Army to add name to the CA DMV Pull Notice Program
  • Complete The Salvation Army vehicle course training.
  • Have a Food Handler permit under California Safety Code 97-0071 or be willing to attain it within 6 months of employment.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
  • Ability to sit, walk, stand, bend, squat, climb, kneel, and twist on an intermittent or sometimes continuous basis
  • Ability to grasp, push, and/or pull objects
  • Ability to reach overhead
  • Ability to operate telephone
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
  • Ability to operate a computer
  • Ability to process written, visual, and/or verbal information
  • Ability to operate basic office equipment and tools PC, Fax Machine, Telephone, Calculator, Copier, Printer.

Qualified individuals must be able to perform the essential duties of the position with or without accommodation. A qualified person with a disability may request a modification or adjustment to the job or work environment in order to meet the physical requirements of the position. The Salvation Army will attempt to satisfy requests as long as the accommodation needed would not result in undue hardship.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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About Salvation Army

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian Church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.

Industry

Non-profits, retail, amusement, gambling, and recreation and religious organizations

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Alexandria, VA, US