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Cook Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Cook

Centreville, VA · On-site

$10 - $16/hr

.IHOP Cooks are responsible for the preparation and cooking of food products accurately and with minimal waste. Duties of this position include learning and applying all IHOP-specialized galley ...

Cook

Sterling, VA · On-site

$14.25 - $19/hr

COOK IHOP Cooks are responsible for the preparation and cooking of food products accurately and with minimal waste. Duties of this position include learning and applying all IHOP-specialized galley ...

Cook

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$14 - $18.50/hr

Cook IHOP Cooks are responsible for the preparation and cooking of food products accurately and with minimal waste. Duties of this position include learning and applying all IHOP-specialized galley ...

Cook

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$14.25 - $19.25/hr

COOK IHOP Cooks are responsible for the preparation and cooking of food products accurately and with minimal waste. Duties of this position include learning and applying all IHOP-specialized galley ...

Cook

Sterling, VA · On-site

$14 - $18.75/hr

COOK IHOP Cooks are responsible for the preparation and cooking of food products accurately and with minimal waste. Duties of this position include learning and applying all IHOP-specialized galley ...

Cook

Sterling, VA · On-site

$14.25 - $19/hr

COOK IHOP Cooks are responsible for the preparation and cooking of food products accurately and with minimal waste. Duties of this position include learning and applying all IHOP-specialized galley ...

Cook

Sterling, VA · On-site

$14 - $18.75/hr

COOK IHOP Cooks are responsible for the preparation and cooking of food products accurately and with minimal waste. Duties of this position include learning and applying all IHOP-specialized galley ...

Cook

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$18 - $21/hr

Cook: At this location, our cooks e arn $18-$21 / hour. Be part of the excitement and freshness of a "Scratch Kitchen" We hand-craft everything in our kitchens. We are looking for talented ...

Cook

Sterling, VA · On-site

$14 - $18.75/hr

COOK IHOP Cooks are responsible for the preparation and cooking of food products accurately and with minimal waste. Duties of this position include learning and applying all IHOP-specialized galley ...

Cook

Gaithersburg, MD · On-site

$15.25 - $20.25/hr

Cook IHOP Cooks are responsible for the preparation and cooking of food products accurately and with minimal waste. Duties of this position include learning and applying all IHOP-specialized galley ...

Cook

Sterling, VA · On-site

$14.25 - $19/hr

COOK IHOP Cooks are responsible for the preparation and cooking of food products accurately and with minimal waste. Duties of this position include learning and applying all IHOP-specialized galley ...

COOK

Arlington, VA · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

You love the craft of cooking. You thrive in the rhythm of a busy kitchen, take pride in every plate, and believe great food creates great moments. If you want to grow your skills in a professional ...

New

Cook

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$14.25 - $19.25/hr

COOK IHOP Cooks are responsible for the preparation and cooking of food products accurately and with minimal waste. Duties of this position include learning and applying all IHOP-specialized galley ...

Cook

Rockville, MD · On-site

$14.25 - $19/hr

Cook IHOP Cooks are responsible for the preparation and cooking of food products accurately and with minimal waste. Duties of this position include learning and applying all IHOP-specialized galley ...

Cook

Annapolis, MD · On-site

$20/hr

) Cook - Senior Living Culinary Team Charter Senior Living Now hiring a passionate Cook to join our culinary team! Do you love cooking meals that bring comfort, joy, and connection to others? At ...

COOK

Arlington, VA · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

You love the craft of cooking. You thrive in the rhythm of a busy kitchen, take pride in every plate, and believe great food creates great moments. If you want to grow your skills in a professional ...

New

Cook

Washington, DC · On-site

$23 - $25/hr

As a Cook, you will play a vital role in delivering high-quality food that meets our establishment's standards and satisfies our customers. You will be responsible for preparing ingredients, cooking ...

Cook

Arlington, VA · On-site

$21.13 - $33.36/hr

Position Title Cook Purpose & Scope: Working as part of a team in the Food and Nutrition Services Department, the Cook will perform tasks such as cooking and presenting meals for patients, employees ...

Cook

Manassas, VA · On-site

$13 - $17.50/hr

As a SONIC Drive-In restaurant Cook, you will oversee the Appetite Satisfaction Department, which involves operating the following stations: Food Production, Grill, Fryer and other tasks if ...

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Showing results 1-20

Cook information

See Washington salary details

$10

$18

$25

How much do cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for cook in Washington is $18.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.24 and $20.43 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Cook, you need a solid grasp of culinary techniques, food safety standards, and menu preparation, often supported by a high school diploma or culinary training. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, inventory systems, and certifications like ServSafe are typically required. Strong time management, teamwork, and attention to detail help Cooks stand out in busy kitchen environments. These skills and qualities are crucial for consistently delivering safe, high-quality dishes and maintaining efficient kitchen operations.

What is a chef vs. cook?

A cook is a person who prepares and cooks food, often working in kitchens with basic skills and following recipes. A chef is a trained culinary professional who typically has formal education, oversees kitchen operations, and creates menus and recipes. The main difference lies in training, responsibilities, and level of expertise.

Can I get paid to cook at home?

A cook can earn money by preparing meals at home through options like catering, meal prep services, or selling homemade food. These opportunities often require cooking skills, food safety knowledge, and sometimes permits or certifications. Income varies based on the scale of the operation and local regulations.

What Does a Cook Do?

A Cook—also called a Chef—is ultimately responsible for preparing the food that is served in restaurants or other dining establishments. As the head of the kitchen, Cooks also supervise other work and oversee the kitchen to ensure it all runs smoothly. In some restaurants, Cooks are responsible for creating recipes and menus, planning events, ensuring that food and kitchen regulations are followed, and sticking to a restaurant budget. There are different levels of this position that you can earn, meaning that there can be a wide range to all the potential possibilities and responsibilities of a daily Cook. For example, there’s the Head Chef who runs the kitchen while the other Cooks are responsible for specific types of food.

What is the highest paying job for a cook?

The highest paying roles for cooks typically include executive chefs, head chefs, or specialized culinary professionals in high-end restaurants, hotels, or private establishments. These positions often require extensive experience, leadership skills, and culinary certifications, and can offer salaries significantly above standard line cook roles.

What is the difference between Cook vs Chef?

AspectCookChef
CredentialsNone required or basic culinary trainingFormal culinary education or extensive experience
Work EnvironmentRestaurants, cafeterias, cateringFine dining, hotels, culinary establishments
ResponsibilitiesPreparing dishes, following recipesMenu creation, kitchen management, supervising cooks

In summary, a Cook typically prepares food following established recipes and has minimal formal training, while a Chef often has specialized culinary education and takes on leadership roles in the kitchen, overseeing cooking staff and menu development.

What does a cook do?

A cook is responsible for preparing and cooking food in restaurants, cafeterias, or other food service establishments. Their duties include following recipes, measuring ingredients, operating kitchen equipment, and ensuring food safety and cleanliness. Cooks may also help with menu planning, inventory management, and maintaining kitchen supplies. They work closely with other kitchen staff to deliver meals efficiently and meet customer expectations.

How do I get a job as a cook?

To get a job as a cook, you typically need relevant culinary skills, which can be gained through culinary school, training programs, or on-the-job experience. Employers often look for food safety certifications and a good work ethic, and job opportunities are available in restaurants, hotels, and catering services.

What are some common challenges cooks face during busy service hours, and how can they effectively manage them?

During peak service times, cooks often encounter challenges such as time pressure, managing multiple orders simultaneously, and maintaining high standards of food quality and presentation. Effective communication with team members and staying organized are crucial for keeping up with the pace. Many cooks use strategies like prepping ingredients in advance, prioritizing tasks, and maintaining a clean workstation to ensure smooth workflow and minimize mistakes. Developing these habits helps cooks deliver consistent results even in high-stress environments.
What are the most commonly searched types of Cook jobs in Washington? The most popular types of Cook jobs in Washington are:
What are popular job titles related to Cook jobs in Washington? For Cook jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Cook jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Cook jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Cook jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Cook job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Cook jobs in WA? For Cook jobs in WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Cook

Cook

IHOP

Centreville, VA • On-site

$10 - $16/hr

Full-time

PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


IHOP rating

5.0

Company rating: 5.0 out of 10

Based on 353 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

74th of 86 rated restaurants


Job description

.IHOP Cooks are responsible for the preparation and cooking of food products accurately and with minimal waste. Duties of this position include learning and applying all IHOP-specialized galley terminology, plating, menu items and procedures according to company standards. IHOP Cooks are expected to set up equipment, verify stock, and maintain a clean and sanitary work area while maintaining company sanitation standards. This position requires you to stand for up to 8 hours during a shift, be able to lift at least and/or move up to 50 pounds, and have full mobility of hands and arms while performing repetitive tasks. IHOP Cooks are also required to perform duties necessary for restaurant operations as assigned by acting supervisor, following governmental and company policies. The above is not an all-inclusive job description.

Requirements:

Must have prior experience as a cook.

Must be skilled in operating kitchen equipment.

Must be skilled in various cooking techniques.

Must know and follow sanitation procedures.

Must showcase teamwork and communication skills.

Must showcase great organizational skills.

Must be able to multitask and act quickly.

Must carry at least a high school diploma.

Title: Responsibilities of a Cook:

Maintaining a sanitized and well-organized kitchen.

Preparing workstations for cooking.

Preparing and maintaining kitchen equipment.

Checking the quality of the ingredients.

Preparing cooking ingredients using various techniques.

Cooking food using various culinary techniques.

Arranging food and ensuring appealing presentation.

Manage food storage, stock, and ingredient orders.

Benefits:

Competitive Pay

Flexible Hours

Paid Training

Real Advancement Opportunities

National Restaurant Association Apprentice Program which earns College Credits

Paid Vacation

Regular Performance Reviews with pay increases 

Meal Program

Family Meal Discounts

Full Insurance 

Bob Leonard Scholarship Program 

Paid Holidays

Paid Vacation

Paid Weekly/Direct Deposit

Since 1958, IHOP® has been the place where people connect over breakfast, enjoy study breaks, grab a bite before or after sporting events, and much more. And no matter what menu items our customers order, there’s one ingredient that’s always constant — a smile.
When you work for IHOP restaurants we encourage you to, “Be the pancake you wish to see in the world!” Being a team member allows you to be something more than just a traditional employee. You help create smiles for the future. Join a team that encourages building lifelong friendships and memories.


What IHOP employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


IHOP logo

About IHOP

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The shortest distance between two people is a smile, so our logo changed to include one! Since 1958, IHOP has been the place where people connect over breakfast, enjoy study breaks, grab a bite before or after sporting events, and so much more. No matter what menu items they order, there's one ingredient that's always constant -- a smile.

Industry

Food services and drinking places

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Glendale, CA, US

Year founded

2003