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Cooking Assistant Jobs in New York (NOW HIRING)

Hamilton Madison House

ASSISTANT COOK

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$20.50/hr

Responsibilities : * Assist with daily food preparation, cooking, and packaging of grab-and-go meals for congregate services * Transport, pack, and organize food supplies and related items to ensure ...

GMHC

Kitchen Assistant

Manhattan, NY

$20/hr

Description The Kitchen Assistant plays a vital role in the smooth operation of a high-volume production kitchen, supporting the Cook and Cook Assistant in all aspects of lunch service. Key ...

Project Hospitality

Cook Assistant

Staten Island, NY

$18.50/hr

Participate in the preparation and cooking of meals and snacks in accordance with specified menus and city-wide nutritional guidelines as needed. * Maintain the cleanliness of the kitchen and ...

All Team Staffing

Cook

New York, NY

$15.25 - $20.50/hr

... : * Assist in preparation, cooking, and presentation of meals * Plan food production to coordinate with meal serving hours * Memorize, record, and comprehend menu items, abbreviations, plate ...

All Team Staffing

Lead Cook

New York, NY · On-site

$18.75 - $24/hr

... : * Assist in preparation, cooking, and presentation of meals * Plan food production to coordinate with meal serving hours * Memorize, record, and comprehend menu items, abbreviations, plate ...

Anejo

Lead Line Cook

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$19 - $24/hr

Prepares a variety of meats, seafood, poultry, vegetables and other food items for cooking in ... * Assist in the training of any incoming line cook * Closes the kitchen properly and follows the ...

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Cooking Assistant information

What are some common challenges faced by cooking assistants during busy service periods?

Cooking Assistants often experience high-pressure situations during peak meal times, where quick and accurate preparation of ingredients is crucial. Managing multiple tasks simultaneously—such as chopping vegetables, prepping proteins, and maintaining a clean workstation—can be challenging but is essential for a smooth kitchen operation. Clear communication with chefs and other kitchen staff helps prevent mistakes and ensures timely service. Adapting to a fast-paced environment and staying organized are key to overcoming these challenges.

What is the difference between Cooking Assistant vs Kitchen Helper?

AspectCooking AssistantKitchen Helper
Required CredentialsBasic culinary skills, sometimes food safety certificationMinimal credentials, on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentCommercial kitchens, restaurants, cateringRestaurants, cafeterias, food prep areas
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly employed in food service establishmentsOften used interchangeably with Cooking Assistant, but more general

The Cooking Assistant and Kitchen Helper roles both support kitchen operations, but Cooking Assistants typically have more culinary responsibilities and may require basic food safety knowledge. Kitchen Helpers usually perform more general support tasks with less emphasis on cooking skills. Both roles are essential in food service environments, but Cooking Assistants often have a slightly higher skill requirement and more involvement in food preparation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a cooking assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cooking Assistant, you need basic culinary knowledge, food safety awareness, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with kitchen equipment, food handling procedures, and certifications like a Food Handler’s Permit are typically required. Strong teamwork, time management, and attention to detail are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills and qualifications ensure efficient food preparation, a safe kitchen environment, and smooth collaboration within the culinary team.

What is a cooking assistant?

Cooking Assistants, sometimes known as kitchen assistants or prep cooks, are entry-level staff members who support chefs and cooks in the preparation and organization of food in a kitchen. Their duties typically include washing and chopping ingredients, maintaining cleanliness, organizing supplies, and occasionally assisting with simple cooking tasks. Cooking Assistants play a crucial role in ensuring the kitchen runs efficiently and that food is prepared quickly and safely.

What are the most commonly searched types of Cooking jobs in New York?

The most popular types of Cooking jobs in New York are:

What cities in New York are hiring for Cooking Assistant jobs?

Cities in New York with the most Cooking Assistant job openings:

Cooking Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cooking Assistant job openings in New York as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, and 29% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Cook Assistant, Substitute - Plainfield, NJ

HOPES COMMUNITY ACTION PARTNERSHIP INC

Plainfield, NJ • On-site

$15.92 - $16.28/hr

Per diem

Medical

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Are you Passionate About Food and Nutrition?
Join HOPES CAP, Inc. as a Substitute Cook Assistant and help provide healthy meals for children in our Early Childhood Program!
As a Substitute Cook Assistant, you'll support the Cook in preparing and serving meals that meet USDA and Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) guidelines. This on-call as needed (per diem) position ensures children receive nutritious meals while maintaining food safety and cleanliness in the kitchen.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Assist with meal preparation, setup, and cleanup for breakfast, lunch, and snacks
  • Ensure food safety and sanitation compliance
  • Receive and inspect food deliveries for accuracy and quality
  • Maintain kitchen inventory and supplies
  • Support nutrition activities that engage children and families
  • Participate in team meetings, training, and professional development

Qualifications:
  • High school diploma
  • Food Handlers Certification (or ability to obtain within 90 days of hire)
  • Basic computer skills to allow access to email and be able to maintain communication within the agency
  • Knowledge of food safety and nutrition regulations
  • Ability to prepare large quantities of food in a fast-paced setting
  • Strong teamwork and organizational skills

At HOPES CAP, Inc., we value our team and provide a benefits package designed to support your success and well-being:
  • Employee wellness resources
  • Qualifying Employer for Student Loan Forgiveness Program
  • Access to opportunities for professional growth and development
  • Collaborative and innovative company culture

Note: Per diem positions are ineligible for company sponsored health insurance coverage or other company offered benefits.
Make a difference through nutritious meals and apply today!
Please Note: Successful completion of a post-offer, pre-employment physical examination, TB screen, and background screen inclusive of CHRI and CARI check is required.
Offers may not be limited by the salary ranges listed. Highly qualified candidates may be offered a higher wage, whenever budgetary and operational factors permit with required approvals.
HOPES CAP, Inc. is an at-will employer.
HOPES CAP, Inc. is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. HOPES CAP, Inc. considers qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, marital status, pregnancy, sex, gender expression or identity, sexual orientation, citizenship, or any other legally protected class.

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