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Cook Helper Jobs in Maine (NOW HIRING)

University of Rochester

SEIU Cook Helper

Danforth, ME

$19.13 - $25.95/hr

Assists in gathering food supplies and equipment for Cooks and assists them in the preparation of food. May perform grill and broiler activities independently. SUPERVISION AND DIRECTION EXERCISED:

Point Sebago Resort

COOK - 19th Hole Golf Course

Casco, ME · On-site

$13.25 - $18/hr

Point Sebago Resort Our cooks help to ensure our guests have a wonderful experience by preparing food following established protocols. This position is seasonal. Reports to : 19th Hole Manager ...

Aramark

Cook

Kennebunk, ME

$14.50 - $19.50/hr

As a Cook on our team, you'll help bring recipes to life while being able to flex your creativity! Surrounded by fresh ingredients and the best equipment, you'll be immersed in a world that goes ...

Aramark

Cook

Kennebunk, ME · On-site

$14.50 - $19.50/hr

As a Cook on our team, you'll help bring recipes to life while being able to flex your creativity! Surrounded by fresh ingredients and the best equipment, you'll be immersed in a world that goes ...

Aramark

Cook

Kennebunk, ME

$14.50 - $19.50/hr

As a Cook on our team, you'll help bring recipes to life while being able to flex your creativity! Surrounded by fresh ingredients and the best equipment, you'll be immersed in a world that goes ...

Stillwater Health Care

Cook

Bangor, ME · On-site

$14.25 - $19/hr

The cook duties might also include helping prep cook, working as a diet aid or helping out in the dish room. Cook Job Summary~ Working for a Maine owned company while taking care of Maine people our ...

Stillwater Health Care

Cook

Bangor, ME · On-site

$14.25 - $19/hr

The cook duties might also include helping prep cook, working as a diet aid or helping out in the dish room. Cook Job Summary~ Working for a Maine owned company while taking care of Maine people our ...

Stillwater Health Care

Cook

Bangor, ME · On-site

$18.25 - $20.25/hr

The cook duties might also include helping prep cook, working as a diet aid or helping out in the dish room. Cook Job Summary~ Working for a Maine owned company while taking care of Maine people our ...

Stillwater Health Care

Cook

Bangor, ME

$14.25 - $19/hr

The cook duties might also include helping prep cook, working as a diet aid or helping out in the dish room. Cook Job Summary~ Working for a Maine owned company while taking care of Maine people our ...

Sunriseseniorliving

Cook

Kennebunk, ME

$14.50 - $19.50/hr

As a Cook, you prepare high-quality meals that support residents' health and enjoyment while ... As part of our team, you will help brighten the future for everyone at Sunrise and beyond. That is ...

SSH DT Portland LLC

Cook

Portland, ME · On-site

$14.50 - $19.50/hr

Help set up the restaurant and employee cafeteria buffet as applicable. Prepare all menu and ... Understanding of basic cooking techniques and kitchen equipment. Strong attention to detail ...

Sunriseseniorliving

Cook

Kennebunk, ME

$14.50 - $19.50/hr

As a Cook, you prepare high-quality meals that support residents' health and enjoyment while ... As part of our team, you will help brighten the future for everyone at Sunrise and beyond. That is ...

StepStone Hospitality

Cook

Portland, ME · On-site

$14.50 - $19.50/hr

... Help set up the restaurant and employee cafeteria buffet as applicable. • Prepare all menu and ... cooking experience in a restaurant or commercial kitchen preferred. • Understanding of basic ...

StepStone Hospitality Inc.

Cook

South Portland, ME · On-site

$14.50 - $19.50/hr

... Help set up the restaurant and employee cafeteria buffet as applicable. · Prepare all menu and ... cooking experience in a restaurant or commercial kitchen preferred. · Understanding of basic ...

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All JobsCook Helper JobsCook Helper Jobs in Maine

Cook Helper information

See Maine salary details

$9

$16

$20

How much do cook helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for cook helper in Maine is $16.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $19.09 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the work of cook helper?

A cook helper assists in food preparation and kitchen cleanup under the supervision of chefs or cooks. Their tasks include chopping ingredients, washing dishes, and organizing supplies, often requiring basic cooking skills and knowledge of food safety standards. The role supports efficient kitchen operations and may involve working early mornings, evenings, or weekends.

Can I get paid to cook at home?

Cook helpers typically work in commercial kitchens or food service establishments and are paid for their labor. Cooking at home for personal use is unpaid, but some individuals may earn money by preparing meals for others through catering or meal prep services, which require skills and sometimes certifications. In general, paid cooking jobs are performed in professional environments rather than at home.

How much is the salary for a kitchen helper?

The salary for a kitchen helper typically ranges from $10 to $15 per hour, depending on location, experience, and the establishment. Entry-level positions may pay closer to the lower end, while experienced helpers or those in high-cost areas may earn more.

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 a cook's helper called?

A cook's helper is often called a kitchen assistant or food prep worker. They assist with basic food preparation, cleaning, and organizing in a kitchen environment, supporting chefs and cooks. This role typically requires basic cooking knowledge and the ability to follow instructions.

What is the difference between Cook Helper vs Kitchen Assistant?

AspectCook HelperKitchen Assistant
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; basic culinary skillsHigh school diploma; general kitchen knowledge
Work EnvironmentCommercial kitchens, restaurants, catering servicesRestaurants, cafeterias, food service establishments
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly employed in food service industry to assist cooksUsed 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 Cook Helpers?

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 most commonly searched types of Cook jobs in Maine? The most popular types of Cook jobs in Maine are:
What are popular job titles related to Cook Helper jobs in Maine? For Cook Helper jobs in Maine, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Cook Helper jobs in Maine look for? The top searched job categories for Cook Helper jobs in Maine are:
What cities in Maine are hiring for Cook Helper jobs? Cities in Maine with the most Cook Helper job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Cook Helper jobs in ME? For Cook Helper jobs in ME, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Cook Helper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cook Helper job openings in Maine as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, and 21% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $34,762 per year, or $16.7 per hour.

SEIU Cook Helper

University of Rochester

Danforth, ME

$19.13 - $25.95/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 21 days ago

University Of Rochester rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 186 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

123rd of 613 rated colleges and universities

Job description

As a community, the University of Rochester is defined by a deep commitment to Meliora - Ever Better. Embedded in that ideal are the values we share: equity, leadership, integrity, openness, respect, and accountability. Together, we will set the highest standards for how we treat each other to ensure our community is welcoming to all and is a place where all can thrive.

Job Location (Full Address):

740 Library Rd, Rochester, New York, United States of America, 14627

Opening:

Worker Subtype:

Regular

Time Type:

Part time

Scheduled Weekly Hours:

29.5

Department:

200812 Danforth Dining/Aux Ops

Work Shift:

UR - Day (United States of America)

Range:

UR SEIU 025 H

Compensation Range:

$19.13 - $25.95

The referenced pay range represents the first and last step pay rates for this job, as set forth in the applicable collective bargaining agreement. Individual pay will be set in accordance with terms of the applicable collective bargaining agreement.

Responsibilities:

Assists in gathering food supplies and equipment for Cooks and assists them in the preparation of food. May perform grill and broiler activities independently.SUPERVISION AND DIRECTION EXERCISED:None.MACHINES AND EQUIPMENT USED:Ovens, microwave ovens, ranges, grills, fryers, steamers, steam kettles, broilers, mixers, tilting brazing skillet, choppers, blenders, grinders, slicers, woks, tenderizers, bowls, kettles, pots, vischer cookers, vertical cutter mixer, toasters, pans, utensils, measuring cups and spoons, knives and other related equipment.TYPICAL DUTIES:1.Tends foods that are cooking and tests them for progress of cooking. May adjust cooking time and temperature and add seasonings and ingredients as directed. Prepares beverages and like items. May prepare special diet foods and short-order foods such as on grills or in broiler.2. Peels, washes, trims and cuts vegetables, fruit, meat, cheese and other foods. Measures and mixes ingredients according to computer-generated recipes.3. Prepares servings of food items. Makes up patients' trays and serves food onto a food truck or containers. Observes precautions against deterioration and degradation of prepared foods, foods awaiting preparation and leftovers awaiting proper storage.4. Removes food from carts when returned; wraps, stores, processes or discards as directed. Cleans utensils, equipment and work area, stores food in prescribed manner and follows all other instructions to maintain prescribed standards of sanitation and safety.5. Obtains and arranges food, supplies, and utensils and prepares oven, fryers and grills. May obtain food trucks, containers and trays.REQUIREMENTS:Requires knowledge of the methods of food preparation, ability to read and write English and understand and follow oral and written instructions and 1 year experience in commercial food service; or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Ability to lift items weighing approximately 40-50 pounds

The University of Rochester is committed to fostering, cultivating, and preserving an inclusive and welcoming culture to advance the University's Mission to Learn, Discover, Heal, Create - and Make the World Ever Better. In support of our values and those of our society, the University is committed to not discriminating on the basis of age, color, disability, ethnicity, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, military/veteran status, national origin, race, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, citizenship status,or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law (Protected Characteristics). This commitment extends to non-discrimination in the administration of our policies, admissions, employment, access, and recruitment of candidates, for all persons consistent with our values and based on applicable law.

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