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Cooks Assistant Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

NHC

Cook/Assistant Cook

Johnson City, TN · On-site

$14.75 - $17.75/hr

Cook/Assistant Cook- $2,500 Sign- On Bonus Available for Full Time Employees! Full Time with benefits, Day and Evening Shifts, Flexible Hours Position Summary: Performs specified duties in order to ...

NHC

Cook Assistant/Baker

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$11.75 - $15.50/hr

Food Services Cook Assistant/Baker Are you looking to have fun in a work environment where you can express your talents and creativity, while making a difference in the lives of others? Come join our ...

Right at Home

Certified Nursing Assistant

Nashville, TN · On-site

$15 - $17/hr

Paid training and development Caregiver Responsibilities: * Assist with acts of daily living like bathing, dressing, incontinence care, cleaning, and cooking. * Assist with mobility and transfers ...

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Cooks Assistant information

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$7

$13

$18

How much do cooks assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for cooks assistant in Tennessee is $13.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.55 and $14.95 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 Tennessee? The most popular types of Cooks jobs in Tennessee are:
What are popular job titles related to Cooks Assistant jobs in Tennessee? For Cooks Assistant jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Cooks Assistant jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Cooks Assistant job openings:
Cooks Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cooks Assistant job openings in Tennessee as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $29,053 per year, or $14 per hour.
Cook

Cook

Morning Pointe Senior Living

Knoxville, TN • On-site

$13.25 - $18/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 2 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Morning Pointe Senior Living rating

4.5

Company rating: 4.5 out of 10

Based on 42 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

227th of 236 rated social care providers

Job description

JOB DETAILS
PM COOK
You have seasoned kitchen skills, a passion for delicious meals, and a spirit of hospitality. Come put those great traits to work in a place where you truly make a difference in people's lives- Morning Pointe Senior Living!
As a Prep Cook, you'll work with our kitchen team to expertly craft breakfast, lunch, and dinner items. Attention to detail and quality care are important because your meals are something our residents look forward to every day.
These are some of the benefits you will receive by joining us:
  1. Flexible schedule with no more late nights!
  2. Staff Meals and Free Uniform Program
  3. Managers who work alongside you and respect your work
  4. Health Insurance, Dental, Vision, 401K with company match
  5. PTO and Holiday Pay
  6. "On-Demand Pay" available
  7. Employee Assistance Program
  8. Tuition Reimbursement Program
  9. Free Telehealth (Textcare)
  10. Short and Long Term Disability Insurance
  11. Career Development Program
  12. Verizon Wireless Group Discount

We are looking for:
  1. One year of commercial kitchen/cooking experience
  2. Someone with reliable transportation
  3. Reading, writing, and basic math and verbal communication skills
  4. The ability to lift 50 lbs.
  5. The ability to use kitchen equipment safely
  6. Able to stand for long periods of time

Here is a sample of some of the things you will do during your shift:
  1. Treat your team and residents with a genuine sense of kindness and care
  2. Present yourself in a professional manner with a great attitude
  3. Understand that honesty and ethics are an essential part of your success
  4. Use your skills and attention to detail to consistently create delicious meals
  5. Enjoy your work and understand your efforts have true purpose
  6. Prepare all food items as directed in a sanitary and timely manner
  7. Follow recipes and presentation specifications
  8. Operate standard kitchen equipment safety and efficiently
  9. Clean and maintain stations while practicing good safety and sanitation
  10. Assist with the cleaning and organization of kitchen and equipment
  11. Restock items as needed throughout the shift
  12. Adhere to all sanitation and food production codes

Prep Cooks are expected to accomplish tasks outside of their scheduled station whenever necessary including expediting food and assisting in the dish station. As part of a team-oriented environment, Cooks assist in training opportunities and offer help to other areas and staff in need.
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