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Cafeteria Cook Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Omni Hotels & Resorts

Cafeteria Cook

Charlottesville, VA · On-site

$19/hr

Cafeteria Cook Overview: To ensure all food is served according to specifications, and cleanliness in all aspects of the cafeteria is maintained on a daily basis. Responsibilities: * Communicate with ...

Seminolehardrock

Cook - Staff Cafeteria

Bristol, VA

$14 - $19/hr

Prepares foods that are to be grilled, fried, broiled, baked, boiled, braised, poached or prepared in the pantry; ensures that all plates or pans served are aesthetically appealing and cooked to the ...

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Cafeteria Cook information

See Virginia salary details

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How much do cafeteria cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for cafeteria cook in Virginia is $15.66, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.28 and $17.40 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 is a cafeteria cook?

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 VA?

For Cafeteria Cook jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Cafeteria Cook jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cafeteria Cook job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, and 27% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $32,579 per year, or $15.7 per hour.

Cafeteria Cook

Omni Hotels & Resorts

Charlottesville, VA • On-site

$19/hr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago

Omni Hotels rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 145 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

40th of 108 rated hotels

Job description

Omni Charlottesville Hotel
Omni Charlottesville Hotel is a premier full-service hotel in downtown Charlottesville, Virginia, blending Southern charm with contemporary comfort. The recently renovated 205 guest rooms and suites offer scenic views of historic Charlottesville or the Blue Ridge foothills, complemented by thoughtful amenities for both business and leisure travelers. On-site features include indoor and outdoor pools, a fully equipped fitness center, and over 14,000 square feet of flexible meeting and event space, ideal for corporate events, weddings, and social gatherings. Dining at The Conservatory and The Hillock Neighborhood Kitchen celebrates the region's culinary spirit and provides welcoming spaces for connection.
At Omni, we are driven by a bold vision: to become the best hospitality company in America, delivering exceptional experiences for every guest, every day.
Cafeteria Cook
Overview:
To ensure all food is served according to specifications, and cleanliness in all aspects of the cafeteria is maintained on a daily basis.
Responsibilities:
  • Communicate with the Chef to learn daily work tasks and their coordination, and complete daily prep list.

  • Perform work assignments to meet proper quantities within a necessary time frame.

  • Be knowledgeable of all areas in the cafeteria.

  • Be knowledgeable of plate presentations and preparations of all menu items.

  • Communicate with all cooks daily for proper parts and production requirements when needed.

  • Keep back and prep area clean as you work.

  • Fill and maintain the prep list up to par, check daily.

  • Must maintain the cleanliness of the cafeteria at all times.

  • Check with Executive Chef/Sous Chef before leaving for the day.

Qualifications:
  • Must be able to endure exposure to heat, steam and hazardous cleaning chemicals.

  • Must be able to stand for length of shift.

  • Must be able to walk, run, push, pull and lift up to 50 Ilbs.

  • Must have strong customer service skills to give our internal customers a positive dining experience.

  • Must have the ability to become ServSafe certified.

  • Must have previous experience working in similar Food and Beverage department (kitchen, cafeteria, etc.).

Omni Hotels & Resorts is an equal opportunity/AA/Disability/Veteran employer. The EEO is the Law poster is available using the following link:
EEOC is the Law Poster.
Omni Hotels & Resorts does not discriminate on the basis of any protected category with respect to the payment of wages.
If you are interested in applying for employment with Omni Hotels & Resorts and need special assistance to apply for a posted position, please send an email to: applicationassistance@omnihotels.com.

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