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Entry Level Cook Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Cook

Richmond, VA

$14 - $18.50/hr

An Entry Level Cook is a Culinarian in training position, the full and all job duties will be learned and practiced * Utilize company F&B procedures as well as health department regulations, and ...

Comp Service Cook

Richmond, VA · On-site

$14 - $18.50/hr

WHAT YOU'LL DO • An Entry Level Cook is a Culinarian in training position, the full and all job duties will be learned and practiced • Utilize company F&B procedures as well as health department ...

Cook

Richmond, VA · On-site

$14 - $18.50/hr

WHAT YOU'LL DO • An Entry Level Cook is a Culinarian in training position, the full and all job duties will be learned and practiced • Utilize company F&B procedures as well as health department ...

Cook II - Bistro

Richmond, VA · On-site

$14 - $18.50/hr

WHAT YOU'LL DO • An Entry Level Cook is a Culinarian in training position, the full and all job duties will be learned and practiced • Utilize company F&B procedures as well as health department ...

Cook

Richmond, VA · On-site

$14 - $18.50/hr

WHAT YOU'LL DO An Entry Level Cook is a Culinarian in training position, the full and all job duties will be learned and practiced Utilize company F&B procedures as well as health department ...

Comp Service Cook

Richmond, VA · On-site

$14 - $18.50/hr

WHAT YOU'LL DO An Entry Level Cook is a Culinarian in training position, the full and all job duties will be learned and practiced Utilize company F&B procedures as well as health department ...

Cook II - Bistro

Richmond, VA · On-site

$14 - $18.50/hr

WHAT YOU'LL DO An Entry Level Cook is a Culinarian in training position, the full and all job duties will be learned and practiced Utilize company F&B procedures as well as health department ...

Cook

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$15.50/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

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$15.50/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

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$15.50/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 ...

Prep Cook

Bridgewater, VA · On-site

$13.75 - $17.25/hr

This entry-level position focuses on following recipes, preparing ingredients, and assisting cooks to ensure timely and efficient meal service for residents, team members, and guests. Schedule ...

Line Cook

VA · On-site

$14.75 - $18.50/hr

This grade of Line Cook will have entry level experience and will seek to improve culinary skill sets. Required Excellent written and verbal communication skills Attention to detail and ...

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 ...

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Showing results 1-20

Entry Level Cook information

See Virginia salary details

$8

$15

$21

How much do entry level cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level cook in Virginia is $15.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.37 and $17.88 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 Virginia? The most popular types of Cook jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Cook jobs in Virginia? For Entry Level Cook jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Cook jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Cook jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Entry Level Cook jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Entry Level Cook job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Cook job openings in Virginia 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 $33,054 per year, or $15.9 per hour.

$14 - $18.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 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
•An Entry Level Cook is a Culinarian in training position, the full job description and all job duties will be learned and practiced
•Utilize company F&B procedures as well as health department regulations, and federal guidelines 
•Follow proper food handling and storage procedures 
•Maintain Food Cost and Labor Cost 
•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 
•Perform other duties as assigned
WHAT YOU'LL BRING
•An Entry Level Cook will have basic knowledge of cooking and preparation equipment
•Basic cooking skills, IE: Sautéing, Broiling, Frying, Roasting, Butchery, Garde Manger, Pantry, Breakfast Cookery, etc.
•Culinary Education or apprenticeship is preferred but not mandatory
•Ability to stand and move at a fast pace for long periods of time

Other information:
•DailyPay option
•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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