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
Washington, DC · On-site
$20/hr
Participate in preparation, cooking, and portioning of large quantities of meat, fish, fowl ... Prior experience as a cook, production kitchen or contract dining experience (2-4 years) * ServSafe ...
Cook
Washington, DC · On-site
$20/hr
Participate in preparation, cooking, and portioning of large quantities of meat, fish, fowl ... Prior experience as a cook, production kitchen or contract dining experience (2-4 years) * ServSafe ...
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 ...
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
Potomac, MD · 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
Potomac, MD · 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
Bethesda, MD · 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
Bethesda, MD · 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
Washington, DC · 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
Washington, DC · 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
Bethesda, MD · 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
Bethesda, MD · 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
Washington, DC · 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
Washington, DC · 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
Washington, DC · 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
Washington, DC · 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
Grill Cook
Mclean, VA · On-site
$14.50 - $18.50/hr
Under a major Intelligence Community contract, IAP provides facility services including operations ... cooking, including seasoning. • Measures and mixes ingredients according to recipe. • Deep ...
Grill Cook
Mclean, VA · On-site
$14.50 - $18.50/hr
Under a major Intelligence Community contract, IAP provides facility services including operations ... cooking, including seasoning. • Measures and mixes ingredients according to recipe. • Deep ...
Cook with Security Clearance
Fairfax, VA · On-site
$14.25 - $19.25/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 with Security Clearance
Fairfax, VA · On-site
$14.25 - $19.25/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 ...
Grill Cook
$14.50 - $18.50/hr
Under a major Intelligence Community contract, IAP provides facility services including operations ... Performs food preparation work for cooking, including seasoning. Measures and mixes ingredients ...
Grill Cook
$14.50 - $18.50/hr
Under a major Intelligence Community contract, IAP provides facility services including operations ... Performs food preparation work for cooking, including seasoning. Measures and mixes ingredients ...
Cook
$14.75 - $19.50/hr
Description Southern Foodservice Management , a national contract food service provider, is looking for an experienced Cook . You should be committed to providing the best possible dining experience ...
Cook
$14.75 - $19.50/hr
Description Southern Foodservice Management , a national contract food service provider, is looking for an experienced Cook . You should be committed to providing the best possible dining experience ...
Cook
Springfield, VA · On-site
$14.75 - $19.50/hr
Southern Foodservice Management , a national contract food service provider, is looking for an experienced Cook . You should be committed to providing the best possible dining experience for the team ...
Quick apply
Cook
Springfield, VA · On-site
$14.75 - $19.50/hr
Southern Foodservice Management , a national contract food service provider, is looking for an experienced Cook . You should be committed to providing the best possible dining experience for the team ...
Cook
Springfield, VA · On-site
$14.75 - $19.50/hr
Job Type Full-time Description Southern Foodservice Management , a national contract food service provider, is looking for an experienced Cook . You should be committed to providing the best possible ...
Cook
Springfield, VA · On-site
$14.75 - $19.50/hr
Job Type Full-time Description Southern Foodservice Management , a national contract food service provider, is looking for an experienced Cook . You should be committed to providing the best possible ...
Description Cook-- Private School Full Time Position Benefits Eligible Pay Rate: $20 an hour Brock & Company, Inc. is the premier provider of contract food management to private and independent ...
Description Cook-- Private School Full Time Position Benefits Eligible Pay Rate: $20 an hour Brock & Company, Inc. is the premier provider of contract food management to private and independent ...
Contract Cooking information
See Washington salary details
$11.16 - $12.42
1% of jobs
$12.42 - $13.69
2% of jobs
$13.69 - $14.95
5% of jobs
$14.95 - $16.21
8% of jobs
$16.91 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$16.21 - $17.47
15% of jobs
$17.47 - $18.74
14% of jobs
The median wage is $19.05 / hr.
$18.74 - $20
19% of jobs
$20.92 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$20 - $21.26
15% of jobs
$21.26 - $22.52
12% of jobs
$22.52 - $23.79
5% of jobs
$23.79 - $25.05
4% of jobs
$11
$19
$25
How much do contract cooking jobs pay per hour?
As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract cooking in Washington is $19.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.16 and $21.49 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 Washington?
The most popular types of Cooking jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Contract Cooking jobs?
Cities in Washington with the most Contract Cooking job openings:
Job description
IAP World Services, an Intrepid Global Solutions company, is a recognized leader in Facilities Management and Operations in support of Defense, Intelligence, and National Security missions.
Under a major Intelligence Community contract, IAP provides facility services including operations, maintenance, engineering, logistics, construction, grounds, custodial, environmental, safety, safety, access control, events, and food services.
IAP is seeking a Cook who will prepare in large quantities, by various methods of cooking, meat, poultry, fish, and vegetables, seasons and cooks all cuts of various meats, fish, and poultry.
Responsibilities:
• Prepares and cooks to order foods requiring short and longer preparation time.
• Prepares food and serves customers at an a la carte station or may operate a grill station.
• Prepares food in accordance with current applicable federal, state, and corporate standards, guidelines and regulations to ensure high-quality food service is provided.
• Reads food order or receives verbal instructions on food requested by customer and prepares and cooks food according to instructions.
• Always provides the highest quality of service to customers.
• Follows basic recipes and/or product directions for preparing, seasoning, cooking, tasting, carving, and serving soups, meats, vegetables, desserts and other foodstuffs for consumption in eating establishments.
• Experience/Knowledge:
• High School diploma, GED or equivalent experience.
• 3 or more years of related work experience.
• Certifications: ServSafe Preferred
Clearance: TS/SCI
Intrepid Acquisition Holdings, LLC
www.intrepidgs.com
Intrepid Acquisition Holdings, LLC. (IAH), is a leading provider of global-scale logistics, facilities management, and advanced professional and technical services. IAH provides a broad spectrum of services and solutions to U.S. and international government agencies, and organizations. As a world-class leader in providing seasoned program management, IAH leverages and integrates its capabilities to provide safe, innovative, and reliable solutions to meet customers' diverse and complex challenges.
Intrepid Acquisition Holdings, LLC. ("IAH" and/or "Company") and its affiliates, including but not limited to IAP World Services, Inc., Readiness Management Support L.C., JPATS Logistics Services, LLC., and subsidiaries is an EOE, including disability/vets.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.
Under a major Intelligence Community contract, IAP provides facility services including operations, maintenance, engineering, logistics, construction, grounds, custodial, environmental, safety, safety, access control, events, and food services.
IAP is seeking a Cook who will prepare in large quantities, by various methods of cooking, meat, poultry, fish, and vegetables, seasons and cooks all cuts of various meats, fish, and poultry.
Responsibilities:
• Prepares and cooks to order foods requiring short and longer preparation time.
• Prepares food and serves customers at an a la carte station or may operate a grill station.
• Prepares food in accordance with current applicable federal, state, and corporate standards, guidelines and regulations to ensure high-quality food service is provided.
• Reads food order or receives verbal instructions on food requested by customer and prepares and cooks food according to instructions.
• Always provides the highest quality of service to customers.
• Follows basic recipes and/or product directions for preparing, seasoning, cooking, tasting, carving, and serving soups, meats, vegetables, desserts and other foodstuffs for consumption in eating establishments.
• Experience/Knowledge:
• High School diploma, GED or equivalent experience.
• 3 or more years of related work experience.
• Certifications: ServSafe Preferred
Clearance: TS/SCI
Intrepid Acquisition Holdings, LLC
www.intrepidgs.com
Intrepid Acquisition Holdings, LLC. (IAH), is a leading provider of global-scale logistics, facilities management, and advanced professional and technical services. IAH provides a broad spectrum of services and solutions to U.S. and international government agencies, and organizations. As a world-class leader in providing seasoned program management, IAH leverages and integrates its capabilities to provide safe, innovative, and reliable solutions to meet customers' diverse and complex challenges.
Intrepid Acquisition Holdings, LLC. ("IAH" and/or "Company") and its affiliates, including but not limited to IAP World Services, Inc., Readiness Management Support L.C., JPATS Logistics Services, LLC., and subsidiaries is an EOE, including disability/vets.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.