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Culinary Apprentice Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

WHAT YOU'LL DO The culinary apprentice works with a mentor to complete a training provided by a professional organization such as the National Restaurant Association or the American Hotel Association ...

Job Summary Our Apprentice Baker is a key player in making sure our pastries look and taste amazing ... You have culinary vision beyond a simple "what's for dinner?" and every opportunity to connect with ...

Cook

Lexington, KY · On-site

$12.25 - $16.50/hr

Culinary apprenticeship or training preferred * One (1) year job related experience including food preparation, full-line menu items and therapeutic diets * Maintains a current SERV Safe certificate ...

Cook

Lexington, KY · On-site

$12.25 - $16.50/hr

Culinary apprenticeship or training preferred * One (1) year job related experience including food preparation, full-line menu items and therapeutic diets * Maintains a current SERV Safe certificate ...

Sous Chef

Hopkinsville, KY · On-site

$42K - $57K/yr

Culinary apprenticeship or training preferred * One (1) year job related experience including food preparation, full-line menu items and therapeutic diets * Maintains a current SERV Safe certificate ...

Cook

Paducah, KY · On-site

$11 - $14.75/hr

Culinary apprenticeship or training preferred * One (1) year job related experience including food preparation, full-line menu items and therapeutic diets * Maintains a current SERV Safe certificate ...

Cook

Paducah, KY · On-site

$11 - $14.75/hr

Culinary apprenticeship or training preferred * One (1) year job related experience including food preparation, full-line menu items and therapeutic diets * Maintains a current SERV Safe certificate ...

Cook

Lexington, KY · On-site

$12.25 - $16.50/hr

Culinary apprenticeship or training preferred * One (1) year job related experience including food preparation, full-line menu items and therapeutic diets * Maintains a current SERV Safe certificate ...

Sous Chef

Hopkinsville, KY · On-site

$42K - $57K/yr

Culinary apprenticeship or training preferred * One (1) year job related experience including food preparation, full-line menu items and therapeutic diets * Maintains a current SERV Safe certificate ...

Sous Chef

Hopkinsville, KY

$42K - $57K/yr

Culinary apprenticeship or training preferred * One (1) year job related experience including food preparation, full-line menu items and therapeutic diets * Maintains a current SERV Safe certificate ...

Cook

Lexington, KY · On-site

$12.25 - $16.50/hr

Culinary apprenticeship or training preferred * One (1) year job related experience including food preparation, full-line menu items and therapeutic diets * Maintains a current SERV Safe certificate ...

Cook

Lexington, KY

$12.25 - $16.50/hr

Culinary apprenticeship or training preferred * One (1) year job related experience including food preparation, full-line menu items and therapeutic diets * Maintains a current SERV Safe certificate ...

Cook

Mayfield, KY

$12 - $14/hr

Culinary apprenticeship or training preferred * One (1) year job related experience including food preparation, full-line menu items and therapeutic diets * Maintains a current SERV Safe certificate ...

New

Cook

Mayfield, KY · On-site

$12 - $16/hr

Culinary apprenticeship or training preferred * One (1) year job related experience including food preparation, full-line menu items and therapeutic diets * Maintains a current SERV Safe certificate ...

Cook

Lexington, KY

$12.25 - $16.50/hr

Culinary apprenticeship or training preferred * One (1) year job related experience including food preparation, full-line menu items and therapeutic diets * Maintains a current SERV Safe certificate ...

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Showing results 1-20

Culinary Apprentice information

See Kentucky salary details

$8

$14

$19

How much do culinary apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for culinary apprentice in Kentucky is $14.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.12 and $17.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Can I join culinary school with no experience?

Culinary apprenticeships and culinary schools often accept students with little or no prior experience, focusing on teaching fundamental skills such as knife techniques, food safety, and kitchen operations. Many programs are designed for beginners and may require a basic understanding of cooking or a willingness to learn on the job. Formal education is not always mandatory, but some foundational knowledge can be beneficial for success in the program.

Is 27 too old for an apprenticeship?

A culinary apprentice position is open to individuals of various ages, and 27 is not considered too old to start. Many apprenticeships value skills, enthusiasm, and a willingness to learn over age, and older apprentices often bring valuable experience to the kitchen environment.

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

To thrive as a Culinary Apprentice, you need a basic understanding of food preparation, kitchen safety, and a passion for learning, typically supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with kitchen equipment, knife skills, and sometimes completion of a food handler certification are important for this role. Attention to detail, strong work ethic, teamwork, and the ability to take direction help apprentices excel in fast-paced kitchen environments. These skills and qualities are crucial for building foundational culinary techniques, ensuring safety, and supporting efficient kitchen operations.

Can you get an apprenticeship as a chef?

Yes, aspiring chefs can pursue apprenticeships to gain hands-on experience in professional kitchens. Culinary apprenticeships typically involve working under experienced chefs, learning cooking techniques, and may lead to certification or further career advancement.

What are culinary apprentices?

Culinary apprentices are individuals who are learning the skills and techniques required to work in a professional kitchen, typically under the guidance of experienced chefs. They combine hands-on training with classroom instruction to gain a comprehensive understanding of cooking methods, food safety, and kitchen operations. Culinary apprenticeships are often part of formal programs that may lead to certification or qualifications recognized in the culinary industry. This role is ideal for those who want to gain practical experience while learning the trade. Apprentices may rotate through different kitchen stations, assisting with food preparation, cooking, and plating, while gradually taking on more responsibility.

Can you become a chef through apprenticeship?

Yes, a culinary apprentice can become a chef by completing an apprenticeship program that provides hands-on training, skill development, and mentorship in a professional kitchen. Many apprentices use their experience to gain the necessary skills, certifications, and industry knowledge to advance to chef roles.

What types of tasks and responsibilities can I expect as a Culinary Apprentice on a daily basis?

As a Culinary Apprentice, you can expect a hands-on learning experience that includes assisting with food preparation, maintaining kitchen cleanliness, and supporting chefs with various cooking and plating tasks. You'll likely rotate through different kitchen stations to gain exposure to a range of culinary techniques and cuisines. Apprentices are often responsible for ingredient measuring, chopping, and basic cooking, as well as learning proper food safety standards. Collaboration with chefs and other kitchen staff is key, and you'll receive ongoing feedback to help you develop your culinary skills.

What is the difference between Culinary Apprentice vs Culinary Intern?

AspectCulinary ApprenticeCulinary Intern
CredentialsOften requires basic culinary training or certificationMay have limited or no formal credentials, often students
Work EnvironmentApprentices work in professional kitchens, learning hands-on skillsInterns may assist in kitchens or food service settings, focusing on observation and learning
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in culinary schools, restaurants, hotelsTypically found in hospitality or food service programs, internships
Search & Comparison IntentPeople seeking entry-level culinary training or apprenticeshipsIndividuals exploring internship opportunities in culinary fields

In summary, a Culinary Apprentice is usually engaged in structured training with hands-on experience, often requiring some certification, while a Culinary Intern generally focuses on observational learning, often as part of an educational program. Both roles serve as entry points into the culinary industry but differ in scope and responsibilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Culinary jobs in Kentucky? The most popular types of Culinary jobs in Kentucky are:
What are popular job titles related to Culinary Apprentice jobs in Kentucky? For Culinary Apprentice jobs in Kentucky, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Culinary Apprentice jobs in Kentucky look for? The top searched job categories for Culinary Apprentice jobs in Kentucky are:
Infographic showing various Culinary Apprentice job openings in Kentucky as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $29,562 per year, or $14.2 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


White Lodging rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 44 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

33rd of 108 rated hotels


Job description

Description

Summary:

Enjoy advanced scheduling and the flexibility to swap or pick up shifts easily using our app—perfect for achieving better balance while pursuing your passion in the food and beverage industry!


White Lodging develops and operates a portfolio of award-winning, premium-brand hotels, rooftop bars and restaurants in some of the country’s best cities to live. We know that the hospitality business, like life, is how you make people feel. That’s where you come in. You’ll help bring the virtue of hospitality to life while we create an environment that allows you to be your best self and grow.

Responsibilities:
WHAT YOU'LL DO
•The culinary apprentice works with a mentor to complete a training provided by a professional organization such as the National Restaurant Association or the American Hotel Association
•The apprenticeship includes a certification checklist and online training while you work as a cook through three jobs in the kitchen
•Follow White Lodging recipes to create craveable dishes that make guests rave
•Utilize company F&B procedures as well as health department regulations
•Follow proper food handling and storage procedures
•Check freshness of foods and ingredients, ensure all recipes and portion-use records are followed
•Be aware of all guest feedback scores and conspire for positive influence on rankings
•Foster a climate of cooperation and respect between coworkers
•Other duties as assigned
WHAT YOU'LL BRING
•Culinary apprentices do not need any experiences working in hospitality or food service to apply for the program. During this program, apprentices learn not just the basics of a culinary role, but also the basics of hospitality
•Must be at least 16 years old
•Highschool degree or GED equivalency by completion of apprenticeship
•The ability to lift up to 30 pounds regularly and up to 50 pounds occasionally. Also, be comfortable with other physical activities including walking, standing, kneeling, bending, pushing, and pulling

Other information:
•Certification of Completion
•DailyPay
•Day 1 Medical, Dental and Vision insurance
•Vacation/Paid Time Off (PTO) with rollover
•Complimentary wellness tools
•Unlimited referral bonuses
•401(k) with company match
•Hostcare Resources healthcare concierge
•Leadership development
•Tuition reimbursement
•Discounts on hotel rooms, dining, and other travel/entertainment experiences
•Multiple hotels in each market = more opportunities
White Lodging is an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all associates.


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