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Cooking Job Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Cook

Knoxville, 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

Murfreesboro, TN · On-site

$14 - $16/hr

In addition to cooking prowess, great communication and organizational skills are paramount. A good candidate for this job is a person with attention to detail who can keep the kitchen tidy and clean ...

Cook

Manchester, TN · On-site

$14 - $16/hr

In addition to cooking prowess, great communication and organizational skills are paramount. A good candidate for this job is a person with attention to detail who can keep the kitchen tidy and clean ...

Cook

Clarksville, TN · On-site

$12.25 - $16.25/hr

Prepares Hot Choice Buffet products, including Carving and Display Cooking products, according to Golden Corral recipes and procedures. * Grills all items according to Golden Corral standards to ...

Cook

Columbia, TN · On-site

In addition to cooking prowess, great communication and organizational skills are paramount. A good candidate for this job is a person with attention to detail who can keep the kitchen tidy and clean ...

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

Hermitage, TN · On-site

$12.25 - $16.50/hr

Prepares Hot Choice Buffet products, including Carving and Display Cooking products, according to Golden Corral recipes and procedures. * Grills all items according to Golden Corral standards to ...

Cook

Nashville, TN · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

In addition to cooking prowess, great communication and organizational skills are paramount. A good candidate for this job is a person with attention to detail who can keep the kitchen tidy and clean ...

In addition to cooking prowess, great communication and organizational skills are paramount. A good candidate for this job is a person with attention to detail who can keep the kitchen tidy and clean ...

In addition to cooking prowess, great communication and organizational skills are paramount. A good candidate for this job is a person with attention to detail who can keep the kitchen tidy and clean ...

Cook

Shelbyville, TN · On-site

$14 - $16/hr

In addition to cooking prowess, great communication and organizational skills are paramount. A good candidate for this job is a person with attention to detail who can keep the kitchen tidy and clean ...

Cook

Manchester, TN

$7.25 - $12/hr

Cooking and arranging food. Maintaining a sanitized and well-organized kitchen. Preparing workstations for cooking. Preparing and maintaining kitchen equipment. Checking the quality of the food ...

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

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

Athens, 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

Morristown, 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

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

Johnson City, 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

Cooking Job information

See Tennessee salary details

$8

$15

$20

How much do cooking job jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for cooking job in Tennessee is $15.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.75 and $17.21 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive in a cooking job, you need strong culinary skills, knowledge of food safety, and often a culinary degree or relevant kitchen experience. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, inventory management systems, and food handling certifications is typically required. Attention to detail, creativity, time management, and teamwork are standout soft skills in this field. These abilities ensure consistently high food quality, efficient kitchen operations, and a positive dining experience for customers.

What is the difference between Cooking Job vs Food Preparation Worker?

AspectCooking JobFood Preparation Worker
CredentialsNone required, culinary training preferredHigh school diploma or equivalent
Work EnvironmentRestaurants, hotels, catering servicesFood processing plants, kitchens, cafeterias
Industry UsageCommonly used in hospitality and food serviceUsed in food manufacturing and institutional settings
Job FocusPreparing and cooking mealsPreparing ingredients, assembling dishes

Cooking jobs primarily involve preparing and cooking meals in restaurants or catering settings, often requiring culinary skills and training. Food preparation workers focus on preparing ingredients and assembling dishes, typically in food manufacturing or institutional environments. While both roles involve food handling, cooking jobs emphasize culinary techniques, whereas food prep roles concentrate on ingredient preparation.

What is a cooking job?

Cooking jobs involve preparing, cooking, and presenting food in various settings such as restaurants, hotels, cafeterias, and private homes. People in these roles may work as chefs, cooks, line cooks, or kitchen assistants, and are responsible for following recipes, ensuring food safety, and maintaining kitchen cleanliness. Cooking jobs often require creativity, efficiency, and the ability to work under pressure, especially during busy meal times. Depending on the position, formal culinary training or on-the-job experience may be necessary.

What are some common challenges faced by cooks in a busy kitchen environment?

Cooks in busy kitchens often face challenges such as managing time efficiently during rush periods, maintaining consistency in food quality, and handling multiple orders simultaneously. Strong communication with the kitchen team and front-of-house staff is crucial for smooth service. Adapting to last-minute menu changes or special dietary requests is also common, requiring flexibility and a calm demeanor under pressure.
What job categories do people searching Cooking Job jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Cooking Job jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Cooking Job jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Cooking Job job openings:
Infographic showing various Cooking Job job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 24% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,295 per year, or $15.5 per hour.

$14 - $16/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Re-posted 14 hours 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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