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Army Cook Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Cook

Burlington, IA

$13.50 - $18/hr

The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian ... Preferred cooking experience. * Preferred driver license. Other Qualifications: Must pass all ...

New

Cook

Burlington, IA · On-site

$13.50 - $18/hr

The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian ... Preferred cooking experience. * Preferred driver license. Other Qualifications: Must pass all ...

Cook

Burlington, IA · On-site

$13.50 - $18/hr

The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian ... Preferred cooking experience. * Preferred driver license. Other Qualifications: Must pass all ...

New

Support The Salvation Army'smission Administrative Duties * Manage kitchen schedules andworkflows ... Minimumone yearinstitutional cooking experience * Management experiencerequired * Food safety ...

Support The Salvation Army'smission Administrative Duties * Manage kitchen schedules andworkflows ... Minimumone yearinstitutional cooking experience * Management experiencerequired * Food safety ...

Army Cook information

See Iowa salary details

$8

$15

$20

How much do army cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for army cook in Iowa is $15.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.64 and $16.92 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Do Army cooks get deployed?

Army cooks are part of the military and can be deployed overseas or to different locations as part of their service. Deployment depends on the needs of the Army and the specific assignment, and cooks may be stationed in various environments including combat zones, bases, or support roles. Deployment is a common aspect of military service for many roles, including culinary specialists.

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.

Can you be a cook in the Army?

Yes, the Army employs cooks as part of its culinary specialists, responsible for preparing meals for soldiers. Candidates typically need to meet age, physical, and background requirements, and may receive specialized training in military cooking techniques and food safety. This role often involves working in a structured environment with specific schedules and equipment like commercial kitchen tools.

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.

What are the qualifications for cook in Army?

To become an Army cook, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, pass a physical fitness test, and complete basic training. Additional qualifications include completing culinary training or experience, and obtaining security clearances if required for the specific role.

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 Iowa? For Army Cook jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Army Cook jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Army Cook jobs in Iowa are:
Infographic showing various Army Cook job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, and 7% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $31,315 per year, or $15.1 per hour.
Cook

$13.50 - $18/hr

Part-time

Posted 2 days ago


Salvation Army rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 356 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

558th of 759 rated non-profit organizations


Job description

***Part- Time Monday- Thursday 9:00 A.M.- 1:00 P.M. Friday 8:00-1:00 P.M., Pay Rate: $13.50***

The Salvation Army Mission: 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.

Summary/Primary Purpose: To prepare and serve wholesome, nutritious meals primarily using donated food items and stock from the kitchen pantry and freezers.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Prepare a weekly/monthly menu for lunch and senior breakfast and dinner events, based on inventory.
  • Responsible for inventories of kitchen pantry, refrigerators, and freezer items to include rotation of stock and placing food orders.
  • Coordinate daily food preparation and serving in a manner consistent with Health Department food preparation, sanitation, and safety standards.
  • Maintain a sanitary working environment in all areas including kitchen, dining room, storage rooms, walk in/reach in refrigerators and freezers.
  • Maintain proper food storage procedures according to Health Department guidelines for cold and dry storage, including proper storage of leftover foods.
  • Picking up, unloading, and sorting food donations.
  • Ensure volunteers and other employees maintain safe and sanitary conditions during prep, serving and storage of food.
  • Preparation of required statistical and financial reports. (gifts in kind)
  • Report needed maintenance/concerns and inventory to Corps Officers.
  • All other duties as assigned.

Supervisory Responsibilities: Sometimes manages or works with volunteers, community service workers, and AARP/Iowa Works workers.

Education and/or Experience: Experience in the related field of one to three months are greatly encouraged.

Qualifications: The requirements listed below are representative of the minimal knowledge, skill, and/or ability required for this position.

  • Ability to be flexible and able to work on multiple projects or tasks simultaneously.
  • Knowledge of basic tools, cleaning equipment and cleaning products.
  • Basic computer skills with ability to access payroll, timekeeping, and personal data via a web-based system.
  • Attention to detail and creative problem-solving skills.
  • Strong independent judgement.
  • Preferred cooking experience.
  • Preferred driver license.

Other Qualifications: Must pass all applicable background checks.

Certificates, Licenses, Registrations: Must successfully complete Safe from Harm training within 90 days of hire, as established by The Salvation Army and Serve Safe Certification, CPR, and AED. Must complete a Motor Vehicle Report if able to drive.

Physical Requirements: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Physical requirements include verbal communication, hearing and vision ability and excellent manual dexterity. Ability to stand, bend and reach for extended periods of time, dexterity of hands and fingers to operate cleaning equipment. This position is required the ability to lift and/or move more than 50 pounds occasionally.

Working Conditions: The work environment is a kitchen, with exposure to varying temperatures and noise levels. We are a community center with families and all sorts of people.

All employees recognize that The Salvation Army is a Christian church and agree that they will do nothing as an employee of The Salvation Army to undermine its religious mission.

The Salvation Army is an equal opportunity employer. Candidates who are back-to-work, US Veterans, people with disabilities, people who have been impacted by the justice system, and/or people without a college degree are encouraged to apply.


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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