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Cook I Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Cook I

San Diego, CA · On-site

$19/hr

The Line Cook I sets the stage for success in our Kitchens. The Line Cook I will accurately and efficiently cook meats, fish, vegetables, soups, and other hot food products as well as prepare and ...

Cook I

Highwood, IL · On-site

$18/hr

Cook I will assist in cold prep, salad and grab & go production with recipes. Expected to serve food on the hot line. Follow all HACCP and food safety guidelines. Receives and puts away all kitchen ...

The Line Cook I sets the stage for success in our Kitchens. The Line Cook I will accurately and efficiently cook meats, fish, vegetables, soups, and other hot food products as well as prepare and ...

Cook I

Fairborn, OH · On-site

$16.56 - $18.68/hr

Cook I will assist in cold prep, salad and grab & go production with recipes. Expected to serve food on the hot line. Follow all HACCP and food safety guidelines. Receives and puts away all kitchen ...

Cook I

Libertyville, IL · On-site

$15 - $17/hr

Cook I will assist in cold prep, salad and grab & go production with recipes. Expected to serve food on the hot line. Follow all HACCP and food safety guidelines. Receives and puts away all kitchen ...

Cook I

Chicago, IL · On-site

$22/hr

Cook I will assist in cold prep, salad and grab & go production with recipes. Expected to serve food on the hot line. Follow all HACCP and food safety guidelines. Receives and puts away all kitchen ...

Cook I

Roselle, IL · On-site

$17/hr

Cook I will assist in cold prep, salad and grab & go production with recipes. Expected to serve food on the hot line. Follow all HACCP and food safety guidelines. Receives and puts away all kitchen ...

Cook I

Kaneohe, HI · On-site

$17.25/hr

Cook I's are in charge of providing quality food consistently and efficiently, performing back up, prep work, or line work in the kitchen. This position may advance to the Cook II position when ...

Cook I's are in charge of providing quality food consistently and efficiently, performing back up, prep work, or line work in the kitchen. This position may advance to the Cook II position when ...

Cook I

Honolulu, HI · On-site

$17.25/hr

Cook I's are in charge of providing quality food consistently and efficiently, performing back up, prep work, or line work in the kitchen. This position may advance to the Cook II position when ...

Cook I

Honolulu, HI · On-site

$17.25/hr

Cook I's are in charge of providing quality food consistently and efficiently, performing back up, prep work, or line work in the kitchen. This position may advance to the Cook II position when ...

Cook I

Honolulu, HI · On-site

$17.25/hr

Cook I's are in charge of providing quality food consistently and efficiently, performing back up, prep work, or line work in the kitchen. This position may advance to the Cook II position when ...

Cook I

Ewa Beach, HI · On-site

$17.25/hr

Cook I's are in charge of providing quality food consistently and efficiently, performing back up, prep work, or line work in the kitchen. This position may advance to the Cook II position when ...

Cook I

Honolulu, HI · On-site

$17.25/hr

Cook I's are in charge of providing quality food consistently and efficiently, performing back up, prep work, or line work in the kitchen. This position may advance to the Cook II position when ...

Cook I

Waipahu, HI · On-site

$17.25/hr

Cook I's are in charge of providing quality food consistently and efficiently, performing back up, prep work, or line work in the kitchen. This position may advance to the Cook II position when ...

Cook I

Hilo, HI · On-site

$17.25/hr

Cook I's are in charge of providing quality food consistently and efficiently, performing back up, prep work, or line work in the kitchen. This position may advance to the Cook II position when ...

Cook I

Ewa Beach, HI · On-site

$17.25/hr

Cook I's are in charge of providing quality food consistently and efficiently, performing back up, prep work, or line work in the kitchen. This position may advance to the Cook II position when ...

Cook I

Honolulu, HI · On-site

$17.25/hr

Cook I's are in charge of providing quality food consistently and efficiently, performing back up, prep work, or line work in the kitchen. This position may advance to the Cook II position when ...

Showing results 41-60

COOK I information

See salary details

$10

$17

$23

How much do cook i jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for cook i in the United States is $17.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Cook I?

A Cook I is an entry-level position in a professional kitchen, responsible for preparing and cooking food under the supervision of senior chefs. Duties typically include following recipes, preparing ingredients, maintaining cleanliness, and ensuring food safety standards are met. Cook I roles are often a starting point for those seeking to advance in the culinary field, offering hands-on experience and the opportunity to learn various cooking techniques. These positions require basic culinary knowledge, attention to detail, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment.

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

To thrive as a Cook I, you need fundamental culinary skills, knowledge of food safety, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with kitchen equipment, basic knife techniques, and understanding of health department regulations are essential, and food handler certifications are commonly required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and the ability to work efficiently under pressure are valuable soft skills. These competencies ensure high-quality food preparation, maintain safety standards, and support smooth kitchen operations.

What are some common challenges faced by a Cook I, and how can they be managed effectively?

As a Cook I, one of the most common challenges is managing multiple tasks simultaneously during busy service hours, such as preparing ingredients, cooking dishes to order, and maintaining food safety standards. Staying organized and communicating clearly with team members can help streamline workflow and reduce stress. Additionally, adapting to sudden menu changes or special dietary requests requires flexibility and a strong understanding of kitchen operations. Regularly seeking feedback from senior chefs and participating in on-the-job training can also help Cook I employees improve their skills and handle challenges more confidently.

What is the difference between Cook I vs Cook II?

AspectCook ICook II
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; basic culinary trainingSimilar credentials; some experience preferred
Work EnvironmentEntry-level kitchen settings, hospitals, cafeteriasMore complex kitchen tasks, higher responsibility
Employer UsageHospitals, schools, catering servicesRestaurants, hotels, institutional kitchens

The main difference between Cook I and Cook II lies in experience and responsibility. Cook I is an entry-level position requiring basic culinary skills, while Cook II involves more advanced tasks and greater independence in the kitchen. Both roles typically require similar credentials, but Cook II often demands some prior experience. Employers use these titles to distinguish levels of expertise and responsibility within culinary teams.

What are careers in cooking?

Careers in cooking include roles such as Cook I, which involves preparing and cooking food in various settings like restaurants, hotels, or catering services. These careers often require knowledge of food safety, cooking techniques, and sometimes certifications like food handler permits. Advancement can lead to higher positions such as Sous Chef or Executive Chef, with increased responsibilities and pay.

What cities are hiring for Cook I jobs?

Cities with the most Cook I job openings:

What states have the most Cook I jobs?

States with the most job openings for Cook I jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Cook I jobs?

For Cook I jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Cook I job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 69% Full Time, and 31% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $36,873 per year, or $17.7 per hour.

$19/hr

Part-time

Medical

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

Company Summary:
Established in 1996 in San Diego, California, Ballast Point has earned a reputation for innovation, quality, and a passion for the craft. Our brewery not only excels in creating world-class beer, but also in fostering a vibrant and inclusive culture. We value teamwork, creativity, and a dedication to quality that extends to every aspect of our operation.
If you are passionate about craft beer, innovation, and want to be a part of a dynamic company with a storied history, Ballast Point Brewing Company is the perfect place to embark on a rewarding career journey. Join us as we continue to push the boundaries of brewing excellence and make a lasting impact in the world of craft beer.
Position Summary:
The Line Cook I sets the stage for success in our Kitchens. The Line Cook I will accurately and efficiently cook meats, fish, vegetables, soups, and other hot food products as well as prepare and portion food products prior to cooking. The Line Cook I will lead areas of food and final plate preparation including plating and garnishing of cooked items and preparing appropriate garnishes for all hot menu item plates while maintaining a clean and safe cooking environment, and always ready and willing to take on culinary tasks as they arise.
What You'll Be Doing
  • Prepare a variety of meats, seafood, poultry, vegetables, and other food items for cooking in broilers, ovens, grills, fryers, and a variety of other kitchen equipment
  • Assume 100% responsibility for quality of products served
  • Know and comply consistently with our standard portion sizes, cooking methods, quality standards and kitchen rules, policies, and procedures
  • Stock and maintain sufficient levels of food products at line stations to assure a smooth service period
  • Portion food products prior to cooking according to standard portion sizes and recipe specifications
  • Maintain a clean and sanitary workstation area including tables, shelves, grills, broilers, fryers, pasta cookers, sauté burners, convection oven, flat top range, and refrigeration equipment
  • Prepare items for broiling, grilling, frying, sautéing or other cooking methods by portioning, battering, breading, seasoning and/or marinating
  • Follow proper plate presentation and garnish set up for all dishes
  • Handle, store, and rotate all products properly
  • Assist in food prep assignments during off-peak periods as needed
  • Close the kitchen properly and follows the closing checklist for kitchen stations. Assist others in closing the kitchen.
  • Attend all scheduled employee meetings and brings suggestions for improvement
  • Perform other related duties as assigned by the Kitchen Manager or manager-on-duty

What You'll Need
  • 2 years of experience in kitchen preparation and cooking
  • At least 6 months experience in a similar capacity in a high-volume restaurant
  • Communicate clearly with managers, kitchen, and dining room teams
  • Ability to reach, bend, stoop and frequently lift up to 40 pounds
  • Ability to work in a standing position for long periods of time (up to 9 hours)
  • Ability to follow printed recipes and plate specifications
  • Ability to Displays knife skills and work in a clean / sanitary manner
  • Ability to maintain personal hygiene in accordance with Health Department standards for food service employees
  • Maintain an attitude of continuous improvement either individually or as a team member
  • ServSafe Food Handler Certified or willing to obtain
  • Part-Time availability
  • Schedule flexibility with nights, weekends, and holiday availability preferred

Physical Requirements/Work Environment
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • 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
  • Frequently spend 8 hours working, standing, walking, and remaining stationary on feet
  • Frequently talk or hear
  • Frequently use taste and smell senses
  • Continuously reach, push, pull, bend, lift, carry, stoop and wipe
  • Frequently wash hands and handle cleaning products
  • Frequently lift and carry up to 25 pounds
  • Frequently manipulate fingers, hands, and arms to cut, measure, pour, serve, carry, and wipe
  • Frequently use close and distance vision and ability to adjust focus between the two

Who You Are: Our Cooks are good under pressure, good at following direction, perfectionist when it comes to quality, flexible and open to change, and works well with others. Our team is Honest, Acts with Integrity, Friendly, Kind, Respectful, Approachable and have a high-level ability to multi-task.
Sound like you? Apply today!
Compensation:
  • Hourly Rate: $

The actual rate of pay is dependent upon many factors, such as: training, transferable skills, work experience, business needs, and market demands. The base pay range is subject to change and may be modified in the future. This role is also eligible for our comprehensive benefits and perks package:
The Perks:
  • Medical insurance plans available for all employees
  • Access to a network of free therapists, up to 8 visits, through our Employee Assistance Program for you and your family
  • Product discount on Ballast Point merchandise, food, and beer at all 5 Ballast Point locations
  • $50 product allowance and $90 safe ride reimbursements

Ballast Point Brewing Company is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive workplace environment where everyone feels valued and respected.
Please note this Job Description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
Pay Range: $19 per hour