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Cook Helper Jobs in Portland, ME (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

UZP- GRACE MANAGEMENT INC

Cook

Topsham, ME

$23/hr

The Cook reports to the Dining Services Director. Essential Functions of the Cook * Prepare and ... Grace Management, Inc. is committed to helping nurture a sense of belonging by helping you grow ...

The Highlands

Cook

Topsham, ME · On-site

$23/hr

The Cook reports to the Dining Services Director. Essential Functions of the Cook * Prepare and ... Grace Management, Inc. is committed to helping nurture a sense of belonging by helping you grow ...

Grace Management, Inc.

Cook

Topsham, ME · On-site

$23/hr

The Cook reports to the Dining Services Director. Essential Functions of the Cook * Prepare and ... Grace Management, Inc. is committed to helping nurture a sense of belonging by helping you grow ...

Atria Senior Living

Cook

Kennebunk, ME

$14.50 - $19.50/hr

Overview We create communities where employees thrive in their work, helping our residents thrive ... Join the kitchen staff in preparing and cooking food for our residents. * Build positive ...

Atria Senior Living

Cook

Kennebunk, ME

$22 - $26.40/hr

We create communities where employees thrive in their work, helping our residents thrive in their ... One (1) to three (3) years of experience as a cook in a hospitality or healthcare environment

Applebee's

Restaurant Cook - Flexible Schedule

Windham, ME

$14 - $18.75/hr

Windham is looking for a Restaurant Cook to join our team in Windham, ME. This position is ... Most importantly, a strong work ethic and a willingness to learn will help you go far at Applebee ...

Applebee's

Restaurant Cook - Urgently Hiring

Windham, ME

$14 - $18.75/hr

Windham is looking for a Restaurant Cook to join our team in Windham, ME. This position is ... Most importantly, a strong work ethic and a willingness to learn will help you go far at Applebee ...

Sunnybrook

Cook/Chef, Full time

Brunswick, ME

$14.25 - $19/hr

Chef / Cook Full time Must be available days, early evenings and weekends Where Talent Meets ... Join us and help redefine the culinary experience in Senior Living. APPLY NOW Criminal Background ...

Atria Senior Living - Kennebunk

Cook

Kennebunk, ME

$22 - $26.40/hr

Overview We create communities where employees thrive in their work, helping our residents thrive ... One (1) to three (3) years of experience as a cook in a hospitality or healthcare environment

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Cook Helper information

See Portland, ME salary details

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How much do cook helper jobs pay per hour?

As of May 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for cook helper in Portland, ME is $17.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.58 and $19.95 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 the most commonly searched types of Cook jobs in Portland, ME? The most popular types of Cook jobs in Portland, ME are:
What are popular job titles related to Cook Helper jobs in Portland, ME? For Cook Helper jobs in Portland, ME, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Cook Helper jobs in Portland, ME look for? The top searched job categories for Cook Helper jobs in Portland, ME are:
Cook Helper jobs near you

Valley Unified Substitute Cook Helpers

Valley Unified Education Service Center

Kennebunk, ME • On-site

$16.75 - $21.50/hr

Other

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Valley Unified Substitute Cook Helpers  Position PurposeUnder the direct supervision of the Food Service Director, to assist in preparing and serving school meals in accordance with Board policy and established district procedures. 
Essential Functions

  • Assists in preparing school meals, according to the scheduled menu.
  • Assist in serving school meals.
  • Assist in cleaning the kitchen areas after meals have been served.
  • Assists students with orderly food purchases, distribution of food, disposal of food waste, and return of trays and utensils.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
  • Effective verbal and written communication skills.
  • Effective organizational and problem solving skills.
  • Ability to maintain composure and perform responsibilities under pressure. 
  • Ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with others contacted in the course of work.
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality about students in accordance with applicable laws, regulations and district guidelines.
Qualifications Profile
  • Must be willing to travel between the 3 districts
  • Any combination of education and experience providing the required skill and knowledge for successful performance would be qualifying. 
  • Typical qualifications would be equivalent to: 
    • High School Diploma or completion of sufficient education to successfully perform the duties of the position.
    • Previous experience in preparing and serving meals is desirable
    • Maine Criminal History Records Check (CHRC) is required.





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