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Cook Helper Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Concordia College at Moorhead

Cook

Moorhead, MN

$13.75 - $18.50/hr

The Cookalso supervises student cooks helpers and works to keep work areas andequipment clean and maintained. The Cook keeps accurate production records. What You'll Do * Support the mission and ...

Concordia College

Cook

Moorhead, MN · On-site

$13.75 - $18.50/hr

The Cookalso supervises student cooks helpers and works to keep work areas andequipment clean and maintained. The Cook keeps accurate production records. What You'll Do * Support the mission and ...

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How much do cook helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for cook helper in Minnesota is $16.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.05 and $19.33 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 Minnesota? The most popular types of Cook jobs in Minnesota are:
What are popular job titles related to Cook Helper jobs in Minnesota? For Cook Helper jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Cook Helper jobs in Minnesota look for? The top searched job categories for Cook Helper jobs in Minnesota are:
What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Cook Helper jobs? Cities in Minnesota with the most Cook Helper job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Cook Helper jobs in MN? For Cook Helper jobs in MN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Cook Helper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cook Helper job openings in Minnesota as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $35,164 per year, or $16.9 per hour.

Cook Helper (Class I) - Minnetonka High School, 4 positions available at 4-6 hours per day ($21.7...

Minnetonka Public School District

Minnetonka, MN • On-site

$21.72/hr

Other

Posted 13 days ago

Job description


Assignment:
Four positions available starting the 2026-2027 school year.  
4-6 hours per day - applicant choice in half hour increments  
*Building assignment subject to change based on staffing needs
Positions works on all school days.  Click here to view the 2026-2027 academic calendar.  
Training and kitchen opening will take place the week before school starts on August 24-26.
Wages and Benefits:
$21.72  Click here to view pay rates for this position. Rates can be found in Schedule A. 
6 hours per day positions provide medical and dental benefit eligibility Click here to view benefit details. 
Please note that the linked wages, contract and benefits reflect 2025-2026.  The new rates will be posted once they are finalized. 
Job Responsibilities: 












  1. Follows Cook Manager or Cook's instruction in heating, cooking, and pre-dishing food, as well as setting up serving areas.
  2. Follows instructions in portioning, garnishing and serving of food items.
  3. Follows instructions and procedures in clean-up of kitchen and serving areas.
  4. Follows standards of safety and sanitation in handling, storing and serving of food items.
  5. Accurately performs record keeping functions as requested by Cook Manager.
  6. Assists in preparing food items.
  7. Performs point-of-sale and cashiering duties as part of kitchen rotation.
  8. Performs other duties of a similar nature or level.


Job Qualifications: 

  1. ServSafe Certification desirable.
  2. Computer experience helpful.
  3. Ability to follow oral and written directions.
  4. Must have basic math skills.
  5. Must enjoy working with students.
  6. Strong communication skills and interpersonal skills as applied to interaction with coworkers, supervisor, the general public, etc. sufficient to exchange or convey information and to receive work direction.
  7. Ability to meet the physical demands of the position (including the ability to lift up to 40 pounds) as assessed through a preplacement physical at Concentra.


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