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Cooks Assistant Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

Monroe One BOCES

Assistant Cook

Fairport, NY · On-site

$16 - $22.59/hr

DUTIES: 1. Cook and supervise the work of Food Service personnel in the absence of the Cook Manager. 2. Assist in the preparation and service of food served in the school food service department. 3. ...

Nexdine Hospitality

Cook

Rochester, NY · On-site

$18.75/hr

Cook Location: Rochester, NY Hours Per Week: Full Time Starting Pay Rate: $18.75/hr Pay Frequency ... May assist with inventory. * Follow food specification amounts provided by supervisor. Assist in ...

The Salvation Army, ARC

Cook

Rochester, NY · On-site

$19/hr

... assist men and women with a variety of social and spiritual afflictions. The in-residence ... The Salvation Army Adult Rehabilitation Center is seeking a Cook to prepare and cook food, uphold ...

MIKES RIDGE TERRACE PUB & GRILL LLC

cook

Webster, NY · On-site

$18 - $23/hr

Prepare and cook menu items to perfection, ensuring high quality and presentation ... Maintain cleanliness and organization of the kitchen and food storage areas. * Assist in menu ...

MIKES RIDGE TERRACE PUB & GRILL LLC

cook

Webster, NY · On-site

$18 - $23/hr

Prepare and cook menu items to perfection, ensuring high quality and presentation ... Maintain cleanliness and organization of the kitchen and food storage areas. * Assist in menu ...

MIKES RIDGE TERRACE PUB & GRILL LLC

cook

Webster, NY · On-site

$18 - $23/hr

Prepare and cook menu items to perfection, ensuring high quality and presentation ... Maintain cleanliness and organization of the kitchen and food storage areas. * Assist in menu ...

Nexdine Hospitality

Cook

Rochester, NY

$18.75/hr

Cook Location: Rochester, NY Hours Per Week: Full Time Starting Pay Rate: $18.75/hr Pay Frequency ... May assist with inventory. * Follow food specification amounts provided by supervisor. Assist in ...

Gates Chili Central School District

Cook

Rochester, NY · On-site

$17.65/hr

Direct supervision may be exercised over Assistant Cooks and other food service employees. Does related work as required. Compensation/Pay Range: $17.65/hr. Benefits: Qualifies for District ...

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Cooks Assistant information

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How much do cooks assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 20, 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 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 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

Assistant Cook

Monroe One Board of Cooperative Educational Services

Fairport, NY • On-site

$16 - $22.59/hr

Full-time, Part-time, Contractor

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Position Type:
Food Service/Assistant Cook
Date Posted:
7/8/2026
Location:
Food Services
Closing Date:
07/19/2026
LOCATION OF POSITION: Fairport, NY 14450; Food Service Department
TERM OF EMPLOYMENT: 11 Month Position, Full Time; plus 10 days over the summer. Hours: Monday-Friday, 6:00AM - 2:00PM.
STARTING DATE: September 2026
SALARY RANGE: $16.00-$22.59 per hour
*Actual Salary Is Dependent Upon Experience and Contract.
DUTIES:
1. Cook and supervise the work of Food Service personnel in the absence of the Cook Manager.
2. Assist in the preparation and service of food served in the school food service department.
3. Assist the Cook Manager with routine management functions including but not limited to production reports, temperature charts, HACCP and other sanitation reports, inventory, stock and delivery management, cash and meal accountability, kitchen equipment use and care, and other management duties as assigned by the Cook Manager or Director.
4. Supervise and participate in the maintenance of health, safety and sanitary practices as required by various regulatory agencies.
5. Assist the Cook Manager in all phases, including delivery and service, of any off-site School Food Service program operated by the School Food Service Department.
6. Help ensure meals will be served in pleasant facilities and by courteous staff.
7. Create an atmosphere for employee productivity and satisfaction.
8. Communicate effectively with both supervisor and other employees.
9. In absence of Cook Manager perform end of day cash handling for all Monroe One BOCES food service venues.
QUALIFICATIONS:
1. Civil Service eligibility as Assistant Cook; EITHER:
(A) Successful completion of a recognized certificate program in Food Service Administration specifically dealing in Food Production rather than Management; OR,
(B) One (1) year paid full-time or its part-time equivalent experience in food preparation on a large scale for a cafeteria, restaurant, hotel, or institution, other than short order or fast food.
NOTE: Applicants qualifying under option (A) must submit a copy of a certificate or diploma in support of satisfactory program completion.
2. Good knowledge of the principles and skills in the preparation of quantity foods.
3. Ability to supervise the work of others as needed.
4. Ability to maintain and understand basic management records and carry out oral and written instructions.
5. Current valid NYS Driver's License.
6. Experience in quantity food cooking in schools or equivalent institutions such as restaurants or hotels.
7. Adequate physical stamina necessary to stand while performing duties.
8. Physically able to perform essential functions of the position (with or without reasonable accommodations), including but not limited to lift 50 pounds.

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