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
Washington, DC · On-site
$20/hr
Meriwether Godsey is looking for a Full-time Cook responsible for the preparation, cooking, and presentation of daily meals and special events for a private school located in Northwest Washington, DC.
Cook
Washington, DC · On-site
$20/hr
Meriwether Godsey is looking for a Full-time Cook responsible for the preparation, cooking, and presentation of daily meals and special events for a private school located in Northwest Washington, DC.
Cook
Arlington, VA · On-site
$21 - $25/hr
Cook Location: Arlington, VA 22203 We are seeking a skilled and motivated Cook to join our team in Arlington, VA. The ideal candidate will be passionate about food preparation, maintain high ...
Cook
Arlington, VA · On-site
$21 - $25/hr
Cook Location: Arlington, VA 22203 We are seeking a skilled and motivated Cook to join our team in Arlington, VA. The ideal candidate will be passionate about food preparation, maintain high ...
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
Arlington, VA · On-site
$21 - $25/hr
Cook Location: Arlington, VA 22203 We are seeking a skilled and motivated Cook to join our team in Arlington, VA. The ideal candidate will be passionate about food preparation, maintain high ...
Cook
Arlington, VA · On-site
$21 - $25/hr
Cook Location: Arlington, VA 22203 We are seeking a skilled and motivated Cook to join our team in Arlington, VA. The ideal candidate will be passionate about food preparation, maintain high ...
Cook
Mclean, VA · On-site
$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
Mclean, VA · On-site
$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
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
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
Manassas, VA · On-site
$19.50 - $23.30/hr
As a Cook, you will be responsible for preparing and serving nutritious, appealing meals in accordance with approved menus, recipes, dietary requirements, and food safety standards. You will work ...
Cook
Manassas, VA · On-site
$19.50 - $23.30/hr
As a Cook, you will be responsible for preparing and serving nutritious, appealing meals in accordance with approved menus, recipes, dietary requirements, and food safety standards. You will work ...
Cook
Mclean, VA · On-site
$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
Mclean, VA · On-site
$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
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
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 ...
Quick apply
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
Arlington, VA · On-site
$16 - $21.50/hr
As a Cook, you prepare high-quality meals that support residents' health and enjoyment while maintaining a safe, clean, and organized kitchen environment.What You'll Do: Prepare and serve meals ...
New
Cook
Arlington, VA · On-site
$16 - $21.50/hr
As a Cook, you prepare high-quality meals that support residents' health and enjoyment while maintaining a safe, clean, and organized kitchen environment.What You'll Do: Prepare and serve meals ...
New
Cook
Mclean, VA · On-site
$14.25 - $19/hr
IAP is seeking a Cook who will prepare in large quantities, by various methods of cooking, meat, poultry, fish, and vegetables, seasons and cooks all cuts of various meats, fish, and poultry.
Cook
Mclean, VA · On-site
$14.25 - $19/hr
IAP is seeking a Cook who will prepare in large quantities, by various methods of cooking, meat, poultry, fish, and vegetables, seasons and cooks all cuts of various meats, fish, and poultry.
Cook
$19/hr
Description The Cook is responsible for prepping, cooking & assembling a variety of food products and meals, complying with all applicable sanitation, health and personal hygiene standards and ...
Cook
$19/hr
Description The Cook is responsible for prepping, cooking & assembling a variety of food products and meals, complying with all applicable sanitation, health and personal hygiene standards and ...
Cook
Washington, DC · On-site
$15.25 - $20.50/hr
The Cook is responsible for prepping, cooking & assembling a variety of food products and meals, complying with all applicable sanitation, health and personal hygiene standards and following ...
Cook
Washington, DC · On-site
$15.25 - $20.50/hr
The Cook is responsible for prepping, cooking & assembling a variety of food products and meals, complying with all applicable sanitation, health and personal hygiene standards and following ...
Cook information
See Reston, VA salary details
$9.25 - $10.50
2% of jobs
$10.50 - $11.75
4% of jobs
$11.75 - $13
9% of jobs
$14.25 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$13 - $14.25
10% of jobs
$14.25 - $15.51
14% of jobs
The median wage is $16.34 / hr.
$15.51 - $16.76
16% of jobs
$16.76 - $18.01
15% of jobs
$18.46 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$18.01 - $19.26
12% of jobs
$19.26 - $20.51
9% of jobs
$20.51 - $21.76
5% of jobs
$21.76 - $23.01
3% of jobs
$9
$16
$23
How much do cook jobs pay per hour?
As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for cook in Reston, VA is $16.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.99 and $18.75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
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 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 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 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 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 jobs can you do if you like cooking?
If you enjoy cooking, you can pursue roles such as chef, line cook, pastry chef, or culinary assistant. These jobs typically require culinary skills, knowledge of food safety, and sometimes certifications like a food handler's permit. Opportunities exist in restaurants, hotels, catering companies, and institutional food services.
More about Cook jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Cook jobs in Reston, VA?
The most popular types of Cook jobs in Reston, VA are:
What are popular job titles related to Cook jobs in Reston, VA?
For Cook jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Cook jobs in Reston, VA look for?
The top searched job categories for Cook jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Cook jobs?
Cities near Reston, VA with the most Cook job openings:
Sonic Drive-In rating
4.6
Based on 1,640 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
87th of 107 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
Pay
Benefits
Hours and flexibility
Workplace
Get the full story on Breakroom
About Sonic Drive-In
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
Industry
Food and beverage stores and restaurants
Company size
10,000+ Employees
Headquarters location
Atlanta, GA, US