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Entry Level Cook Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sedgebrook

Entry-Level Cook

Lincolnshire, IL · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Title : Entry-Level Cook Pay: $18.00-20.00 per hour (based on experience) + benefits and perks! Job Status : Non-Exempt, PRN Shift: 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM | Weekdays and weekend days on a rotation basis ...

The Arlington of Naples

Entry-Level Cook

Lincolnshire, IL · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Title : Entry-Level Cook Pay: $18.00-20.00 per hour (based on experience) + benefits and perks! Job Status : Non-Exempt, PRN Shift: 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM | Weekdays and weekend days on a rotation basis ...

Life Care Services

Entry-Level Cook

Lincolnshire, IL · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Title : Entry-Level Cook Pay: $18.00-20.00 per hour (based on experience) + benefits and perks! Job Status : Non-Exempt, PRN Shift: 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM | Weekdays and weekend days on a rotation basis ...

Life Care Services

Entry-Level Cook

Lincolnshire, IL · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Title : Entry-Level Cook Pay: $18.00-20.00 per hour (based on experience) + benefits and perks! Job Status : Non-Exempt, PRN Shift: 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM | Weekdays and weekend days on a rotation basis ...

Heritage at Irene Woods

Entry-Level Cook

Lincolnshire, IL · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Title : Entry-Level Cook Pay: $18.00-20.00 per hour (based on experience) + benefits and perks! Job Status : Non-Exempt, PRN Shift: 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM | Weekdays and weekend days on a rotation basis ...

White Lodging Careers

Entry Level Cook

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$13.50 - $18/hr

This entry-level cook role is ideal for recent culinary school graduates, career changers, or anyone passionate about food and beverage who wants hands-on training in a professional hotel kitchen. No ...

White Lodging Careers

Entry Level Cook

Austin, TX · On-site

$14 - $18.50/hr

This entry-level cook role is ideal for recent culinary school graduates, career changers, or anyone passionate about food and beverage who wants hands-on training in a professional hotel kitchen. No ...

White Lodging Services Corp

Entry Level Cook

Austin, TX · On-site

$15.75 - $19.75/hr

This entry-level cook role is ideal for recent culinary school graduates, career changers, or anyone passionate about food and beverage who wants hands-on training in a professional hotel kitchen. No ...

White Lodging

Entry Level Cook - Corinne

Denver, CO · On-site

$19.29 - $20/hr

Description Summary - PM Shift Entry Level Cook Enjoy advanced scheduling and the flexibility to swap or pick up shifts easily using our app-perfect for achieving better balance while pursuing your ...

White Lodging Services Corp

Entry Level Cook

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$15.25 - $19/hr

This entry-level cook role is ideal for recent culinary school graduates, career changers, or anyone passionate about food and beverage who wants hands-on training in a professional hotel kitchen. No ...

White Lodging Services Corp

Entry Level Cook

Teaneck, NJ · On-site

$17.75 - $22/hr

This entry-level cook role is ideal for recent culinary school graduates, career changers, or anyone passionate about food and beverage who wants hands-on training in a professional hotel kitchen. No ...

White Lodging Services Corp

Entry Level Cook

Austin, TX · On-site

$15.75 - $19.75/hr

This entry-level cook role is ideal for recent culinary school graduates, career changers, or anyone passionate about food and beverage who wants hands-on training in a professional hotel kitchen. No ...

White Lodging

Entry Level Cook

Indianapolis, IN

$15.25 - $19/hr

This entry-level cook role is ideal for recent culinary school graduates, career changers, or anyone passionate about food and beverage who wants hands-on training in a professional hotel kitchen. No ...

White Lodging

Entry Level Cook

Austin, TX

$14 - $18.50/hr

This entry-level cook role is ideal for recent culinary school graduates, career changers, or anyone passionate about food and beverage who wants hands-on training in a professional hotel kitchen. No ...

White Lodging

Entry Level Cook

Austin, TX

$15.75 - $19.75/hr

This entry-level cook role is ideal for recent culinary school graduates, career changers, or anyone passionate about food and beverage who wants hands-on training in a professional hotel kitchen. No ...

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Entry Level Cook information

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How much do entry level cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level cook in the United States is $16.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.46 and $18.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level cook?

An Entry Level Cook is responsible for basic food preparation and assisting in the kitchen under the supervision of senior chefs. Duties may include chopping ingredients, following recipes, maintaining cleanliness, and ensuring food safety standards. This position helps individuals gain hands-on experience in a professional kitchen setting. It is a great starting point for those looking to advance in the culinary field.

What does an entry level cook do?

As an Entry Level Cook, your workday often starts with prepping ingredients and setting up your workstation according to the day's menu. Throughout your shift, you'll prepare and cook dishes under the supervision of senior cooks or kitchen managers, assist with cleaning and organization, and restock supplies as needed. The pace can be fast, especially during meal rushes, and you’ll frequently collaborate with other kitchen staff to ensure orders are accurate and timely. This hands-on experience helps you build essential culinary skills and fosters a strong understanding of team operations in a professional kitchen.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as an entry level cook?

To thrive as an Entry Level Cook, you need basic cooking skills, familiarity with food safety standards, and the ability to follow recipes and instructions, often gained through high school education or culinary training programs. Exposure to kitchen equipment like grills, fryers, ovens, and knowledge of food handling certifications (such as ServSafe) are typically expected. Attention to detail, reliability, strong communication, and teamwork are valuable soft skills in this role. These qualifications help ensure delicious, safe meals are prepared efficiently while maintaining a positive, productive kitchen environment.

How do I start working as an entry level cook with no experience?

To start as an entry level cook with no experience, focus on gaining basic kitchen skills, such as knife handling and food safety, through online courses or volunteering. Apply for entry-level positions at restaurants or cafes, emphasizing your willingness to learn and work in a team; some employers may provide on-the-job training. Obtaining a food handler's permit can also improve your chances of getting hired.
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What are the most commonly searched types of Cook jobs?

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What states have the most Entry Level Cook jobs?

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Entry Level Cook jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Cook job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 69% Full Time, and 31% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $33,340 per year, or $16 per hour.

Entry-Level Cook

Sedgebrook

Lincolnshire, IL • On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Part-time

Retirement

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Title: Entry-Level Cook

Pay: $18.00-20.00 per hour (based on experience) + benefits and perks!

Job Status: Non-Exempt, PRN

Shift: 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM | Weekdays and weekend days on a rotation basis

Hours: As-needed

Sedgebrook Senior Living is seeking an Entry-Level Cook to support our Culinary Services team. This role is perfect for candidates looking to begin or grow a culinary career. You'll receive training while gaining hands-on experience preparing quality meals for our residents.
 
Key Responsibilities
 
  • Prepare lunch, dinner, and special event meals according to standardized recipes.
  • Ensure food quality, presentation, portion control, and timely meal service.
  • Follow HAACP food safety, sanitation, and food handling procedures.
  • Support experienced cooks during meal service.
     
What We're Looking For
 
  • High school diploma or GED required.
  • No prior cook experience required, although the ideal candidate will have some familiarity with working in a fast-paced, high volume kitchen environment.
  • Culinary training preferred.
  • Servsafe Certification preferred (required after hire).
  • Ability to lift and/or move up to 50 lbs.
  • Ability to understand and follow instructions in English and communicate effectively.
  • Reliable attendance and teamwork mindset.
Benefits for Part-Time/PRN Employees
  • 401(k) with company match
  • DailyPay - early pay access
  • Free meals during shifts and indoor parking garage access
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Join a supportive, engaging team in a welcoming environment where your role truly makes a difference.

Sedgebrook is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Employer and a non-smoking, pet-friendly campus.
 

Apply