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Cooks information

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How much do cooks jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for cooks in Washington is $18.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.24 and $20.43 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 Washington? The most popular types of Cooks jobs in Washington are:
What are popular job titles related to Cooks jobs in Washington? For Cooks jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Cooks jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Cooks jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Cooks jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Cooks job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Cooks jobs in WA? For Cooks jobs in WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Cooks jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cooks job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 61% Full Time, 38% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $37,761 per year, or $18.2 per hour.

Prep Cooks, Line Cooks, Dishwashers - Tatte Rockville

Tatte Holdings, LLC

Rockville, MD

$19 - $22.70/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

Savory team members make all our dishes from scratch, with a deep commitment to uncompromising quality and craftsmanship. They are passionate about food and genuine hospitality, and work together as a team to prepare dishes in accordance with Tatte guidelines to ensure the highest quality while adhering to specific recipe and sanitation standards. We expect our savory team members to:

  • Have a desire to help where needed and work as part of a team
  • Possess a passion for cooking with a keen eye for freshness, quality and cleanliness
  • Live from Tatte’s core values and help Tatte deliver on its mission
  • Have flexibility to work a variety of shifts, including weekends, holidays, & afternoons/evenings
  • (Ideally, team members also have at least 1 year of experience successfully working in a fast-paced kitchen)

    Summary of Prep Cooks’ Primary Responsibilities

    • Follow prep lists created by chefs.
    • Label and stock all cooking ingredients
    • Complete all tasks, in order, on the prep list from the Head Chef or other kitchen manager
    • Washing, chopping, and sorting ingredients like fruits, vegetables, and meats
    • Measuring quantities of seasonings and other cooking ingredients
    • Adhere to all relevant nutrition and sanitary regulations and standards
    • Keeping track of ingredient inventory and collaborating with other kitchen and management staff to order resupply
    • Learn about the cooking methods and techniques employed in the kitchen
    • Ensuring all food items are properly stored and easily accessible
    • Supervising food and cooling room temperatures
    • Maintaining a clean, orderly, and sanitized kitchen
    • Assisting chefs in preparing food and attending to any culinary tasks that arise
    • Other duties as assigned

    Summary of Line Cooks’ Primary Responsibilities

    • Execute techniques under the direction of the Sous Chef and Executive Chef
    • Prepare and cook food according to recipes, quality, and presentation standards
    • Prepare ingredients by portioning, chopping, weighing, measuring, and mixing ingredients
    • Operate ovens, stoves, grills, microwaves, fryers, and other kitchen equipment
    • Ensure the correctness of the temperature of appliances and food
    • Actively set up and break down workstation and prepare for an upcoming shift
    • Wash and disinfect kitchen, tables, tools, knives, and equipment
    • Follow all company safety and security policies and procedures
    • Ensure adherence to quality expectations and standards
    • Assisting chefs in preparing food and attending to any culinary tasks that arise
    • Other duties as assigned

    Summary of Dishwashers’ Primary Responsibilities:

    • Responsible for proper care and maintenance of the dish machine
    • Must keep a clean supply of dishware, glassware, silverware and adequate supply of utensils and cookware throughout the shift
    • Must thrive in a fast-paced work environment while adhering to cleanliness and sanitation standards for the entire kitchen and dish area
    • Other duties as assigned

    Essential Functions/Working Conditions for all Savory Team Positions

    • Strong communication skills
    • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
    • Able to grasp and reach overhead
    • Must be able to lift, move, and carry 50+lbs
    • Must be able to work 8+ hours a day on feet

    Our Perks and Benefits:

    • Competitive Pay: Dishwashers earn $18.50–$20.10/hour. Prep Cooks earn $18.75–$21.00/hour. Line Cooks earn $19.00–$22.70/hour.
    • Health, dental and vision insurance for full time team members
    • 401(k) (with a vesting match)
    • Free employee assistance program services
    • Vacation Time (after 1 year of full-time service)
    • Paid sick time
    • Flexible schedule with no late nights
    • Free drinks and generously discounted meals
    • Exciting potential for growth

    Join us on our journey to create something special!

    Please note that Tatte is an E-Verify employer.