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Cooks Helper Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Ram's Horn

Cook

Southgate, MI

$11 - $17/hr

We are looking for someone to work as a team player, follow instructions, and help us delight our customers with delicious food from our menu. In addition to cooking prowess, great communication and ...

The Four One's Landing

Cook

Au Gres, MI · On-site

$11.50 - $15.50/hr

We're currently looking for dedicated and skilled Cooks to join our kitchen team and help us deliver high standards in every dish we serve. Position Summary: As a Cook at The Four One's Landing, you ...

Hank's Tavern on the River

Cook

Three Rivers, MI · On-site

$15 - $20/hr

We are looking for someone to work as a team player, follow instructions, and help us delight our customers with delicious food from our menu. In addition to cooking prowess, great communication and ...

Kay Jay's Irish Pub

Cook

Utica, MI

$18/hr

We are looking for someone to work as a team player, follow instructions, and help us delight our ... We pride ourselves in our exceptional service, and we expect nothing less from our cooks. The ...

Dairy Queen

AM-COOK

Livonia, MI

$12 - $14/hr

We are looking for someone to work as a team player, follow instructions, and help us delight our customers with delicious food from our menu. In addition to cooking prowess, great communication and ...

Culver's

Cook

Grand Haven, MI

$14 - $18/hr

We are looking for someone to work as a team player, follow instructions, and help us delight our customers with delicious food from our menu. In addition to cooking prowess, great communication and ...

Oakland Schools

Substitute Cafe Helper

Waterford, MI · On-site

$16/hr

Study the weekly menus along with past production records to help establish food quantities needed ... Follow directions given by the cook and/or kitchen manager. * Keeps serving areas supplied with ...

Charter Senior Living of Linden

Cook

Linden, MI

$18/hr

At Charter Senior Living, our cooks do more than prepare food -- they help create meaningful dining experiences for our residents every single day. We are looking for a dependable, energetic, and ...

Charter Senior Living

Cook

Linden, MI · On-site

$18/hr

At Charter Senior Living, our cooks do more than prepare food - they help create meaningful dining experiences for our residents every single day. We are looking for a dependable, energetic, and team ...

Mama Russos

Production Cook/ Prep Cook

Ishpeming, MI · On-site

$13 - $16/hr

Mama Russo's Production Cook Mama Russo's in Ishpeming is seeking a highly skilled Production Cook ... Helping with dishes, maintaining a clean and sanitized kitchen and work area * Helping out with ...

County of Newaygo

Assistant Cook

White Cloud, MI · On-site

$14.97 - $17.31/hr

Description Under the supervision of the Head Cook/Food Service Manager, the assistant cook will help with the preparation, packaging, and clean up of meals. Examples of Duties Assist in preparing ...

Aramark

Cook

Hemlock, MI

$11.75 - $15.75/hr

As a Cook on our team, you'll help bring recipes to life while being able to flex your creativity! Surrounded by fresh ingredients and the best equipment, you'll be immersed in a world that goes ...

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Cooks Helper information

See Michigan salary details

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How much do cooks helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for cooks helper in Michigan is $15.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.41 and $17.16 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 Michigan? The most popular types of Cooks jobs in Michigan are:
Cooks Helper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cooks Helper job openings in Michigan 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 $31,293 per year, or $15 per hour.

Dishwasher / Kitchen Helper - Entry-Level - Students Welcome

Catered Creations, Inc.

Grand Rapids, MI • On-site

$13.50 - $15/hr

Part-time

Posted 17 days ago

Job description


Dishwasher / Kitchen Helper – Perfect First Job in the Food Industry (High School / College)
If you’re in high school or early college and want a real first step into the food world, this is it. We’ll teach you how a professional kitchen runs, pay you to learn, and give you a clear path into prep and cooking if you show up and work hard.
We’re a growing catering company that serves weddings, corporate events, and private parties. Our events only run smoothly if the dish and utility team does their job well.
WHAT YOU’LL DO
  • Wash and sanitize dishes, pots, pans, and utensils 
  • Keep the dish area, floors, and trash stations clean and organized 
  • Help with basic kitchen prep (labeling, stocking, simple prep tasks) 
  • Help with packing for events and unloading when needed 
  • Follow food safety and cleanliness standards every shift
This is physical work: you’ll be on your feet, moving fast, lifting up to 40 lbs, and working around heat and water.
THIS IS FOR YOU IF YOU WANT TO:
  • Get real experience in a professional kitchen (not just fast food) 
  • Learn how catering and events work behind the scenes 
  • Build a resume that can lead to prep cook and line cook roles 
  • Work with a team that will teach you, not just yell at you
SCHEDULE & HOURS
We’re used to working with students and build schedules around school first, then work. This is a part-time, variable-hours role based on your availability and our event schedule.
  • Weekdays during the summer: typically 11:00 am – 7:00 pm
  • Weekdays during the school year: flexible to meet student's schedule
  • Weekends: typically 4:00 pm – 10:00 pm (event dependent)
  • Hours: usually 15 - 35 hours per week, ~35 in our busy seasons, and fewer in slower months
    Your actual hours will depend on your availability, your performance, and our client/event needs.
If you only want a fixed 40 hours every single week, this won’t be the right fit. If you want real kitchen experience, tip share, and are okay with hours going up and down with events, this will be a great first step.
Most students who want more hours end up close to full-time during busy months (May - December).

GROWTH PATH (IF YOU PERFORM)
We promote from within. Your effort and reliability matter more than experience.
  • 0–3 months: Learn dish systems, cleanliness, and pace 
  • 3–6 months: Start helping with basic prep and event packing 
  • 6–12 months: Eligible for Prep Cook shifts if you are reliable, coachable, and ready
PAY
  • Base pay: $13.50–$15.00 per hour, depending on experience and performance 
  • Monthly tip share on top of base pay

WHAT WE OFFER
  • Real kitchen experience that looks good on a resume 
  • Clear path into prep and cooking roles 
  • Staff meals during shifts 
  • Respectful, team-focused environment
  • Weekly pay