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Cook Food Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Cook/Food Service

Apollo, PA · On-site

$13 - $17.25/hr

As a Cook your primary responsibility is cooking and providing meals for our residents. * Handle and prepare food in a sanitary manner. * Prepare nutritious and attractive meals for residents. * Keep ...

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Cook Food information

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$8

$16

$22

How much do cook food jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for cook food in the United States is $16.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.46 and $18.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a cook do?

A cook is responsible for preparing and cooking food in restaurants, cafeterias, or other dining establishments. Their duties include following recipes, measuring ingredients, operating kitchen equipment, and ensuring food safety standards are met. Cooks may specialize in certain types of cuisine or food preparation methods, and they often work as part of a team to deliver quality meals efficiently. They also clean their work areas and may assist with menu planning or inventory management.

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

To thrive as a Cook, you need a solid understanding of food preparation, kitchen safety, and culinary techniques, often supported by a culinary certificate or on-the-job training. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, recipe management systems, and food safety certifications like ServSafe is typically required. Strong time management, teamwork, and attention to detail are essential soft skills for maintaining quality and efficiency during busy service hours. These skills ensure consistent food quality, safe kitchen operations, and a positive dining experience for customers.

What are some common challenges cooks face during busy service hours, and how can they effectively manage them?

During peak service times, cooks often juggle multiple orders, tight deadlines, and high-pressure environments. Staying organized, prioritizing tasks, and maintaining clear communication with team members—such as servers and other kitchen staff—are essential for smooth operations. Effective time management and developing the ability to work efficiently under pressure can help cooks deliver quality dishes consistently. Many kitchens also rely on prep work and standardized procedures to streamline busy periods.

What is the difference between Cook Food vs Kitchen Assistant?

AspectCook FoodKitchen Assistant
CredentialsFood safety certification, culinary trainingBasic food handling, safety training
Work EnvironmentCommercial kitchens, restaurants, cateringSupport roles in kitchens, prep areas
Employer & Industry UsageRestaurants, hotels, catering servicesRestaurants, cafeterias, food service facilities
Common Search & Comparison IntentCooking skills, culinary jobsKitchen support, food prep roles

Cook Food and Kitchen Assistant roles often overlap in food preparation and work environments. However, Cooks typically have specialized culinary skills and certifications, working directly on preparing meals, while Kitchen Assistants support the kitchen operations with basic tasks. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find roles aligned with their skills and career goals.

More about Cook Food jobs

What cities are hiring for Cook Food jobs?

Cities with the most Cook Food job openings:

What states have the most Cook Food jobs?

States with the most job openings for Cook Food jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Cook Food jobs?

For Cook Food jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Cook Food job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 69% Full Time, 30% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,340 per year, or $16 per hour.

Cook - Food Preparation

Georgetown, GA • On-site

Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Bluffton

$16 - $23/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Cook Career Opportunity - $1,000 Sign-On Bonus


Recognized for your culinary skills
Are you passionate about creating culinary delights that leave a lasting impression? If so, we have an exciting opportunity for a cook who not only brings skill to the kitchen but also seeks a career close to home and close to heart. In this role, you'll be instrumental in preparing therapeutic and modified diets for patients. Join us in a culinary journey that goes beyond the kitchen and resonates with the warmth of helping others. If you're ready to infuse your love for cooking into a career that matters, your next chapter starts here. Welcome to a kitchen where your skills meet a sense of belonging.

A Glimpse into Our World
At Encompass Health, you'll experience the difference the moment you become a part of our team. Working with us means aligning with a rapidly growing national inpatient rehabilitation leader. Our achievements include being named one of the "World's Most Admired Companies" and receiving the Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For® Award, among other accolades, which is nothing short of amazing.

Starting Perks and Benefits
At Encompass Health, we are committed to creating a supportive, inclusive, and caring environment where you can thrive. From day one, you will have access to:

  • Affordable medical, dental, and vision plans for both full-time and part-time employees and their families.
  • Generous paid time off that accrues over time.
  • Opportunities for tuition reimbursement and continuous education.
  • Company-matching 401(k) and employee stock purchase plans.
  • Flexible spending and health savings accounts.
  • A vibrant community of individuals passionate about the work they do!
  • Shifts: 5:30 am-2 pm, 11:00 am-7:00 pm, and a mid-shift.
  • Flexible shift scheduling - no late nights

Become the Cook you always wanted to be

  • Apportion servings according to menu combinations or orders for patients.
  • Follow menus, recipes, and oral instructions in the preparation of various foods.
  • Serve appropriate portion sizes based on menu specifications.
  • Plan timing of preparation of the food to ensure food satisfaction.
  • Ensure satisfaction regarding taste, texture, temperature and appearance.

Qualifications

  • Possession of a food handler's permit, if required by state or county regulations.
  • Training in food preparation for therapeutic diets.
  • Recent institutional cooking experience and/or exposure to special function cooking are desirable.
  • Familiarity with all H.A.C.C.P. and food safety guidelines.
  • Flexibility in working weekdays, weekends, evenings, or night shifts to meet deadlines is expected.