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Contract Cooking Jobs in Missouri (NOW HIRING)

Cook

Saint Louis, MO

$13.25 - $17.50/hr

This role is perfect for someone who enjoys cooking, takes pride in their work, and thrives in an ... This position description does not constitute an employment contract of any kind. Paradies ...

Cook

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$13.50 - $18.25/hr

Cook As a Cook, you will prepare high-quality meals in accordance with standardized recipes and ... contract. HVMG is an equal opportunity employer. We will not discriminate against employees or ...

Cook

Saint Louis, MO

$13.50 - $18.25/hr

Cook As a Cook, you will prepare high-quality meals in accordance with standardized recipes and ... contract. HVMG is an equal opportunity employer. We will not discriminate against employees or ...

Cook

Saint Louis, MO

$13.50 - $18.25/hr

Cook As a Cook, you will prepare high-quality meals in accordance with standardized recipes and ... contract. HVMG is an equal opportunity employer. We will not discriminate against employees or ...

Cook

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$13.25 - $17.50/hr

This role is perfect for someone who enjoys cooking, takes pride in their work, and thrives in an ... This position description does not constitute an employment contract of any kind. Paradies ...

Operate cooking equipment and stations, which may include grills, ovens, and other kitchen ... Job Type & Location This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Richmond Heights, MO. Pay and ...

New

Line Cook

Sullivan, MO · On-site

$14.50 - $18.25/hr

... various cooking techniques and kitchen equipment, an attention to detail, and a commitment to ... This is not an employment agreement or contract. Management has the exclusive right to alter this ...

Line Cook

Sullivan, MO

$14.50 - $18.25/hr

... various cooking techniques and kitchen equipment, an attention to detail, and a commitment to ... This is not an employment agreement or contract. Management has the exclusive right to alter this ...

Line Cook

Sullivan, MO · On-site

$14.50 - $18.25/hr

... various cooking techniques and kitchen equipment, an attention to detail, and a commitment to ... This is not an employment agreement or contract. Management has the exclusive right to alter this ...

Support back-of-house operations by performing food preparation, cooking, tray line setup, and food ... Job Type & Location This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Richmond Heights, MO. Pay and ...

New

Experienced Line Cook

Troy, MO · On-site

$14.25 - $18/hr

... various cooking techniques and kitchen equipment, an attention to detail, and a commitment to ... This is not an employment agreement or contract. Management has the exclusive right to alter this ...

Experienced Line Cook

Troy, MO · On-site

$14.25 - $18/hr

... various cooking techniques and kitchen equipment, an attention to detail, and a commitment to ... This is not an employment agreement or contract. Management has the exclusive right to alter this ...

Experienced Line Cook

Troy, MO · On-site

$14.25 - $18/hr

... various cooking techniques and kitchen equipment, an attention to detail, and a commitment to ... This is not an employment agreement or contract. Management has the exclusive right to alter this ...

Cook

Maryville, MO

$17 - $23/hr

Previous cooking or kitchen experience required * Knowledge of food safety and sanitation practices ... Contract to Hire position based out of Maryville, MO. Pay and Benefits The pay range for this ...

Prep Cook - Morton Amphitheater

Riverside, MO · On-site

$13.75 - $17.50/hr

The ideal candidate will have a culinary degree or have graduated from a certified apprenticeship program with a minimum of 2-3 years of cooking experience in the contract foodservice industry ...

Prep Cook - Morton Amphitheater

Riverside, MO · On-site

$13.75 - $17.50/hr

The ideal candidate will have a culinary degree or have graduated from a certified apprenticeship program with a minimum of 2-3 years of cooking experience in the contract foodservice industry ...

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Showing results 1-20

Contract Cooking information

See Missouri salary details

$9

$16

$20

How much do contract cooking jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract cooking in Missouri is $16.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.18 and $17.84 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Cooking jobs in Missouri?

The most popular types of Cooking jobs in Missouri are:

What cities in Missouri are hiring for Contract Cooking jobs?

Cities in Missouri with the most Contract Cooking job openings:

Infographic showing various Contract Cooking job openings in Missouri as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 66% Full Time, 31% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,376 per year, or $16 per hour.

$13.25 - $17.50/hr

Part-time

Posted 28 days ago


Job description

POSITION DESCRIPTION

POSITION TITLE: Cook

EMPLOYMENT CLASSIFICATION: Non-Exempt

POSITION REPORTS TO: General Manager

DEPARTMENT: Food and Beverage

SHIFTS: Part Time Monday-Sunday 11AM-Close including weekdays, weekends, and holidays, based on business needs.

POSITION DESCRIPTION SUMMARY

Looking for a job that keeps you moving and lets you be part of a team that serves travelers from all over the world? King Side Diner at St. Louis Lambert International Airport is seeking a dependable and motivated Cook to join our team.

As a Cook, you'll prepare fresh, high-quality food while helping create a great dining experience for guests traveling through the airport. You'll work in a fast-paced environment where attention to detail, teamwork, and food safety are essential. This role is perfect for someone who enjoys cooking, takes pride in their work, and thrives in an energetic atmosphere. At King Side Diner, we're looking for team members who bring energy, reliability, and a passion for great food. If you're ready to join a dedicated team in one of St. Louis's most unique dining environments, we'd love to hear from you.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Prepare and cook menu items according to recipes and company standards.
  • Ensure food is presented attractively and served at the appropriate temperature.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary kitchen environment.
  • Follow all food safety, sanitation, and health regulations.
  • Properly store, label, and rotate food products.
  • Assist with prepping ingredients and stocking workstations.
  • Monitor food quality and report shortages or quality concerns to management.
  • Safely operate kitchen equipment and follow all safety procedures.
  • Support fellow team members to ensure smooth kitchen operations.
  • Complete opening, closing, and cleaning duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS
  • Previous cooking, food preparation, or restaurant experience preferred.
  • Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment.
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
  • Excellent teamwork and communication skills.
  • Reliable attendance and punctuality.
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain airport security clearance.
  • Availability to work overnight shifts, including weekends and holidays as needed.
  • High School Diploma | GED Required
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
  • Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
  • Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull up to 50 pounds.
  • Ability to work in hot kitchen environments and refrigerated storage areas.
  • Ability to bend, reach, and perform repetitive motions throughout the shift.
WHY JOIN KING SIDE DINER?
  • Part-time overnight schedule.
  • Fast-paced airport environment with a diverse customer base.
  • Supportive and team-oriented workplace.
  • Opportunity for growth and development.
  • Competitive pay.
  • Chance to be part of a team that helps travelers start and end their journeys with a great meal.
Disclaimer

This position description is merely intended to describe the primary elements of the position. Paradies Lagardère reserves the right to change the position description and to assign additional duties and responsibilities, as necessary. This position description does not constitute an employment contract of any kind.

Paradies Lagardere is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, marital status, military or veteran status, gender identity and expression, genetic information, or any other factor protected by law.

We are committed to creating a diverse and welcoming workplace that includes individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences. The Company is committed to offering reasonable accommodations to job applicants with disabilities.  2849 PACES FERRY ROAD | OVERLOOK I, 4TH FLOOR | ATLANTA, GEORGIA 30339 |ph. 404.344.7905 | fax. 404.349.3226