ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Cook Chef Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

American Cruise Lines

Lead Line Cook

Fort Madison, IA · On-site

$15.50 - $20/hr

Lead Line Cook American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line in the United States, is looking to ... You assist the Executive Chef/Sous Chef with the preparation and service of "all" food related ...

American Cruise Lines

Lead Line Cook

Fort Madison, IA

$15.50 - $20/hr

Lead Line Cook American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line in the United States, is looking to ... You assist the Executive Chef/Sous Chef with the preparation and service of "all" food related ...

Meskwaki Bingo Casino Hotel

Lucky's Sous Chef

Tama, IA · On-site

$41K - $56K/yr

This position directly supervises Lucky's Grill & Taproom cooks and dishwashers. This position has the authority, through proper channels and as approved by the Executive Sous Chef/Executive Chef, to ...

Fleming's

Sous Chef

West Des Moines, IA · On-site

$45K - $62K/yr

As a successful Sous Chef, you will be the key to fulfilling our promise to make every guest visit ... Ensuring line checks, testing, training, recipe adherence, expo management, cook times, cooking ...

HOTEL JULIEN

Banquet Cook

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$17 - $21.25/hr

The Banquet Cook is responsible for preparing and executing high-quality dishes for banquets ... Communicate with chefs, banquet servers, and kitchen staff to ensure smooth service flow. Assist ...

HOTEL JULIEN

Banquet Cook

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$15 - $19/hr

The Banquet Cook is responsible for preparing and executing high-quality dishes for banquets ... Communicate with chefs, banquet servers, and kitchen staff to ensure smooth service flow. Assist ...

HOTEL JULIEN

Banquet Cook

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$15 - $19/hr

The Banquet Cook is responsible for preparing and executing high-quality dishes for banquets ... Communicate with chefs, banquet servers, and kitchen staff to ensure smooth service flow. Assist ...

Compass Group

Sous Chef

Davenport, IA

$55K - $60K/yr

Unidine's commitment to scratch cooking, innovative programs, venue concepts and services continues ... As a Sous Chef I, you are responsible for assisting with the overall success of the food program ...

Unidine

Sous Chef

Davenport, IA · On-site

$55K - $60K/yr

Unidine's commitment to scratch cooking, innovative programs, venue concepts and services continues ... As a Sous Chef I, you are responsible for assisting with the overall success of the food program ...

Compass Group

Sous Chef

Davenport, IA · On-site

$55K - $60K/yr

Unidine's commitment to scratch cooking, innovative programs, venue concepts and services continues ... As a Sous Chef I, you are responsible for assisting with the overall success of the food program ...

Compass Group

Sous Chef

Davenport, IA

$55K - $60K/yr

Unidine's commitment to scratch cooking, innovative programs, venue concepts and services continues ... As a Sous Chef I, you are responsible for assisting with the overall success of the food program ...

GATEWAY HOTEL & CONFERENCE CENTER

Prep Cook

Ames, IA

$14 - $17.50/hr

Prepping and cooking menu items for our full-service banquet kitchen to the exacting standards and specifications set forth by the Executive Chef. Essential Functions: Set up and stock stations with ...

Gateway Hotel and Conference Center

Prep Cook

Ames, IA · On-site

$14 - $17.50/hr

Prepping and cooking menu items for our full-service banquet kitchen to the exacting standards and specifications set forth by the Executive Chef. Essential Functions: • Set up and stock stations ...

GATEWAY HOTEL & CONFERENCE CENTER

Prep Cook

Ames, IA · On-site

$14 - $17.50/hr

Prepping and cooking menu items for our full-service banquet kitchen to the exacting standards and specifications set forth by the Executive Chef. Essential Functions: • Set up and stock stations ...

Edgewater

Cook

Pella, IA

$15.26 - $19.23/hr

Cook As a Cook, you'll play a key role in supporting the health, happiness, and daily experience of ... Collaborate with Chefs and Food & Beverage Directors while gaining hands-on experience in a ...

WesleyLife

Cook

Pella, IA

$15.26 - $19.23/hr

Cook As a Cook, you'll play a key role in supporting the health, happiness, and daily experience of ... Collaborate with Chefs and Food & Beverage Directors while gaining hands-on experience in a ...

WesleyLife

Cook

Pella, IA

$15.26 - $19.23/hr

Cook As a Cook, you'll play a key role in supporting the health, happiness, and daily experience of ... Collaborate with Chefs and Food & Beverage Directors while gaining hands-on experience in a ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsCook Chef JobsCook Chef Jobs in Iowa

Cook Chef information

See Iowa salary details

$8

$15

$20

How much do cook chef jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for cook chef in Iowa is $15.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.64 and $16.92 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs pay $2000 a day?

High-paying jobs that can reach $2000 a day often include specialized roles such as executive chefs in luxury restaurants, private chefs for high-net-worth individuals, or consultants in certain industries. These positions typically require extensive experience, advanced skills, and sometimes certifications, and they may involve long hours or high-pressure environments.

What is the highest paying job for a cook?

The highest paying roles for cooks include executive chefs and head chefs in fine dining restaurants, hotels, or resort kitchens, often earning six-figure salaries. These positions typically require extensive experience, advanced culinary skills, and management responsibilities. Specialized roles such as culinary directors or restaurant owners can also command higher compensation.

What is the average pay of a chef?

The average pay of a chef varies depending on experience, location, and establishment type, but typically ranges from $30,000 to $60,000 annually. Executive chefs and specialized culinary roles can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $70,000 per year. Skills such as menu planning and kitchen management can influence earning potential.

What are some common challenges faced by Cook Chefs in a fast-paced kitchen environment?

Cook Chefs often encounter challenges such as managing time efficiently during busy shifts, maintaining consistency in food quality, and adapting to last-minute changes in orders or menu items. In a fast-paced kitchen, multitasking and clear communication with team members are essential to ensure that meals are prepared correctly and delivered promptly. Handling stress and staying organized under pressure are key skills that help chefs thrive and maintain a positive work atmosphere.

What is the difference between Cook Chef vs Line Cook?

AspectCook ChefLine Cook
CredentialsBasic culinary training, certifications varySimilar culinary training, often with certifications
Work EnvironmentProfessional kitchens, restaurants, hotelsKitchen stations within restaurants, fast-paced environments
Employer & Industry UsageUsed broadly in hospitality and food serviceCommonly used in restaurants, catering, and hotels
Search & Comparison IntentOften compared for career progressionCompared for entry-level or specialized roles

The main difference between a Cook Chef and a Line Cook lies in their roles and responsibilities. A Cook Chef typically oversees kitchen operations, menu planning, and supervises staff, while a Line Cook focuses on preparing specific dishes at a designated station. Both roles require culinary skills and certifications, but the Cook Chef often has more experience and responsibilities. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify the right position for their skills and career goals.

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

To thrive as a Cook Chef, you need strong culinary skills, knowledge of food safety standards, and often a culinary degree or relevant kitchen experience. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, point-of-sale systems, and certifications like ServSafe are typically required. Creativity, teamwork, and the ability to work efficiently under pressure are vital soft skills for this role. These skills ensure high-quality food preparation, smooth kitchen operations, and customer satisfaction in a fast-paced environment.

Can a cook work as a chef?

A cook can work as a chef if they gain additional skills, experience, and often formal culinary training or certifications. While both roles involve preparing food, a chef typically has more responsibility, leadership duties, and advanced culinary knowledge. Transitioning from cook to chef usually requires demonstrating proficiency and leadership in a professional kitchen environment.

What are Cook Chefs?

Cook Chefs are culinary professionals responsible for preparing, cooking, and presenting food in restaurants, hotels, or other dining establishments. They may handle a variety of tasks including recipe creation, ingredient preparation, and ensuring food safety standards are met. Cook Chefs often work under the supervision of a head chef or may lead a kitchen team themselves, depending on their experience and the size of the establishment. Their role is essential in delivering quality meals and maintaining kitchen efficiency.
What job categories do people searching Cook Chef jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Cook Chef jobs in Iowa are:
Cook Chef jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cook Chef job openings in Iowa as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,315 per year, or $15.1 per hour.
Chef - Weekend Package

Chef - Weekend Package

Story County Medical Center

Nevada, IA • On-site

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Description
Join us at Story County Medical Center as a Chef in our Senior Care Center! Located in Nevada, Iowa, Story Medical is proud to deliver high-quality healthcare across multiple specialties in a welcoming, community-focused setting. As part of our team, you'll not only create delicious meals-you'll also make a meaningful impact on the lives of those we serve.
What You'll Do as a Chef:
  • Prepare and serve meals using standardized recipes that prioritize nutrition, taste, and presentation.
  • Follow food safety guidelines with care, including hand hygiene, labeling, and storage practices.
  • Keep your workspace clean, organized, and in line with departmental standards.
  • Review menus and production sheets to plan ahead and ensure meals are ready on time.
  • Portion and present food attractively and accurately.
  • Maintain strict confidentiality regarding patients, residents, and staff.

What We're Looking For:
Are you detail-oriented, organized, and passionate about supporting patient and resident care through exceptional food service? Ideal candidates bring the following:
Required Qualifications:
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Age 18 or older
  • Completion of Always Food Safe Certification (within 90 days of hire)
  • Dependent Adult Mandatory Reporter certification (within 90 days of hire)
  • Knowledge of food preparation methods
  • Ability to plan, prioritize, and meet deadlines
  • Strong communication and reading/writing skills
  • Legal authorization to work in the United States

Preferred Qualifications:
  • 2+ years of large-quantity cooking experience, ideally in a healthcare or senior living environment

Why Story Medical?
We know that a strong team is the heart of great care. That's why we invest in our employees with:
  • Competitive pay (commensurate with experience)
  • Comprehensive benefits package
  • Wellness resources and support for work-life balance
  • Professional development and career growth opportunities
  • A welcoming, supportive environment where your contributions are valued

Position Details:
  • Department: Food & Nutrition - Senior Care
  • Schedule: Weekend Package (6:00am-6:00pm, Saturday & Sunday)
  • Employment Type: Weekend Package
  • Salary: Competitive, based on experience

Work Authorization: Story Medical hires only individuals legally authorized to work in the U.S. Sponsorship is not available for this position.
Take the next step in your career journey! Apply today and join our dedicated team at Story County Medical Center-where your skills make a difference every day.

Apply