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Entry Level Cook Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

Raising Cane's

Cook

Eau Claire, WI · On-site

$15/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 ...

Raising Cane's

Cook

La Crosse, WI · On-site

$15/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 ...

Raising Cane's

Cook

Eau Claire, WI

$15/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 ...

Raising Cane's

Cook

La Crosse, WI · On-site

$15/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 ...

Raising Cane's

Cook

Eau Claire, WI

$15/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 ...

Raising Cane's

Cook

La Crosse, WI

$15/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 ...

Raising Cane's

Cook

La Crosse, WI

$15/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 ...

Raising Cane's

Cook

Eau Claire, WI · On-site

$15/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 ...

Luigi's Pizza

Line Cook

Madison, WI

$16 - $19/hr

The Line Cook prepares food to the exact Chef's specifications. The Line cook position is ... in an entry level role. Our focus is to create a collaborative culture for our restaurant ...

FOOD FIGHT INC

Line Cook (3090)

Milwaukee, WI

$20 - $24/hr

Position: Line Cook Work Status: Non-Exempt/Hourly Compensation: $20 - $24/hour Availability ... in an entry level role. Our focus is to create a collaborative culture for our restaurant ...

Bassett Street Brunch Club

Prep Cook (3054)

Madison, WI

$14.25 - $18.25/hr

The Prep Cook is responsible for preparing cooking ingredients by washing and chopping vegetables ... in an entry level role. Our focus is to create a collaborative culture for our restaurant ...

FOOD FIGHT INC

Prep Cook (3054)

Madison, WI

$14.25 - $18.25/hr

The Prep Cook is responsible for preparing cooking ingredients by washing and chopping vegetables ... in an entry level role. Our focus is to create a collaborative culture for our restaurant ...

Fresco

Prep Cook (1918)

Madison, WI

$16 - $19/hr

Prep Cook Status: Non-Exempt/Hourly Compensation : $16- $19/hour Availability: Flexible. Part- and ... in an entry level role. Our focus is to create a collaborative culture for our restaurant ...

Il Cervo

Line Cook (3090)

Milwaukee, WI

$20 - $24/hr

Position: Line Cook Work Status: Non-Exempt/Hourly Compensation: $20 - $24/hour Availability ... in an entry level role. Our focus is to create a collaborative culture for our restaurant ...

FOOD FIGHT INC

Prep Cook (1918)

Madison, WI

$16 - $19/hr

Prep Cook Status: Non-Exempt/Hourly Compensation : $16- $19/hour Availability: Flexible. Part- and ... in an entry level role. Our focus is to create a collaborative culture for our restaurant ...

FOOD FIGHT INC

Line Cook (3082)

Middleton, WI

$16.25 - $20.25/hr

The Line Cook prepares food to the exact Chef's specifications. The Line cook position is ... in an entry level role. Our focus is to create a collaborative culture for our restaurant ...

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Entry Level Cook information

See Wisconsin salary details

$8

$16

$22

How much do entry level cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level cook in Wisconsin is $16.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.61 and $18.17 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to get a first line cook job?

To get a first line cook job, candidates should gain basic culinary skills through culinary school or on-the-job training, and demonstrate reliability, teamwork, and a strong work ethic. Experience in food preparation, knowledge of kitchen safety, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment are also important. Applying to entry-level positions and networking with industry professionals can improve chances of securing a first line cook role.

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.

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 or prep cook to gain experience. Many employers offer on-the-job training, so demonstrating a willingness to learn and a good work ethic can help you get hired without prior experience.

How to get a cooking job without experience?

Entry level cook positions often do not require prior experience; applicants can improve their chances by demonstrating a willingness to learn, maintaining a positive attitude, and gaining basic skills through cooking classes or volunteering. Highlighting reliability, teamwork, and a strong work ethic during interviews can also help secure a job in a 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.

Where to start as a beginner cook?

Entry level cooks should start by learning basic food preparation skills, such as chopping, measuring, and following recipes. Gaining experience in a professional kitchen environment, understanding food safety, and possibly obtaining a food handler's certification can help build a foundation for advancement.
What are the most commonly searched types of Cook jobs in Wisconsin? The most popular types of Cook jobs in Wisconsin are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Cook jobs in Wisconsin? For Entry Level Cook jobs in Wisconsin, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Cook jobs in Wisconsin look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Cook jobs in Wisconsin are:
What cities in Wisconsin are hiring for Entry Level Cook jobs? Cities in Wisconsin with the most Entry Level Cook job openings:
Entry Level Cook jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Cook job openings in Wisconsin as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% Full Time, 66% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,652 per year, or $16.2 per hour.
Lead Line Cook

Lead Line Cook

White Lodging Services Corporation

Milwaukee, WI

$20/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

White Lodging rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 42 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

36th of 105 rated hotels

Job description

Description

Who We Are

White Lodging is hiring a Lead Line Cook to join our culinary team at Stella Van Buren, an Italian American steakhouse in a prime downtown location. If you're looking for a clear path to culinary management, this role offers the hands-on development opportiunities — backed by one of the country's top hospitality companies operating premium hotels, restaurants, and rooftop bars across the U.S.

Responsibilities:

What You'll Do

  • Mentor and collaborate with Entry Level Cooks, Line Cooks, culinary apprentices, and stewards while managing daily food preparation and production in the food outlet
  • Follow company F&B procedures, health department regulations, and federal food safety guidelines
  • Assist in maintaining food cost and labor cost standards to meet financial targets
  • Check ingredient freshness; utilize all recipe standards and portion-use of all menu items
  • Foster a culture of cooperation, respect, and professional kitchen standards among all coworkers
  • Perform other duties as assigned

What You'll Bring

  • Solid working knowledge of all commercial kitchen equipment and culinary preparation techniques
  • Demonstrated proficiency in sautéing, broiling, frying, roasting, butchery, garde manger, pantry, and breakfast cookery
  • Experience in a fast paced culinary operation — prior lead cook or senior cook experience strongly preferred
  • Ability to stand and move at a fast pace for extended periods in a high-volume kitchen
  • Must be willing to work weekends and holidays

What You Can Look Forward To

  • DailyPay — get paid when you need it
  • Advanced scheduling with easy shift swapping via our app
  • Unlimited employee referral bonuses
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Paid time off (PTO) with rollover
  • Complimentary wellness tools
  • Leadership development & tuition reimbursement
  • Discounts on hotel rooms, dining, and travel
  • Growth opportunities across multiple hotel properties in your market
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Full-time associates also receive:
    • Medical, dental, and vision insurance — starting day 1
    • Life and disability insurance
    • Paid parental leave
  • Compensation starts at $20.00 an hour, full and part time opportunities available. 

White Lodging is an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all associates.

What White Lodging employees say

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