Cook
Hampton, VA · On-site
$19/hr
The military supervisor shall assign required cooking tasks to all contractor contract cooks daily. * Food Preparation Surfaces. The Contractor shall prepare foods that are the Contractor ...
Cook
Hampton, VA · On-site
$19/hr
The military supervisor shall assign required cooking tasks to all contractor contract cooks daily. * Food Preparation Surfaces. The Contractor shall prepare foods that are the Contractor ...
Cook
Hampton, VA · On-site
$19/hr
The military supervisor shall assign required cooking tasks to all contractor contract cooks daily. * Food Preparation Surfaces. The Contractor shall prepare foods that are the Contractor ...
Cook
Hampton, VA · On-site
$19/hr
The military supervisor shall assign required cooking tasks to all contractor contract cooks daily. * Food Preparation Surfaces. The Contractor shall prepare foods that are the Contractor ...
Cook
Hampton, VA · On-site
$19/hr
The military supervisor shall assign required cooking tasks to all contractor contract cooks daily. * Food Preparation Surfaces. The Contractor shall prepare foods that are the Contractor ...
Quick apply
Cook
Hampton, VA · On-site
$19/hr
The military supervisor shall assign required cooking tasks to all contractor contract cooks daily. * Food Preparation Surfaces. The Contractor shall prepare foods that are the Contractor ...
Line Cooks / Prep Cooks
Richmond, VA · On-site
$14.75 - $18.25/hr
Contract Line Cooks / Prep Cooks Location: Richmond, VA We are seeking skilled Line Cooks and Prep Cooks for contract positions in Richmond, VA. The ideal candidates will have experience in high ...
Line Cooks / Prep Cooks
Richmond, VA · On-site
$14.75 - $18.25/hr
Contract Line Cooks / Prep Cooks Location: Richmond, VA We are seeking skilled Line Cooks and Prep Cooks for contract positions in Richmond, VA. The ideal candidates will have experience in high ...
Lead Cook
Virginia Beach, VA · On-site
$16.50 - $21/hr
- LEAD COOK JOB TITLE Lead Cook REPORTS TO Project Manager DIVISION Contracts FLSA Non-Exempt Summary Work under the supervision of the Kitchen Manager, prepare and supervise meals that are prepared in ...
Lead Cook
Virginia Beach, VA · On-site
$16.50 - $21/hr
- LEAD COOK JOB TITLE Lead Cook REPORTS TO Project Manager DIVISION Contracts FLSA Non-Exempt Summary Work under the supervision of the Kitchen Manager, prepare and supervise meals that are prepared in ...
Lead Cook
Virginia Beach, VA · On-site
$16.50 - $21/hr
- LEAD COOK JOB TITLE Lead Cook REPORTS TO Project Manager DIVISION Contracts FLSA Non-Exempt Summary Work under the supervision of the Kitchen Manager, prepare and supervise meals that are prepared in ...
Lead Cook
Virginia Beach, VA · On-site
$16.50 - $21/hr
- LEAD COOK JOB TITLE Lead Cook REPORTS TO Project Manager DIVISION Contracts FLSA Non-Exempt Summary Work under the supervision of the Kitchen Manager, prepare and supervise meals that are prepared in ...
Cook
Mclean, VA · On-site
$14.25 - $19/hr
Under a major Intelligence Community contract, IAP provides facility services including operations ... cooking, meat, poultry, fish, and vegetables, seasons and cooks all cuts of various meats, fish ...
Cook
Mclean, VA · On-site
$14.25 - $19/hr
Under a major Intelligence Community contract, IAP provides facility services including operations ... cooking, meat, poultry, fish, and vegetables, seasons and cooks all cuts of various meats, fish ...
Cook
Mclean, VA · On-site
$14.25 - $19/hr
Under a major Intelligence Community contract, IAP provides facility services including operations ... Follows basic recipes and/or product directions for preparing, seasoning, cooking, tasting, carving ...
Cook
Mclean, VA · On-site
$14.25 - $19/hr
Under a major Intelligence Community contract, IAP provides facility services including operations ... Follows basic recipes and/or product directions for preparing, seasoning, cooking, tasting, carving ...
Cook I - FT - Virginia Beach, VA
Virginia Beach, VA · On-site
$13.25 - $17.75/hr
- COOK I JOB TITLE COOK I REPORTS TO Project Manager DIVISION Contracts FLSA Non-Exempt DOL OCC. CODE 07041 Summary Independently performs moderately difficult tasks in preparing small quantities of ...
Cook I - FT - Virginia Beach, VA
Virginia Beach, VA · On-site
$13.25 - $17.75/hr
- COOK I JOB TITLE COOK I REPORTS TO Project Manager DIVISION Contracts FLSA Non-Exempt DOL OCC. CODE 07041 Summary Independently performs moderately difficult tasks in preparing small quantities of ...
Cook I - FT - Virginia Beach, VA
Virginia Beach, VA · On-site
$13.25 - $17.75/hr
- COOK I JOB TITLE COOK I REPORTS TO Project Manager DIVISION Contracts FLSA Non-Exempt DOL OCC. CODE 07041 Summary Independently performs moderately difficult tasks in preparing small quantities of ...
Cook I - FT - Virginia Beach, VA
Virginia Beach, VA · On-site
$13.25 - $17.75/hr
- COOK I JOB TITLE COOK I REPORTS TO Project Manager DIVISION Contracts FLSA Non-Exempt DOL OCC. CODE 07041 Summary Independently performs moderately difficult tasks in preparing small quantities of ...
Cook
Mclean, VA · On-site
$21/hr
Participate in the preparation, cooking, and portioning of large quantities of meat, fish, fowl ... line and/or contract dining cook * ServSafe ® Certification and Allertrain or the ability to ...
Cook
Mclean, VA · On-site
$21/hr
Participate in the preparation, cooking, and portioning of large quantities of meat, fish, fowl ... line and/or contract dining cook * ServSafe ® Certification and Allertrain or the ability to ...
Cook
Hampden Sydney, VA · On-site
$15/hr
Participate in the preparation, cooking, and portioning of large quantities of meat, fish, fowl ... Prior experience as a restaurant line and contract dining cook preferred * ServSafe ® ...
Quick apply
Cook
Hampden Sydney, VA · On-site
$15/hr
Participate in the preparation, cooking, and portioning of large quantities of meat, fish, fowl ... Prior experience as a restaurant line and contract dining cook preferred * ServSafe ® ...
Floating Cook
Lynchburg, VA · On-site
$25/hr
Participate in the preparation, cooking, and portioning of large quantities of meat, fish, fowl ... line and/or contract dining cook * ServSafe ® Certification and Allertrain or the ability to ...
New
Floating Cook
Lynchburg, VA · On-site
$25/hr
Participate in the preparation, cooking, and portioning of large quantities of meat, fish, fowl ... line and/or contract dining cook * ServSafe ® Certification and Allertrain or the ability to ...
New
Floating Cook
Mclean, VA · On-site
$25/hr
Participate in the preparation, cooking, and portioning of large quantities of meat, fish, fowl ... line and/or contract dining cook * ServSafe ® Certification and Allertrain or the ability to ...
New
Floating Cook
Mclean, VA · On-site
$25/hr
Participate in the preparation, cooking, and portioning of large quantities of meat, fish, fowl ... line and/or contract dining cook * ServSafe ® Certification and Allertrain or the ability to ...
New
Floating Cook
Alexandria, VA · On-site
$25/hr
Participate in the preparation, cooking, and portioning of large quantities of meat, fish, fowl ... line and/or contract dining cook * ServSafe ® Certification and Allertrain or the ability to ...
New
Floating Cook
Alexandria, VA · On-site
$25/hr
Participate in the preparation, cooking, and portioning of large quantities of meat, fish, fowl ... line and/or contract dining cook * ServSafe ® Certification and Allertrain or the ability to ...
New
Floating Cook
Mclean, VA · On-site
$25/hr
Participate in the preparation, cooking, and portioning of large quantities of meat, fish, fowl ... line and/or contract dining cook * ServSafe ® Certification and Allertrain or the ability to ...
New
Floating Cook
Mclean, VA · On-site
$25/hr
Participate in the preparation, cooking, and portioning of large quantities of meat, fish, fowl ... line and/or contract dining cook * ServSafe ® Certification and Allertrain or the ability to ...
New
Floating Cook
Middleburg, VA · On-site
$25/hr
Participate in the preparation, cooking, and portioning of large quantities of meat, fish, fowl ... line and/or contract dining cook * ServSafe ® Certification and Allertrain or the ability to ...
New
Floating Cook
Middleburg, VA · On-site
$25/hr
Participate in the preparation, cooking, and portioning of large quantities of meat, fish, fowl ... line and/or contract dining cook * ServSafe ® Certification and Allertrain or the ability to ...
New
Cook
Richmond, VA · On-site
$18 - $19/hr
Participate in the preparation, cooking, and portioning of large quantities of meat, fish, fowl ... Two years' experience as a cook is desired, production kitchen or contract dining experience ...
Quick apply
Cook
Richmond, VA · On-site
$18 - $19/hr
Participate in the preparation, cooking, and portioning of large quantities of meat, fish, fowl ... Two years' experience as a cook is desired, production kitchen or contract dining experience ...
Cook II
Petersburg, VA · On-site
$20.41/hr
Description Southern Foodservice Management, a national contract food service company, is now looking to hire a Cook II for our location at Fort Lee. * The pay is $20.41 an hour * Must be available ...
Cook II
Petersburg, VA · On-site
$20.41/hr
Description Southern Foodservice Management, a national contract food service company, is now looking to hire a Cook II for our location at Fort Lee. * The pay is $20.41 an hour * Must be available ...
Cook II
Petersburg, VA · On-site
$20.41/hr
Southern Foodservice Management, a national contract food service company, is now looking to hire a Cook II for our location at Fort Lee. * The pay is $20.41 an hour * Must be available to work a ...
Cook II
Petersburg, VA · On-site
$20.41/hr
Southern Foodservice Management, a national contract food service company, is now looking to hire a Cook II for our location at Fort Lee. * The pay is $20.41 an hour * Must be available to work a ...
Contract Cooking information
See Virginia salary details
$9.77 - $10.88
1% of jobs
$10.88 - $11.98
2% of jobs
$11.98 - $13.09
5% of jobs
$13.09 - $14.19
8% of jobs
$14.80 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$14.19 - $15.30
15% of jobs
$15.30 - $16.40
14% of jobs
The median wage is $16.68 / hr.
$16.40 - $17.51
19% of jobs
$18.32 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$17.51 - $18.61
15% of jobs
$18.61 - $19.72
12% of jobs
$19.72 - $20.82
5% of jobs
$20.82 - $21.93
4% of jobs
$9
$16
$21
How much do contract cooking jobs pay per hour?
As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract cooking in Virginia is $16.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.00 and $18.85 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?
| Aspect | Contract Cooking | Restaurant Cooking |
|---|---|---|
| Work Environment | Various locations, often temporary or project-based | Specific restaurant or food service establishment |
| Credentials | Cooking experience, food safety certifications often preferred | Cooking experience, food safety certifications typically required |
| Employment Type | Temporary, freelance, or contract basis | Full-time or part-time employment within a restaurant |
| Industry Usage | Used by catering companies, event services, or food contractors | Used 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 Virginia?
The most popular types of Cooking jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Contract Cooking jobs?
Cities in Virginia with the most Contract Cooking job openings:
$19/hr
Contractor
Re-posted 13 days ago
Job description
LPR International is seeking qualified Cooks to support a contract based at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, VA. Cooks shall perform work at the Crossbow Dining Facility and/or the Raptor Café Expanded Flight Kitchen.
Job Requirements:
Qualifications:
Environmental:
All applicants requiring alternative methods of application or screening should contact LPR International directly.
LPR International is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, religion, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy, national origin, citizenship status, age, disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, status as a covered veteran, military discharge status, criminal records that have been sealed or expunged, arrest records not resulting in conviction or any other characteristic protected by federal, state and/or local law.
Job Requirements:
- Tasks include cooking, baking, serving and replenishing food, and preparing vegetables and fruits for the salad bar to ensure continued service.
- The military supervisor will coordinate daily requirements to support menu preparation, set-up and take down of serving lines, and food serving with Contractor's designated supervisor. The military supervisor shall assign required cooking tasks to all contractor contract cooks daily.
- Food Preparation Surfaces. The Contractor shall prepare foods that are the Contractor's responsibilities on surfaces that have been cleaned, rinsed, sanitized, and dried.
- Protection of Washed Foods. The Contractor shall store food not subject to further washing or cooking before serving, in a way that protects it against cross contamination.
- Preparation of Fruits and Vegetables for Pure Bar/Salad Bar. Contractor personnel shall prepare of raw fruits, vegetables and specialty salads for Pure Bar/Salad bars IAW Air Force recipes cards and perform the following functions in connection with the setup and break down of salad bar.
- The Contractor shall prepare and serve food in standard portions, IAW the Preface to The United States Air Force Food Service Menu serving standards, unless the patron requests smaller portions;
- The contractor shall prepare flight/ground meals such as sandwich meals, snack meals, frozen meals, and bite size meals
- Sanitation Requirements. The contractor shall comply with all federal and Air Force mandated sanitation requirements to include Air Force Instruction (AFI) 48-116, Food Safety Program and TB MED 530. The Contractor shall not use steel wool for any cleaning purposes.
Qualifications:
- Cooks are required to have a minimum two (2) years' experience
- Must have a demonstrated proficiency in the English language.
- Must possess excellent customer service skills and experience dealing with very diverse cultures.
Environmental:
- Ability to stand and walk for long periods of time.
- Ability to lift items weighing up to (40) pounds.
- Ability to stoop, reach, bend, twist and carry equipment.
- Ability to employ hand dexterity in the use of equipment
- Ability to handle moderate noise typical of a cafeteria setting.
- Clarity of vision at 20 feet or more.
All applicants requiring alternative methods of application or screening should contact LPR International directly.
LPR International is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, religion, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy, national origin, citizenship status, age, disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, status as a covered veteran, military discharge status, criminal records that have been sealed or expunged, arrest records not resulting in conviction or any other characteristic protected by federal, state and/or local law.