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Cook Helper Jobs in Rochester, MN (NOW HIRING)

Prep Cook

Rochester, MN

$11.41 - $19/hr

Flexible schedules to help you balance other life commitments (school, childcare, family care, etc ... As a prep cook, you must have a strong passion for delivering and flawlessly executing recipes to ...

Prep Cook

Rochester, MN · On-site

$11.41 - $19/hr

Flexible schedules to help you balance other life commitments (school, childcare, family care, etc ... As a prep cook, you must have a strong passion for delivering and flawlessly executing recipes to ...

Prep Cook

Rochester, MN · On-site

$11.41 - $19/hr

Flexible schedules to help you balance other life commitments (school, childcare, family care, etc ... As a prep cook, you must have a strong passion for delivering and flawlessly executing recipes to ...

Prep Cook

Rochester, MN

$11.41 - $19/hr

Flexible schedules to help you balance other life commitments (school, childcare, family care, etc ... As a prep cook, you must have a strong passion for delivering and flawlessly executing recipes to ...

Your responsibilities as a Cook will include, but are not limited to: * Setting up and stocking prep and line stations * Cleaning, sanitizing, and organizing the kitchen area, equipment, and utensils

Cook

Rochester, MN

$11.41 - $25/hr

Your responsibilities as a Cook will include, but are not limited to: * Setting up and stocking prep and line stations * Cleaning, sanitizing, and organizing the kitchen area, equipment, and utensils

Cook

Rochester, MN · On-site

$11.41/hr

Your responsibilities as a Cook will include, but are not limited to: * Setting up and stocking prep and line stations * Cleaning, sanitizing, and organizing the kitchen area, equipment, and utensils

Cook

Rochester, MN · On-site

$11.41 - $25/hr

Your responsibilities as a Cook will include, but are not limited to: * Setting up and stocking prep and line stations * Cleaning, sanitizing, and organizing the kitchen area, equipment, and utensils

Cook

Rochester, MN · On-site

$11.41/hr

Your responsibilities as a Cook will include, but are not limited to: Setting up and stocking prep and line stations Cleaning, sanitizing, and organizing the kitchen area, equipment, and utensils ...

Line Cook

Rochester, MN · On-site

$11.41 - $20.50/hr

Our Cooks have a passion for preparing the highest quality food and creating memorable dining experiences through world-class service and exceptional cuisine. This application may be used for Sides ...

Line Cook

Rochester, MN · On-site

$11.41 - $20.50/hr

Our Cooks have a passion for preparing the highest quality food and creating memorable dining experiences through world-class service and exceptional cuisine. This application may be used for Sides ...

Line Cook

Rochester, MN · On-site

$11.41 - $20.50/hr

Our Cooks have a passion for preparing the highest quality food and creating memorable dining experiences through world-class service and exceptional cuisine. This application may be used for Sides ...

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Cook Helper information

See Rochester, MN salary details

$10

$17

$21

How much do cook helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for cook helper in Rochester, MN is $17.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.62 and $20.05 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 Rochester, MN? The most popular types of Cook jobs in Rochester, MN are:
What are popular job titles related to Cook Helper jobs in Rochester, MN? For Cook Helper jobs in Rochester, MN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Cook Helper jobs in Rochester, MN look for? The top searched job categories for Cook Helper jobs in Rochester, MN are:
What cities near Rochester, MN are hiring for Cook Helper jobs? Cities near Rochester, MN with the most Cook Helper job openings:
Infographic showing various Cook Helper job openings in Rochester, MN as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 69% Full Time, 30% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,496 per year, or $17.5 per hour.
Prep Cook

$11.41 - $19/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement

Re-posted 9 days ago


Olive Garden rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 1,018 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

27th of 86 rated restaurants


Job description

  $11.41 per hour - $19.00 per hour


Our Winning Family Starts With You! Check out these great benefits!

  • Flexible schedules to help you balance other life commitments (school, childcare, family care, etc.)
  • Free Employee Meal! (limited menu)
  • Weekly pay
  • Anniversary pay
  • Paid Sick Leave (1 hour for every 30 hours worked, begin accruing upon hire)
  • Paid Family and Medical Leave (up to 2 weeks after 1 year of service)
  • Medical/dental insurance
  • Ongoing training to build critical skills for current and future roles
  • Discounts on cellphones, travel, electronics & much more!
  • 401(k) savings plan (Company match after 1 year of service)
  • Management career advancement opportunities (50%+ of our managers are promoted from hourly positions!)
  • State Benefits Overview


And much more! Because at Olive Garden, We’re All Family Here!


One key to our success is the high standards we set for ourselves and each other. That includes placing the health and safety of our team members and guests as a top priority. We are committed to the highest safety and sanitation practices, including ensuring team member wellness and maintaining clean restaurants.


Soup, sauce, pasta, and lasagna are key to the genuine Italian dining experience. As a prep cook, you must have a strong passion for delivering and flawlessly executing recipes to meet and exceed our guest expectations. In addition, as a prep cook, you must have a firm commitment to the highest safety and sanitation standards.


We'd love to welcome you home as the newest member of the Family!


#MyOliveGardenFam


What Olive Garden employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Olive Garden logo

About Olive Garden

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Olive Garden, we know that life is better together and everyone is happiest when they’re with family. From never ending servings of our freshly baked breadsticks and iconic garden salad, to our homemade soups and sauces, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. At Olive Garden, we make everyone feel like family and the communities we serve are an extension of that family. That’s why we are committed to supporting these communities in the fight against hunger. Every one of our 900+ restaurants participates in our Harvest program, donating high-quality, wholesome food to local nonprofit partners. We’re also long-term partners with Feeding America®, and since 2017, the Darden Foundation, the charitable arm of our parent company, has donated more than $16.3 million on behalf of our family of restaurants to support Feeding America member food banks across all 50 states. As part of these ongoing efforts to fight hunger, Olive Garden has partnered with Feeding America® to enhance mobile food pantry programs in communities where food insecurity rates are disproportionately high. Through grants from the Darden Foundation and additional support from Darden’s partners, Penske Truck Leasing and Lineage Logistics, 35 Feeding America food banks in 35 different parts of the country received a 26-foot refrigerated box truck to help increase address transportation needs and give access to nutritious food for those who need it most.

Industry

Food and beverage stores and restaurants

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Orlando, FL, US