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Assistant Cook Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Assistant Cook

Abingdon, VA · On-site

$14.50 - $17.25/hr

The Assistant Cook supports the preparation, serving and clean-up of daily meals in accordance with federal, state and local food safety regulations. This role helps ensure nutritious, appealing and ...

Assistant Cook

Mathews, VA · On-site

$13.75 - $16.50/hr

Mathews, Virginia Overview The cook assistant works under the direction of the Food Production Manager and Sous Chef and under the general supervision of the Department Director. Responsibilities ...

Prep Cook

Bridgewater, VA

$13.75 - $17.25/hr

Measure and assemble ingredients for menu items, ensuring accuracy and consistency * Assist cooks with basic food preparation and plating as directed * Maintain cleanliness and organization of ...

Prep Cook

Bridgewater, VA · On-site

$14.25 - $19.24/hr

Measure and assemble ingredients for menu items, ensuring accuracy and consistency * Assist cooks with basic food preparation and plating as directed * Maintain cleanliness and organization of ...

Dishwasher

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$14 - $18/hr

... Assist cook(s) and prep cook(s) in proper labeling and storage of food after each meal period • Perform all shift change/closing duties • Perform all duties and responsibilities in a timely and ...

Prep Cook

Smithfield, VA

$13.25 - $16.75/hr

Sweep and mop floors as needed. * Assist cooks and kitchen staff with various tasks as needed, and provide cooks with needed items. * Carry food supplies, equipment, and utensils to and from storage ...

Prep Cook

Smithfield, VA · On-site

$13.25 - $16.75/hr

Sweep and mop floors as needed. * Assist cooks and kitchen staff with various tasks as needed, and provide cooks with needed items. * Carry food supplies, equipment, and utensils to and from storage ...

Prep Cook

Smithfield, VA · On-site

$13.25 - $16.75/hr

Sweep and mop floors as needed. * Assist cooks and kitchen staff with various tasks as needed, and provide cooks with needed items. * Carry food supplies, equipment, and utensils to and from storage ...

Cook

Mascot, VA · On-site

$20/hr

Prepares all food items, following standard recipes and procedures within specified time limits. * Assist cooks in the preparation of basic dessert items. * Preps assigned items according to the Prep ...

AM Cook

Mascot, VA · On-site

$12.50 - $16.75/hr

Prepares all food items, following standard recipes and procedures within specified time limits. * Assist cooks in the preparation of basic dessert items. * Preps assigned items according to the Prep ...

Cook

Warrenton, VA

$17 - $20/hr

Cook Opening! Poplar Hill Health and Rehab - 360 Hospital Dr Warrenton, Virginia, 20186 Why Join ... Collaborate with the dietary team to plan menus and may assist with special events or themed meals.

Cook

Reston, VA

$19 - $21/hr

Follow portion control standards and assist with food inventory management. * Work with the dietary ... Cook Qualifications: * 2+ year of cooking experience in a restaurant, senior living, or similar ...

Collaborate with kitchen staff to ensure efficient and timely food preparation. * Assist in other ... Previous experience as a cook or grill operator in a fast-paced restaurant environment preferred.

Collaborate with kitchen staff to ensure efficient and timely food preparation. * Assist in other ... Previous experience as a cook or grill operator in a fast-paced restaurant environment preferred.

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Assistant Cook information

See Virginia salary details

$9

$15

$20

How much do assistant cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant cook in Virginia is $15.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.28 and $17.16 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Assistant Cook vs Line Cook?

AspectAssistant CookLine Cook
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; basic culinary trainingHigh school diploma; culinary school or training often preferred
Work EnvironmentAssists in kitchen, supports chefs, performs prep workPrepares dishes on the line during service, works in fast-paced kitchen
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in restaurants, hotels, cateringFound in restaurants, hotels, institutional kitchens
Search & Comparison IntentOften compared for entry-level roles, support tasksCompared for active cooking during service

The main difference between an Assistant Cook and a Line Cook is their role during food preparation. An Assistant Cook typically supports the kitchen team with prep work and basic tasks, while a Line Cook actively prepares dishes during service. Both roles require culinary skills, but Line Cooks usually have more experience and responsibility during meal service.

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

To thrive as an Assistant Cook, you need basic culinary skills, knowledge of food safety, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with kitchen equipment, food preparation techniques, and certification in food handling are typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and the ability to work efficiently under pressure are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining kitchen operations, ensuring food quality, and upholding health standards.

What Does an Assistant Cook Do?

Assistant cooks support to the chef or head cook in the kitchen of a restaurant, catering company, or other food service facility. As an assistant cook, your job duties may include helping to plan the menu, testing new dishes, maintaining inventory, and buying or ordering the necessary ingredients for upcoming meal services. You may also perform cleaning duties around the kitchen to ensure that the food preparation area meets health code standards.

What are Assistant Cooks?

Assistant Cooks are kitchen staff members who support chefs and head cooks in preparing food, maintaining kitchen cleanliness, and organizing ingredients. They perform tasks such as chopping vegetables, measuring ingredients, and assisting with basic cooking techniques. Assistant Cooks also help with cleaning kitchen equipment, stocking supplies, and ensuring food safety standards are met. Their role is essential for the smooth operation of a kitchen, especially in busy restaurants or catering services.

How does an Assistant Cook typically collaborate with the kitchen team during busy service hours?

During peak service times, an Assistant Cook works closely with chefs, line cooks, and kitchen staff to ensure smooth operations. This includes prepping ingredients, supporting the assembly of dishes, and maintaining cleanliness at workstations. Effective communication is key, as instructions often come quickly and priorities can shift. Being adaptable and proactive in assisting team members helps maintain efficiency and high food quality standards.
What are the most commonly searched types of Cook jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Cook jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Assistant Cook jobs in Virginia? For Assistant Cook jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Assistant Cook jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Assistant Cook jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Assistant Cook jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Assistant Cook job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Assistant Cook jobs in VA? For Assistant Cook jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Assistant Cook job openings in Virginia as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $32,975 per year, or $15.9 per hour.
Assistant Cook

Assistant Cook

People Inc

Abingdon, VA • On-site

$14.50 - $17.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

People Incorporated of Virginia is looking for an experienced Assistant Cook to join our energetic team. We are now accepting applications for the position of Assistant Cook for the Abingdon Early Head Start and Head Start Center. The Assistant Cook supports the preparation, serving and clean-up of daily meals in accordance with federal, state and local food safety regulations. This role helps ensure nutritious, appealing and timely meals are provided to students and staff, contributing to a positive school dining experience. The successful candidate will assist in preparing and cooking meals following established menus and USDA guidelines. ServSafe certification required within 6 months of hire required. One year of experience in safe handling and preparation of food and sanitization maintenance of a kitchen required.


We believe in changing our communities for the better—and together, we can make a difference. Your work at People Incorporated will contribute to our vision of building futures and realizing dreams for clients and their families. You might be a good fit to work with us if:

  • Making a difference in your career is important to you.
  • You want to work alongside other caring professionals who are dedicated to improving their communities.
  • You prefer a casual work environment.
  • You want to work for an organization that provides you with strong benefits and ample vacation time.

Benefits include a 403(b) retirement plan; medical, dental, and vision coverage; life insurance; short-term and long-term disability; accident, critical illness, and hospital indemnity plans. Employees also receive 15 paid holidays and a very generous paid time off program.

People Incorporated is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Program and a smoke/drug free workplace. Auxiliary Aids and Services are Available Upon Request to Individuals with Disabilities. For access to Virginia Relay (Telecommunications Relay Service) dial "711" or toll free 800 828 1120 (TTY) or 800 828 1140.

Position is open until filled.



Monday through Friday; 7 am to 3:30 pm
40 hours/weekly