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Cooks Assistant Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Cook

Ackley, IA

$13 - $17.50/hr

Direct and assist team members in the planning, preparation, cooking, and serving of meals * Prepare high-quality, great-tasting, and visually appealing food * Maintain a clean, safe, and sanitary ...

Cook

Ackley, IA · On-site

$13 - $17.50/hr

Direct and assist team members in the planning, preparation, cooking, and serving of meals * Prepare high-quality, great-tasting, and visually appealing food * Maintain a clean, safe, and sanitary ...

... Assist other employees as needed Follow directions given by Manager or Supervisor Know and ... Cook and restaurant experience is a plus! Food Handler Certification required Benefits: * Employee ...

... Assist other employees as needed Follow directions given by Manager or Supervisor Know and ... Cook and restaurant experience is a plus! Food Handler Certification required Benefits: * Employee ...

Cook

Ackley, IA

$13 - $17.50/hr

Direct and assist team members in the planning, preparation, cooking, and serving of meals * Prepare high-quality, great-tasting, and visually appealing food * Maintain a clean, safe, and sanitary ...

... Assist other employees as needed Follow directions given by Manager or Supervisor Know and ... Cook and restaurant experience is a plus! Food Handler Certification required Benefits: * Employee ...

... Assist other employees as needed Follow directions given by Manager or Supervisor Know and ... Cook and restaurant experience is a plus! Food Handler Certification required Benefits: * Employee ...

... Assist other employees as needed Follow directions given by Manager or Supervisor Know and ... Cook and restaurant experience is a plus! Food Handler Certification required Benefits: * Employee ...

Cook

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$14/hr

... Assist other employees as needed Follow directions given by Manager or Supervisor Know and ... Cook and restaurant experience is a plus! Food Handler Certification required Benefits: * Employee ...

$14/hr

... Assist other employees as needed Follow directions given by Manager or Supervisor Know and ... Cook and restaurant experience is a plus! Food Handler Certification required Benefits: * Employee ...

Cook

Ackley, IA · On-site

$13 - $17.50/hr

Direct and assist team members in the planning, preparation, cooking, and serving of meals * Prepare high-quality, great-tasting, and visually appealing food * Maintain a clean, safe, and sanitary ...

Cook

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$14/hr

... Assist other employees as needed Follow directions given by Manager or Supervisor Know and ... Cook and restaurant experience is a plus! Food Handler Certification required Benefits: * Employee ...

COOK - FULL TIME

Algona, IA · On-site

$13 - $17.50/hr

Prepare and cook menu items following recipes and daily menus Serve meals to patients, staff, and visitors according to dietary guidelines Assist with meal setup, salad and dessert preparation, and ...

Cook to order for restaurant style menu and assist with catering functions as needed. * Supervise dietary aides, utility workers, host, or other staff on the shift. * Attend in-service training and ...

Cook to order for restaurant style menu and assist with catering functions as needed. * Supervise dietary aides, utility workers, host, or other staff on the shift. * Attend in-service training and ...

Cook to order for restaurant style menu and assist with catering functions as needed. * Supervise dietary aides, utility workers, host, or other staff on the shift. * Attend in-service training and ...

Cook to order for restaurant style menu and assist with catering functions as needed. * Supervise dietary aides, utility workers, host, or other staff on the shift. * Attend in-service training and ...

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Cooks Assistant information

What does a cook's assistant do?

A cook's assistant helps in food preparation, such as chopping ingredients, assembling dishes, and cleaning work areas. They support chefs and cooks in maintaining kitchen efficiency and may handle basic tasks like measuring ingredients and washing utensils.

What is the difference between Cooks Assistant vs Kitchen Helper?

AspectCooks AssistantKitchen Helper
CredentialsMinimal; often no formal certificationMinimal; often no formal certification
Work EnvironmentCommercial kitchens, restaurants, cateringCommercial kitchens, restaurants, catering
Job RoleAssists cooks with food prep, cleaning, basic tasksSupports kitchen staff with cleaning, prep, and general support
Employer UsageCommonly used in hospitality and food serviceCommonly used in hospitality and food service

While both roles support kitchen operations, a Cooks Assistant typically performs more food preparation tasks under supervision, whereas a Kitchen Helper focuses on cleaning and general support. Both roles are entry-level and essential in maintaining efficient kitchen workflows.

What qualifications do you need to be a kitchen assistant?

To be a kitchen assistant, there are generally no strict formal qualifications required, but a high school diploma or equivalent is often preferred. Basic skills such as good communication, ability to follow instructions, and familiarity with kitchen safety and hygiene practices are important. Some employers may also value previous experience or certifications in food safety or sanitation.

What do assistant cooks do?

Assistant cooks support chefs by preparing ingredients, cooking dishes, and maintaining cleanliness in the kitchen. They often handle tasks such as chopping, measuring, and organizing supplies, and may operate kitchen equipment under supervision. Strong organizational skills and knowledge of food safety are important for this role.

What are some common challenges faced by a Cook's Assistant and how can they be overcome?

As a Cook's Assistant, you may face challenges such as working in a fast-paced environment, managing multiple tasks at once, and maintaining high standards of cleanliness and food safety. To overcome these challenges, it's important to stay organized, communicate effectively with the kitchen team, and be proactive in anticipating the needs of the cooks. Developing good time management skills and being adaptable to sudden changes in orders or priorities will also help you thrive in this role.

What are the duties of a cook assistant?

A cook assistant helps in food preparation by washing, peeling, and chopping ingredients, setting up cooking stations, and assisting with basic cooking tasks. They also maintain cleanliness and organization in the kitchen and may handle simple food prep tasks under supervision.

What are Cooks Assistants?

Cooks Assistants, also known as kitchen assistants or prep cooks, support chefs and cooks in preparing food in commercial kitchens. Their duties typically include washing and chopping ingredients, cleaning workstations, organizing kitchen supplies, and sometimes assisting with basic cooking tasks. They play a crucial role in keeping the kitchen running smoothly and efficiently, ensuring that chefs have everything they need to prepare meals. This position is often an entry point into the culinary field and offers valuable hands-on experience.

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

To thrive as a Cooks Assistant, you need a basic understanding of food preparation, kitchen safety, and sanitation practices, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, food handling certifications, and inventory systems is typically required. Strong teamwork, time management, and attention to detail are soft skills that help you excel in fast-paced kitchen environments. These skills and qualifications are vital for maintaining food quality, ensuring safety, and supporting the smooth operation of the kitchen.
What are the most commonly searched types of Cooks jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Cooks jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Cooks Assistant jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Cooks Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Cooks Assistant job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution.
Cook

$13 - $17.50/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

Do you want to learn how to cook or expand your current cooking skills? The Village of Ackley is excited to provide that opportunity!

We're looking for a Part-time Cook to join our team who enjoys growing, trying new recipes, and developing new cooking skills. If you have a passion for food and serving others, we'd love to hear from you, apply today!

Benefits of a Cook:
  • (Full-time) Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • Flexible PTO
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Alternate wage scale available for those who choose to waive benefits
  • And much more!
What You'll Do as a Cook:
  • Direct and assist team members in the planning, preparation, cooking, and serving of meals
  • Prepare high-quality, great-tasting, and visually appealing food
  • Maintain a clean, safe, and sanitary working area
  • Interact with residents in a friendly and positive way
What You'll Need as a Cook:
  • 18 years of age or older
  • (Preferred) Relevant cooking experience
  • (Preferred) High school diploma or equivalent
  • Strong customer service attitude

If you feel you, or someone you know, would be a great fit for this opportunity at The Village of Ackley, we would love to talk!

The Village of Ackley is a senior living community that offers fulfilling lifestyles for residents at every stage of health, activity, and independence.

Our Mission

The Village of Ackley is dedicated to creating fulfilling lifestyles for those we serve, their families, and our employees through compassionate service, innovation, and integrity.

Join our team and make a difference in the lives of those we serve every day!

#whc26

At Western Home, our mission is to help older adults live fulfilling lives through people-first care, meaningful relationships, and a strong sense of community. Our team members lead with a servant spirit, act with integrity, and embrace innovation to create a welcoming and supportive environment for residents and families.