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Cooks Prep Cooks Jobs in Portland, ME (NOW HIRING)

The Grande at South Portland

Cook

South Portland, ME · On-site

$14.50 - $19.25/hr

What you can expect as a Cook: * $1,000 Employee Referral Bonus * Tuition Reimbursement eligibility ... Ensure the prep station and kitchen is kept clean and sanitized in accordance with food safety ...

The Enclave Of Scarborough

Cook

Scarborough, ME

$14.50 - $19.50/hr

Qualifications of an ideal Cook: * High school diploma or equivalent (GED) * CPR Certified * At ... Ensure the prep station and kitchen is kept clean and sanitized in accordance with food safety ...

The Enclave Of Scarborough

Cook

Scarborough, ME · On-site

$23 - $24/hr

Qualifications of an ideal Cook: * High school diploma or equivalent (GED) * CPR Certified * At ... Ensure the prep station and kitchen is kept clean and sanitized in accordance with food safety ...

The Enclave Of Scarborough

Cook

Scarborough, ME · On-site

$14.50 - $19.50/hr

Qualifications of an ideal Cook: * High school diploma or equivalent (GED) * CPR Certified * At ... Ensure the prep station and kitchen is kept clean and sanitized in accordance with food safety ...

Bridge Senior Living

Cook

Scarborough, ME · On-site

$23 - $24/hr

Qualifications of an ideal Cook: * High school diploma or equivalent (GED) * CPR Certified * At ... Ensure the prep station and kitchen is kept clean and sanitized in accordance with food safety ...

Maine Beer Company

Line Cook

Freeport, ME · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

The Line Cook at Maine Beer Company is responsible for creating and maintaining the highest quality ... Keep up with prep dishes and make sure the dish pit is clean and organized. * Stock dry and ...

Maine Beer Company

Line Cook

Freeport, ME · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

The Line Cook at Maine Beer Company is responsible for creating and maintaining the highest quality ... Keep up with prep dishes and make sure the dish pit is clean and organized. * Stock dry and ...

Maine Beer Company

Line Cook

Freeport, ME · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

The Line Cook at Maine Beer Company is responsible for creating and maintaining the highest quality ... Keep up with prep dishes and make sure the dish pit is clean and organized. * Stock dry and ...

Migis Lodge on Sebago Lake

Dishwasher

South Casco, ME · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

Many of our dishwashers grow at Migis tobecome prep cooks, line cooks, and some have even gotten their footing here andhave gone on to become Executive Chefs and Innkeepers. You never know where this ...

Texas Roadhouse

Line Cook - Broil/Grill

Scarborough, ME · On-site

$16.25 - $20.50/hr

Understanding equipment and prep sheets * Exhibiting teamwork If you think you would be a legendary Broil Cook, apply today! At Texas Roadhouse, our Roadies are the heart and soul of our company. We ...

Migis Lodge on Sebago Lake

Dishwasher

South Casco, ME · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

Many of our dishwashers grow at Migis tobecome prep cooks, line cooks, and some have even gotten their footing here andhave gone on to become Executive Chefs and Innkeepers. You never know where this ...

Texas Roadhouse

Line Cook - Broil/Grill

Scarborough, ME

$16 - $20/hr

Understanding equipment and prep sheets * Exhibiting teamwork If you think you would be a legendary Broil Cook, apply today! At Texas Roadhouse, our Roadies are the heart and soul of our company. We ...

UNO Pizzeria

Cook: Pizza/Saute/Grill

South Portland, ME · On-site

$16.25 - $20.50/hr

UNO Pizzeria & Grill is now hiring Line Cooks. Immediate part-time and full-time openings available ... Follow all food safety and sanitation procedures * Assist with prep, breakdown, and cleaning of ...

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Cooks Prep Cooks information

See Portland, ME salary details

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$16

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How much do cooks prep cooks jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for cooks prep cooks in Portland, ME is $16.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.04 and $17.69 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 Portland, ME?

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

What job categories do people searching Cooks Prep Cooks jobs in Portland, ME look for?

The top searched job categories for Cooks Prep Cooks jobs in Portland, ME are:

What cities near Portland, ME are hiring for Cooks Prep Cooks jobs?

Cities near Portland, ME with the most Cooks Prep Cooks job openings:

Cooks Prep Cooks jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cooks Prep Cooks job openings in Portland, ME as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 49% Full Time, 50% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 73% Physical, and 27% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,383 per year, or $16 per hour.

Concessions Cook | Part-Time | Cross Insurance Arena

Spectra

Portland, ME • On-site

$17.50 - $18.50/hr

Part-time

Retirement

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

Oak View Group
Oak View Group (OVG) is the global leader in premium live entertainment infrastructure and services, with a platform spanning venue development and end-to-end capabilities across venue management, hospitality, and sponsorship sales. Founded in 2015, the company serves a collection of seven world-class owned venues and a client roster of the most iconic arenas, stadiums, convention centers, music festivals, performing arts centers, and cultural institutions, spanning four continents.
Overview
The Concessions Cook is responsible for preparing foods to be served to guests throughout the venue. The Concessions Cook will often have direct contact with the public, working mostly in concession stand areas but also assisting when catering events get scheduled. The Concessions Cook must maintain excellent attendance and be available to work events as scheduled per business need.
This role pays an hourly rate of $17.50-$18.50 and is tip eligible.
Benefits for Part-Time roles: 401(k) Savings Plan, 401(k) matching.
This position will remain open until November 20, 2026.
Responsibilities
  • Responsible for providing high-quality, fresh food products in a timely manner for delivery to guests.
  • Prepares hot and cold foods following company recipes and portioning requirements.
  • Participates as a team player with specific responsibilities as related to preparation, excellent service, and delivery of product.
  • Responsible for reporting any maintenance required for kitchen equipment.
  • Maintains sanitation, health, and safety standards in work areas.
  • Responsible for observing and testing foods to ensure proper cooking.
  • Responsible for portioning, arranging, and garnishing food plates for delivery to guests.
  • Responsible for consulting with Director of Food & Beverage, Concessions Manager and Stand Leaders to plan menus and estimate expected food consumption.
  • Show demonstrated ability to meet the company standard for excellent attendance.

Qualifications
  • Previous cook or prep cook experience highly preferred.
  • Able to operate standard kitchen equipment, including the broiler, steamer, convection oven, mixer, meat slicer, and chef knife.
  • Ability to communicate with employees, co-workers, volunteers, management staff, and guests in a clear, business-like, and respectful manner that focuses on generating a positive, enthusiastic, and cooperative work environment.
  • Ability to work well in a team-oriented, fast-paced, event-driven environment.
  • Possess a valid food handling certificate if required by state and federal regulations.
  • ServSafe preferred.

Strengthened by our Differences. United to Make a Difference
At OVG, we understand that to continue positively disrupting the sports and live entertainment industry, we need a diverse team to help us do it. We also believe that inclusivity drives innovation, strengthens our people, improves our service, and raises our excellence. Our success is rooted in creating environments that reflect and celebrate the diverse communities in which we operate and serve, and this is the reason we are committed to amplifying voices from all different backgrounds.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Oak View Group is committed to equal employment opportunity. We will not discriminate against employees or applicants for employment on any legally recognized basis ("protected class") including, but not limited to veteran status, uniform service member status, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information or any other protected class under federal, state, or local law.

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