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Cooks Helper Jobs in Massachusetts (NOW HIRING)

Prep Cook

Boston, MA

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

Non-exempt Hourly Ind2 Our Prep Cooks help turn raw product into delicious and healthy meals. In this position, expect to prepare the food by washing and cutting vegetables, weighing and mixing ...

Prep Cook

Boston, MA · On-site

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

Non-exempt Hourly Ind2 Our Prep Cooks help turn raw product into delicious and healthy meals. In this position, expect to prepare the food by washing and cutting vegetables, weighing and mixing ...

Prep Cook

Boston, MA · On-site

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

Non-exempt Hourly Ind2 Our Prep Cooks help turn raw product into delicious and healthy meals. In this position, expect to prepare the food by washing and cutting vegetables, weighing and mixing ...

Cook 40 Hours

Cambridge, MA

$19.68 - $26.49/hr

Delegates duties to cook's helper. Works continuously to improve the total quality of the department and other departments within the institution. Required Qualifications: Reading and writing skills ...

Prep Cook

South Easton, MA · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

Prep Cook Company: Giana Restaurant Website: About Giana Restaurant: Giana Restaurant is a ... Help us set new culinary standards and contribute to delivering extraordinary dining experiences to ...

Cook

Cambridge, MA

$19.68 - $26.49/hr

Delegates duties to cook's helper. 13. Works continuously to improve the total quality of the department and other departments within the institution. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES REQUIRED 1. ...

New

Prep Cook

South Easton, MA · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

Prep Cook Company: Giana Restaurant Website: About Giana Restaurant: Giana Restaurant is a ... Help us set new culinary standards and contribute to delivering extraordinary dining experiences to ...

Prep Cook

South Easton, MA · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

Prep Cook Company: Giana Restaurant Website: About Giana Restaurant: Giana Restaurant is a ... Help us set new culinary standards and contribute to delivering extraordinary dining experiences to ...

Showing results 21-40

Cooks Helper information

See Massachusetts salary details

$10

$18

$23

How much do cooks helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for cooks helper in Massachusetts is $18.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.78 and $21.54 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 the most commonly searched types of Cooks jobs in Massachusetts? The most popular types of Cooks jobs in Massachusetts are:
What cities in Massachusetts are hiring for Cooks Helper jobs? Cities in Massachusetts with the most Cooks Helper job openings:
Infographic showing various Cooks Helper job openings in Massachusetts as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 63% Full Time, 36% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $39,211 per year, or $18.9 per hour.

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

Other

Re-posted 27 days ago


Job description

Prep Cook

Title: Prep Cook

Reports To: General Manager/Manager/Shift Supervisor

Department: Cafe Operations

FLSA Status: Non-exempt Hourly

Ind2

Our Prep Cooks help turn raw product into delicious and healthy meals. In this position, expect to prepare the food by washing and cutting vegetables, weighing and mixing ingredients, and assisting the Sandwich/Salad Maker and Bakers as needed. The Prep Cook at Au Bon Pain is one of the first positions to arrive in the morning and helps to organize the cafe before and during every shift.

Position Summary:

The Prep Position is responsible for the preparation of legendary, high quality fresh food. Prep is dedicated to the freshness, appearance and standards of all Au Bon Pain products while ensuring a CLEAN, FAST and FRIENDLY cafe environment. If you enjoy making people smile while working with a great team and being part of a Company that is a great place to work, we want you as a Prep Cook!

Prep Cook Job Responsibilities:

  • Plan, prepare and stock ingredients and products for cafe operations
  • Ensure correct par levels are being prepared daily.
  • Ensure that all products meet ABP's standards of freshness and appearance.
  • Work with the management teams to plan prep schedules.
  • Keep work area clean, organized and stocked, responsible for proper sanitation of the work environment
  • Assists management expediting on the line to ensure guest satisfaction.
  • Knowledge of all Au Bon Pain products.
  • Listen, respond and resolve all guests' requests quickly and efficiently.
  • Demonstrate hospitality, respect and a friendly attitude toward guests and fellow team members.
  • Resolves any problems and keeps management informed about issues and problems as they arise.
  • Provides on-the-job training for new prep team member.
  • Other related responsibilities as assigned.

Prep Cook Job Requirements:

  • Must be 18 years or older
  • Strong attention to detail and time management
  • Passion for quality, safety and sanitation
  • Excellent communication and listening skills, can read, write, and speak English
  • Friendly attitude and team player who will contribute to the culture and standards of Au Bon Pain
  • Decision maker with ability to work independently
  • Urgent, proactive demeanor
  • Ability to maintain a standing position for extended periods of time (up to 6 hours at a time).
  • Ability to move around the cafe to attend to the needs of guests
  • Ability to move, lift and handle equipment, supplies and other objects weighing up to 25 pounds.
  • Ability to position self to move items weighing up to 25 pounds from floor to shelves and cabinets above and below counter height