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Cook Helper Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Trillium Family Services

Cook's Helper

Portland, OR · On-site

$19.44/hr

Are you ready to help children and families "Build a Brighter Future"? We are guided by the simple ... Hospital or Facility Cooking (Batch Cooking) Benefits (not all positions are benefit eligible ...

Amaro's Table

Line Cook

Vancouver, WA

$22 - $30/hr

Competitive salary Line Cook Help Build Something Amazing at Amaros Table (East Vancouver) Wages: $22-$30 including tips. Our award-winning concept, Amaros Table, has proudly served the community ...

Mesk Investment, Inc

Cook

Sherwood, OR

$15 - $20.25/hr

Line cook who can help prepare meals as per our company standards recipes. A successful candidate will be responsible for creating meal portions, cleaning food, cooking meals and keeping sanitized ...

Mesk Investment, Inc

Cook

Wilsonville, OR

$14.50 - $19.50/hr

Line cook who can help prepare meals as per our company standards recipes. A successful candidate will be responsible for creating meal portions, cleaning food, cooking meals and keeping sanitized ...

Mesk Investment, Inc

Cook

Hillsboro, OR

$15.25 - $20.50/hr

Line cook who can help prepare meals as per our company standards recipes. A successful candidate will be responsible for creating meal portions, cleaning food, cooking meals and keeping sanitized ...

Mesk Investment, Inc

Cook

Portland, OR

$14.50 - $19.25/hr

Line cook who can help prepare meals as per our company standards recipes. A successful candidate will be responsible for creating meal portions, cleaning food, cooking meals and keeping sanitized ...

Mesk Investment, Inc

Cook

Vancouver, WA

$14.25 - $19/hr

Line cook who can help prepare meals as per our company standards recipes. A successful candidate will be responsible for creating meal portions, cleaning food, cooking meals and keeping sanitized ...

Mesk Investment, Inc

Cook

Oregon City, OR

$15 - $20/hr

Line cook who can help prepare meals as per our company standards recipes. A successful candidate will be responsible for creating meal portions, cleaning food, cooking meals and keeping sanitized ...

Sonic

Cook

Cornelius, OR

$14.50 - $19.50/hr

... help motivate Maintaining SONIC safety and sanitation standards SONIC Drive-In Restaurant Cook Requirements: - Contagiously positive attitude Ability to remain calm, especially in tough situations ...

Sonic

Cook

Hillsboro, OR · On-site

$15.25 - $20.50/hr

... help motivate Maintaining SONIC safety and sanitation standards SONIC Drive-In Restaurant Cook Requirements: - Contagiously positive attitude Ability to remain calm, especially in tough situations ...

Mesk Investment, Inc

Cook

Wood Village, OR

$14.75 - $19.75/hr

Line cook who can help prepare meals as per our company standards recipes. A successful candidate will be responsible for creating meal portions, cleaning food, cooking meals and keeping sanitized ...

Mesk Investment, Inc

Cook

Portland, OR

$14.25 - $19.25/hr

Line cook who can help prepare meals as per our company standards recipes. A successful candidate will be responsible for creating meal portions, cleaning food, cooking meals and keeping sanitized ...

Sonic

Cook

Wilsonville, OR · On-site

$14.50 - $19.50/hr

... help motivate Maintaining SONIC safety and sanitation standards SONIC Drive-In Restaurant Cook Requirements: - Contagiously positive attitude Ability to remain calm, especially in tough situations ...

Sonic

Cook

Vancouver, WA

$15 - $20/hr

... help motivate Maintaining SONIC safety and sanitation standards SONIC Drive-In Restaurant Cook Requirements: - Contagiously positive attitude Ability to remain calm, especially in tough situations ...

Sonic Drive-In

Cook

Cornelius, OR · On-site

$14.50 - $19.50/hr

As a SONIC Drive-In Cook, your primary responsibility is to provide every guest with a SuperSONIC ... help motivateMaintaining SONIC safety and sanitation standards

Sonic Drive-In

Cook

Wilsonville, OR · On-site

$14.50 - $19.50/hr

As a SONIC Drive-In Cook, your primary responsibility is to provide every guest with a SuperSONIC ... help motivateMaintaining SONIC safety and sanitation standards

Sonic

Cook

Tigard, OR

$14.75 - $19.75/hr

... help motivate Maintaining SONIC safety and sanitation standards SONIC Drive-In Restaurant Cook Requirements: - Contagiously positive attitude Ability to remain calm, especially in tough situations ...

Sonic Drive-In

Cook

Tigard, OR · On-site

$14.75 - $19.75/hr

As a SONIC Drive-In Cook, your primary responsibility is to provide every guest with a SuperSONIC ... help motivateMaintaining SONIC safety and sanitation standards

Sonic Drive-In

Cook

Vancouver, WA · On-site

$15 - $20/hr

As a SONIC Drive-In Cook, your primary responsibility is to provide every guest with a SuperSONIC ... help motivateMaintaining SONIC safety and sanitation standards

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All JobsCook Helper JobsCook Helper Jobs in Portland, OR

Cook Helper information

See Portland, OR salary details

$10

$18

$22

How much do cook helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for cook helper in Portland, OR is $18.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.15 and $20.72 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 Portland, OR? The most popular types of Cook jobs in Portland, OR are:
What are popular job titles related to Cook Helper jobs in Portland, OR? For Cook Helper jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Cook Helper jobs in Portland, OR look for? The top searched job categories for Cook Helper jobs in Portland, OR are:
What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Cook Helper jobs? Cities near Portland, OR with the most Cook Helper job openings:
Cook Helper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cook Helper job openings in Portland, OR as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,735 per year, or $18.1 per hour.
Cook's Helper

Cook's Helper

Trillium Family Services

Portland, OR • On-site

$19.44/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

Trillium Family Services rating

5.5

Company rating: 5.5 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Are you ready to help children and families “Build a Brighter Future”? We are guided by the simple yet crucial mission of building brighter futures with children and families.

If so, we have an exciting opportunity to join our dedicated dietary team at the Portland Metro campus

About the Opportunity:

  • As needed responsible for providing the complete preparation, service and cleaning of all items associated with the salad bar and for assisting the cooks.
  • Responsible for preparation and serving of meals for clients and on-duty staff.

Starting rate of pay: $19.44/hour starting

Schedule:

  • 40/hours week -Wednesday - Sunday - 7an to 5:30pm
  • Degree not required.
  • Current Food Handler’s Card required.
  • One (1+) year experience in preparing and cooking large quantities of food for groups of 50 or more preferred.
  • You are seeking meaningful work and career growth.
  • Good written and verbal communications
  • Great Customer Service
  • Preferred not required: Hospital or Facility Cooking (Batch Cooking)

Benefits (not all positions are benefit eligible)

  • 100% Employer Paid Medical, Vision, and Dental for Full Time Employees
  • 401k retirement plan matches – up to %6 match
  • Growth | Career track, continuing education, and professional development
  • Generous Vacation and Sick Leave
  • Free meals while on duty!
  • And more!
About Us:

We embrace diversity and equity in a serious way. We are committed to building a team with a variety of backgrounds, skills and views. The more inclusive we are, the better our work will be in fulfilling our mission of “Building Brighter Futures with Children and Families”.

Our vision is to create safe communities where children are healthy, and every family has the opportunity for success. Families get the support they need – when and where they need it. There is a focus on prevention and health; organizations and systems are connected in a synergistic sanctuary community that generates: Non –violence, Growth and Change, Democracy, Emotional intelligence, social learning, Open communication, and Social Responsibility.

Our investment in the future of each child means that the next generation of Oregonians will have the skills to contribute meaningfully through employment, community service, and raising their own healthy families.

At TFS we believe that every child and family can have a brighter future, through the love we bring together we can make this possible. There is so much need for mental and emotional support at all levels of our communities.

To take a behind the scenes look our programs please visit our website at https://www.trilliumfamily.org/

Pay Equity: Please be advised that the pay range listed for this position is intended to provide general guidance on the earning potential for the role. However, actual compensation will be determined in accordance with the Oregon Equal Pay Law and will take into account factors such as the candidate's relevant experience and education. Candidates should expect that initial offers will be made within the listed pay range and may not be at or near the top of the range.

Consideration of candidates will begin as soon as 1/4/2025, and position may close without notice.

For physical demands of position, including vision, hearing, repetitive motion, and environment, contact the HR department. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position without compromising client care.

If you need accommodation to review the information and/or complete the application process, please contact the Human Resources Department.

Trillium Family Services is a drug free workplace. All final applicants will be subject to a criminal record identification check pursuant to ORS 181.536.727.537 and agency policy. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and Service Provider and support a culturally linguistically diverse governance, leadership, and workforce.

What Trillium Family Services employees say

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