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How much do correctional cook jobs pay per month?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average monthly pay for correctional cook in the United States is $4,600.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $4,041.67 and $4,875.00 per month, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a correctional cook?

Correctional Cooks are culinary professionals who prepare and cook meals for inmates, staff, and visitors in correctional facilities such as prisons or jails. They are responsible for following strict guidelines to ensure food safety, proper nutrition, and security protocols. Correctional Cooks often work as part of a team and may also supervise inmate kitchen workers, manage inventory, and maintain cleanliness in the kitchen. Their role is vital in maintaining daily operations and supporting the well-being of individuals within the facility.

What does a correctional cook do?

As a correctional cook, you prepare and serve meals to inmates in the kitchen of a correctional facility. Your responsibilities include cooking meals using commercial culinary equipment, supervising inmate workers that assist with food preparation, and fulfilling basic cleaning and sanitation duties. You help order, receive, check, and store food supplies, maintain security in the kitchen, enforce disciplinary measures if needed, and help train inmate workers on food service and equipment operation. You are also required to prepare reports and records and submit incident reports as needed.

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

To thrive as a Correctional Cook, you need strong culinary skills, knowledge of food safety regulations, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with industrial kitchen equipment, large-scale food preparation, and inventory management systems is typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and the ability to remain calm and professional in a secure environment are standout soft skills. These competencies ensure safe, efficient meal service while maintaining order and upholding security protocols within correctional facilities.

What are some common challenges faced by correctional cooks, and how can they be managed on the job?

Correctional Cooks often face unique challenges such as preparing meals for large groups while adhering to strict security protocols and dietary guidelines. Managing time effectively is crucial, as meals must be served on schedule and within budget constraints. Additionally, Correctional Cooks work closely with correctional staff and may supervise inmates who assist in the kitchen, requiring strong communication and leadership skills to maintain safety and order. Adapting to limited resources and maintaining food safety standards are essential for success in this environment.

What is the difference between Correctional Cook vs Food Service Worker?

AspectCorrectional CookFood Service Worker
CredentialsFood handler permits, culinary trainingFood handler permits, basic training
Work EnvironmentCorrectional facilities, secure environmentRestaurants, cafeterias, various settings
Employer & IndustryCorrectional institutions, governmentHospitality, healthcare, education

Correctional Cooks and Food Service Workers both prepare food and require food safety certifications. However, Correctional Cooks work specifically within correctional facilities, handling secure environments and specialized protocols, while Food Service Workers operate in diverse settings like restaurants and cafeterias. The roles overlap in skills but differ mainly in environment and employer context.

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Correctional COOK jobs near you
Infographic showing various Correctional Cook job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, 33% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $55,205 per year, or $26.5 per hour.

Supervising Correctional Cook (Department of Corrections)

San Diego, CA • On-site

R J Donovan Correctional Facility
See more jobs at R J Donovan Correctional Facilityexternal

$5.2K - $6.6K/mo

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

This is a continuance of previous advertisement. Previous applicants remain under consideration and do not need to reapply.
This advertisement is for a Supervising Correctional Cook (DOC) position at Richard J. Donovan Correctional Facility in San Diego County. Please indicate the position number on your application: 030-211-5480-400.
Duties: Under the direction of the Assistant Correctional Food Manager, the Supervising Correctional Cook provides services to the Administrative and line staff in all aspects of Food Services.
Schedule:
Thursday: 0730-1530 hours
Friday-Saturday: 1145-1945 hours
Sunday-Monday: 0345-1145 hours
Tuesday-Wednesday: OFF
Note: Main communication for this position will be through email. Please ensure you have a valid email address on your application
CDCR/CCHCS employees are encouraged to use their existing CDCR email address on their job application.
Individuals who are eligible for a Training and Development assignment may also be considered for this position.
*This is a 12 months limited term position and may be extended up to 24 months or become permanent.
You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement .
Minimum Requirements You will find the Minimum Requirements in the Class Specification.
  • SUPERVISING CORRECTIONAL COOK DEPT OF CORRECTIONS
Additional Documents
  • Job Application Package Checklist
  • Duty Statement

Position Details Job Code #:
JC-525411
Position #(s):
030-211-5480-400
Working Title:
Supervising Correctional Cook (Department of Corrections)
Classification:
SUPERVISING CORRECTIONAL COOK DEPT OF CORRECTIONS $5,293.00 - $6,621.00
New to State candidates will be hired into the minimum salary of the classification or minimum of alternate range when applicable.
# of Positions:
1
Work Location:
San Diego County
Telework:
In Office
Job Type:
12 Month Limited Term - Full Time
Department Information
Vision
We enhance public safety and promote successful community reintegration through education, treatment and active participation in rehabilitative and restorative justice programs.
Mission
To facilitate the successful reintegration of the individuals in our care back to their communities equipped with the tools to be drug-free, healthy, and employable members of society by providing education, treatment, rehabilitative, and restorative justice programs, all in a safe and humane environment.
Commitment
The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) and the California Correctional Health Care Services (CCHCS) are committed to transforming the correctional landscape to create safer, more professional, and more fulfilling environments for our employees, the incarcerated population, and those supervised in our communities. Through systemwide improvements grounded in proven and emerging practices, we aim to strengthen rehabilitation, enhance workplace satisfaction, and support successful reentry into the community through our institutions, parole, and community partnerships. Our shared mission is to promote safety, wellness, and human dignity while fostering positive change for all those who live and work within our institutions and communities.
CDCR and CCHCS are committed to building an inclusive respectful workplace. We are determined to attract and hire candidates from all communities and empower employees from a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and personal experiences. We are proud to foster inclusion and drive collaborative efforts at all levels of the Department.
CDCR and CCHCS strive to collaborate with the community to enhance public safety and promote successful community reintegration through education, treatment and active participation in rehabilitative and restorative justice programs. Incumbents establish and maintain cooperative working relationships within the department, other governmental agencies, health care partners, and communities.
Richard J. Donovan Correctional Facility (RJDCF) is a multi-mission institution: RJDCF's primary mission is to provide housing for General Population and SNY, Level I, II, III & IV incarcerated people serving their term of incarceration at RJDCF. Additionally, we provide health care services and rehabilitative programs to incarcerated people while incarcerated at RJDCF. RJDCF is a designated institution for incarcerated people with severe mental illness, incarcerated people with developmental disabilities and is responsible for providing officer coverage for incarcerated people being treated in community hospitals throughout San Diego County. In order to continue our mission, we are constantly looking for highly enthused individuals who value a progressive and innovative work environment. Working at RJDCF presents many challenges and opportunities for personal and career growth. If you strive to make a difference, we invite you to seek a career with RJDCF.
Special Requirements
Do not include any confidential information on any documents you submit for a job vacancy, such as your State application, resume, or educational transcripts. Confidential information that should be excluded or removed from these documents includes, but is not limited to, your Social Security Number (SSN), birthdate, student identification number, driver's license number (unless required), basis of eligibility, examination results, LEAP status, marital status, and age. Confidential information on the first page of applications submitted electronically online, such as Easy ID number, SSN, examination related information, and driver's license number will automatically be redacted upon submission.
Possession of Minimum Qualifications will be verified prior to interview and/or appointment. If you are meeting Minimum Qualifications with education, you should include your unofficial transcripts/diploma for verification. Official transcripts may be required upon appointment. If it is determined an applicant does not meet the Minimum Qualifications, the candidate will be withheld from the eligibility list, rendering them inactive and ineligible to be hired for the position. Candidates who have been withheld may file an appeal with the State Personnel Board.
Applicants who completed their education outside of the US (with foreign degrees/transcripts) must obtain and submit verification of U.S. course/degree equivalency. Foreign education credential evaluation services can be found at NACES | National Association of Credential Evaluation Services .
Candidates new to CDCR/CCHCS are required to submit to a background investigation process utilizing Live Scan Fingerprinting, as well as a Tuberculosis test/evaluation prior to appointment, followed by department annual Tuberculosis testing/evaluation thereafter.
When submitting supporting documents, PDF file format is preferred.
CDCR/CCHCS utilizes E-Verify to confirm candidate's identity and employment authorization. For more information about E-Verify, you may go to www.e-verify.gov.
This advertisement may be used for other vacancies that occur during the life of this recruitment.
Application Instructions
Completed applications and all required documents must be received or postmarked by the Final Filing Date in order to be considered. Dates printed on Mobile Bar Codes, such as the Quick Response (QR) Codes available at the USPS, are not considered Postmark dates for the purpose of determining timely filing of an application.
Final Filing Date: 8/26/2026
Who May Apply
Individuals who are currently in the classification, eligible for lateral transfer, eligible for reinstatement, have list or LEAP eligibility, are in the process of obtaining list eligibility, or have SROA and/or Surplus eligibility (please attach your letter, if available). SROA and Surplus candidates are given priority; therefore, individuals with other eligibility may be considered in the event no SROA or Surplus candidates apply. Individuals who are eligible for a Training and Development assignment may also be considered for this position(s). Applications will be screened and only the most qualified applicants will be selected to move forward in the selection process. Applicants must meet the Minimum Qualifications stated in the Classification Specification(s).
How To Apply
Complete Application Packages (including your Examination/Employment Application (STD 678) and applicable or required documents) must be submitted to apply for this Job Posting. Application Packages may be submitted electronically through your CalCareer Account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov. When submitting your application in hard copy, a completed copy of the Application Package listing must be included. If you choose to not apply electronically, a hard copy application package may be submitted through an alternative method listed below:
Address for Mailing Application Packages
You may submit your application and any applicable or required documents to:
R J Donovan Correctional Facility
Richard J. Donovan Correctional Facility
Attn: Hiring and Recruitment Office
480 Alta Rd
San Diego , CA 92179
Address for Drop-Off Application Packages
You may drop off your application and any applicable or required documents at:
R J Donovan Correctional Facility
Richard J. Donovan Correctional Facility
Hiring and Recruitment Office
480 Alta Rd
San Diego , CA 92179
(Drop Box not available weekends and holidays)
08:00 AM - 04:00 PM
Required Application Package Documents
The following items are required to be submitted with your application. Applicants who do not submit the required items timely may not be considered for this job:
  • Current version of the State Examination/Employment Application STD Form 678 (when not applying electronically), or the Electronic State Employment Application through your Applicant Account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov. All Experience and Education relating to the Minimum Qualifications listed on the Classification Specification should be included to demonstrate how you meet the Minimum Qualifications for the position.
  • Resume is optional. It may be included, but is not required.
Applicants requiring reasonable accommodations for the hiring interview process must request the necessary accommodations if scheduled for a hiring interview. The request should be made at the time of contact to schedule the interview. Questions regarding reasonable accommodations may be directed to the EEO contact listed on this job posting.
Desirable Qualifications In addition to evaluating each candidate's relative ability, as demonstrated by quality and breadth of experience, the following factors will provide the basis for competitively evaluating each candidate:
Shall create and promote an equitable and inclusive workplace where diversity is celebrated and valued.
Benefits
Benefit information can be found on the California Department of Human Resources (CalHR) website, www.calhr.ca.gov , and the CalPERS website, www.calpers.ca.gov
Information on benefits afforded by membership in the California Public Employees' Retirement System can be found on the CalHR Salary and Benefits website at www.calhr.ca.gov/employees/pages/salary-and-benefits.aspx .
Information on the benefits and protections provided to public employees by the State Civil Service Act can be found on the CalHR website at https://www.calhr.ca.gov/Training/Pages/performance-management-merit-system-principles.aspx .
Additional benefit information can be found on the CalHR California State Civil Service Employee Benefits Summary website at https://www.calhr.ca.gov/Pages/California-State-Civil-Service-Employee-Benefits-Summary.aspx .
This webpage is intended to provide general information. Benefit eligibility may be based on job classification, bargaining unit, time base and length of appointment.
Contact Information
The Human Resources Contact is available to answer questions regarding the application process. The Hiring Unit Contact is available to answer questions regarding the position.
Human Resources Contact:
Kamil Ibrahim
(619) 671-7519
kamil.ibrahim@cdcr.ca.gov
Hiring Unit Contact:
Esmeralda Dela Vega
(619) 671-7573
Esmeralda.delavega@cdcr.ca.gov
Please direct requests for Reasonable Accommodations to the interview scheduler at the time the interview is being scheduled. You may direct any additional questions regarding Reasonable Accommodations or Equal Employment Opportunity for this position(s) to the Department's EEO Office.
EEO Contact:
Melissa Kibbee, Correctional Administrator
(619) 661-6500 ext: 7874
Melissa.Kibbee@cdcr.ca.gov
California Relay Service: 1-800-735-2929 (TTY), 1-800-735-2922 (Voice) TTY is a Telecommunications Device for the Deaf, and is reachable only from phones equipped with a TTY Device.
Exam/Eligibility Information
To obtain list eligibility for the Supervising Correctional Cook (DOC) classification, you must first take and pass the examination before applying for the position.
Exam Link: Supervising Correctional Cook (DOC) Exam
Additional Information
Please submit the following items and/or information along with a complete and detailed application:
  • Application must have the title of the job you are applying for and must clearly indicate the Job Code #.
  • Ensure you submit a current version of the State Examination / Employment Application Std Form 678 completed and thorough application. Do not leave anything blank (including, but not limited to, hours/week worked and start/end dates, job duties performed, supervisor information, education, etc.). Failure to follow these instructions may result in the screening out of your application.
  • Application must include a valid email address and contact number .
  • If using education to meet the minimum qualifications, you must include a copy of your unofficial transcripts/diploma for verification.
  • If currently employed by the State of California using Out of Class experience to meet Minimum Qualifi

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