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Cooks Assistant Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Grill Cooks

Manassas, VA · On-site

$13.25 - $17/hr

Position Summary The Grill Cook is responsible for preparing high-quality grilled menu items ... Follow all company policies, procedures, and health department regulations * Assist with food prep ...

Prep Cooks - Tatte Ashburn

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$18.75 - $21/hr

Monitor food and cooling temperatures * Assist with inventory organization and ingredient replenishment * Learn and apply kitchen techniques and cooking methods * Maintain a clean, organized, and ...

Cook

Reston, VA · On-site

$19 - $21/hr

Follow portion control standards and assist with food inventory management. * Work with the dietary ... Cook Qualifications: * 2+ year of cooking experience in a restaurant, senior living, or similar ...

Cook

Reston, VA · On-site

$19 - $21/hr

Follow portion control standards and assist with food inventory management. * Work with the dietary ... Cook Qualifications: * 2+ year of cooking experience in a restaurant, senior living, or similar ...

Cook

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$22 - $24/hr

Follow portion control standards and assist with food inventory management. * Work with the dietary ... Cook Qualifications: * 2+ year of cooking experience in a restaurant, senior living, or similar ...

Cook

Bethesda, MD

$22 - $24/hr

Follow portion control standards and assist with food inventory management. * Work with the dietary ... Cook Qualifications: * 2+ year of cooking experience in a restaurant, senior living, or similar ...

Cook

Washington, DC · On-site

$23 - $25/hr

Ability to manage kitchen inventory and assist with ordering supplies. * Strong organizational skills and the ability to multitask in a busy kitchen environment. Responsibilities: * Prepare and cook ...

Cook

Mclean, VA · On-site

$15/hr

Collaborate with kitchen staff to ensure efficient and timely food preparation. * Assist in other ... Previous experience as a cook or grill operator in a fast-paced restaurant environment preferred.

Cook

Mclean, VA · On-site

$15/hr

Collaborate with kitchen staff to ensure efficient and timely food preparation. * Assist in other ... Previous experience as a cook or grill operator in a fast-paced restaurant environment preferred.

Cook

Herndon, VA · On-site

$14.50 - $19.25/hr

Create or assist in the creation of specialty dishes and menu items. * Assist in all kitchen food ... Supervise and manage the line and the line cooks during set up, production and break down of line ...

Cook

Olney, MD · On-site

$14.25 - $19.25/hr

... Assist in food prep assignments during off peak periods • Assist in dishwashing during off peak periods • Ability to work as part of a team in a fast-paced environment • Assists with the ...

Cook

Hanover, MD · On-site

$13.75 - $18.50/hr

... Assist in food prep assignments during off peak periods • Assist in dishwashing during off peak periods • Ability to work as part of a team in a fast-paced environment • Assists with the ...

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Cooks Assistant information

See Washington salary details

$9

$16

$22

How much do cooks assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for cooks assistant in Washington is $16.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $18.08 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 Washington? The most popular types of Cooks jobs in Washington are:
What are popular job titles related to Cooks Assistant jobs in Washington? For Cooks Assistant jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Cooks Assistant jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Cooks Assistant jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Cooks Assistant jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Cooks Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Cooks Assistant job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,073 per year, or $16.9 per hour.

Line cooks and Prep cooks

KAREEMS LEBANESE KITCHEN 2

Gaithersburg, MD • On-site

$18 - $21/hr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

About the Role:
Kareem's Lebanese Kitchen 2 in Gaithersburg, MD is looking for passionate Line Cooks and Prep Cooks to join our kitchen team! If you love bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and the energy of a fast-paced kitchen, this is the opportunity for you.

Responsibilities:
  • Prepare and execute menu items according to Kareem's Lebanese Kitchen recipes and standards
  • Perform prep work including chopping, marinating, portioning, and organizing ingredients
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary workstation throughout each shift
  • Follow food safety and proper food handling procedures at all times
  • Assist in receiving and storing food deliveries properly
  • Communicate effectively with kitchen staff to ensure smooth, timely service
  • Monitor food quality and freshness, minimizing waste
Requirements:
  • Previous experience as a line cook, prep cook, or in a similar kitchen role preferred
  • Familiarity with Mediterranean or Middle Eastern cuisine is a plus
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced, high-volume kitchen environment
  • Strong knife skills and knowledge of basic cooking techniques
  • Reliable, punctual, and a strong team player
  • Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 50 lbs
  • Food Handler's certification or willingness to obtain one
About Us:
Kareem's Lebanese Kitchen brings the authentic and vibrant flavors of Lebanese cuisine to the Gaithersburg, MD community. We take pride in crafting fresh, high-quality dishes that keep our customers coming back for more. Our team is our family, and we are committed to creating a welcoming and rewarding environment for everyone who works with us.