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Cooker Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Cook

Bristol, 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 ...

Cook

Columbia, TN · On-site

EMPLOYEE DISCOUNT We are now hiring cooks for our high volume, fast-paced environment. We offer a competitive starting wage, flexible schedules, an amazing work environment, and there are lots of ...

EMPLOYEE DISCOUNT We are now hiring cooks for our high volume, fast-paced environment. We offer a competitive starting wage, flexible schedules, an amazing work environment, and there are lots of ...

Cook

Nashville, TN · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

EMPLOYEE DISCOUNT We are now hiring cooks for our high volume, fast-paced environment. We offer a competitive starting wage, flexible schedules, an amazing work environment, and there are lots of ...

Cook

Shelbyville, TN · On-site

$14 - $16/hr

EMPLOYEE DISCOUNT We are now hiring cooks for our high volume, fast-paced environment. We offer a competitive starting wage, flexible schedules, an amazing work environment, and there are lots of ...

EMPLOYEE DISCOUNT We are now hiring cooks for our high volume, fast-paced environment. We offer a competitive starting wage, flexible schedules, an amazing work environment, and there are lots of ...

Cook

Hermitage, TN · On-site

$12.25 - $16.50/hr

The Cook is responsible for the quality, quantity, tastiness, and freshness of all Hot Choice Buffet products. The Cook pays special attention to speed, cleanliness, organization, and product ...

Cook

Greeneville, 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 ...

Cook

Athens, 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 ...

Cook

Morristown, 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 ...

Cook

Clarksville, TN · On-site

$12.25 - $16.25/hr

The Cook is responsible for the quality, quantity, tastiness, and freshness of all Hot Choice Buffet products. The Cook pays special attention to speed, cleanliness, organization, and product ...

Cook

Memphis, TN · On-site

$18/hr

We are looking for an experienced Cook to join our team! You will be preparing and cooking a variety of dishes for restaurant guests to enjoy. You are passionate about creating exceptional dining ...

Cook

Memphis, TN · On-site

$18/hr

You will be preparing and cooking a variety of dishes for restaurant guests to enjoy. You are passionate about creating exceptional dining experiences through good, quality food. With previous ...

Cook

Kingsport, 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 ...

Cook

Smyrna, TN · On-site

$13 - $15/hr

EMPLOYEE DISCOUNT We are now hiring cooks for our high volume, fast-paced environment. We offer a competitive starting wage, flexible schedules, an amazing work environment, and there are lots of ...

EMPLOYEE DISCOUNT We are now hiring cooks for our high volume, fast-paced environment. We offer a competitive starting wage, flexible schedules, an amazing work environment, and there are lots of ...

Cook

Nashville, TN · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

EMPLOYEE DISCOUNT We are now hiring cooks for our high volume, fast-paced environment. We offer a competitive starting wage, flexible schedules, an amazing work environment, and there are lots of ...

Cook

White House, TN · On-site

$14 - $16/hr

EMPLOYEE DISCOUNT We are now hiring cooks for our high volume, fast-paced environment. We offer a competitive starting wage, flexible schedules, an amazing work environment, and there are lots of ...

Cook

Hixson, 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 ...

Showing results 41-60

Cooker information

See Tennessee salary details

$14

$17

$19

How much do cooker jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for cooker in Tennessee is $17.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.15 and $18.56 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a cooker?

To thrive as a Cooker (Chef or Cook), you need a solid understanding of food preparation, cooking techniques, and food safety standards, often gained through culinary school or hands-on experience. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, inventory management systems, and certifications like ServSafe are typically required. Attention to detail, time management, and teamwork are vital soft skills that set exceptional cooks apart. These skills and qualifications ensure efficient kitchen operations, high-quality dishes, and a safe dining environment for customers.

What is the difference between Cooker vs Chef?

AspectCookerChef
CredentialsBasic culinary skills, sometimes certifications in food safetyFormal culinary education or extensive experience, culinary certifications
Work EnvironmentCommercial kitchens, restaurants, catering servicesProfessional kitchens, restaurants, hotels, culinary establishments
ResponsibilitiesPreparing and cooking food according to recipesOverseeing kitchen operations, menu creation, supervising cooks

The main difference between a Cooker and a Chef lies in their roles and responsibilities. A Cooker typically focuses on preparing and cooking food, often with basic skills and certifications. A Chef, on the other hand, has advanced culinary training, oversees kitchen operations, and is responsible for menu development. While both work in similar environments, the Chef's role is more managerial and creative, whereas the Cooker primarily executes cooking tasks.

What are some common challenges a professional cooker faces in a high-volume kitchen, and how can they be managed?

In a high-volume kitchen, cookers often face challenges such as managing time efficiently, maintaining consistency in food quality, and handling pressure during peak service hours. To manage these, it's important to develop strong organizational skills, communicate clearly with kitchen staff, and stay calm under pressure. Many successful cookers also rely on prep work and mise en place to streamline service and ensure a smooth workflow. Building good relationships with team members helps foster a supportive environment, making it easier to overcome challenges together.

What does a cooker do?

A cooker, often referred to as a cook or chef, is responsible for preparing and cooking food in restaurants, cafeterias, or other dining establishments. Their duties include following recipes, measuring and mixing ingredients, monitoring food while it cooks, and ensuring meals are served at the right temperature and presentation. Cookers also maintain kitchen cleanliness and adhere to food safety standards. Depending on the workplace, their responsibilities may range from simple food preparation to creating complex dishes.
What are popular job titles related to Cooker jobs in Tennessee? For Cooker jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Cooker jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Cooker jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Cooker jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Cooker job openings:
Infographic showing various Cooker job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $36,123 per year, or $17.4 per hour.

$14 - $16/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago


Applebee's rating

5.6

Company rating: 5.6 out of 10

Based on 737 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

61st of 88 rated restaurants


Job 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!


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