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Assistant Cook Jobs in Mankato, MN (NOW HIRING)

Taher, Inc.

Assistant Cook

Faribault, MN · On-site

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

If you enjoy cooking, working with a team of professionals, we have a spot for you on our team! Essential Functions: * Provide the highest quality of guest service at all times * Execute recipes to ...

Taher, Inc.

Assistant Cook, District Float

Montgomery, MN · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

The District Float Assistant Cook provides versatile support across multiple school sites, filling in for absent staff to ensure student meals are served without interruption. This is a guaranteed 5 ...

Ecumen

Dining Assistant, Part-Time AMs

Saint Peter, MN · On-site

$17 - $19/hr

The Dining Assistant is responsible for assisting with food preparation, serving and cleanup. This position maintains work area in proper order and follows established policies and procedures of the ...

Mankato Area Public Schools

Cook Helper

Mankato, MN · On-site

$15.14 - $15.99/hr

The Cook Helper will assist the Cook Manager and 2nd Cook in preparation, planning, documentation and serving of the school meal programs ensuring the nutrition and proper preparation of meals, and ...

Mankato Area Public Schools

Cook Helper

Mankato, MN

$15.14 - $15.99/hr

The Cook Helper will assist the Cook Manager and 2nd Cook in preparation, planning, documentation and serving of the school meal programs ensuring the nutrition and proper preparation of meals, and ...

Water's Edge

Cook

Mankato, MN · On-site

$13.75 - $18.50/hr

The Cook prepares meals, maintains kitchen and dining cleanliness, and assists the Culinary ... Prepare food according to menu and recipe guidelines. * Assist with serving meals in the dining ...

Milestone Senior Living Faribault

Cook

Faribault, MN · On-site

$14.25 - $19.25/hr

The Cook prepares meals, maintains kitchen and dining cleanliness, and assists the Culinary ... Prepare food according to menu and recipe guidelines. * Assist with serving meals in the dining ...

Water's Edge

Cook

Mankato, MN · On-site

$13.75 - $18.50/hr

The Cook prepares meals, maintains kitchen and dining cleanliness, and assists the Culinary ... Prepare food according to menu and recipe guidelines. * Assist with serving meals in the dining ...

Milestone Senior Living Faribault

Cook

Faribault, MN · On-site

$14.25 - $19.25/hr

The Cook prepares meals, maintains kitchen and dining cleanliness, and assists the Culinary ... Prepare food according to menu and recipe guidelines. * Assist with serving meals in the dining ...

Water's Edge

Cook

Mankato, MN

$14 - $18.50/hr

The Cook prepares meals, maintains kitchen and dining cleanliness, and assists the Culinary ... Prepare food according to menu and recipe guidelines. * Assist with serving meals in the dining ...

Milestone Senior Living Faribault

Cook

Faribault, MN

$14.25 - $19.25/hr

The Cook prepares meals, maintains kitchen and dining cleanliness, and assists the Culinary ... Prepare food according to menu and recipe guidelines. * Assist with serving meals in the dining ...

Milestone Senior Living Faribault

Cook

Faribault, MN · On-site

$14.25 - $19.25/hr

The Cook prepares meals, maintains kitchen and dining cleanliness, and assists the Culinary ... Prepare food according to menu and recipe guidelines. * Assist with serving meals in the dining ...

Water's Edge

Cook

Mankato, MN · On-site

$13.75 - $18.50/hr

The Cook prepares meals, maintains kitchen and dining cleanliness, and assists the Culinary ... Prepare food according to menu and recipe guidelines. * Assist with serving meals in the dining ...

Mankato Area Public Schools

Second Cook

Mankato, MN · On-site

$16.80 - $17.65/hr

The Second Cook will assist the Cook Manager in coordinating the preparation, planning, documentation and serving of the school meal programs ensuring the nutrition and proper preparation of meals ...

Mankato Area Public Schools

Second Cook

Mankato, MN · On-site

$16.80 - $17.65/hr

The Second Cook will assist the Cook Manager in coordinating the preparation, planning, documentation and serving of the school meal programs ensuring the nutrition and proper preparation of meals ...

Laurus Home Care

Cook

Faribault, MN · On-site

$14.25 - $19.25/hr

Line Cook StoryPoint Fairbault Position Summary: As a Cook, you will prepare food according to ... Plate food items following portion guidelines and garnishing instructions. * Assist other kitchen ...

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Assistant Cook information

See Mankato, MN salary details

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How much do assistant cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant cook in Mankato, MN 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 an assistant cook?

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.

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.

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 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.

More about Assistant Cook jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Cook jobs in Mankato, MN?

The most popular types of Cook jobs in Mankato, MN are:

What cities near Mankato, MN are hiring for Assistant Cook jobs?

Cities near Mankato, MN with the most Assistant Cook job openings:

Assistant Cook jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Cook job openings in Mankato, MN as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 48% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $32,971 per year, or $15.9 per hour.

Assistant Cook - Waterville

Waterville-Elysian-Morristown School District

Waterville, MN • On-site

$12.98 - $16.60/hr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Position Type:
Food Service/Assistant Cook
Date Posted:
8/19/2026
Location:
Waterville-Elysian-Morristown Schools, ISD #2143
FOOD SERVICE POSITION-WATERVILLE
The Waterville School is seeking a reliable, energetic, and hardworking Assistant Cook to support our food service team. The Assistant Cook helps prepare and serve meals to students and staff in a safe, clean, and efficient manner while adhering to food safety and nutrition guidelines. This role plays an essential part in ensuring a positive dining experience for all students.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Assist with daily food preparation including chopping, mixing, measuring, and cooking under the supervision of the Head Cook.
  • Help portion and serve meals during breakfast and/or lunch periods.
  • Maintain cleanliness and sanitation of kitchen areas, equipment, and utensils.
  • Follow all food safety and hygiene protocols in accordance with school and health department guidelines.
  • Assist in receiving, storing, and organizing food supplies and inventory.
  • Monitor food stock and report shortages or issues to the Head Cook.
  • Wash dishes, trays, and other kitchen tools as needed.
  • Follow daily cleaning schedules and assist in maintaining kitchen organization.
  • Perform other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications:
  • Previous experience in a kitchen or food service environment is preferred, but not required.
  • Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
  • Basic knowledge of food preparation and kitchen safety.
  • Strong teamwork and communication skills.
  • Commitment to maintaining a positive and respectful environment for students.

Physical Requirements:
  • Must be able to stand, walk, and work on feet for long periods (up to 8 hours).
  • Must be able to lift and carry up to 40 lbs.
  • Must be able to work in confined spaces (ex. walk-in freezers and coolers)
  • Ability to bend, reach, and perform repetitive tasks.

Schedule & Compensation:
  • 6-7 hours/day Monday-Friday when school is in session.
  • Starting Salary Range $12.98/hour - $16.60/hour (depending on qualifications)

How to Apply:
Applications should be submitted through Applitrack.
www.wem.k12.mn.us OR https://www.applitrack.com/wem/onlineapp/
Questions can be directed to Anna Meschke at ameschke@wem.k12.mn.us
Deadline: Open Until Filled

Apply