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Cook Helper Jobs in Spring Arbor, MI (NOW HIRING)

Applebee's

Cook - Applebee's

Marshall, MI · On-site

$13.50 - $18/hr

The line cook fosters a culture aligned with the TSFR Roadmap, including Our Core Purpose, Vision, Mission and Core Values. Essential Job Functions Primary Duties: * Prepare ingredients then cook and ...

TEAM Schostak Family Restaurants

Cook - Applebee's

Jackson, MI · On-site

$12.75 - $17.25/hr

The line cook fosters a culture aligned with the TSFR Roadmap, including Our Core Purpose, Vision, Mission and Core Values. Essential Job Functions Primary Duties: * Prepare ingredients then cook and ...

Applebee's

Cook - Applebee's

Charlotte, MI · On-site

$12.75 - $17.25/hr

The line cook fosters a culture aligned with the TSFR Roadmap, including Our Core Purpose, Vision, Mission and Core Values. Essential Job Functions Primary Duties: * Prepare ingredients then cook and ...

TEAM Schostak Family Restaurants

Cook - Applebee's

Jackson, MI · On-site

$12.75 - $17.25/hr

The line cook fosters a culture aligned with the TSFR Roadmap, including Our Core Purpose, Vision, Mission and Core Values. Essential Job Functions Primary Duties: * Prepare ingredients then cook and ...

State of Michigan

COOK 5-7

Jackson, MI · On-site

$20.92 - $27.25/hr

MULTIPLE COOK 5/E6/7 POSITIONS AVAILABLE *IMPORTANT NOTE - By submitting your application for this posting, you will be considered for all available Cook 5-7 positions located within the Jackson Area ...

Applebee's

Cook - Applebee's

Jackson, MI · On-site

$12.75 - $17.25/hr

The line cook fosters a culture aligned with the TSFR Roadmap, including Our Core Purpose, Vision, Mission and Core Values. Essential Job Functions Primary Duties: * Prepare ingredients then cook and ...

State of Michigan

COOK 5-7

Jackson, MI · On-site

$20.92 - $27.25/hr

JXN 25 - COOK 5 - 7 Department: Corrections - Jackson Central Region Opening Date: 04/17/2025 ... Help preserve and protect our environment and the public health; enforce state laws and regulations ...

Copper Athletic Club

Prep Cook

Marshall, MI · On-site

$11 - $14/hr

A prep cook is responsible for the preparation of ingredients and stations used in the cooking process, as well as maintaining the kitchen and ensuring it is clean and sanitized. To be a successful ...

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Olive Garden

Prep Cook

Jackson, MI · On-site

$13 - $16.50/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 ...

Olive Garden

Prep Cook

Jackson, MI · On-site

$13 - $16.50/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 ...

Popeyes (Aby Groups)

Cook: Crew Member

Jackson, MI · On-site

$12.75 - $17.25/hr

Now Hiring Cooks!! Our Cooks work as part of a team that provides excellent service and high-quality food in a clean, friendly and fun atmosphere. As a crew member, you'll: * Provide prompt and ...

Olive Garden

Prep Cook

Jackson, MI

$13 - $16.50/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 ...

Olive Garden

Line Cook

Jackson, MI · On-site

$14.50 - $18/hr

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

Olive Garden

Line Cook

Jackson, MI

$14.25 - $18/hr

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

Olive Garden

Line Cook

Jackson, MI · On-site

$14.25 - $18/hr

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

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All JobsCook Helper JobsCook Helper Jobs in Spring Arbor, MI

Cook Helper information

See Spring Arbor, MI salary details

$9

$15

$19

How much do cook helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for cook helper in Spring Arbor, MI is $15.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.09 and $18.03 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 cities near Spring Arbor, MI are hiring for Cook Helper jobs? Cities near Spring Arbor, MI with the most Cook Helper job openings:
Cook Helper jobs near you
Cook - Applebee's

Cook - Applebee's

Applebee's

Marshall, MI • On-site

$13.50 - $18/hr

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago

Applebee's rating

5.6

Company rating: 5.6 out of 10

Based on 731 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

60th of 86 rated restaurants

Job description

Position Summary
The Applebee's line cook completes all assigned prep work and set up the cook's station; maintains product presentations, products quality and cook standards while following all food safety guidelines; and prepares all menu items according to Applebee's recipes, Plate Presentations and specifications. The line cook fosters a culture aligned with the TSFR Roadmap, including Our Core Purpose, Vision, Mission and Core Values.
Essential Job Functions
Primary Duties:
  • Prepare ingredients then cook and assemble dishes as indicated by recipes
  • Perform portion control and minimize waste to keep cost within forecasted range
  • Ensure that all dishes are prepared in a timely manner by restocking ingredients at work station and meeting prep times to ensure smooth delivery
  • Set up and clean station according to restaurant protocol
  • Maintain a clean work station area, including kitchen equipment, tables, and shelves
  • Comply with applicable sanitary, health, and personal hygiene standards
  • Ensure quality and freshness of ingredients and products
  • Perform additional tasks as assigned by the Manager to ensure effective and orderly operations of the restaurant.

Educational / Experience
  • 1-3 years of experience cooking in a restaurant preferred but not required
  • Understanding of cooking methods and procedures, and knife handling skills
  • Ability to perform tasks with accuracy, speed, and attention to detail
  • Ability to read and follow cooking directions
  • Ability to remain calm in a fast-paced environment
  • Must be organized and self-motivated
  • Must be able to stand, bend, stretch, and lift, and carry heavy materials up to 50 pounds
  • Flexibility to work a variable schedule including weekends and evenings

Physical and Mental Requirements
Language Skills:
Ability to read and interpret documents such as contracts, operating and maintenance instructions and procedure manuals. Ability to write routine reports and correspondence. Ability to speak effectively before groups of customers or employees of the organization.
Mathematical Skills:
Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists. Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram or schedule form.
Physical Demands:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions as long as it would not create undue hardship.
While performing the duties of this position, the employee is frequently required to sit, talk, hear, walk, use hands and fingers to feel, handle or operate objects and reach with hands and arms.
The employee may occasionally lift and/or move objects up to 30 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this position include close vision and the ability to adjust focus.
Psychological Demands:
The mental demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions as long as it would not create undue hardship.
While performing the duties of this position, the employee is frequently required to work in a team environment, handle a fast-paced environment and be flexible and willing to accept change. Must also have the ability to communicate with others, both verbally and in writing.
Work Environment:
The work environment described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions as long as it would not create undue hardship.
On occasion, to perform the work it may be necessary to travel in an automobile to other locations in the field either alone or accompanied by a co-worker.
TEAM Schostak Family Restaurants reserves the right to change, amend, add, delete and otherwise assign any and all duties, responsibilities, and position titles as it deems necessary to meet the needs of its business.

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