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Cooker Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Cook

Memphis, TN ยท 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

Murfreesboro, TN ยท 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 ...

Cook

Morristown, TN ยท 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 ยท 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

Greeneville, TN ยท 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

Memphis, TN ยท 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

Hermitage, TN ยท 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

Clarksville, TN ยท 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

Clarksville, TN ยท 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

Knoxville, TN ยท 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

Knoxville, TN ยท 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

Bristol, TN ยท 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

Columbia, TN ยท 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 ...

Cook

Kingsport, TN ยท 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

Nashville, TN ยท 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 ...

Cook

White House, TN ยท 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

Smyrna, TN ยท 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 ...

Cook

Nashville, TN ยท 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

Knoxville, TN ยท 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 10, 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 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 81% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $36,123 per year, or $17.4 per hour.

Cook

Tazikis Memphis LLC

Memphis, TN โ€ข On-site

$18/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

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 experiences through good, quality food. With previous experience as a cook, you are able to manage multiple priorities and contribute to a friendly and productive team atmosphere. Ideally, you have your ServeSafe or Food Handler’s certification. 
Responsibilities: 

  • Inspect and clean food preparation areas, such as equipment and work surfaces or serving areas to ensure safe and sanitary food-handling practices
  • Ensure freshness of food and ingredients by checking for quality, keeping track of old and new items, and rotating stock
  • Ensure food is stored and cooked at correct temperature by regulating the temperature of ovens, broilers, grills, and roasters
  • Season and cook food according to recipes or personal judgment and experience
  • Turn or stir foods to ensure even cooking
  • Respond to guest feedback with appropriate urgency and professionalism 
Qualifications: 

  • Previous experience as a restaurant cook preferred 
  • ServeSafe or Food Handler’s certification (or must be willing to attain)
  • Effective communication skills 
  • Ability to lift 30+ lbs 
  • Ability to work standing for 8+ hours 
 
Complete our short application today!