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Cooking Assistant Jobs in Olney, MD (NOW HIRING)

Part Time Prep Cook

Crownsville, MD · On-site

$17 - $18/hr

Food Preparation & Cooking: Assist in preparing and cooking meals according to menu plans, dietary needs, and food safety standards. * Meal Transportation & Delivery: Safely transport prepared meals ...

Part Time Prep Cook

Crownsville, MD · On-site

$17 - $18/hr

Food Preparation & Cooking: Assist in preparing and cooking meals according to menu plans, dietary needs, and food safety standards. * Meal Transportation & Delivery: Safely transport prepared meals ...

Part Time Prep Cook

Crownsville, MD · On-site

$17 - $18/hr

Food Preparation & Cooking: Assist in preparing and cooking meals according to menu plans, dietary needs, and food safety standards. * Meal Transportation & Delivery: Safely transport prepared meals ...

Food Preparation & Cooking: Assist in preparing and cooking meals according to menu plans, dietary needs, and food safety standards. * Meal Transportation & Delivery: Safely transport prepared meals ...

Cook 1

Vienna, VA · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

This role requires more advanced culinary skills and greater flexibility, as Cook 1 is expected to work independently in various kitchen areas and assist in the development of specials. Cook 1 is a ...

Cook

Reston, VA · On-site

$19 - $21/hr

Follow portion control standards and assist with food inventory management. * Work with the dietary ... cooking experience in a restaurant, senior living, or similar environment. * Ability to follow ...

Cook

Reston, VA

$19 - $21/hr

Follow portion control standards and assist with food inventory management. * Work with the dietary ... cooking experience in a restaurant, senior living, or similar environment. * Ability to follow ...

Cook

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

The Cook will assist in the butchering of meats and fish and assist with the daily operations of the kitchen. * Ensures that all food preparations and presentations meet ACW specifications and ...

Cook

Mclean, VA · On-site

$15/hr

... of grills and cooking surfaces. * Follow all health and safety guidelines, including proper food handling, storage, and sanitation practices. * Assist with inventory management by monitoring ...

Cook

Mclean, VA · On-site

$15/hr

... of grills and cooking surfaces. * Follow all health and safety guidelines, including proper food handling, storage, and sanitation practices. * Assist with inventory management by monitoring ...

Cook

Mclean, VA · On-site

$15/hr

... of grills and cooking surfaces. * Follow all health and safety guidelines, including proper food handling, storage, and sanitation practices. * Assist with inventory management by monitoring ...

Cook

Washington, DC · On-site

$20/hr

Participate in preparation, cooking, and portioning of large quantities of meat, fish, fowl ... Maintain accurate records of production amounts, attendance & left-over amounts to assist in ...

Cook

Herndon, VA · On-site

$14.50 - $19.25/hr

Job Purpose The purpose of the Cook I is to prepare, cook and present a variety of hot and cold ... Create or assist in the creation of specialty dishes and menu items. * Assist in all kitchen food ...

Cook

Frederick, MD · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

Experience: • Professional cooking: 1 year (Preferred) • Cooking: 1 year (Preferred) • Line ... • Assist in keeping the kitchen clean throughout the shift maintaining clean as you go and at ...

Cook

Vienna, VA · On-site

$15.50/hr

... of grills and cooking surfaces. * Follow all health and safety guidelines, including proper food handling, storage, and sanitation practices. * Assist with inventory management by monitoring ...

Cook

Gambrills, MD · On-site

$13.75 - $18.25/hr

... cooking methods by portioning, battering, seasoning, or marinating • Follows proper plate presentation and garnish set up for all dishes • Assist in food prep assignments during off peak periods ...

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Cooking Assistant information

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 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 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 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 duties of a cooking assistant?

A cooking assistant helps prepare ingredients, follows recipes, and maintains cleanliness in the kitchen. They may also assist with cooking tasks, organize supplies, and ensure food safety standards are met, often working under the supervision of chefs or cooks.

What cities near Olney, MD are hiring for Cooking Assistant jobs?

Cities near Olney, MD with the most Cooking Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Cooking Assistant job openings in Olney, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution.

Part Time Prep Cook

Sandstone Care

Crownsville, MD • On-site

$17 - $18/hr

Part-time

Posted 10 days ago


Sandstone Care rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Position: Prep Cook / Delivery Driver

Work Environment/Location: Teen Residential Treatment Center

Schedule: Part- Time - Schedule will vary based on program needs

Compensation Range: $17 - $18 Per Hour

About The Role:

The Prep Cook / Delivery Driver plays a key role in our food service team, assisting with meal preparation, food delivery, and maintaining kitchen operations. This position requires a strong focus on food safety, nutrition, and efficiency in meal transport to multiple locations, including residential and outpatient facilities. The ideal candidate will have experience in food preparation, safe driving practices, and compliance with health and safety regulations.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Food Preparation & Cooking: Assist in preparing and cooking meals according to menu plans, dietary needs, and food safety standards.
  • Meal Transportation & Delivery: Safely transport prepared meals to various Sandstone Care locations while maintaining food quality and temperature control.
  • Kitchen Operations & Inventory Management: Maintain cleanliness, organize supplies, and ensure compliance with health regulations. Assist in ordering food, equipment, and supplies to meet operational needs.
  • Food Safety & Compliance: Ensure all food handling, storage, and sanitation procedures comply with health and safety standards. Participate in food service training and policy adherence.
  • Administrative & Documentation Tasks: Maintain accurate records, including meal counts, inventory logs, vehicle mileage, and compliance documentation. 

Required Qualifications:

  • Education: High school diploma or GED preferred. Culinary training or certification is a plus.
  • Experience:
    • 1-2 years of experience in food preparation, cooking, or kitchen operations.
    • Previous experience in a treatment center or healthcare setting is preferred.
  • Certifications & Skills:
    • Valid driver's license with a clean motor vehicle record (MVR).
    • Knowledge of food safety standards, nutrition, and kitchen equipment operation.
    • Ability to lift 50 lbs. and stand for extended periods.

Key Competencies & Skill Sets:

  • Food Safety & Sanitation – Knowledge of health regulations, infection control, and food handling best practices.
  • Time Management & Efficiency – Ability to multitask and manage meal prep and delivery schedules effectively.
  • Risk Management & Incident Reporting – Awareness of safety protocols and ability to respond to emergency situations.
  • Communication & Teamwork – Strong ability to collaborate with team members and communicate effectively across locations.
  • Adaptability & Problem-Solving – Ability to adjust to changing schedules, dietary needs, and operational challenges.

Other Requirements:

  • Candidates applying for this position should be aware that an offer for employment in this position is contingent upon passing a comprehensive background check, encompassing criminal records and motor vehicle reports.
  • A valid driver's License and clean driving history are required – The Prep Cook may be expected to drive a company 15 passenger van to transport food or pick up supplies as needed

The Perks:

At Sandstone Care, we believe that great care starts with our employees. That's why we offer a comprehensive benefits package to support you in your personal and professional journey. Some of the benefits include:

  • A competitive compensation and total rewards package including a sustainable hourly rate, merit-based pay increases, and professional growth opportunities.
  • A flexible PTO package that includes accrued PTO, paid holidays, and wellbeing days
  • High quality medical, dental, and vision insurance with a variety of package options that meet your needs and majority company paid.
  • A robust Employee Assistance Program: Including counseling, legal consultations, financial planning, and wellness coaching.
  • A collaborative and supportive community of therapists and team members: Fostering a positive work environment.

What to Expect: Our Interview Process

Here's an overview of what comes next:

  • Application Review: We'll promptly review your application within one business day.
  • Discovery Call: Expect a 30-minute discovery call with one of our recruiters.
  • Interview with Hiring Manager: You'll have a 1-hour interview with the hiring manager for this position.  
  • Background Check: Your recruiter will send you a link to submit you preliminary background check to qualify for the position.
  • Offer: If all goes well, you'll receive an offer.
  • Expected Interview Timeline: The entire process typically takes 1-2 weeks.

Sandstone Care's Commitment to Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion

At Sandstone Care, we are committed to fostering a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion that not only enriches the lives of our employees but also ensures the wellbeing and care of our clients, regardless of their race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, age, ability, or background. We believe that embracing diversity and promoting equity and inclusion are integral to our mission of providing high-quality behavioral health services.

Sandstone Care is an equal opportunity employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace where all employees feel valued, respected, and empowered. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, creed, age, sex, national origin, ancestry, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or any other legally protected status. All employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs.


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