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Cook Jobs in Mankato, MN (NOW HIRING)

Oak Hills Living Center

Cook

New Ulm, MN · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

The Cook will be responsible for preparing ingredients, cooking andpresenting dishes, and maintaining a clean and organized work area. Thesuccessful candidate will have strong attention to detail and ...

New Perspective Senior Living

Cook-PT

Faribault, MN

$16/hr

Cook Position Summary A New Perspective Cook is a valuable part of the care team by executing recipes, preparing the kitchen, and creating delicious and dietary meals. We look for caring multi ...

New Perspective

Cook-PT

Faribault, MN · On-site

$16/hr

Cook Position Summary A New Perspective Cook is a valuable part of the care team by executing recipes, preparing the kitchen, and creating delicious and dietary meals. We look for caring multi ...

New Perspective Senior Living LLC

Cook-PT

Faribault, MN · On-site

$16/hr

Cook Position Summary A New Perspective Cook is a valuable part of the care team by executing recipes, preparing the kitchen, and creating delicious and dietary meals. We look for caring multi ...

Mankato Area Public Schools

Cook Helper

Mankato, MN · On-site

$15.14 - $15.99/hr

Food Service/Cook`s Helper Date Posted: 5/18/2026 Location: Prairie Winds Middle School Closing Date: 5/28/26, or until filled Cook Helper Prairie Winds Middle School Mankato Area Public Schools is ...

Mankato Area Public Schools

Cook Helper

Mankato, MN · On-site

$15.14 - $15.99/hr

Cook Helper Prairie Winds Middle School Mankato Area Public Schools is seeking a Cook Helper at Prairie Winds Middle School for approximately 3.5 hours per day 5 days per week (10:30 am to 2:00 pm ...

New Horizon Foods

Cook - Fairbault, MN

Faribault, MN · On-site

$14.25 - $19.25/hr

Cook - Fairbault, MN Cook- Part Time (20-25) Independent environment On the job training Ability to grow with the company About Us Consolidated Management is a food service management company with ...

New Horizon Foods

Cook - Fairbault, MN

Faribault, MN

$14.25 - $19.25/hr

Cook - Fairbault, MN Cook- Part Time (20-25) Independent environment On the job training Ability to grow with the company About Us Consolidated Management is a food service management company with ...

Sodexo

Cook

Mankato, MN · On-site

$15 - $17/hr

Cook Location: BETHANY LUTHERAN COLLEGE - 15780001 Workdays/shifts : Weekdays - morning shifts. More details will be provided during the interview process. Employment Type: Full-time Pay Range: $15 ...

Mankato Area Public Schools

Second Cook

Mankato, MN · On-site

$16.80 - $17.65/hr

Food Service/Second Cook Date Posted: 5/1/2026 Location: Rosa Parks Elementary School Closing Date: 05/11/26, or until filled Second Cook Rosa Parks Elementary School A position is available for a ...

Sodexo

Cook

Mankato, MN · On-site

$15 - $17/hr

Cook Location: #la-location_name Workdays/shifts: Weekdays - morning shifts. More details will be provided during the interview process. Employment Type: Full-time Pay Range: $15.00 - $17.00 #la ...

Sodexo

Cook

Mankato, MN

$15 - $17/hr

Cook Location: BETHANY LUTHERAN COLLEGE - 15780001 Workdays/shifts : Weekdays - morning shifts. More details will be provided during the interview process. Employment Type: Full-time Pay Range: $15 ...

Sodexo

Cook

Mankato, MN · On-site

$15 - $17/hr

Cook Location: #la-location_name Workdays/shifts : Weekdays - morning shifts. More details will be provided during the interview process. Employment Type: Full-time Pay Range: $15.00 - $17.00 #la ...

Mankato Area Public Schools

Second Cook

Mankato, MN · On-site

$16.80 - $17.65/hr

Second Cook Rosa Parks Elementary School A position is available for a Second Cook at Rosa Parks Elementary School beginning August 2026. This position is for 8 hours per day/5 days per week (6:00 am ...

Benedictine

Cook

Saint Peter, MN · On-site

$20.25 - $24.50/hr

Cook Job Locations USA-MN-St. Peter Campus Name Benedictine Living Community-St. Peter Category Culinary Services Position Type Part-Time Shift Days Specific Shift Times 5AM - 1:30PM Scheduled Days ...

Cura Health

Dietary Cook

Le Sueur, MN · On-site

$21.75/hr

The Dietary Cook is responsible for preparing meals according to menus, dietary guidelines, and resident needs while maintaining a clean, safe, and organized kitchen environment. We are looking for ...

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Cook information

See Mankato, MN salary details

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$21

How much do cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for cook in Mankato, MN is $15.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.32 and $17.84 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 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 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.

What are three careers in cooking?

Three careers in cooking include becoming a chef, a pastry chef, or a line cook. These roles involve preparing food in restaurants, bakeries, or catering services and often require culinary training or certifications. Each position offers different responsibilities and skill levels within the culinary industry.

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 Mankato, MN? The most popular types of Cook jobs in Mankato, MN are:
What job categories do people searching Cook jobs in Mankato, MN look for? The top searched job categories for Cook jobs in Mankato, MN are:
What cities near Mankato, MN are hiring for Cook jobs? Cities near Mankato, MN with the most Cook job openings:
Cook jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cook job openings in Mankato, MN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 53% Full Time, and 47% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $32,993 per year, or $15.9 per hour.

Cook

Oak Hills Living Center

New Ulm, MN • On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

Oak Hills Living Center is an EEO Employer - M/F/Disability/Protected Veteran Status
Introduction:
Are you looking for an opportunity to build a rewardingcareer? We are seeking a skilled and experienced Cookto join our Nutrition Services Team and prepare high-quality dishes for our residentsand staff. The Cook will be responsible for preparing ingredients, cooking andpresenting dishes, and maintaining a clean and organized work area. Thesuccessful candidate will have strong attention to detail and be able to workefficiently in a fast-paced environment.
Responsibilities:
  • Prepare ingredients for cooking, including washing and chopping vegetables and meat
  • Cook and present dishes according to menu specifications, including following recipes and presentation standards
  • Maintain a clean and organized work area, including washing dishes and utensils and maintaining inventory levels
  • Communicate effectively with other team members, including the kitchen staff and management
  • Follow all safety and sanitation policies and procedures
  • Other duties as assigned

Shift Requirements:
  • 32-40 hours per week
  • Shift time 8-430pm and 11-730pm

Benefits:
• Medical/Dental/Life Insurance
401K
PTO
Paid Holidays
Additional Employee Benefit
  • Oak Hills offers free access to a Staff Support Specialist for all employees. This confidential service provides one-on-one support and resources to help staff navigate personal or work-related challenges, including stress, anxiety, family concerns, and overall mental wellness.

Please visit our careers page to see more job opportunities.

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