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Contract Cooking Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Cook

Waconia, MN ยท On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Experience in cooking and kitchen tasks is required for this position. New Horizon Foods is a dining contract company that specializes in providing services tailored to the location and client. We ...

Cook (Waverly)

Waverly, MN ยท On-site

$14.50 - $19.50/hr

Experience in cooking and kitchen tasks is required for this position. Why Join New Horizon Foods ... New Horizon Foods is a dining contract company that specializes in providing services tailored to ...

Part-Time Cook

Minneapolis, MN ยท On-site

$20 - $24/hr

Experience in cooking and kitchen tasks is required for this position. Why Join New Horizon Foods ... New Horizon Foods is a dining contract company that specializes in providing services tailored to ...

Experience in cooking and kitchen tasks is required for this position. Why Join New Horizon Foods ... New Horizon Foods is a dining contract company that specializes in providing services tailored to ...

Cook (Waverly)

Waverly, MN ยท On-site

$14.50 - $19.50/hr

Experience in cooking and kitchen tasks is required for this position. Why Join New Horizon Foods ... New Horizon Foods is a dining contract company that specializes in providing services tailored to ...

Cook

Moorhead, MN ยท On-site

$13.75 - $18.50/hr

Prepare food for residential dining, catering, and contract customers and other events according to ... Previous large quantity cooking experience; * High school degree or GED; * Working knowledge of ...

Experienced batch Cook

Minneapolis, MN ยท On-site

$14.50 - $19.50/hr

Experience in cooking and kitchen tasks is required for this position. Why Join New Horizon Foods ... New Horizon Foods is a dining contract company that specializes in providing services tailored to ...

Breakfast - Cook

Mahtomedi, MN ยท On-site

$15 - $19.50/hr

Experience in cooking and kitchen tasks is required for this position. Why Join New Horizon Foods ... New Horizon Foods is a dining contract company that specializes in providing services tailored to ...

Experience in cooking and kitchen tasks is required for this position. Why Join New Horizon Foods ... New Horizon Foods is a dining contract company that specializes in providing services tailored to ...

Breakfast - Cook

Mahtomedi, MN

$14.75 - $19.50/hr

Experience in cooking and kitchen tasks is required for this position. Why Join New Horizon Foods ... New Horizon Foods is a dining contract company that specializes in providing services tailored to ...

Experienced batch Cook

Minneapolis, MN

$14 - $18.75/hr

Experience in cooking and kitchen tasks is required for this position. Why Join New Horizon Foods ... New Horizon Foods is a dining contract company that specializes in providing services tailored to ...

Hospital Cook

Brooklyn Park, MN ยท On-site

$19 - $24/hr

Experience in cooking and kitchen tasks is required for this position. Why Join New Horizon Foods ... New Horizon Foods is a dining contract company that specializes in providing services tailored to ...

Cook/Driver- Commissary

Saint Peter, MN ยท On-site

$15.50 - $20.75/hr

Experience in cooking and kitchen tasks is required for this position. New Horizon Foods is a dining contract company that specializes in providing services tailored to the location and client. We ...

Cook/Driver- Commissary

Saint Peter, MN

$15.50 - $20.75/hr

Experience in cooking and kitchen tasks is required for this position. New Horizon Foods is a dining contract company that specializes in providing services tailored to the location and client. We ...

PT PM Cook

Chaska, MN ยท On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Experience in cooking and kitchen tasks is required for this position. New Horizon Foods is a dining contract company that specializes in providing services tailored to the location and client. We ...

Experience in cooking and kitchen tasks is required for this position. New Horizon Foods is a dining contract company that specializes in providing services tailored to the location and client. We ...

Cook II

Minneapolis, MN ยท On-site

$24.20/hr

Summary The Line Cook II prepares all food items while giving attention to cleanliness and ... Pay rate outlined follows contract requirements. Unite Here Local 17 Sonesta Recognizes that ...

Cook

Sherburn, MN ยท On-site

$13.04/hr

Student Nutrition Services/Cook Date Posted: 7/6/2026 Location: Martin County West Jr/Sr High ... Benefits - Short list of benefits, more detailed in the Educational Support Professionals contract

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Contract Cooking information

See Minnesota salary details

$9

$16

$21

How much do contract cooking jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract cooking in Minnesota is $16.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.86 and $18.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Contract Cooking vs Restaurant Cooking?

AspectContract CookingRestaurant Cooking
Work EnvironmentVarious locations, often temporary or project-basedSpecific restaurant or food service establishment
CredentialsCooking experience, food safety certifications often preferredCooking experience, food safety certifications typically required
Employment TypeTemporary, freelance, or contract basisFull-time or part-time employment within a restaurant
Industry UsageUsed by catering companies, event services, or food contractorsUsed within the hospitality and food service industry

Contract Cooking involves preparing food at various locations on a temporary basis, often for events or catering, while Restaurant Cooking is based within a specific restaurant or food establishment. Both roles require similar culinary skills and certifications, but their work environments and employment types differ significantly.

What is contract cooking?

Contract cooking is a service where a professional chef or catering company is hired to prepare meals for clients under a formal agreement. This arrangement can be for individuals, families, businesses, or large-scale events. Contract cooks may work on-site in private homes, commercial kitchens, or company cafeterias, providing customized menus based on clients' dietary needs and preferences. The service can be short-term, like for a special event, or ongoing, such as providing daily meals for a business or institution.

What are some common challenges faced by contract cooks, and how can they be successfully managed?

Contract cooks often work in diverse settings, from corporate cafeterias to event venues, which means adapting quickly to different kitchens and equipment. One challenge is managing varying client expectations while maintaining consistent food quality under tight deadlines. Flexibility, strong organizational skills, and clear communication with both clients and team members are key to overcoming these obstacles. Building a reputation for reliability and versatility can also open up more opportunities for advancement and recurring contracts.

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

To thrive as a Contract Cook, you need strong culinary skills, knowledge of food safety regulations, and often formal training or certification in food handling. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, menu planning software, and inventory management systems is typically required. Excellent time management, adaptability, and teamwork help contract cooks excel in various kitchen environments and client settings. These skills ensure high-quality meal preparation, compliance with health standards, and reliable service delivery across diverse assignments.
What are the most commonly searched types of Cooking jobs in Minnesota? The most popular types of Cooking jobs in Minnesota are:
Infographic showing various Contract Cooking job openings in Minnesota as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 62% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 17% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,850 per year, or $16.8 per hour.
Youth Enrichment Instructor - Cooking

Youth Enrichment Instructor - Cooking

Minnesota Service Cooperatives

Fergus Falls, MN โ€ข On-site

$27.20 - $43.42/hr

Other

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

At Hopkins Public Schools, we believe that our strength lies in the diversity of our students, staff, and community. We are a proudly inclusive E-12 district serving approximately 7,200 students across the City of Hopkins and surrounding communities. Our district represents a rich mosaic of cultures, backgrounds, identities, and lived experiences; we value and celebrate that diversity in everything we do. As an academically rigorous and human-centered district, we are committed to fostering a welcoming environment where every student and staff member feels seen, heard, and valued. There is no "typical" Hopkins student, and we embrace this truth as a catalyst for innovation, growth, and equity in learning.
We seek educators and staff who are equity-minded, culturally responsive, and deeply committed to creating inclusive spaces where all learners can thrive.
We welcome candidates who are passionate about dismantling systemic barriers, advancing justice, and preparing students to become bold, collaborative, and compassionate global citizens. When you join Hopkins Public Schools, you are not just joining a district, you are becoming part of a community that honors difference, nurtures potential, and inspires remarkable achievement in every learner, from birth through graduation.
You are welcome at Hopkins. You belong at Hopkins.





SUMMARY

The Youth Enrichment Instructor is part of the Hopkins Community Education Youth Enrichment team and is responsible for delivering high-quality, engaging, and inclusive programming for youth. This position is supervised by the Supervisor of Enrichment and contributes to a cohesive, district-wide enrichment model serving students across multiple sites and program areas.

POSITION OVERVIEW

This role focuses on hands-on culinary programming, teaching youth basic cooking skills, nutrition awareness, and kitchen safety through engaging, age-appropriate lessons.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Core Responsibilities

  • Deliver engaging, developmentally appropriate programming aligned with Community Education standards
  • Ensure the safety and supervision of all participants
  • Foster inclusive, culturally responsive learning environments
  • Manage attendance, transitions, and program routines
  • Communicate effectively with students, families, and staff
  • Maintain program materials, spaces, and documentation
  • Follow all district policies, procedures, and behavior guidance practices
  • Support a collaborative, team-based enrichment model across sites

Role-Specific Responsibilities

  • Plan and lead hands-on cooking classes and camps
  • Ensure food safety, sanitation, and kitchen safety practices
  • Manage food purchasing, preparation, and storage within district guidelines
  • Adapt recipes and instruction to accommodate allergies and dietary restrictions

QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum Requirements:

  • High School Diploma or GED
  • 2+ years of experience working with youth

Preferred:

  • Experience in culinary arts, food education, or hospitality
  • Food safety certification

PHYSICAL / WORKING CONDITIONS

  • Ability to actively supervise and engage with youth for extended periods
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 20 pounds
  • Work in classroom or kitchen environments
  • Schedule may include evenings, weekends, and non-school days

Compensation and Schedule:

Hourly Range: $27.20 - $43.42 DOE, 261 Days
Position specific Benefits information is available HERE
Union Contracts, Position Handbook/Agreements are located HERE




Minnesota Service Cooperatives logo

About Minnesota Service Cooperatives

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Minnesota Service Cooperatives (MSC) is a distinguished organization based in Saint Paul, MN, US, committed to serving the public sector across the state. Operating on the larger sphere of public sector services, MSC's core operations revolve around administering cooperative procurement, education, health, and risk management services for its members. Carrying a remarkable heritage originating from a statutory establishment in 1976, they are divided into seven geographical areas to distinctively serve cities, counties, schools and non-profit entities.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

201 - 500 Employees

Headquarters location

Saint Paul, MN, US