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Assistant Cook Jobs in Willmar, MN (NOW HIRING)

Cook

Willmar, MN · On-site

$13.75 - $18.50/hr

Follow food safety and sanitation procedures at all times * Assist with prep work, cooking, and closing duties as required * Collaborate with team members to ensure timely and quality service

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Assistant Cook information

See Willmar, MN salary details

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How much do assistant cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant cook in Willmar, MN is $15.84, 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.

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

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

Infographic showing various Assistant Cook job openings in Willmar, MN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,953 per year, or $15.8 per hour.

Dietary Aide - Minnewaska Lutheran Home

Starbuck, MN • On-site

Minnewaska Community Health Services
Health Care and Social Assistance • 51 - 200 employees

$16.62 - $22.37/hr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

TITLE: Dietary Aide

REPORTS TO: Food Services Director

$16.62-$22.37 Dietary Aide wage range

Job Summary:To assist Cook in the preparation and service of meals. To assist in the dishwashing process after meals. To serve residents for meals.

Qualifications: Must be able to read, write and speak English. Must be able to follow directions and perform assigned tasks. Must be able to relate work with geriatric residents and understand their special needs. Complete and pass a state required background study form which checks for certain criminal convictions or serious/recurring maltreatment.

General Responsibilities:

  • Assists Cook in preparation and services of the meal. May dish salads and desserts, prepare vegetables and beverages, and assist Cook in meal production.
  • Assists in tray assemble, tray/cart delivery, dining room service and clean up.
  • Assists in between meal nourishment preparation, service and clean up.
  • May assist in receiving and storage of food supplies.
  • Assists in washing dishes following meals.
  • Assists in pot and pan washing during shift.
  • Sanitation and Safety
  • Follows sanitation and safety techniques in operation and cleaning of all equipment.
  • Uses proper sanitation and safety procedures during working day.
  • Follows written dietary policies and procedures.
  • Follows through on resident rights.
  • Attends inservice and other training classes.
  • Works to meet goals of the facility with enthusiasm and a spirit of cooperation.
  • Basic competencies of abuse, neglect, exploitation, and misappropriation of resident property.
  • Basic competencies of dementia management, infection control and other areas as identified through the facility assessment.
  • Knowledge, skills and abilities required by OSHA Hazard communication, HIPPA, QAPI and other organizations.
  • Respond to emergency codes, ie: fire
  • Other duties as assigned.

In keeping with federal, state and local laws, Minnewaska Community Health Services policy forbids employees and associates from discriminating against anyone based on race, religion, color, creed, gender, age, marital status, national origin, sexual orientation, status with regard to public assistance, veteran status, familial status, disability or any other characteristic protected by law. Minnewaska Community Health Services is committed to establishing and maintaining a workplace free of discrimination. We are fully committed to equal employment opportunity. We will not tolerate unlawful discrimination in the recruitment, hiring, termination, promotion, salary treatment or any other condition of employment or career advancement.Minnewaska Community Health Servicesalso provides reasonable accommodations to disabled employees and applicants as required by law.