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Cooks Prep Cooks Jobs in Maine (NOW HIRING)

American Dining Creations

Prep Cook

Portland, ME · On-site

$14.50 - $18.25/hr

As a pivotal member of the culinary staff our Prep Cooks are a "go to" and reliable resource to the team to ensure we are providing an optimal dining experience to our guests. Responsibilities:

Boyne Resorts

Sugarloaf Prep Cook

Carrabassett Valley, ME · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

Overview Sugarloaf Resort is looking for creative and motivated Prep Cooks to join our team this coming winter season. This position plays a key role in delivering high-quality meals at our resort F ...

Texas Roadhouse

Prep Cook

Scarborough, ME · On-site

$14.75 - $18.75/hr

As a Prep Cook your responsibilities would include: * Reading a prep sheet * Following Texas Roadhouse legendary recipes * Keeping the walk-in refrigerator clean and organized * Maintaining and using ...

Rising Tide Co-op

Prep Cook

Damariscotta, ME · On-site

$17 - $19/hr

Rising Tide is looking for a full-time prep cook. Responsibilities include making salads, sandwiches, and hot bar items by preparing fresh ingredients - washing, chopping, portioning, and storing ...

Texas Roadhouse

Prep Cook

Scarborough, ME · On-site

$14.50 - $18.25/hr

As a Prep Cook your responsibilities would include: * Reading a prep sheet * Following Texas Roadhouse legendary recipes * Keeping the walk-in refrigerator clean and organized * Maintaining and using ...

Texas Roadhouse

Prep Cook

Augusta, ME · On-site

$16.50 - $20/hr

As a Prep Cook your responsibilities would include: * Reading a prep sheet * Following Texas Roadhouse legendary recipes * Keeping the walk-in refrigerator clean and organized * Maintaining and using ...

Texas Roadhouse

Prep Cook

Augusta, ME · On-site

$16.50 - $20/hr

As a Prep Cook your responsibilities would include: * Reading a prep sheet * Following Texas Roadhouse legendary recipes * Keeping the walk-in refrigerator clean and organized * Maintaining and using ...

Rusty Lantern Markets LLC

Full time Prep Cook

Portland, ME · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

Summary As a Prep Cook at Rusty Lantern Markets, you will play an essential role in preparing delicious meals and ensuring the highest standards of food safety and quality. This position is vital to ...

Rusty Lantern Markets LLC

Full time Prep Cook

Lisbon, ME · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

Summary As a Prep Cook at Rusty Lantern Markets, you will play an essential role in preparing delicious meals and ensuring the highest standards of food safety and quality. This position is vital to ...

The Friendly Toast

Prep Cook

Portland, ME · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

Our cooks are the heart and soul of The Friendly Toast team, we wouldn't be where we are today without our scratch kitchen and original brunch menu. The Prep Cook will be responsible for preparing ...

The Friendly Toast

Prep Cook

Portland, ME · On-site

$14.50 - $18.50/hr

Our cooks are the heart and soul of The Friendly Toast team, we wouldn't be where we are today without our scratch kitchen and original brunch menu. The Prep Cook will be responsible for preparing ...

Eatn Park Hospitality Group

Prep Cook

Waterville, ME · On-site

$14.25 - $18/hr

Prep Cook - Parkhurst Dining Are you looking for a values-driven environment with opportunities to learn and grow? Do you want to join a fun, supportive team where you can build lifelong ...

Eatn Park Hospitality Group

Prep Cook

Biddeford, ME · On-site

$15 - $18.75/hr

Prep Cook - Parkhurst Dining Are you looking for a values-driven environment with opportunities to learn and grow? Do you want to join a fun, supportive team where you can build lifelong ...

Eatn Park Hospitality Group

Prep Cook

Waterville, ME

$14.25 - $18/hr

Prep Cook - Parkhurst Dining Are you looking for a values-driven environment with opportunities to learn and grow? Do you want to join a fun, supportive team where you can build lifelong ...

Eatn Park Hospitality Group

Prep Cook

Waterville, ME · On-site

$14.25 - $18/hr

Prep Cook - Parkhurst Dining Are you looking for a values-driven environment with opportunities to learn and grow? Do you want to join a fun, supportive team where you can build lifelong ...

Eatn Park Hospitality Group

Prep Cook

Biddeford, ME · On-site

$15 - $18.75/hr

Prep Cook - Parkhurst Dining Are you looking for a values-driven environment with opportunities to learn and grow? Do you want to join a fun, supportive team where you can build lifelong ...

Eatn Park Hospitality Group

Prep Cook

Waterville, ME · On-site

$14.25 - $18/hr

Prep Cook - Parkhurst Dining Are you looking for a values-driven environment with opportunities to learn and grow? Do you want to join a fun, supportive team where you can build lifelong ...

Eatn Park Hospitality Group

Prep Cook

Biddeford, ME · On-site

$15 - $18.75/hr

Prep Cook - Parkhurst Dining Are you looking for a values-driven environment with opportunities to learn and grow? Do you want to join a fun, supportive team where you can build lifelong ...

Eatn Park Hospitality Group

Prep Cook

Biddeford, ME · On-site

$15 - $18.75/hr

Prep Cook - Parkhurst Dining Are you looking for a values-driven environment with opportunities to learn and grow? Do you want to join a fun, supportive team where you can build lifelong ...

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All JobsCooks Prep Cooks JobsCooks Prep Cooks Jobs in Maine

Cooks Prep Cooks information

What is a cook?

Cooks and prep cooks are culinary professionals who work in kitchens to prepare and cook food. Prep cooks focus on preparing ingredients by washing, chopping, and measuring, ensuring everything is ready for the main cooking process. Cooks, on the other hand, handle the actual cooking of dishes, following recipes and presentation standards. Both roles require attention to detail, good time management, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment. Together, they help ensure the kitchen runs smoothly and efficiently.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a cook?

To thrive as a Cook or Prep Cook, you need solid food preparation skills, knowledge of kitchen safety and sanitation, and usually a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, basic knife handling techniques, and adherence to food safety certifications like ServSafe are important. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and the ability to work efficiently under pressure are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills ensure consistent food quality, safe kitchen operations, and smooth workflow in fast-paced culinary environments.

What are some common challenges faced by prep cooks in a busy kitchen environment?

Prep cooks often work in fast-paced settings where managing time efficiently and maintaining attention to detail can be challenging. They must juggle multiple tasks, such as chopping ingredients, preparing sauces, and organizing supplies, all while adhering to strict food safety standards. Communication with chefs and other kitchen staff is essential to ensure smooth operations and prevent delays during service. Adapting to changing menus or last-minute requests is also a frequent part of the role, requiring flexibility and quick thinking.

What is the difference between Cooks Prep Cooks vs Line Cooks?

AspectPrep CooksLine Cooks
ResponsibilitiesPrepare ingredients, wash, chop, and set up stationsCook dishes during service, follow recipes, and manage station
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent, food safety certification often preferredSimilar credentials, often with additional culinary training
Work EnvironmentKitchen prep areas, early shifts, less pressureFront-line cooking stations, during service hours, high-pressure environment
Industry UsageCommon in restaurants, catering, and hospitalityEssential in restaurant kitchens, culinary establishments

Prep Cooks focus on preparing ingredients and setting up stations, while Line Cooks handle cooking dishes during service. Both roles require similar credentials and work in busy kitchen environments, but their responsibilities differ based on the stage of food preparation.

Do prep cooks make good money?

Prep cooks typically earn an hourly wage that varies by location and establishment, with median pay around minimum wage to slightly above. Experienced prep cooks or those working in high-end restaurants may earn higher wages, and some may receive tips or benefits. Overall, the pay is generally considered modest compared to more advanced culinary roles.

How much do prep cooks make a year?

Prep cooks typically earn an annual salary ranging from $20,000 to $30,000, depending on experience, location, and the establishment. Many prep cooks are paid hourly, with wages often between $10 and $15 per hour, and may receive benefits or overtime pay based on the employer's policies.

What qualifications do I need to be a prep cook?

Prep cooks typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and basic cooking skills. Prior experience in food preparation, knowledge of kitchen safety, and the ability to follow recipes and instructions are often required. Some employers may also value food safety certifications such as ServSafe.

What are popular job titles related to Cooks Prep Cooks jobs in Maine?

For Cooks Prep Cooks jobs in Maine, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Cooks Prep Cooks jobs in Maine look for?

The top searched job categories for Cooks Prep Cooks jobs in Maine are:

What cities in Maine are hiring for Cooks Prep Cooks jobs?

Cities in Maine with the most Cooks Prep Cooks job openings:

Cooks Prep Cooks jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cooks Prep Cooks job openings in Maine as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 50% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 64% Physical, and 36% Remote job distribution.

Prep Cook

Portland, ME • On-site

American Dining Creations
Traveler Accommodation • 501 - 1,000 employees
Learn more about American Dining Creationsexternal

$14.50 - $18.25/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 5 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Prepare meal ingredients, simple dishes, condiments, and related items to meet daily production needs.

  • Follow standards to prepare ingredients and undertake basic cooking duties such as reducing sauces and parboiling food.

  • Maintain a clean and organized kitchen by washing dishes, sanitizing surfaces, and properly storing foods and supplies.

American Dining Creations rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

13th of 68 rated caterers

Job description

Pay: - Pay varies by location



Location: Portland, Maine

Summary:

A Prep Cook with American Dining Creations prepares meal ingredients, simple dishes, condiments, and other related items as required to meet daily production needs. As a pivotal member of the culinary staff our Prep Cooks are a “go to” and reliable resource to the team to ensure we are providing an optimal dining experience to our guests.  


Responsibilities:  

  • Follow standards to prepare meal ingredients and simple dishes as directed by management, or other staff. 
  • Prepare cooking ingredients by washing and chopping vegetables, cutting meat, and other meal prep. Mixes or prepares condiments, dressings, and sauces. 
  • Undertake basic cooking duties, such as reducing sauces and parboiling food.
  • Stores foods in designated areas following standard wrapping, dating, food safety, and rotation procedures. 
  • Adhere to all state and local food production, safety, and sanitation regulations.
  • Keep supplies replenished, may restock coolers, and take inventory as directed.
  • Assists with unloading, inspection, and proper storage of raw ingredients and supplies.
  • Maintain a clean and orderly kitchen by washing dishes, sanitizing surfaces, and taking out trash. 
  • Listen well and communicate in a professional and friendly manner. 
  • Be efficient and organized. 
  • May be assigned other duties and responsibilities as needed.  


Qualifications:  

  • Previous experience in a related role. 
  • Understanding of proper food handling, preparation, and cooking procedures.
  • Understanding of sanitation and regulations for workplace safety.
  • Basic knife skills.  
  • Ability to learn quickly in a fast-paced, high-volume, high-quality environment.
  • Self-motivated achiever, eager to learn and interested in taking on additional roles and responsibilities. 
  • Must be dedicated to excellence in hospitality and have a desire to offer a great dining experience. 
  • Ability to cross train and cross utilize skills. 
  • Safety and detail oriented. 
  • This position requires lifting 50lbs, bending, walking, climbing stairs, and standing for scheduled shifts.  


About Us

Together, American Food & Vending and American Dining Creations form one of the nation’s largest privately held dining and refreshment service organizations. Family-owned and headquartered in Syracuse, NY, we have served clients nationwide for more than 80 years, delivering customized dining and refreshment solutions across business, education, healthcare and cultural environments.

Recognized by NAMA and our peers as Operator of the Year, we combine national capabilities with a personal, responsive approach to create exceptional experiences for our clients and guests.

Our Mission

To create moments of happiness through customized hospitality experiences that delight guests and bring people together.

Our Vision

To be the best in the industry at elevating hospitality experiences for places where people want to be.

Our Values: F.I.R.S.T.

Family – Treat people as family.

Integrity – Do the right thing.

Responsiveness – Listen first. Then act with urgency.

Service Excellence – Deliver exceptional experiences every day.

Teamwork – Win together.


American Dining Creations Offers: 

  • Weekly Pay 
  • 401K with match  
  • Delicious employee meal and beverage during your shift 
  • Employee Referral Bonus Program  
  • Employee Assistance Program 
  • Some positions may include flexible hours and shifts. 
  • Eligible employees offered Medical, Prescription, Dental, and Vision Plans 
  • Uniforms and Safety Shoes provided.  
  • Learning and advancement opportunities 


American Food & Vending is an Equal Opportunity Employer. 


Chat with Scout, our virtual hiring assistant to apply for this position right from your mobile device. Text JOB to (315) 803-6049 to get started!

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