Cook
Centerville, IA · On-site
$11.50 - $15.50/hr
As a SONIC Drive-In Cook, your primary responsibility is to provide every guest with a SuperSONIC ... help motivate • Maintaining SONIC safety and sanitation standards What You'll Need: • ...
Cook
Centerville, IA · On-site
$11.50 - $15.50/hr
As a SONIC Drive-In Cook, your primary responsibility is to provide every guest with a SuperSONIC ... help motivate • Maintaining SONIC safety and sanitation standards What You'll Need: • ...
Cook
Coralville, IA · On-site
$18 - $20/hr
Responsibilities Cook Wage: $18-20/hour Full-time and part-time positions available Day/Evening ... help the department operate efficiently Qualifications * Minimum of 2 years of experience in a ...
Cook
Coralville, IA · On-site
$18 - $20/hr
Responsibilities Cook Wage: $18-20/hour Full-time and part-time positions available Day/Evening ... help the department operate efficiently Qualifications * Minimum of 2 years of experience in a ...
Cook
Ottumwa, IA · On-site
$14/hr
Responsibilities Cook -Wage: $14/hour -Full-time position available -Day shifts available ... help the department operate efficiently Qualifications * Minimum of 2 years of experience in a ...
Cook
Ottumwa, IA · On-site
$14/hr
Responsibilities Cook -Wage: $14/hour -Full-time position available -Day shifts available ... help the department operate efficiently Qualifications * Minimum of 2 years of experience in a ...
Cook
$12.50 - $15.50/hr
Join our dynamic team as a talented Cook and help us continue the Louisiana tradition of cooking and serving with love. Enjoy paid training, flexible scheduling, and comprehensive benefits while ...
Quick apply
Cook
$12.50 - $15.50/hr
Join our dynamic team as a talented Cook and help us continue the Louisiana tradition of cooking and serving with love. Enjoy paid training, flexible scheduling, and comprehensive benefits while ...
Cook
Ottumwa, IA · On-site
$14/hr
Responsibilities Cook -Wage: $14/hour -Full-time position available -Day shifts available ... help the department operate efficiently Qualifications * Minimum of 2 years of experience in a ...
Cook
Ottumwa, IA · On-site
$14/hr
Responsibilities Cook -Wage: $14/hour -Full-time position available -Day shifts available ... help the department operate efficiently Qualifications * Minimum of 2 years of experience in a ...
Cook
Council Bluffs, IA · On-site
$13.50 - $17/hr
Join our dynamic team as a talented Cook and help us continue the Louisiana tradition of cooking and serving with love. Enjoy paid training, flexible scheduling, and comprehensive benefits while ...
Quick apply
Cook
Council Bluffs, IA · On-site
$13.50 - $17/hr
Join our dynamic team as a talented Cook and help us continue the Louisiana tradition of cooking and serving with love. Enjoy paid training, flexible scheduling, and comprehensive benefits while ...
Cook
Coralville, IA · On-site
$18 - $20/hr
Responsibilities Cook Wage: $18-20/hour Full-time and part-time positions available Day/Evening ... help the department operate efficiently Qualifications * Minimum of 2 years of experience in a ...
Cook
Coralville, IA · On-site
$18 - $20/hr
Responsibilities Cook Wage: $18-20/hour Full-time and part-time positions available Day/Evening ... help the department operate efficiently Qualifications * Minimum of 2 years of experience in a ...
Cook
$12.50 - $15.50/hr
Join our dynamic team as a talented Cook and help us continue the Louisiana tradition of cooking and serving with love. Enjoy paid training, flexible scheduling, and comprehensive benefits while ...
Quick apply
Cook
$12.50 - $15.50/hr
Join our dynamic team as a talented Cook and help us continue the Louisiana tradition of cooking and serving with love. Enjoy paid training, flexible scheduling, and comprehensive benefits while ...
Cook
Marshalltown, IA · On-site
$13 - $17.50/hr
Join the Food and Nutrition Services team at Marshalltown Hospital, where you'll help provide ... As a Cook, you'll prepare a variety of hot food items while maintaining high standards for food ...
Cook
Marshalltown, IA · On-site
$13 - $17.50/hr
Join the Food and Nutrition Services team at Marshalltown Hospital, where you'll help provide ... As a Cook, you'll prepare a variety of hot food items while maintaining high standards for food ...
Cook
Marshalltown, IA · On-site
$13 - $17.50/hr
Join the Food and Nutrition Services team at Marshalltown Hospital, where you'll help provide ... As a Cook, you'll prepare a variety of hot food items while maintaining high standards for food ...
Cook
Marshalltown, IA · On-site
$13 - $17.50/hr
Join the Food and Nutrition Services team at Marshalltown Hospital, where you'll help provide ... As a Cook, you'll prepare a variety of hot food items while maintaining high standards for food ...
Cook
Mechanicsville, IA · On-site
$17.34 - $22.44/hr
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 ...
Cook
Mechanicsville, IA · On-site
$17.34 - $22.44/hr
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 ...
Cook
Center Point, IA · On-site
$17.34 - $22.44/hr
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 ...
Cook
Center Point, IA · On-site
$17.34 - $22.44/hr
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 ...
Cook
Anamosa, IA · On-site
$17.34 - $22.44/hr
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 ...
Cook
Anamosa, IA · On-site
$17.34 - $22.44/hr
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 ...
Cook
Atalissa, IA · On-site
$17.34 - $22.44/hr
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 ...
Cook
Atalissa, IA · On-site
$17.34 - $22.44/hr
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 ...
Cook
Princeton, IA · On-site
$17 - $24.50/hr
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 ...
Cook
Princeton, IA · On-site
$17 - $24.50/hr
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 ...
Cook Helper information
See Iowa salary details
$9.26 - $10.24
1% of jobs
$10.24 - $11.23
3% of jobs
$11.23 - $12.21
2% of jobs
$12.21 - $13.20
1% of jobs
$13.20 - $14.18
9% of jobs
$14.50 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$14.18 - $15.17
26% of jobs
$15.17 - $16.15
6% of jobs
The median wage is $16.29 / hr.
$16.15 - $17.14
7% of jobs
$17.14 - $18.12
11% of jobs
$18.47 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$18.12 - $19.11
21% of jobs
$19.11 - $20.09
11% of jobs
$9
$16
$20
How much do cook helper jobs pay per hour?
As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for cook helper in Iowa is $16.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.47 and $18.51 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What is a cook helper?
Cook Helpers assist chefs and cooks in preparing and serving food in kitchens. Their duties often include washing and chopping ingredients, cleaning kitchen equipment, organizing supplies, and helping with basic cooking tasks. They play an essential role in maintaining kitchen hygiene and ensuring that food preparation runs smoothly and efficiently. Cook Helpers typically work in restaurants, cafeterias, hotels, or other food service establishments.
What are some common challenges cook helpers face during busy meal service times?
Cook Helpers often face the challenge of working efficiently under pressure during peak meal service times. They must keep up with rapidly changing orders, maintain cleanliness, and ensure ingredients are prepped and available for cooks. Balancing speed with attention to detail is crucial, as mistakes can impact food quality and kitchen workflow. Strong communication and teamwork help Cook Helpers support chefs and contribute to a smooth, successful service.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a cook helper, and why are they important?
To thrive as a Cook Helper, you need basic food preparation skills, knowledge of kitchen safety, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, food handling certifications, and inventory tracking systems is beneficial. Strong teamwork, time management, and the ability to follow instructions help you stand out in this role. These skills ensure efficient kitchen operations, food safety, and effective support for chefs and cooks.
What is the difference between Cook Helper vs Kitchen Assistant?
| Aspect | Cook Helper | Kitchen Assistant |
|---|---|---|
| Required Credentials | High school diploma or equivalent; basic culinary skills | High school diploma; general kitchen knowledge |
| Work Environment | Commercial kitchens, restaurants, catering services | Restaurants, cafeterias, food service establishments |
| Employer & Industry Usage | Commonly employed in food service industry to assist cooks | Used across various food service settings to support kitchen operations |
Cook Helper and Kitchen Assistant roles often overlap, with both supporting kitchen staff in food prep and cleaning. However, Cook Helpers typically focus more on assisting cooks with specific culinary tasks, while Kitchen Assistants handle broader support duties like cleaning and basic prep. Both roles require similar credentials and are vital in maintaining efficient kitchen operations.
What are the most commonly searched types of Cook jobs in Iowa?
The most popular types of Cook jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Cook Helper jobs in Iowa?
For Cook Helper jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Cook Helper jobs in Iowa look for?
The top searched job categories for Cook Helper jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Cook Helper jobs?
Cities in Iowa with the most Cook Helper job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Cook Helper jobs in IA?
For Cook Helper jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Sonic Drive-In rating
4.6
Based on 1,639 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
86th of 107 rated fast food restaurants
Job description
Description:
As a SONIC Drive-In Cook, your primary responsibility is to provide every guest with a SuperSONIC experience by:
• Cooking, creating, and packaging delicious menu items
• Trying to beat your best record, every time
• Being proactive (If you're not busy now, you may be in 5 minutes!)
• Continuously communicating with team to help motivate
• Maintaining SONIC safety and sanitation standards
What You'll Need:
• Contagiously positive attitude
• Ability to remain calm, especially in tough situations
• Resilient spirit - knowing everyone makes mistakes and can bounce back from a set-back
• Eagerness to learn and grow
• Ability to multi-task, switching from one task to another with ease
• Team mentality and willingness to help where needed
• Effective communication skills; basic math and reading skills
• Willingness to work flexible hours; night, weekend, and holiday shifts
Requirements:
SONIC Drive-In Restaurant Cook Requirements:
- Ability to work irregular hours, nights, weekends and holidays
- Ability to be flexible in all situations based on business need
- Effective communication skills; basic math and reading skills
- Ability to follow directions
- Willingness to abide by the appearance, uniform and hygiene standards at SONIC Drive-In restaurants
- General knowledge and understanding of the restaurant industry or retail operations preferred, but not required
Additional Info:
Additional SONIC Drive-In Restaurant Cook Qualifications...
- Friendly and smiling faces that enjoy providing quality products for our guests!
- A willingness to cross-train on all the stations - it never gets boring here!
- Motivated individuals who are team players and committed to keeping our drive-in clean and safe.
Sure, classic cars and vintage threads may be things of the past, but the SONIC Drive-In restaurant experience will always be groovy, right on, awesome, wicked, fab, the bee's knees, cruisin' . . . you get the picture! It's downright sensational!!
All that's missing is you, so APPLY TODAY!
SONIC and its independent franchise owners are Equal Opportunity Employers.
As a SONIC Drive-In Cook, your primary responsibility is to provide every guest with a SuperSONIC experience by:
• Cooking, creating, and packaging delicious menu items
• Trying to beat your best record, every time
• Being proactive (If you're not busy now, you may be in 5 minutes!)
• Continuously communicating with team to help motivate
• Maintaining SONIC safety and sanitation standards
What You'll Need:
• Contagiously positive attitude
• Ability to remain calm, especially in tough situations
• Resilient spirit - knowing everyone makes mistakes and can bounce back from a set-back
• Eagerness to learn and grow
• Ability to multi-task, switching from one task to another with ease
• Team mentality and willingness to help where needed
• Effective communication skills; basic math and reading skills
• Willingness to work flexible hours; night, weekend, and holiday shifts
Requirements:
SONIC Drive-In Restaurant Cook Requirements:
- Ability to work irregular hours, nights, weekends and holidays
- Ability to be flexible in all situations based on business need
- Effective communication skills; basic math and reading skills
- Ability to follow directions
- Willingness to abide by the appearance, uniform and hygiene standards at SONIC Drive-In restaurants
- General knowledge and understanding of the restaurant industry or retail operations preferred, but not required
Additional Info:
Additional SONIC Drive-In Restaurant Cook Qualifications...
- Friendly and smiling faces that enjoy providing quality products for our guests!
- A willingness to cross-train on all the stations - it never gets boring here!
- Motivated individuals who are team players and committed to keeping our drive-in clean and safe.
Sure, classic cars and vintage threads may be things of the past, but the SONIC Drive-In restaurant experience will always be groovy, right on, awesome, wicked, fab, the bee's knees, cruisin' . . . you get the picture! It's downright sensational!!
All that's missing is you, so APPLY TODAY!
SONIC and its independent franchise owners are Equal Opportunity Employers.
What Sonic Drive-In employees say
Pay
Benefits
Hours and flexibility
Workplace
Get the full story on Breakroom
About Sonic Drive-In
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
Industry
Food and beverage stores and restaurants
Company size
10,000+ Employees
Headquarters location
Atlanta, GA, US