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Cafeteria Cook Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Cafeteria Cook

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$15.25/hr

The Cook is responsible and successful in completing assigned kitchen responsibilities related to food preparation. The Cook will prepare meals, load food carts, and ensure the kitchen and equipment ...

The Cook is responsible and successful in completing assigned kitchen responsibilities related to food preparation. The Cook will prepare meals, load food carts, and ensure the kitchen and equipment ...

PT Cafeteria Cook - OHHS

Converse, IN · On-site

$13.75 - $16.75/hr

Under the supervision of the head cook, serve as cook to assure proper handling, preparation, and serving of food in the school cafeteria. Tentative start date of August 1, 2025. Summary of Essential ...

Sub Cafe Cook

Madison, IN · On-site

$13.75 - $16.75/hr

Monitors and manages student's behavior in the cafeteria and the cafeteria when students are having lunch. Helps keep the dining area clean and pleasant for students. Performs any tasks assigned by ...

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Cafeteria Cook information

See Indiana salary details

$8

$15

$19

How much do cafeteria cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for cafeteria cook in Indiana is $15.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.70 and $16.68 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Cafeteria Cook vs Line Cook?

AspectCafeteria CookLine Cook
CredentialsFood Handler's Permit, basic culinary skillsFood Handler's Permit, culinary training or experience
Work EnvironmentSchool, hospital, or institutional cafeteriasRestaurant kitchen, fast-paced environment
Employer & IndustryEducational, healthcare, or institutional sectorsHospitality, restaurant industry
Job FocusPreparing large quantities of simple, standardized mealsPreparing specific dishes quickly and efficiently

While both Cafeteria Cooks and Line Cooks prepare food in kitchen settings, Cafeteria Cooks focus on large-scale, standardized meal preparation in institutional environments, whereas Line Cooks work in restaurants preparing individual dishes in a fast-paced setting. The roles require similar certifications but differ in work environment and daily tasks.

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

To thrive as a Cafeteria Cook, you need expertise in food preparation, kitchen safety, and knowledge of nutrition, usually backed by a high school diploma or equivalent and food handler certification. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, menu planning software, and inventory management systems is often required. Strong organizational skills, teamwork, and the ability to work efficiently under pressure are vital soft skills for this role. These skills ensure food is prepared safely, efficiently, and to a high standard, supporting both customer satisfaction and kitchen operations.

What are cafeteria cooks?

Cafeteria cooks are food service professionals who prepare and cook meals in cafeterias, often found in schools, hospitals, businesses, or other institutions. They typically follow set menus and recipes, cook large quantities of food, and ensure meals are ready for designated serving times. Their responsibilities may also include maintaining kitchen cleanliness, managing inventory, and adhering to food safety standards. Cafeteria cooks usually work as part of a team and may have early morning or daytime shifts. Their work helps ensure that large groups of people receive nutritious and timely meals.

What are some common challenges faced by cafeteria cooks and how can they be managed?

Cafeteria cooks often work in fast-paced environments where they need to prepare large quantities of food within tight timeframes. Managing multiple orders and dietary restrictions, maintaining food safety standards, and coordinating with other kitchen staff can be challenging. Effective time management, strong communication skills, and staying organized are essential for success. Many cafeterias also offer ongoing training to help cooks stay updated on food safety protocols and new menu items.
What are popular job titles related to Cafeteria Cook jobs in IN? For Cafeteria Cook jobs in IN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Cafeteria Cook job openings in Indiana as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $31,269 per year, or $15 per hour.

$16.48/hr

Other

Posted 26 days ago


Job description

Thorntown Elementary l is looking for a part-time Cafeteria Cook for the 26-27 school year.

  • Will work Monday-Friday
  • 29.75 hours/week
  • $16.48/hour to start
  • Bi-Weekly Pay
  • Various duties may include cooking, food prep and other duties as assigned


Interested candidates should complete the online application.