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Cooks Assistant Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

Cook

Geneseo, NY · On-site

$17.30/hr

Meets with Chef Assistant and/or management to discuss needs of the shift or position * Gives clear instructions to supervised subordinates in all phases of food preparation and cooking * Determines ...

Cook - RRC

Rochester, NY · On-site

$18.03 - $18.88/hr

Prepare and serve meals according to the posted menu and/or directions of the head cook, in a sanitary atmosphere at designated meal times in accordance with agency policies. * Assist in the ...

Cook

Rochester, NY · On-site

$21.50 - $21.80/hr

Follows proper sanitation and safety procedures and assures that Dietary Assistants follow safety ... At least one-year work experience as a cook in a restaurant or in a large volume food service ...

Cook

Rochester, NY · On-site

$21.50 - $21.80/hr

Follows proper sanitation and safety procedures and assures that Dietary Assistants follow safety ... At least one-year work experience as a cook in a restaurant or in a large volume food service ...

Cook 2

Pittsford, NY · On-site

$21/hr

Cooks You are the culinary artist who transforms the Executive Chef's vision into a flavorful ... Anticipate problems and ask for management assistant as needed. Job Requirements Depending on the ...

Cook

Rochester, NY · On-site

$21.50 - $21.80/hr

Follows proper sanitation and safety procedures and assures that Dietary Assistants follow safety ... At least one-year work experience as a cook in a restaurant or in a large volume food service ...

Cook

East Rochester, NY

$21.50 - $21.80/hr

Follows proper sanitation and safety procedures and assures that Dietary Assistants follow safety ... At least one-year work experience as a cook in a restaurant or in a large volume food service ...

Line Cook

Victor, NY · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

... Cooks, Wok Cooks, Cooks, Chef De Parties, or Station Chefs. Job Summary: A Line Cook, Wok Cook ... May need to assist with washing dishes, sweeping/mopping floors, cleaning and maintaining equipment ...

Line Cook

Victor, NY · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

... Cooks, Wok Cooks, Cooks, Chef De Parties, or Station Chefs. Job Summary: A Line Cook, Wok Cook ... May need to assist with washing dishes, sweeping/mopping floors, cleaning and maintaining equipment ...

Cook

East Rochester, NY · On-site

$21.50 - $21.80/hr

Follows proper sanitation and safety procedures and assures that Dietary Assistants follow safety ... At least one-year work experience as a cook in a restaurant or in a large volume food service ...

... Cooks, Wok Cooks, Cooks, Chef De Parties, or Station Chefs. Job Summary: A Line Cook, Wok Cook ... May need to assist with washing dishes, sweeping/mopping floors, cleaning and maintaining equipment ...

Cook

Rochester, NY · On-site

$17.50 - $18/hr

As a Line Cook, you'll assist in creating menu items and ensuring guests are presented with a meal they can't receive elsewhere. As you continue to learn, grow, and fuel your passion for food, you'll ...

Cook

Rochester, NY

$21.50 - $21.80/hr

Follows proper sanitation and safety procedures and assures that Dietary Assistants follow safety ... At least one-year work experience as a cook in a restaurant or in a large volume food service ...

Cook

East Rochester, NY · On-site

$21.50 - $21.80/hr

Follows proper sanitation and safety procedures and assures that Dietary Assistants follow safety ... At least one-year work experience as a cook in a restaurant or in a large volume food service ...

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Cooks Assistant information

See Rochester, NY salary details

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How much do cooks assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 8, 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 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 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 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:

$17.30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago


Job description

CAMPUS AUXILIARY SERVICES AT SUNY GENESEO CAREER OPPORTUNITY 

COOK  

JOIN CAMPUS AUXILIARY SERVICES AT SUNY GENESEO! 

Our people are the lifeline of the organization. We are committed to continuously developing our employees in an environment of trust and integrity. We strive to cultivate a culture that produces inclusivity, passion, celebration of accomplishments and strong communication. As a teammate in our culinary and dining services, operations or administration teams, you will have the opportunity to utilize skills in the areas of exceptional customer service, team collaboration, adaptability and determination. As one of our teammates, you not only have the opportunity to serve others and immerse yourself in the organization – you get paid to make a true difference! 

OUR MISSION:

We provide essential services that positively impact campus life and all who engage in our community, including students, faculty, staff, guests, and friends of the college.

OUR VALUES:

Our pursuit of excellence will reinforce SUNY Geneseo's vision of being a distinctive, equity-centered, public honors college by providing quality services and supporting innovative and transformative experiences in an inclusive community.

We Value COMMUNITY

We Embrace ACCEPTANCE

We Pursue SUCCESS

PURPOSE

The cook is directly responsible to the Food Production and Operations Supervisors or to Management in charge of the cooking and overall responsibility of the assigned position which includes food preparation, presentation and service.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS 

  • Meets with Chef Assistant and/or management to discuss needs of the shift or position
  • Gives clear instructions to supervised subordinates in all phases of food preparation and cooking
  • Determines amounts of food to be prepared according to formula to meet menu requirement
  • May reassign job duties among kitchen production personnel in order to complete the necessary production
  • Consults with supervisor to requisition food supplies as needed
  • Utilizes leftovers effectively daily
  • Inspects kitchen to insure proper preparation and utilization of food to maintain high standards of sanitation
  • Insures that NYS health codes are adhered to in all food preparation and food service areas
  • May perform other related tasks. These may include but are not limited to:  working on the serving line, washing dishes or pots and pans, operating a cash register, putting away food stock
  • Trains personnel and may personally perform cooking duties and related tasks as required including special projects
  • May be required to secure building at the end of the shift or to unlock it at the beginning of a work shift which includes all lights to be turned on or off
  • May assist with providing guidance/direction to the other employees.  This includes those in lower grades as well and casual and student employees.
  • The Grade 12 Cook is expected to fill the duty of a Grade 14 Chef Assistant in the absence of that position
  • Other duties may be assigned to reach individual and organizational goals.

SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES

  • Customer service
  • Interpersonal skills
  • Oral communication
  • Attendance and punctuality
  • Dependability
  • Sound and accurate judgment
  • Planning and organizational skills

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE 

  • Minimum – High School Diploma/GED or equivalent combination education and/or experience
  • Has knowledge of at least four production departments
  • Is actively able to give clear concise directions. Leads and delegate tasks.
  • Has two years’ experience as a Grade 10 Food Production Worker or one year experience as a Grade 11 Food Production Assistant
  • ServeSafe certification within six months of position

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS  

  • Ability to stand or sit for prolonged periods of time
  • Ability to lift and move up to 50 pounds occasionally
  • Occasional computer use (Microsoft word/Excel)

SCOPE AND DIRECTION 

  • Reports to: CAS Restaurants and Cafes Management
  • Direct Reports: None
  • FSLA Status: Hourly
  • Rate of Pay: $17.30 per hour

BENEFITS PACKAGE

  • Comprehensive health and wellness including health, dental, vision, FSA or HSA for full time employees 
  • Retirement savings
  • Life/Disability Insurance 
  • Generous paid time off 
  • Complimentary dining at our on-campus restaurants and cafes 
  • Career growth opportunities 
  • My Better Benefits discount services 
  • Complimentary uniform and shoe allowances when applicable

In support of the ADA, this job description lists only the responsibilities and qualifications deemed essential to the position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Campus Auxiliary Services is an Equal Opportunity Employer. This policy prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex, race, color, religion, creed, national origin, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender expression and/or identity, disability, genetic predisposition, veteran status or status as a member of any other protected group or activity