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Cooks Helper Jobs in Maine (NOW HIRING)

University of Rochester

SEIU Cook Helper

Danforth, ME · On-site

$19.13 - $25.95/hr

Assists in gathering food supplies and equipment for Cooks and assists them in the preparation of food. May perform grill and broiler activities independently. SUPERVISION AND DIRECTION EXERCISED:

MAINE VETERANS HOMES

Cook - Part-Time

South Paris, ME · On-site

$18.80 - $24.17/hr

As a Cook at our South Paris home, you'll have the opportunity to use your culinary skills every ... Help create a positive dining experience for our residents. * Work collaboratively with the dietary ...

New

MAINE VETERANS HOMES

Cook - Part-Time

South Paris, ME · On-site

$18.80 - $24.17/hr

As a Cook at our South Paris home, you'll have the opportunity to use your culinary skills every ... Help create a positive dining experience for our residents. * Work collaboratively with the dietary ...

New

Stillwater Health Care

Cook

Bangor, ME · On-site

$14.25 - $19/hr

The cook's duties might also include helping prep cook, working as a diet aid or helping out in the dish room. This position comes with an every other weekend rotation. Cook Job Summary~ Working for ...

Stillwater Health Care

Cook

Bangor, ME · On-site

$18.25 - $20.20/hr

The cook's duties might also include helping prep cook, working as a diet aid or helping out in the dish room. This position comes with an every other weekend rotation. Cook Job Summary~ Working for ...

Stillwater Health Care

Cook

Bangor, ME

$14.25 - $19/hr

The cook's duties might also include helping prep cook, working as a diet aid or helping out in the dish room. This position comes with an every other weekend rotation. Cook Job Summary~ Working for ...

Sunriseseniorliving

Cook

Kennebunk, ME

$14.50 - $19.50/hr

As a Cook, you prepare high-quality meals that support residents' health and enjoyment while ... As part of our team, you will help brighten the future for everyone at Sunrise and beyond. That is ...

Sunriseseniorliving

Cook

Kennebunk, ME

$14.50 - $19.50/hr

As a Cook, you prepare high-quality meals that support residents' health and enjoyment while ... As part of our team, you will help brighten the future for everyone at Sunrise and beyond. That is ...

SSH DT Portland LLC

Cook

Portland, ME

$14.50 - $19.50/hr

Help set up the restaurant and employee cafeteria buffet as applicable. Prepare all menu and ... Understanding of basic cooking techniques and kitchen equipment. Strong attention to detail ...

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All JobsCooks Helper JobsCooks Helper Jobs in Maine

Cooks Helper information

See Maine salary details

$9

$16

$20

How much do cooks helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for cooks helper in Maine is $16.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $19.09 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a cooks helper?

Cooks Helpers assist chefs and cooks in the preparation and serving of food in restaurants, cafeterias, or other food service establishments. Their duties often include washing and chopping vegetables, preparing ingredients, cleaning work areas, and sometimes helping with basic cooking tasks. They play a vital role in ensuring the kitchen runs smoothly and efficiently by supporting the culinary team with day-to-day tasks. Cooks Helpers may also be responsible for stocking supplies and disposing of kitchen waste. This position is often an entry point for those interested in pursuing a career in the culinary arts.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a cooks helper, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cooks Helper, you need basic food preparation skills, knowledge of kitchen hygiene, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with kitchen equipment, food safety protocols, and inventory systems is often required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and a strong work ethic are important soft skills that help you stand out in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining efficient kitchen operations, ensuring food safety, and supporting chefs in delivering quality meals.

What are some common challenges faced by a cooks helper, and how can they be addressed?

As a Cook's Helper, one common challenge is working efficiently in a fast-paced kitchen environment, especially during peak hours. Staying organized, communicating clearly with chefs and fellow kitchen staff, and mastering time management are key to overcoming this. Additionally, adapting quickly to changing priorities and maintaining strict food safety standards are essential. Seeking feedback and being proactive in learning new tasks can also help you succeed and potentially advance to higher kitchen positions.

What is the difference between Cooks Helper vs Kitchen Assistant?

AspectCooks HelperKitchen Assistant
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentCommercial kitchens, restaurants, cafeteriasCommercial kitchens, restaurants, catering services
Employer & Industry UsageFood service establishments, hotels, hospitalsFood service establishments, catering, hospitality
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Both Cooks Helper and Kitchen Assistant roles typically require similar credentials and work in fast-paced kitchen environments. While their duties may overlap, Cooks Helpers often assist with food prep and basic cooking tasks, whereas Kitchen Assistants may focus more on cleaning, prep work, and supporting kitchen staff. Understanding these differences can help job seekers find the right position in the food service industry.

What are the most commonly searched types of Cooks jobs in Maine?

The most popular types of Cooks jobs in Maine are:

Cooks Helper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cooks Helper job openings in Maine as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 64% Full Time, 32% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $34,762 per year, or $16.7 per hour.

Cooks Helper

Valley Unified Education Service Center

Kennebunk, ME • On-site

$18.62 - $20.99/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

Cook's Helper 
Community High School / Valley Rivers Middle Schools
About Maine School Administrative District # 27


Maine School Administrative District No. 27 serves students in grades PreK-12 from St. Francis, St. John Plantation, Wallagrass, New Canada and Fort Kent, ME, location of America's First Mile.  The district has three (3) schools, the Fort Kent Elementary School(PreK-6), Valley Rivers Middle School (7-8), and Fort Kent Community High School (9-12).

To learn more about our schools, we highly encourage all potential applicants to view our Recruitment Brochure.

Position Purpose

Under the direct supervision of the Food Service Director, to assist in preparing and serving school meals in accordance with Board policy and established district procedures. There is a 6 - 6.5 hour a day position available at Community High School / Valley Rivers Middle School.

Pay Range: $18.62 - $20.99 / hour


Essential Functions

  • Assists in preparing school meals, according to the scheduled menu.
  • Assist in serving school meals.
  • Assist in cleaning the kitchen areas after meals have been served.
  • Assists students with orderly food purchases, distribution of food, disposal of food waste, and return of trays and utensils.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

  • Effective verbal and written communication skills.
  • Effective organizational and problem solving skills.
  • Ability to maintain composure and perform responsibilities under pressure.
  • Ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with others contacted in the course of work.
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality about students in accordance with applicable laws, regulations and district guidelines.

Qualifications Profile

  • Any combination of education and experience providing the required skill and knowledge for successful performance would be qualifying.
  • Typical qualifications would be equivalent to:
    • High School Diploma or completion of sufficient education to successfully perform the duties of the position.
    • Previous experience in preparing and serving meals is desirable
    • Maine Criminal History Records Check (CHRC) is required


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