How much do cooks job jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for cooks job in Appleton, WI is $15.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.12 and $17.60 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are careers in cooking?

Careers in cooking include roles such as chef, line cook, pastry chef, and kitchen manager. These jobs typically require culinary skills, knowledge of food safety, and often certification or training from culinary schools or programs. Cooking careers can be found in restaurants, hotels, catering services, and other food service establishments.

What kind of cooks make the most money?

Executive chefs and head cooks typically earn the highest salaries among cooks, especially those working in fine dining restaurants, hotels, or high-end establishments. Advanced culinary skills, management experience, and certifications like ServSafe can also contribute to higher earnings.

What jobs can I do with cooking?

With a cooking background, you can pursue roles such as chef, line cook, prep cook, or kitchen assistant. These jobs typically require culinary skills, knowledge of food safety, and the ability to work in fast-paced environments, often with certifications like food handler permits.

What is the difference between Cooks Job vs Kitchen Assistants?

Aspect Cooks Job Kitchen Assistants Credentials Food safety certification, culinary training Basic food handling knowledge Work Environment Commercial kitchens, restaurants, hotels Support roles in kitchens, prep areas Employer & Industry Usage Restaurants, catering, hospitality Food service establishments, cafeterias Job Focus Preparing, cooking, plating dishes Assisting with prep, cleaning, stocking While both Cooks and Kitchen Assistants work in food service environments, Cooks are responsible for preparing and cooking dishes, often requiring culinary skills and certifications. Kitchen Assistants support cooks by handling prep work and cleaning tasks. The roles complement each other but differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

$13-$19/hr Cooks Job Jobs in Appleton, WI (NOW HIRING)

Riverside Golf Course

Cooks

Clintonville, WI · On-site

$15 - $20/hr

We are seeking skilled Cooks to join our casual dining kitchen team. The ideal candidates will excel in preparing and cooking a variety of dishes while maintaining high standards of kitchen ...

Quick apply

Riverside Golf Course

Cooks

Clintonville, WI · On-site

$15 - $20/hr

We are seeking skilled Cooks to join our casual dining kitchen team. The ideal candidates will excel in preparing and cooking a variety of dishes while maintaining high standards of kitchen ...

The Melting Pot

Cooks

Appleton, WI · On-site

$14/hr

Portions and prepares food items prior to cooking. Other duties include preparing, plating and garnishing prepped items, and preparing appropriate garnishes. The kitchen does work as a team though in ...

The Melting Pot

Cooks

Appleton, WI · On-site

$14/hr

Portions and prepares food items prior to cooking. Other duties include preparing, plating and garnishing prepped items, and preparing appropriate garnishes. The kitchen does work as a team though in ...

Wisconsin