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Contract Cooking Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

New Horizon Foods

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 ...

New Horizon

Cook/Driver- Commissary

Saint Peter, MN · 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 ...

New Horizon

Healthcare Cook - E/O Weekend OFF!!

Buffalo, MN · On-site

$14.75 - $19.75/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 ...

Martin County West School District

Cook

Sherburn, MN · On-site

$13.04/hr

Benefits - Short list of benefits, more detailed in the Educational Support Professionals contract ... For more information, contact Tammy Holm, Head Cook, at tammyholm@mcwmavericks.org.

Martin County West School District

Cook

Sherburn, MN · On-site

$13.04/hr

Benefits - Short list of benefits, more detailed in the Educational Support Professionals contract ... For more information, contact Tammy Holm, Head Cook, at tammyholm@mcwmavericks.org.

Concordia College at Moorhead

Cook

Moorhead, MN

$13.75 - $18.50/hr

... and contract services in Dining Services and ensure the highest level of service for all customers ... Supervise cooks' helpers and works to keep work areas and equipment clean and maintained. * Keep ...

New Horizon

Cook - NO LATE NIGHTS, E/O WEEKEND OFF!

Waverly, MN · 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 ...

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All JobsContract Cooking JobsContract Cooking Jobs in Minnesota

Contract Cooking information

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$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:
Contract Cooking jobs near you
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.
Healthcare Cook - E/O Weekend OFF

Healthcare Cook - E/O Weekend OFF

New Horizon Foods

Buffalo, MN

$14.75 - $19.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

Healthcare Cook - E/O Weekend OFF!!
CookLocation: Buffalo, MNWhat Makes This Location Special- This Location Special- No Late nights! Very Flexible hours. Great company that supports you! Daily Pay Available!

We are seeking a cook to join our team. The ideal candidate will have a positive attitude, excellent customer service skills, and the ability to work on their feet for extended periods of time. Experience in cooking and kitchen tasks is required for this position.

Why Join New Horizon Foods?When you join our team, you're not just cooking—you're caring. You'll be part of a supportive, mission-driven company that values teamwork, integrity, and a passion for service. We take pride in serving communities across the country, and we're looking for cooks who care as much as we do.New Horizon Foods is a dining contract company that specializes in providing services tailored to the location and client. We have been in operation for over 30 years and are currently in more than 10 states. Our employees are our greatest asset and reason for our success. Great employees make great experiences. Benefits:
  • Flexible hours
  • NO Late Nights!
  • Ability to advance in the company
  • Health benefits for Full Time employees
  • PTO for Full Time employees
Responsibilities:
  • Meal preparation
  • Food preparation and proper storage
  • Assist maintaining all health code regulations in kitchen
  • Ensure that all food is presented in an attractive and appetizing manner
  • Provide excellent customer service to residents and guests
  • Assist with cleaning and sanitizing the kitchen and dining areas
  • Follow all safety and sanitation procedures
Requirements:
  • Positive attitude and excellent customer service skills
  • Ability to work on feet for extended periods of time
  • Ability to follow recipes
  • Understanding of basic cooking techniques
  • Reliable means of transportation to and from work
  • No experience required
Equal Opportunity Employer, including disabled and veterans.

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