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Army Cook Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

U.S Army Reserve

Culinary Specialist

Phelan, CA · On-site

$35K - $47K/yr

Army Reserve. In this part-time federal service role, you will gain hands-on training and ... You will develop practical skills in diverse cooking techniques, catering and hospitality ...

New

U.S Army Reserve

Culinary Specialist

Grand Terrace, CA · On-site

$34K - $46K/yr

Army Reserve. In this part-time federal service role, you will gain hands-on training and ... You will develop practical skills in diverse cooking techniques, catering and hospitality ...

New

U.S Army Reserve

Culinary Specialist

Hesperia, CA · On-site

$35K - $47K/yr

Army Reserve. In this part-time federal service role, you will gain hands-on training and ... You will develop practical skills in diverse cooking techniques, catering and hospitality ...

New

U.S Army Reserve

Culinary Specialist

San Dimas, CA · On-site

$35K - $47K/yr

Army Reserve. In this part-time federal service role, you will gain hands-on training and ... You will develop practical skills in diverse cooking techniques, catering and hospitality ...

New

U.S Army Reserve

Culinary Specialist

Rancho Cucamonga, CA · On-site

$35K - $47K/yr

Army Reserve. In this part-time federal service role, you will gain hands-on training and ... You will develop practical skills in diverse cooking techniques, catering and hospitality ...

New

U.S Army Reserve

Culinary Specialist

San Bernardino, CA · On-site

$36K - $48K/yr

Army Reserve. In this part-time federal service role, you will gain hands-on training and ... You will develop practical skills in diverse cooking techniques, catering and hospitality ...

New

U.S Army Reserve

Culinary Specialist

Wrightwood, CA · On-site

$34K - $46K/yr

Army Reserve. In this part-time federal service role, you will gain hands-on training and ... You will develop practical skills in diverse cooking techniques, catering and hospitality ...

New

All JobsArmy Cook JobsArmy Cook Jobs in Riverside, CA

Army Cook information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$9

$16

$23

How much do army cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for army cook in Riverside, CA is $16.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.04 and $18.80 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

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.

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 popular job titles related to Army Cook jobs in Riverside, CA?

For Army Cook jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Army Cook jobs in Riverside, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Army Cook jobs in Riverside, CA are:

What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Army Cook jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Army Cook job openings:

Army Cook jobs near you
Infographic showing various Army Cook job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 29% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $34,782 per year, or $16.7 per hour.

Culinary Specialist

U.S Army Reserve

Phelan, CA • On-site

$35K - $47K/yr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Job Overview:

We are seeking motivated culinary enthusiasts to serve as Culinary Specialists in the U.S. Army Reserve. In this part-time federal service role, you will gain hands-on training and experience across a wide range of culinary disciplines that translate directly to civilian food service and hospitality careers. You will develop practical skills in diverse cooking techniques, catering and hospitality operations, inventory and cost management, and maintaining the highest standards of food safety and cleanliness. These experiences allow you to build a strong culinary foundation, earn recognized training, and serve in a meaningful role that supports unit readiness and mission success while continuing to pursue your civilian career or education.

Requirements:

Attend a 19-week paid training program to gain skills and certifications in menu planning, catering, expert cooking techniques, culinary art design, food preparation, food storage, inventory, sanitation standards, forecasting, food inspection, food quality standards, cleanness standards, station establishment, hospitality services, and temperature control point.

Your job experience may qualify for a reduced training timeline and promotion.

Advanced certifications require additional full funded training programs.

Benefits:

  • Comprehensive Healthcare, Vision, and Dental plans.
  • 30 days paid vacation.
  • 90 days paid paternity and maternity vacation.
  • Comprehensive wellness programs including fitness facility access, nutrition consulting, curated fitness plans, and more.
  • Housing, clothing, and relocation allowance.
  • Tuition assistance.
  • Student loan repayment.
  • Flexible retirement and pension plans. Pay and Promotion:
  • Entry pay and promotions vary based on education level and qualifications.
  • Hiring bonus opportunities available.
  • Specialty bonuses available depending on qualifications and position.

    • Apply