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Cook Helper Jobs in Portland, ME (NOW HIRING)

Cook

Falmouth, ME · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Role: Cook Join Healthcare Services Group (HCSG) as a Cook, where you will play a vital role in preparing and cooking nutritious meals for residents in a long-term care facility. At HCSG, we are ...

Cook

Westbrook, ME · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Cook Join Healthcare Services Group (HCSG) as a Cook, where you will play a vital role in preparing and cooking nutritious meals for residents in a long-term care facility. At HCSG, we are passionate ...

Cook

Kennebunk, ME · On-site

$23/hr

Role: Cook Join Healthcare Services Group (HCSG) as a Cook, where you will play a vital role in preparing and cooking nutritious meals for residents in a long-term care facility. At HCSG, we are ...

Cook

Kennebunk, ME · On-site

$23/hr

Cook Join Healthcare Services Group (HCSG) as a Cook, where you will play a vital role in preparing and cooking nutritious meals for residents in a long-term care facility. At HCSG, we are passionate ...

Cook

Falmouth, ME · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Cook Join Healthcare Services Group (HCSG) as a Cook, where you will play a vital role in preparing and cooking nutritious meals for residents in a long-term care facility. At HCSG, we are passionate ...

Cook

Westbrook, ME · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Cook Join Healthcare Services Group (HCSG) as a Cook, where you will play a vital role in preparing and cooking nutritious meals for residents in a long-term care facility. At HCSG, we are passionate ...

Cook

Falmouth, ME · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Cook Join Healthcare Services Group (HCSG) as a Cook, where you will play a vital role in preparing and cooking nutritious meals for residents in a long-term care facility. At HCSG, we are passionate ...

Cook

Kennebunk, ME · On-site

$23/hr

Cook Join Healthcare Services Group (HCSG) as a Cook, where you will play a vital role in preparing and cooking nutritious meals for residents in a long-term care facility. At HCSG, we are passionate ...

Line Cook

Auburn, ME · On-site

$17 - $21.25/hr

Let us help you reach your full potential at The Nines! At The Ninety Nine Restaurant & Pub, we're ... Line Cook At Ninety Nine Restaurant & Pub we're always looking for great team members to show A ...

Kitchen Team Member/Cook

Topsham, ME

$14.25 - $19/hr

KITCHEN TEAM MEMBER/COOK Know what it's like to be in the stadium on game day? Then you know what ... You're not afraid to roll up your sleeves and jump in to help your Team. * You show passion ...

COOK

Portland, ME · On-site

$14.90 - $21.63/hr

POSITION PURPOSE The Cook is responsible for preparing, seasoning and cooking food for clients and ... Help to prepare late trays, as needed. * Demonstrate knowledge/ability to break down stream tables ...

Cook

Bath, ME · On-site

$19/hr

As a Cook on our team, you will prepare and serve appetizing meals while ensuring dietary needs and preferences are met. Your culinary skills will contribute to creating a positive dining experience ...

COOK

Portland, ME

$14.90 - $21.63/hr

POSITION PURPOSE The Cook is responsible for preparing, seasoning and cooking food for clients and ... Help to prepare late trays, as needed. * Demonstrate knowledge/ability to break down stream tables ...

Kitchen Team Member/Cook

Auburn, ME

$15 - $20.25/hr

KITCHEN TEAM MEMBER/COOK Know what it's like to be in the stadium on game day? Then you know what ... You're not afraid to roll up your sleeves and jump in to help your Team. * You show passion ...

Showing results 41-60

Cook Helper information

See Portland, ME salary details

$10

$17

$21

How much do cook helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for cook helper in Portland, ME is $17.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.72 and $20.19 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?

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:

What cities near Portland, ME are hiring for Cook Helper jobs?

Cities near Portland, ME with the most Cook Helper job openings:

$20 - $25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago


Healthcare Services Group rating

5.0

Company rating: 5.0 out of 10

Based on 479 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

233rd of 254 rated facilities management


Job description

Role: Cook

Join Healthcare Services Group (HCSG) as a Cook, where you will play a vital role in preparing and cooking nutritious meals for residents in a long-term care facility. At HCSG, we are passionate about positively impacting the communities we serve. If you share our commitment to excellence and enhancing customer and resident experiences, join us and make a difference!


USD $20.00 - USD $25.00 /Hr.
  • Free Telemedicine*
  • Free Prescription Discount Program
  • Free Employee Assistance Programs
  • Get paid when you need it with PNC EarnedIt
  • Financial Wellness Support from PNC Workplace Banking
  • Hands-on-Training & Support
  • Career Development

Click here for more benefits information

or copy this link: https://go-internal.hcsgcorp.com/l/1036773/2025-07-02/5xbpsq/1036773/17514637576MrQym5A/Employee_Benefits_for_Job_Descriptions__7_.pdf

*Not available in AR.


  • Prepare and cook meals according to planned menus and recipes.
  • Ensure food quality, taste, and presentation meet HCSG standards.
  • Adhere to food safety and sanitation guidelines; maintain a clean and orderly kitchen.
  • Assist with inventory management and ordering of supplies.
  • Interact positively with residents, staff, and guests, providing excellent customer service.
  • All other duties as assigned.

  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Previous experience as a cook or in food preparation is preferred.
  • Ability to follow recipes and dietary restrictions.
  • Maintain a positive attitude and effectively communicate with building occupants, administration, and HCSG leadership to perform daily tasks.
  • Compliance with COVID-19 vaccination policies
  • Must be able to lift/carry a maximum of 50 pounds, push/pull a maximum of 50 pounds, stand, sit, bend and walk for extended periods. 
  • Must be able to perform routine, repetitive tasks continuously.
  • Must be able to work around food and cleaning products.
  • May be required to complete an approved sanitation and safety course.
  • Current ServSafe or Food Handler certification is required based on State / County law.  
  • Residency within the service area required

Ready to Join Us?

If you're looking for a role where you can contribute to serving delicious meals and be part of a supportive and dedicated team, apply now and start making a difference at HCSG!


Offered hourly rates for this position are determined based on applicant qualifications, experience, education, and the specific needs, aspects, operational considerations, and requirements of the facility serviced.


HCSG is proud to be an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We encourage employees to bring their authentic, original, and best selves to work for a culturally inclusive team. We offer equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetics, ethnicity, pregnancy status, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status, political opinions or affiliations, veteran status, or other legally protected classes. HCSG also complies with applicable state and local laws and federal law requirements that govern nondiscrimination in every location where we operate.


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