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Cooks Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

O'Charley's Team Members

$13 - $16.50/hr

Prep Cook We offer flexible work schedules, a great work environment, excellent opportunities for advancement along with the following benefits: * Get Paid Quicker - We pay our team members weekly

Up On The Roof

Pantry Cooks

Charlottesville, VA

$15.75 - $19/hr

Pantry Cooks:UP on the Roof is looking for qualified and dedicated pantry cooks. Put your application in today. starting at $15 and up.Benefits:PTOHealth Insurance401k plus matchflexible ...

UP On The Roof

Pantry Cooks

Charlottesville, VA · On-site

$15/hr

Description: Pantry Cooks: UP on the Roof is looking for qualified and dedicated pantry cooks! Put your application in today! Pay starting at $15 and up. Benefits: PTO Health Insurance 401k plus ...

Bennigan's

Cooks

Mclean, VA · On-site

$14.25 - $19/hr

We are seeking friendly, service-oriented people with position including Bartenders, Servers, Host and Cooks with strong multitasking skills and a willingness to work flexible hours. To apply, please ...

Bennigan's

Cooks

Mclean, VA

$14.25 - $19/hr

We are seeking friendly, service-oriented people with position including Bartenders, Servers, Host and Cooks with strong multitasking skills and a willingness to work flexible hours. To apply, please ...

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Cooks information

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How much do cooks jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for cooks in Virginia is $15.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.37 and $17.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are cooks?

Cooks are culinary professionals responsible for preparing and cooking food in restaurants, cafeterias, hotels, and other food service establishments. They follow recipes, measure ingredients, and use various kitchen equipment to create meals that meet quality and safety standards. Cooks may specialize in specific types of cuisine or work in a variety of settings, and they often collaborate with chefs and other kitchen staff to ensure timely and efficient meal preparation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Cook, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cook, you need solid culinary skills, knowledge of food safety and sanitation, and often a high school diploma or culinary certification. Familiarity with kitchen equipment, point-of-sale (POS) systems, and inventory management tools is typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and the ability to work efficiently under pressure are important soft skills in this role. These skills ensure high-quality food preparation, safe kitchen practices, and smooth kitchen operations in fast-paced environments.

What is the difference between Cooks vs Chefs?

AspectCooksChefs
CredentialsMay require food safety certifications or culinary trainingOften have formal culinary education or extensive experience
Work EnvironmentWork in restaurants, cafeterias, or catering servicesTypically lead kitchen operations, may own or manage kitchens
Industry UsageCommonly employed in various food service settingsUsually hold leadership roles in kitchens
Search & Comparison IntentPeople compare Cooks with Chefs to understand roles, skills, and career paths

While both Cooks and Chefs work in food preparation, Cooks generally perform specific cooking tasks under supervision, whereas Chefs often have leadership roles, oversee kitchen operations, and possess advanced culinary skills. The choice depends on experience, training, and career goals within the culinary industry.

What are some common challenges cooks face in a busy kitchen environment, and how can they overcome them?

Cooks often encounter challenges such as time pressure, coordinating with team members, and maintaining consistency during high-volume service periods. Staying organized, communicating clearly with colleagues, and practicing strong multitasking skills can help manage these demands. Additionally, being proactive about prepping ingredients and understanding the flow of service makes it easier to meet expectations and ensure smooth operations. Many kitchens provide mentorship and cross-training, helping cooks develop resilience and adaptability in fast-paced settings.
What are the most commonly searched types of Cooks jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Cooks jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Cooks jobs in Virginia? For Cooks jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Cooks jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Cooks jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Cooks jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Cooks job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Cooks jobs in VA? For Cooks jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Cooks jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cooks job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $33,054 per year, or $15.9 per hour.
Upscale Casual Restaurant Cooks

Upscale Casual Restaurant Cooks

Ford's Fish Shack

Leesburg, VA

$17 - $18/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Line Cook / Prep CookFord's Fish Shack | Northern VirginiaCome Cook Seafood the Right Way.

At Ford's Fish Shack, we're passionate about serving scratch-made food, fresh seafood, and creating memorable experiences for our guests. We're looking for motivated cooks who take pride in their craft, thrive in a fast-paced environment, and want to be part of a team that values quality, professionalism, and growth.

Whether you're an experienced line cook or a talented prep cook looking to advance your career, we want to hear from you.

What You'll Do

As a member of our culinary team, you'll play a critical role in delivering the high-quality food our guests have come to expect.

Responsibilities include:

  • Preparing and cooking menu items according to established recipes and standards
  • Executing seafood, grill, sauté, fry, and prep station responsibilities with consistency and attention to detail
  • Maintaining a clean, organized, and food-safe workstation throughout every shift
  • Following all food safety, sanitation, and HACCP procedures
  • Assisting with food preparation, stocking, and inventory management
  • Working collaboratively with fellow cooks, chefs, and front-of-house team members
  • Ensuring all dishes leave the kitchen accurately, efficiently, and at the highest quality standards
  • Contributing ideas and feedback to improve operations, menu execution, and guest satisfaction
What We're Looking For
  • Positive attitude and strong work ethic
  • Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, team-oriented kitchen
  • Passion for food, hospitality, and continuous improvement
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality
  • Reliable transportation and dependable attendance
  • Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 50 pounds
  • Availability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays
Preferred Qualifications
  • Previous experience in a high-volume restaurant kitchen
  • Experience with seafood preparation and cooking techniques
  • Understanding of food safety and sanitation practices
  • Culinary training or equivalent professional kitchen experience
Why Join Ford's Fish Shack?
  • Competitive pay based on experience
  • Flexible scheduling
  • Paid training and development opportunities
  • Employee meal discounts
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance options for eligible team members
  • Opportunities for advancement and career growth
  • Work alongside a team that values quality, teamwork, and respect
About Ford's Fish Shack

Ford's Fish Shack is a locally owned and operated seafood restaurant group serving Northern Virginia since 2010. We are known for fresh seafood, scratch cooking, genuine hospitality, and a commitment to excellence in everything we do.

If you're looking for more than just a job—and want to be part of a team that takes pride in serving exceptional food every day—we'd love to meet you.

Apply today and join the crew.

WAY MORE THAN A SEAFOOD RESTAURANT
Welcome to Ford’s Fish Shack, home of the Wicked Pissah Oysters™, fresh-off-the-hook seafood, and some of the best dining you will ever find in Northern Virginia (although we are a bit biased). If you are new to Ford’s Fish Shack, we’d love to introduce ourselves, and we invite you to read our story to understand who we are and what we do. However, if you are familiar with us, take a look around and settle in: You are at home here! Whomever you are, and wherever you’re from, we are so glad you are thinking about visiting and we hope to see you or serve you soon!