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Entry Level Cook Jobs in Maryland (NOW HIRING)

$19.91 - $20.43/hr

Non-Regular Fixed Term (Fixed Term) Open Date: 07-22-2026 Close Date: $19.91 - $20.43 Hourly Job Summary Under direct supervision, functions as an entry level Cook. The Prep Cook prepares a variety ...

We are looking to immediately hire entry level and experienced Cooks who can thrive in an upbeat and fast-paced food service environment.We are hiring immediately for Cooks that can work all shifts ...

Cook - Morning Shift

Columbia, MD · On-site

$16.50/hr

We are looking to immediately hire entry level and experienced Cooks who can thrive in an upbeat and fast-paced food service environment. We are hiring immediately for Cooks that can work all shifts ...

Cook - Morning Shift

Bel Air, MD · On-site

$16.50/hr

We are looking to immediately hire entry level and experienced Cooks who can thrive in an upbeat and fast-paced food service environment. We are hiring immediately for Cooks that can work all shifts ...

Cook - Morning Shift

Columbia, MD · On-site

$16.50/hr

We are looking to immediately hire entry level and experienced Cooks who can thrive in an upbeat and fast-paced food service environment. We are hiring immediately for Cooks that can work all shifts ...

Cook - Morning Shift

Bel Air, MD · On-site

$16.50/hr

We are looking to immediately hire entry level and experienced Cooks who can thrive in an upbeat and fast-paced food service environment. We are hiring immediately for Cooks that can work all shifts ...

Cook - Morning Shift

Bel Air, MD · On-site

$16.50/hr

We are looking to immediately hire entry level and experienced Cooks who can thrive in an upbeat and fast-paced food service environment.We are hiring immediately for Cooks that can work all shifts ...

We are looking to immediately hire entry level and experienced Cooks who can thrive in an upbeat and fast-paced food service environment. We are hiring immediately for Cooks that can work all shifts ...

We are looking to immediately hire entry level and experienced Cooks who can thrive in an upbeat and fast-paced food service environment.We are hiring immediately for Cooks that can work all shifts ...

We are looking to immediately hire entry level and experienced Cooks who can thrive in an upbeat and fast-paced food service environment.We are hiring immediately for Cooks that can work all shifts ...

We are looking to immediately hire entry level and experienced Cooks who can thrive in an upbeat and fast-paced food service environment. We are hiring immediately for Cooks that can work all shifts ...

We are looking to immediately hire entry level and experienced Cooks who can thrive in an upbeat and fast-paced food service environment. We are hiring immediately for Cooks that can work all shifts ...

We are looking to immediately hire entry level and experienced Cooks who can thrive in an upbeat and fast-paced food service environment. We are hiring immediately for Cooks that can work all shifts ...

We are looking to immediately hire entry level and experienced Cooks who can thrive in an upbeat and fast-paced food service environment. We are hiring immediately for Cooks that can work all shifts ...

We are looking to immediately hire entry level and experienced Cooks who can thrive in an upbeat and fast-paced food service environment.We are hiring immediately for Cooks that can work all shifts ...

We are looking to immediately hire entry level and experienced Cooks who can thrive in an upbeat and fast-paced food service environment. We are hiring immediately for Cooks that can work all shifts ...

Cook / Grill Operator

Edgewood, MD

$14.50 - $18.75/hr

We are in the People Business and we are hiring immediately for full time and part time cooks (all ... some holidays Requirements: * Entry level, no experience required * Must have a positive and ...

Cook / Grill Operator

Fallston, MD · On-site

$14.50 - $18.50/hr

We are in the People Business and we are hiring immediately for full time and part time cooks (all ... some holidays Requirements: * Entry level, no experience required * Must have a positive and ...

Cook / Grill Operator

Frederick, MD · On-site

$14.75 - $19/hr

We are in the People Business and we are hiring immediately for full time and part time cooks (all ... some holidays Requirements: * Entry level, no experience required * Must have a positive and ...

Cook / Grill Operator

Edgewood, MD · On-site

$14.50 - $18.75/hr

We are in the People Business and we are hiring immediately for full time and part time cooks (all ... some holidays Requirements: * Entry level, no experience required * Must have a positive and ...

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Entry Level Cook information

See Maryland salary details

$8

$15

$21

How much do entry level cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level cook in Maryland is $15.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.08 and $17.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to get a first line cook job?

To get a first line cook job, gain basic cooking skills through culinary classes or on-the-job training, and obtain relevant certifications such as food safety. Build a strong work ethic, demonstrate reliability, and prepare a resume highlighting any kitchen experience or related skills to increase your chances of employment in a restaurant environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Entry Level Cook position, and why are they important?

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.

What does a typical workday look like for an Entry Level Cook?

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.

Is cook 1 entry level?

Yes, a Cook 1 position is typically considered entry-level in the culinary industry. It usually requires basic cooking skills, such as food preparation and following recipes, and often serves as a starting point for a culinary career. Advancement may require gaining experience and developing additional skills like knife techniques or kitchen safety certifications.

How do I start working as a cook with no experience?

Entry level cooks can start by gaining basic kitchen skills through online tutorials or cooking classes, and volunteering or working as a dishwasher to learn kitchen operations. Applying for entry-level positions that offer on-the-job training and demonstrating a willingness to learn can help you gain experience and develop necessary skills such as food safety and knife handling.

How much does a beginner cook make?

Entry-level cooks typically earn between $10 and $15 per hour, depending on location, establishment, and experience. Starting salaries may increase with additional skills, certifications, and experience in the kitchen environment.

What is an Entry Level Cook job?

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 are the most commonly searched types of Cook jobs in Maryland? The most popular types of Cook jobs in Maryland are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Cook jobs in Maryland? For Entry Level Cook jobs in Maryland, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Cook jobs in Maryland look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Cook jobs in Maryland are:
What cities in Maryland are hiring for Entry Level Cook jobs? Cities in Maryland with the most Entry Level Cook job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Cook job openings in Maryland as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 24% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,358 per year, or $15.6 per hour.

$19.91 - $20.43/hr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Job Posting:

JR102042 Prep Cook (Open)

Department:

University Dining Svcs-The Commons - BOH, JM

Position Type:

Non-Regular Fixed Term (Fixed Term)

Open Date:

07-22-2026

Close Date:

$19.91 - $20.43 Hourly

Job Description:

Job Summary

Under direct supervision, functions as an entry level Cook. The Prep Cook prepares a variety of ingredients and menu items in a high-volume kitchen to support multiple retail, catering, and dining operations. This position follows standardized recipes, production schedules, and food safety guidelines to ensure consistent quality and timely delivery of products. The Prep Cook works collaboratively with the culinary team to maintain an organized, sanitary, and efficient production environment.

Authority and Accountability

Reports to Chef Manager, Michael Foster. This position has no budgetary responsibility or authority.

Required/Minimum Qualifications

  • Education: N/A. Work experience: Two years in institutional or commercial food service which involved the preparation or serving of food. Certification/Licensure: ServeSafe food handler certificate required within 6 months of position placement
  • Required knowledge, skills, and abilities: Working knowledge of various methods of meal and food preparation; of portion control standards; of related sanitary regulations and practices. Ability to interpret menus; to follow recipes and production schedules; to follow dining service policies and procedures; to develop and apply knowledge of food items served, their ingredients and preparation; to operate kitchen equipment and appliances, such as mixers, ovens, steamers, stoves, microwaves and grills; to select and use knives, hand tools, utensils and equipment to decorate, weigh, measure, maintain holding temperature, bake, cook, whip, refrigerate, fold, grate, pipe, coat or otherwise produce food in central kitchen or bakery area; to perform mathematical calculations; to keep records of supplies used for customers served; to work in irritating environments and adverse temperature conditions; to lift transport and stock related supplies and materials.
  • Physical demands: Walking, stooping, reaching, kneeling, standing, repetitive motion, twisting, bending, pushing, pulling. Lifting up to 50 lbs.

Additional Job Information:

The position is a Contingent II, full-time, non-exempt position.

Priority will be given to applicants who apply by August 4, 2026. However, the position will remain open until filled.

Please note, only applications submitted through Salisbury University's Online Employment Application System will be considered. Any supporting documents must be uploaded with the online application, as documents sent via email will not be accepted. Additionally, three professional references will be required during the final stages of the hiring process. Candidates will be notified prior to their references being contacted.

Salisbury University (SU) is an equal opportunity employer and complies with all applicable federal and state laws regarding nondiscrimination. SU is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all persons and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability, religion, ancestry, political affiliation or veteran status in employment, educational programs and activities, and admissions.