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Cook I Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Areas Deutschland Holding GmbH

Cook I

Lexington, KY · On-site

$14 - $17.50/hr

Overview - $16.50 As a Line Cook, you will be responsible for preparing dishes according to recipes and chef specifications. Responsibilities * Properly measure, portion, and cook all food items in a ...

Southern Foodservice Management, Inc

Cook II

Fort Campbell, KY · On-site

$13.25 - $17.75/hr

Prepare and Cook Main entrees and/or sides on the daily menu as assigned daily by Cook I or Management according to the daily menu's recipes strictly adhering to recipe cards. * Taste products for ...

Areas Hospitality USA

Cook I

Lexington, KY

$14 - $17.50/hr

Overview - $16.50 As a Line Cook, you will be responsible for preparing dishes according to recipes and chef specifications. Responsibilities * Properly measure, portion, and cook all food items in a ...

Baptist Health

Cook

Lexington, KY · On-site

$14 - $18.75/hr

Mentors Cook I team members and supports staff development while providing positive customer interactions in service areas. Requirements: * High School Diploma or Equivalent * 2 years minimum cook ...

Baptist Health

Cook

Lexington, KY

$14 - $18.75/hr

Mentors Cook I team members and supports staff development while providing positive customer interactions in service areas. Requirements: * High School Diploma or Equivalent * 2 years minimum cook ...

Derby City Gaming Downtown

Cook

Louisville, KY

$16/hr

Cook I- is the entry-level skilled trade job in this series * Cook II- proficient in executing all stations on the line, cross-trained to prep. ServSafe certified * Cook III- proficient in prior ...

Churchill Downs Incorporated

Cook

Louisville, KY · On-site

$16/hr

Cook I- is the entry-level skilled trade job in this series * Cook II- proficient in executing all stations on the line, cross-trained to prep. ServSafe certified * Cook III- proficient in prior ...

Churchill Downs Incorporated

Cook

Louisville, KY · On-site

$16/hr

Cook I- is the entry-level skilled trade job in this series * Cook II- proficient in executing all stations on the line, cross-trained to prep. ServSafe certified * Cook III- proficient in prior ...

Sodexo

Cook

Somerset, KY · On-site

$15/hr

The Cook I supports Sodexo's commitment to providing an exceptional dining experience by delivering high-quality dishes, contributing to effective kitchen teamwork, and upholding the highest ...

Sodexo

Cook

Somerset, KY · On-site

$15/hr

The Cook I supports Sodexo's commitment to providing an exceptional dining experience by delivering high-quality dishes, contributing to effective kitchen teamwork, and upholding the highest ...

Sodexo

Cook

Louisville, KY · On-site

$15 - $16/hr

The Cook I supports Sodexo's commitment to providing an exceptional dining experience by delivering high-quality dishes, contributing to effective kitchen teamwork, and upholding the highest ...

Sodexo

Cook

Louisville, KY · On-site

$15 - $16/hr

The Cook I supports Sodexo's commitment to providing an exceptional dining experience by delivering high-quality dishes, contributing to effective kitchen teamwork, and upholding the highest ...

Sodexo

Cook

Murray, KY

$12.41 - $18.55/hr

The Cook I supports Sodexo's commitment to providing an exceptional dining experience by delivering high-quality dishes, contributing to effective kitchen teamwork, and upholding the highest ...

Sodexo

Cook

Berea, KY

$14 - $14.75/hr

The Cook I supports Sodexo's commitment to providing an exceptional dining experience by delivering high-quality dishes, contributing to effective kitchen teamwork, and upholding the highest ...

Sodexo

Cook

Murray, KY

$12.41 - $15/hr

The Cook I supports Sodexo's commitment to providing an exceptional dining experience by delivering high-quality dishes, contributing to effective kitchen teamwork, and upholding the highest ...

Sodexo

Cook

Berea, KY · On-site

$14 - $14.50/hr

The Cook I supports Sodexo's commitment to providing an exceptional dining experience by delivering high-quality dishes, contributing to effective kitchen teamwork, and upholding the highest ...

Sodexo

Cook

Berea, KY · On-site

$14 - $14.75/hr

The Cook I supports Sodexo's commitment to providing an exceptional dining experience by delivering high-quality dishes, contributing to effective kitchen teamwork, and upholding the highest ...

Sodexo

Cook

Murray, KY · On-site

$12.41 - $15/hr

The Cook I supports Sodexo's commitment to providing an exceptional dining experience by delivering high-quality dishes, contributing to effective kitchen teamwork, and upholding the highest ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsCook I JobsCook I Jobs in Kentucky

Cook I information

See Kentucky salary details

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$15

$20

How much do cook i jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for cook i in Kentucky is $15.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.37 and $16.68 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Cook I?

A Cook I is an entry-level position in a professional kitchen, responsible for preparing and cooking food under the supervision of senior chefs. Duties typically include following recipes, preparing ingredients, maintaining cleanliness, and ensuring food safety standards are met. Cook I roles are often a starting point for those seeking to advance in the culinary field, offering hands-on experience and the opportunity to learn various cooking techniques. These positions require basic culinary knowledge, attention to detail, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Cook I, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cook I, you need fundamental culinary skills, knowledge of food safety, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with kitchen equipment, basic knife techniques, and understanding of health department regulations are essential, and food handler certifications are commonly required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and the ability to work efficiently under pressure are valuable soft skills. These competencies ensure high-quality food preparation, maintain safety standards, and support smooth kitchen operations.

What are some common challenges faced by a Cook I, and how can they be managed effectively?

As a Cook I, one of the most common challenges is managing multiple tasks simultaneously during busy service hours, such as preparing ingredients, cooking dishes to order, and maintaining food safety standards. Staying organized and communicating clearly with team members can help streamline workflow and reduce stress. Additionally, adapting to sudden menu changes or special dietary requests requires flexibility and a strong understanding of kitchen operations. Regularly seeking feedback from senior chefs and participating in on-the-job training can also help Cook I employees improve their skills and handle challenges more confidently.

What is the difference between Cook I vs Cook II?

AspectCook ICook II
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; basic culinary trainingSimilar credentials; some experience preferred
Work EnvironmentEntry-level kitchen settings, hospitals, cafeteriasMore complex kitchen tasks, higher responsibility
Employer UsageHospitals, schools, catering servicesRestaurants, hotels, institutional kitchens

The main difference between Cook I and Cook II lies in experience and responsibility. Cook I is an entry-level position requiring basic culinary skills, while Cook II involves more advanced tasks and greater independence in the kitchen. Both roles typically require similar credentials, but Cook II often demands some prior experience. Employers use these titles to distinguish levels of expertise and responsibility within culinary teams.

What are careers in cooking?

Careers in cooking include roles such as Cook I, which involves preparing and cooking food in various settings like restaurants, hotels, or catering services. These careers often require knowledge of food safety, cooking techniques, and sometimes certifications like food handler permits. Advancement can lead to higher positions such as Sous Chef or Executive Chef, with increased responsibilities and pay.

What are popular job titles related to Cook I jobs in KY?

For Cook I jobs in KY, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Cook I jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cook I job openings in Kentucky as of August 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 $32,025 per year, or $15.4 per hour.

Cook I

Areas Deutschland Holding GmbH

Lexington, KY • On-site

$14 - $17.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

Overview - $16.50
As a Line Cook, you will be responsible for preparing dishes according to recipes and chef specifications.
Responsibilities
  • Properly measure, portion, and cook all food items in a timely manner
  • Ensure correct food temperatures are maintained, and food is stored safely
  • Perform opening, closing, and side work duties according to proper guidelines
  • Keep workstation and equipment clean, organized, and sufficiently stocked
  • Use waste control guidelines and record all waste on spoilage sheet

Qualifications
  • Minimum of 1 year of experience as a prep cook or line cook
  • Ability to move rapidly and coordinate multiple orders
  • Ability to follow procedures and take directions
  • Basic math skills to understand, calculate, and follow recipe measurements and proportions
  • No high school diploma or GED required

Physical Requirements
  • Manual dexterity is sufficient to chop, mix, and blend a variety of foods and liquids.
  • Ability to carry large pans, weighing up to 50 pounds, and operate kitchen equipment
  • Constant standing, walking, bending, reaching, and repetitive motions
  • Exposed to variable temperatures

EEOC Statement:
We are an equal opportunity employer committed to building a diverse team and fostering an inclusive environment where employees feel empowered to bring their authentic selves to work. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates regardless of race, color, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability status, or veteran status.

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