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Cook Jobs in Oak Ridge, TN (NOW HIRING)

Applebee's

Cook

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

$14 - $16/hr

A Line Cook has chance to work in a fast-paced, challenging, and exciting environment with an opportunity for a great career growth. In regards to growth, there is so much available just in the ...

Applebee's Grill & Bar

Cook

Knoxville, TN

$14 - $16/hr

A Line Cook has chance to work in a fast-paced, challenging, and exciting environment with an opportunity for a great career growth. In regards to growth, there is so much available just in the ...

Applebee's Grill & Bar

Cook

Alcoa, TN

$14 - $16/hr

A Line Cook has chance to work in a fast-paced, challenging, and exciting environment with an opportunity for a great career growth. In regards to growth, there is so much available just in the ...

Applebee's Grill & Bar

Cook

Knoxville, TN

$14 - $16/hr

A Line Cook has chance to work in a fast-paced, challenging, and exciting environment with an opportunity for a great career growth. In regards to growth, there is so much available just in the ...

Sonic

Cook

Rockwood, TN · On-site

$12.25 - $16.25/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 ...

Sonic Drive-In

Cook

Rockwood, TN · On-site

$12.25 - $16.25/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 ...

Guernsey Holdings LLC

Cook

Knoxville, TN

$11.75 - $15.75/hr

Cook Immediate Supervisor: Manager on Duty (MOD) Position Summary: This position cooks, prepares, and packages product. Job Duties: * Cook, prepare, and package food product pursuant to operational ...

Healthcare Services Group, Inc.

Cook

Maynardville, TN

$10.75 - $14.50/hr

Cook Join Healthcare Services Group (HCSG) as a Cook, where you will play a vital role in preparing and cooking nutritious meals for residents in a long-term care facility. At HCSG, we are passionate ...

Healthcare Services Group, Inc.

Cook

Louisville, TN

$12.75 - $17.25/hr

Cook Join Healthcare Services Group (HCSG) as a Cook, where you will play a vital role in preparing and cooking nutritious meals for residents in a long-term care facility. At HCSG, we are passionate ...

HHS LLC

Cook

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$18/hr

Responsibilities Cook Wage: $18/hour Full-time and part-time positions available Day/Evening/Night shifts available Background check, drug screen, and proof of employment eligibility required ...

Encompass Health

Cook

Knoxville, TN

$13.25 - $18/hr

Cook Career Opportunity Recognized for your culinary skills Are you passionate about creating culinary delights that leave a lasting impression? If so, we have an exciting opportunity for a cook who ...

Sonic

Cook

Sweetwater, TN · On-site

$11.25 - $15/hr

Cook Immediate Supervisor: Manager on Duty (MOD) Position Summary: This position cooks, prepares, and packages product. Job Duties: * Cook, prepare, and package food product pursuant to operational ...

Guernsey Holdings LLC

Cook

Sweetwater, TN

$11.25 - $15/hr

Cook Immediate Supervisor: Manager on Duty (MOD) Position Summary: This position cooks, prepares, and packages product. Job Duties: * Cook, prepare, and package food product pursuant to operational ...

HHS LLC

Cook

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$16/hr

Responsibilities Cook Wage: $16/hour Full-time and part-time positions available Day/Evening/Night shifts available Background check, drug screen, and proof of employment eligibility required ...

Sonic Drive-In

Cook

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$11.75 - $15.75/hr

Cook Immediate Supervisor: Manager on Duty (MOD) Position Summary: This position cooks, prepares, and packages product. Job Duties: * Cook, prepare, and package food product pursuant to operational ...

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Cook information

See Oak Ridge, TN salary details

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How much do cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for cook in Oak Ridge, TN is $15.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.88 and $17.26 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.
More about Cook jobs
What are popular job titles related to Cook jobs in Oak Ridge, TN? For Cook jobs in Oak Ridge, TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Oak Ridge, TN are hiring for Cook jobs? Cities near Oak Ridge, TN with the most Cook job openings:
Cook jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cook job openings in Oak Ridge, TN as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $31,874 per year, or $15.3 per hour.
Cook

Cook

Applebee's

Oak Ridge, TN • On-site

$14 - $16/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 17 hours 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

DESCRIPTION
At Applebee's® you will discover a balance between work life and personal life, as well as amazing benefits:
  • Flexible scheduling if you have another job / school.
  • Healthcare benefits; including dental and vision coverage
  • Meal discounts
  • Paid Time Off / Paid Vacations
  • Advancement Opportunities
  • Competitive pay - Looking for cooks with experience.

Love an active work environment? As an Applebee's® Cook, you will thrive then! A Line Cook has chance to work in a fast-paced, challenging, and exciting environment with an opportunity for a great career growth. In regards to growth, there is so much available just in the Kitchen! Cross train in Prep, Fry, Broil, and Mid Stations to expand your knowledge in Back of House operations.
Ever cooked in a casual dining environment? We are hiring immediately and you may have a head start in the right direction with Applebee's®. As an Applebee's® Cook, you will be centered in the heart and soul of our restaurants. Those who enjoy the Cook position the most typically have a great sense of food safety, have a sense of urgency when preparing a plate for guests, and have basic knowledge of maintaining kitchen equipment and utensils.
You are applying for work with a franchisee of Applebee's, not Applebee's Corp. or any of its affiliates. If hired, the franchisee will be your only employer. Franchisees are independent business owners who set their own wage and benefit programs that can vary among franchisees.
If you have previous experience as a Cook, line cook, working in a restaurant, in a kitchen, food service or fast food for other casual dining establishments, please apply! Teens welcomed!
Hiring Immediately!
REQUIREMENTS
  • Must be Eighteen years of age or older.
  • Prior Kitchen experience at other casual dining establishments is an asset.
  • Reliable transportation is preferred.
  • Comfortable working on your feet for full shift
  • Must be able / willing to work in a fast paced environment.

It all started in 1980 in Atlanta, Georgia
Bill and TJ Palmer opened the restaurant that would later become Applebee's. We've grown up a lot since then, with almost 2,000 locations in the U.S. and around the world. Here you will always be welcome - for delicious food, in a neighborhood setting, with attentive service, at a great value.

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