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 ...
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 ...
Cook
$15/hr
We are seeking a skilled and enthusiastic Cook/Grill Operator to join our kitchen team. This role focuses on preparing and cooking our signature kabobs, fresh sides, and other menu items to ...
Quick apply
Cook
$15/hr
We are seeking a skilled and enthusiastic Cook/Grill Operator to join our kitchen team. This role focuses on preparing and cooking our signature kabobs, fresh sides, and other menu items to ...
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 ...
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 ...
Cook
Woodbridge, VA · On-site
$13.75 - $18.50/hr
Grill Cook At CAVA, we love what we do, and we try and make every day as fulfilling as the last. Our restaurants need team members to make the magic happen every day. Everyone matters and we're here ...
Cook
Woodbridge, VA · On-site
$13.75 - $18.50/hr
Grill Cook At CAVA, we love what we do, and we try and make every day as fulfilling as the last. Our restaurants need team members to make the magic happen every day. Everyone matters and we're here ...
Cook
$15/hr
We are seeking a skilled and enthusiastic Cook/Grill Operator to join our kitchen team. This role focuses on preparing and cooking our signature kabobs, fresh sides, and other menu items to ...
Quick apply
Cook
$15/hr
We are seeking a skilled and enthusiastic Cook/Grill Operator to join our kitchen team. This role focuses on preparing and cooking our signature kabobs, fresh sides, and other menu items to ...
Cook
Leesburg, VA · On-site
$14.75 - $19.75/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 ...
Cook
Leesburg, VA · On-site
$14.75 - $19.75/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 ...
Cook
Chevy Chase, MD · On-site
$17.65/hr
We are seeking a skilled and enthusiastic Cook/Grill Operator to join our kitchen team. This role focuses on preparing and cooking our signature kabobs, fresh sides, and other menu items to ...
Quick apply
Cook
Chevy Chase, MD · On-site
$17.65/hr
We are seeking a skilled and enthusiastic Cook/Grill Operator to join our kitchen team. This role focuses on preparing and cooking our signature kabobs, fresh sides, and other menu items to ...
Cook
Herndon, VA · On-site
$14.50 - $19.25/hr
Job Purpose The purpose of the Cook I is to prepare, cook and present a variety of hot and cold food items such as meats, fowl, fish, sauces, stocks, seasonings, breakfast items, lunch items and ...
Cook
Herndon, VA · On-site
$14.50 - $19.25/hr
Job Purpose The purpose of the Cook I is to prepare, cook and present a variety of hot and cold food items such as meats, fowl, fish, sauces, stocks, seasonings, breakfast items, lunch items and ...
Cook
College Park, MD · On-site
$13.75 - $18.50/hr
A cook is responsible for daily preparation of all food items at each station on the kitchen. A cook is also responsible for all assigned prep work and set up and close of each station. A cook must ...
Cook
College Park, MD · On-site
$13.75 - $18.50/hr
A cook is responsible for daily preparation of all food items at each station on the kitchen. A cook is also responsible for all assigned prep work and set up and close of each station. A cook must ...
Cook
Woodbridge, VA · On-site
$13.75 - $18.50/hr
Grill Cook At CAVA, we love what we do, and we try and make every day as fulfilling as the last. Our restaurants need team members to make the magic happen every day. Everyone matters and we're here ...
Cook
Woodbridge, VA · On-site
$13.75 - $18.50/hr
Grill Cook At CAVA, we love what we do, and we try and make every day as fulfilling as the last. Our restaurants need team members to make the magic happen every day. Everyone matters and we're here ...
Cook
Leesburg, VA · On-site
$14.75 - $19.75/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 ...
Cook
Leesburg, VA · On-site
$14.75 - $19.75/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 ...
Cook
Herndon, VA · On-site
$14.50 - $19.25/hr
Part Time Cook Position!! Dulles health and Rehab located in Herndon, VA is looking for a parttime cook to work every other weekend. Essential job functions for the position: * Prepares or directs ...
Cook
Herndon, VA · On-site
$14.50 - $19.25/hr
Part Time Cook Position!! Dulles health and Rehab located in Herndon, VA is looking for a parttime cook to work every other weekend. Essential job functions for the position: * Prepares or directs ...
Cook
Herndon, VA · On-site
$19.50 - $23.30/hr
Part Time Cook Position!! Dulles health and Rehab located in Herndon, VA is looking for a parttime cook to work every other weekend. Essential job functions for the position: * Prepares or directs ...
Cook
Herndon, VA · On-site
$19.50 - $23.30/hr
Part Time Cook Position!! Dulles health and Rehab located in Herndon, VA is looking for a parttime cook to work every other weekend. Essential job functions for the position: * Prepares or directs ...
Cook
$15.50/hr
We are seeking a skilled and enthusiastic Cook/Grill Operator to join our kitchen team. This role focuses on preparing and cooking our signature kabobs, fresh sides, and other menu items to ...
Quick apply
Cook
$15.50/hr
We are seeking a skilled and enthusiastic Cook/Grill Operator to join our kitchen team. This role focuses on preparing and cooking our signature kabobs, fresh sides, and other menu items to ...
Cook
Sterling, VA · On-site
$15 - $17/hr
We are seeking a skilled and enthusiastic Cook/Grill Operator to join our kitchen team. This role focuses on preparing and cooking our signature kabobs, fresh sides, and other menu items to ...
Quick apply
Cook
Sterling, VA · On-site
$15 - $17/hr
We are seeking a skilled and enthusiastic Cook/Grill Operator to join our kitchen team. This role focuses on preparing and cooking our signature kabobs, fresh sides, and other menu items to ...
Cook
$13.75 - $18.50/hr
Grill Cook At CAVA, we love what we do, and we try and make every day as fulfilling as the last. Our restaurants need team members to make the magic happen every day. Everyone matters and we're here ...
Cook
$13.75 - $18.50/hr
Grill Cook At CAVA, we love what we do, and we try and make every day as fulfilling as the last. Our restaurants need team members to make the magic happen every day. Everyone matters and we're here ...
Cook
$20 - $22/hr
Cook - Modena Reserve at Kensington Position Available: Full Time Love making a difference in the lives of seniors? At Modena Reserve at Kensington, we are guided by our Core Values--Compassion ...
Quick apply
Cook
$20 - $22/hr
Cook - Modena Reserve at Kensington Position Available: Full Time Love making a difference in the lives of seniors? At Modena Reserve at Kensington, we are guided by our Core Values--Compassion ...
Cook
$19 - $21/hr
Cook - Hunters Woods at Trails Edge Love making a difference in the lives of seniors? At Hunters Woods at Trails Edge, we are guided by our Core Values--Compassion, Communication, Commitment, and ...
Quick apply
Cook
$19 - $21/hr
Cook - Hunters Woods at Trails Edge Love making a difference in the lives of seniors? At Hunters Woods at Trails Edge, we are guided by our Core Values--Compassion, Communication, Commitment, and ...
Cook
Columbia, MD · On-site
$14 - $18.75/hr
A cook is responsible for daily preparation of all food items at each station on the kitchen. A cook is also responsible for all assigned prep work and set up and close of each station. A cook must ...
Cook
Columbia, MD · On-site
$14 - $18.75/hr
A cook is responsible for daily preparation of all food items at each station on the kitchen. A cook is also responsible for all assigned prep work and set up and close of each station. A cook must ...
Cook information
See Washington salary details
$10.07 - $11.43
2% of jobs
$11.43 - $12.80
4% of jobs
$12.80 - $14.16
9% of jobs
$15.52 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$14.16 - $15.52
10% of jobs
$15.52 - $16.88
14% of jobs
The median wage is $17.79 / hr.
$16.88 - $18.24
16% of jobs
$18.24 - $19.60
15% of jobs
$20.10 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$19.60 - $20.96
12% of jobs
$20.96 - $22.33
9% of jobs
$22.33 - $23.69
5% of jobs
$23.69 - $25.05
3% of jobs
$10
$18
$25
How much do cook jobs pay per hour?
As of Jul 3, 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?
| Aspect | Cook | Chef |
|---|---|---|
| Credentials | None required or basic culinary training | Formal culinary education or extensive experience |
| Work Environment | Restaurants, cafeterias, catering | Fine dining, hotels, culinary establishments |
| Responsibilities | Preparing dishes, following recipes | Menu 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.
More about Cook jobs
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:
Sonic Drive-In rating
4.7
Based on 1,602 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
75th of 104 rated fast food restaurants
Job description
Description:
Who says FUN and RESPONSIBILITY can't hang together? At SONIC Drive-In restaurants, you'll have all that, along with great pay, flexible hours, a cool uniform and the camaraderie of fantastic co-workers.
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 applicable.
Cook tasks in the restaurant may include:
- Preparing and cooking food orders to meet product quality standards
- Food preparation and portioning
- Cooking on the grill
- Operating the fry station
- Dressing items to order
- Packaging all menu items and checking for product quality and consistency
- Cleaning including trash disposal, mopping, sweeping, washing dishes, wiping counter-tops and sanitizing food areas
Requirements:
SONIC Drive-In Restaurant Cook Requirements:
- Ability to work irregular hours, nights, weekends and holidays
- Ability to be flexible in all situations based on business need
- Effective communication skills; basic math and reading skills
- Ability to follow directions
- Willingness to abide by the appearance, uniform and hygiene standards at SONIC Drive-In restaurants
- General knowledge and understanding of the restaurant industry or retail operations preferred, but not required
Additional Info:
Additional SONIC Drive-In Restaurant Cook Qualifications...
- Friendly and smiling faces that enjoy providing quality products for our guests!
- A willingness to cross-train on all the stations - it never gets boring here!
- Motivated individuals who are team players and committed to keeping our drive-in clean and safe.
Sure, classic cars and vintage threads may be things of the past, but the SONIC Drive-In restaurant experience will always be groovy, right on, awesome, wicked, fab, the bee's knees, cruisin' . . . you get the picture! It's downright sensational!!
All that's missing is you, so APPLY TODAY!
SONIC and its independent franchise owners are Equal Opportunity Employers.
Who says FUN and RESPONSIBILITY can't hang together? At SONIC Drive-In restaurants, you'll have all that, along with great pay, flexible hours, a cool uniform and the camaraderie of fantastic co-workers.
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 applicable.
Cook tasks in the restaurant may include:
- Preparing and cooking food orders to meet product quality standards
- Food preparation and portioning
- Cooking on the grill
- Operating the fry station
- Dressing items to order
- Packaging all menu items and checking for product quality and consistency
- Cleaning including trash disposal, mopping, sweeping, washing dishes, wiping counter-tops and sanitizing food areas
Requirements:
SONIC Drive-In Restaurant Cook Requirements:
- Ability to work irregular hours, nights, weekends and holidays
- Ability to be flexible in all situations based on business need
- Effective communication skills; basic math and reading skills
- Ability to follow directions
- Willingness to abide by the appearance, uniform and hygiene standards at SONIC Drive-In restaurants
- General knowledge and understanding of the restaurant industry or retail operations preferred, but not required
Additional Info:
Additional SONIC Drive-In Restaurant Cook Qualifications...
- Friendly and smiling faces that enjoy providing quality products for our guests!
- A willingness to cross-train on all the stations - it never gets boring here!
- Motivated individuals who are team players and committed to keeping our drive-in clean and safe.
Sure, classic cars and vintage threads may be things of the past, but the SONIC Drive-In restaurant experience will always be groovy, right on, awesome, wicked, fab, the bee's knees, cruisin' . . . you get the picture! It's downright sensational!!
All that's missing is you, so APPLY TODAY!
SONIC and its independent franchise owners are Equal Opportunity Employers.
What Sonic Drive-In employees say
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Benefits
Hours and flexibility
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