Cook
East Lansing, MI · On-site
$13.50 - $18/hr
Position Summary The Applebee's line cook completes all assigned prep work and set up the cook ... Ability to read and interpret documents such as contracts, operating and maintenance instructions ...
Cook
East Lansing, MI · On-site
$13.50 - $18/hr
Position Summary The Applebee's line cook completes all assigned prep work and set up the cook ... Ability to read and interpret documents such as contracts, operating and maintenance instructions ...
Cook
Adrian, MI · On-site
$12.50 - $16.75/hr
Position Summary The Applebee's line cook completes all assigned prep work and set up the cook ... Ability to read and interpret documents such as contracts, operating and maintenance instructions ...
Cook
Adrian, MI · On-site
$12.50 - $16.75/hr
Position Summary The Applebee's line cook completes all assigned prep work and set up the cook ... Ability to read and interpret documents such as contracts, operating and maintenance instructions ...
Cook
$13 - $17.25/hr
Position Summary The Applebee's line cook completes all assigned prep work and set up the cook ... Ability to read and interpret documents such as contracts, operating and maintenance instructions ...
Cook
$13 - $17.25/hr
Position Summary The Applebee's line cook completes all assigned prep work and set up the cook ... Ability to read and interpret documents such as contracts, operating and maintenance instructions ...
Cook
$13.50 - $18/hr
Position Summary The Applebee's line cook completes all assigned prep work and set up the cook ... Ability to read and interpret documents such as contracts, operating and maintenance instructions ...
Cook
$13.50 - $18/hr
Position Summary The Applebee's line cook completes all assigned prep work and set up the cook ... Ability to read and interpret documents such as contracts, operating and maintenance instructions ...
Cook
$12.75 - $17/hr
Position Summary The Applebee's line cook completes all assigned prep work and set up the cook ... Ability to read and interpret documents such as contracts, operating and maintenance instructions ...
Cook
$12.75 - $17/hr
Position Summary The Applebee's line cook completes all assigned prep work and set up the cook ... Ability to read and interpret documents such as contracts, operating and maintenance instructions ...
Cook
Lansing, MI · On-site
$12.50 - $16.75/hr
Position Summary The Applebee's line cook completes all assigned prep work and set up the cook ... Ability to read and interpret documents such as contracts, operating and maintenance instructions ...
Cook
Lansing, MI · On-site
$12.50 - $16.75/hr
Position Summary The Applebee's line cook completes all assigned prep work and set up the cook ... Ability to read and interpret documents such as contracts, operating and maintenance instructions ...
Cook
$12.50 - $16.75/hr
Position Summary The Applebee's line cook completes all assigned prep work and set up the cook ... Ability to read and interpret documents such as contracts, operating and maintenance instructions ...
Cook
$12.50 - $16.75/hr
Position Summary The Applebee's line cook completes all assigned prep work and set up the cook ... Ability to read and interpret documents such as contracts, operating and maintenance instructions ...
Cook
Allen Park, MI · On-site
$12.75 - $17/hr
Position Summary The Applebee's line cook completes all assigned prep work and set up the cook ... Ability to read and interpret documents such as contracts, operating and maintenance instructions ...
Cook
Allen Park, MI · On-site
$12.75 - $17/hr
Position Summary The Applebee's line cook completes all assigned prep work and set up the cook ... Ability to read and interpret documents such as contracts, operating and maintenance instructions ...
Cook
Lansing, MI · On-site
$12.50 - $16.75/hr
Position Summary The Applebee's line cook completes all assigned prep work and set up the cook ... Ability to read and interpret documents such as contracts, operating and maintenance instructions ...
Cook
Lansing, MI · On-site
$12.50 - $16.75/hr
Position Summary The Applebee's line cook completes all assigned prep work and set up the cook ... Ability to read and interpret documents such as contracts, operating and maintenance instructions ...
Cook
$13.50 - $18/hr
Position Summary The Applebee's line cook completes all assigned prep work and set up the cook ... Ability to read and interpret documents such as contracts, operating and maintenance instructions ...
Cook
$13.50 - $18/hr
Position Summary The Applebee's line cook completes all assigned prep work and set up the cook ... Ability to read and interpret documents such as contracts, operating and maintenance instructions ...
Cook
$11.75 - $15.75/hr
Position Summary The Applebee's line cook completes all assigned prep work and set up the cook ... Ability to read and interpret documents such as contracts, operating and maintenance instructions ...
Cook
$11.75 - $15.75/hr
Position Summary The Applebee's line cook completes all assigned prep work and set up the cook ... Ability to read and interpret documents such as contracts, operating and maintenance instructions ...
Cook
$12.75 - $17/hr
Position Summary The Applebee's line cook completes all assigned prep work and set up the cook ... Ability to read and interpret documents such as contracts, operating and maintenance instructions ...
Cook
$12.75 - $17/hr
Position Summary The Applebee's line cook completes all assigned prep work and set up the cook ... Ability to read and interpret documents such as contracts, operating and maintenance instructions ...
Cook
Greenville, MI · On-site
$12.50 - $16.75/hr
Position Summary The Applebee's line cook completes all assigned prep work and set up the cook ... Ability to read and interpret documents such as contracts, operating and maintenance instructions ...
Cook
Greenville, MI · On-site
$12.50 - $16.75/hr
Position Summary The Applebee's line cook completes all assigned prep work and set up the cook ... Ability to read and interpret documents such as contracts, operating and maintenance instructions ...
Cook
$12.75 - $17/hr
Position Summary The Applebee's line cook completes all assigned prep work and set up the cook ... Ability to read and interpret documents such as contracts, operating and maintenance instructions ...
Cook
$12.75 - $17/hr
Position Summary The Applebee's line cook completes all assigned prep work and set up the cook ... Ability to read and interpret documents such as contracts, operating and maintenance instructions ...
Cook
Kalamazoo, MI · On-site
$11.75 - $15.75/hr
Position Summary The Applebee's line cook completes all assigned prep work and set up the cook ... Ability to read and interpret documents such as contracts, operating and maintenance instructions ...
Cook
Kalamazoo, MI · On-site
$11.75 - $15.75/hr
Position Summary The Applebee's line cook completes all assigned prep work and set up the cook ... Ability to read and interpret documents such as contracts, operating and maintenance instructions ...
Cook
$12.50 - $17/hr
Position Summary The Applebee's line cook completes all assigned prep work and set up the cook ... Ability to read and interpret documents such as contracts, operating and maintenance instructions ...
Cook
$12.50 - $17/hr
Position Summary The Applebee's line cook completes all assigned prep work and set up the cook ... Ability to read and interpret documents such as contracts, operating and maintenance instructions ...
Cook
$12.50 - $17/hr
Position Summary The Applebee's line cook completes all assigned prep work and set up the cook ... Ability to read and interpret documents such as contracts, operating and maintenance instructions ...
Cook
$12.50 - $17/hr
Position Summary The Applebee's line cook completes all assigned prep work and set up the cook ... Ability to read and interpret documents such as contracts, operating and maintenance instructions ...
Cook
$13 - $17.50/hr
Position Summary The Applebee's line cook completes all assigned prep work and set up the cook ... Ability to read and interpret documents such as contracts, operating and maintenance instructions ...
Cook
$13 - $17.50/hr
Position Summary The Applebee's line cook completes all assigned prep work and set up the cook ... Ability to read and interpret documents such as contracts, operating and maintenance instructions ...
Contract Cook information
See Michigan salary details
$7.75 - $8.80
2% of jobs
$8.80 - $9.85
4% of jobs
$9.85 - $10.90
9% of jobs
$11.94 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$10.90 - $11.94
10% of jobs
$11.94 - $12.99
14% of jobs
The median wage is $13.69 / hr.
$12.99 - $14.04
16% of jobs
$14.04 - $15.09
15% of jobs
$15.47 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$15.09 - $16.13
12% of jobs
$16.13 - $17.18
9% of jobs
$17.18 - $18.23
5% of jobs
$18.23 - $19.28
3% of jobs
$7
$13
$19
How much do contract cook jobs pay per hour?
As of Jun 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract cook in Michigan is $13.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.73 and $15.72 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
How does working as a contract cook differ from a permanent kitchen position in terms of daily responsibilities and work environment?
As a contract cook, you'll often work in a variety of kitchens and settings, from corporate cafeterias to catering events, which means your daily responsibilities can change frequently. Unlike permanent roles, you may need to quickly adapt to different menus, kitchen teams, and management styles, making flexibility and strong communication skills essential. The work environment is typically fast-paced and can sometimes involve unfamiliar equipment or workflows. This variety can be rewarding and offers opportunities to expand your culinary skills, but it may also require extra effort to adjust rapidly and establish rapport with new colleagues.
What are contract cooks?
Contract cooks are culinary professionals hired on a temporary or project basis to prepare meals in various settings, such as corporate cafeterias, schools, hospitals, or private events. Unlike full-time staff, contract cooks work for a specific duration or for the length of a particular contract, often through staffing agencies or catering companies. Their responsibilities include menu planning, food preparation, cooking, and maintaining kitchen safety and sanitation standards. Contract cooks provide flexibility for employers who need additional staff during busy periods or special events. This role is ideal for experienced cooks seeking variety in their work environments.
What is the difference between Contract Cook vs Full-Time Cook?
| Aspect | Contract Cook | Full-Time Cook |
|---|---|---|
| Credentials | Food Handler’s Permit, Culinary Certification (if required) | Food Handler’s Permit, Culinary Certification (if required) |
| Work Environment | Temporary assignments, varied locations | Permanent employment, consistent location |
| Employment Type | Short-term, project-based | Long-term, salaried or hourly |
| Industry Usage | Event catering, hospitality, temporary kitchens | Restaurants, hotels, institutional kitchens |
Contract Cooks typically work on short-term assignments in various locations, often for events or temporary projects, and usually hold similar certifications as full-time cooks. Full-Time Cooks are employed permanently in a single establishment, providing consistent service. Both roles require culinary skills and certifications, but differ mainly in employment duration and work setting.
What are the most commonly searched types of Cook jobs in Michigan? The most popular types of Cook jobs in Michigan are:
What are popular job titles related to Contract Cook jobs in Michigan? For Contract Cook jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Contract Cook jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Contract Cook jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Contract Cook jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Contract Cook job openings:
Applebee's rating
5.6
Based on 722 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
59th of 86 rated restaurants
Job description
Position Summary
The Applebee's line cook completes all assigned prep work and set up the cook's station; maintains product presentations, products quality and cook standards while following all food safety guidelines; and prepares all menu items according to Applebee's recipes, Plate Presentations and specifications. The line cook fosters a culture aligned with the TSFR Roadmap, including Our Core Purpose, Vision, Mission and Core Values.
Essential Job Functions
Primary Duties:
Educational / Experience
Physical and Mental Requirements
Language Skills:
Ability to read and interpret documents such as contracts, operating and maintenance instructions and procedure manuals. Ability to write routine reports and correspondence. Ability to speak effectively before groups of customers or employees of the organization.
Mathematical Skills:
Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists. Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram or schedule form.
Physical Demands:
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. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions as long as it would not create undue hardship.
While performing the duties of this position, the employee is frequently required to sit, talk, hear, walk, use hands and fingers to feel, handle or operate objects and reach with hands and arms.
The employee may occasionally lift and/or move objects up to 30 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this position include close vision and the ability to adjust focus.
Psychological Demands:
The mental demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions as long as it would not create undue hardship.
While performing the duties of this position, the employee is frequently required to work in a team environment, handle a fast-paced environment and be flexible and willing to accept change. Must also have the ability to communicate with others, both verbally and in writing.
Work Environment:
The work environment described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions as long as it would not create undue hardship.
On occasion, to perform the work it may be necessary to travel in an automobile to other locations in the field either alone or accompanied by a co-worker.
TEAM Schostak Family Restaurants reserves the right to change, amend, add, delete and otherwise assign any and all duties, responsibilities, and position titles as it deems necessary to meet the needs of its business.
The Applebee's line cook completes all assigned prep work and set up the cook's station; maintains product presentations, products quality and cook standards while following all food safety guidelines; and prepares all menu items according to Applebee's recipes, Plate Presentations and specifications. The line cook fosters a culture aligned with the TSFR Roadmap, including Our Core Purpose, Vision, Mission and Core Values.
Essential Job Functions
Primary Duties:
- Prepare ingredients then cook and assemble dishes as indicated by recipes
- Perform portion control and minimize waste to keep cost within forecasted range
- Ensure that all dishes are prepared in a timely manner by restocking ingredients at work station and meeting prep times to ensure smooth delivery
- Set up and clean station according to restaurant protocol
- Maintain a clean work station area, including kitchen equipment, tables, and shelves
- Comply with applicable sanitary, health, and personal hygiene standards
- Ensure quality and freshness of ingredients and products
- Perform additional tasks as assigned by the Manager to ensure effective and orderly operations of the restaurant.
Educational / Experience
- 1-3 years of experience cooking in a restaurant preferred but not required
- Understanding of cooking methods and procedures, and knife handling skills
- Ability to perform tasks with accuracy, speed, and attention to detail
- Ability to read and follow cooking directions
- Ability to remain calm in a fast-paced environment
- Must be organized and self-motivated
- Must be able to stand, bend, stretch, and lift, and carry heavy materials up to 50 pounds
- Flexibility to work a variable schedule including weekends and evenings
Physical and Mental Requirements
Language Skills:
Ability to read and interpret documents such as contracts, operating and maintenance instructions and procedure manuals. Ability to write routine reports and correspondence. Ability to speak effectively before groups of customers or employees of the organization.
Mathematical Skills:
Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists. Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram or schedule form.
Physical Demands:
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. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions as long as it would not create undue hardship.
While performing the duties of this position, the employee is frequently required to sit, talk, hear, walk, use hands and fingers to feel, handle or operate objects and reach with hands and arms.
The employee may occasionally lift and/or move objects up to 30 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this position include close vision and the ability to adjust focus.
Psychological Demands:
The mental demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions as long as it would not create undue hardship.
While performing the duties of this position, the employee is frequently required to work in a team environment, handle a fast-paced environment and be flexible and willing to accept change. Must also have the ability to communicate with others, both verbally and in writing.
Work Environment:
The work environment described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions as long as it would not create undue hardship.
On occasion, to perform the work it may be necessary to travel in an automobile to other locations in the field either alone or accompanied by a co-worker.
TEAM Schostak Family Restaurants reserves the right to change, amend, add, delete and otherwise assign any and all duties, responsibilities, and position titles as it deems necessary to meet the needs of its business.
What Applebee's employees say
Pay
Benefits
Hours and flexibility
Workplace
Get the full story on Breakroom
About Applebee's Restaurants
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
Industry
Food services and drinking places
Company size
10,000+ Employees
Headquarters location
Leawood, KS, US