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Cooks Assistant Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

McColley's Irish Pub

Line cooks

Spencerport, NY · On-site

$18 - $21/hr

Follow all food safety, sanitation, and health code regulations * Assist with opening and closing kitchen duties as assigned Requirements: * Previous line cook or kitchen experience preferred

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Cooks Assistant information

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How much do cooks assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for cooks assistant in Rochester, NY is $15.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $17.07 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a cooks assistant?

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?

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 some common challenges faced by a cooks 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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Cooks jobs in Rochester, NY?

The most popular types of Cooks jobs in Rochester, NY are:

What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Cooks Assistant jobs?

Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Cooks Assistant job openings:

Cooks Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cooks Assistant job openings in Rochester, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,817 per year, or $15.8 per hour.

Cook Manager - High School

Brockport, NY

Brockport Central School District
11 - 50 employees
Learn more about Brockport Central School Districtexternal

$21.50/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 4 days ago

Job description


Location:                   Oliver Middle School
Hours Per Day:         8.00 (6:00 2:30)
Work Year:                10 Months -- Off during school breaks.
Minimum Pay Rate:  $21.50/Hour  
Classification:           Non-Competitive
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITY:
This is an important food service position involving responsibility for the supervision, coordination and participation in the preparation, cooking and service of hot and cold foods to students and faculty in a school lunch room or cafeteria. The work is performed under the general supervision of a Food Service Director. Direct supervision is exercised over Cooks, Assistant Cooks and Food Service Helpers. Does related work as required.
JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:  (All need not be performed in a given position.  Other related activities may be performed although not listed.)












  • Supervises and coordinates the activities of workers engaged in preparing, cooking, and serving meals.
  • Participates in the preparation, cooking, and serving of meals.
  • Supervises the preservation and storage of food.
  • Orders food and supplies.
  • Coordinates and insures adherence to safety and sanitary procedures in the food preparation area.
  • Supervises and participates in the cleaning and care of kitchen equipment.
  • Supervises the training of kitchen staff, has responsibility for evaluating building employees.
  • Maintains records of inventory, production, daily meal counts and sales.
  • Maintains time and payroll records.
  • Plans work schedule.
  • Understands and operates computerized cash register system.
  • Catering large events.


QUALIFICATIONS:  

  • Either:

A.  Graduation from a regionally accredited or New York State registered college or university with an Associate's degree in Food Service Administration, plus one (1) year of paid full-time or its part-time equivalent experience in the preparation and cooking of a complete menu of foodstuffs for consumption on a large scale for a restaurant, hotel or institution, other than short order or fast food; OR, 
B.  Graduation from high school or possession of a high school equivalency diploma, plus three (3) years of paid full-time or its part-time equivalent experience in the preparation and cooking of a complete menu of foodstuffs for consumption on a large scale for a restaurant, hotel or institution, other than short order or fast food, OR ,
C.  An equivalent combination of training and experience as defined by the limits of (A) and (B) above.


NOTE:   Where the educational requirement is not met, additional experience as described in (A) may be substituted on a year-for-year basis.

  • The ability to work independently and manage time effectively.
  • The ability to work collaboratively with peers and colleagues.
  • The ability to carry out oral and written instructions.
  • The ability to lift a minimum of 50-60 pounds.
  • Displays a positive attitude and builds healthy relationships with students, staff and families.
  • Servsafe Certified (desired qualification or willing to obtain after permanent hire).
  • Ability to supervise staff.
  • Knowledge of the principles of nutrition and a balanced diet.
  • Understand meal components for reimbursable breakfasts and lunches.
  • Understanding of basic food safety and sanitation.
  • Possess the basic computer skills necessary to perform management duties.
  • Daily attendance is expected.


SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:  If you are appointed, you will be required to have a valid license to operate a motor vehicle in New York State or otherwise demonstrate your capacity to meet the transportation needs of the job.
FLSA:  Non-Exempt








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