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Entry Level Cook Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

California Pizza Kitchen

Prep Cook

Natick, MA · On-site

$15 - $17/hr

If so, then being a Prep Cook at CPK may be for you! Our team members bring California creativity ... This entry level position is responsible for following our recipes, procedures, specs, and ...

Cpk

Prep Cook

Natick, MA

$15 - $17/hr

If so, then being a Prep Cook at CPK may be for you! Our team members bring California creativity ... This entry level position is responsible for following our recipes, procedures, specs, and ...

Invited

Cook 1

Ipswich, MA

$17.75 - $22/hr

This entry-level position requires a willingness to learn and adapt while performing foundational cooking tasks and supporting the team in delivering consistent food quality and presentation.

Invited Clubs

Cook 1

Ipswich, MA · On-site

$17.75 - $22/hr

This entry-level position requires a willingness to learn and adapt while performing foundational cooking tasks and supporting the team in delivering consistent food quality and presentation.

ClubCorp

Cook 1

Ipswich, MA · On-site

$15 - $20/hr

This entry-level position requires a willingness to learn and adapt while performing foundational cooking tasks and supporting the team in delivering consistent food quality and presentation.

Vinfen

Entry Level Autism Support Staff

West Roxbury, MA

$22.25/hr

... cooking, cleaning, recreational activities, personal hygiene, social and interpersonal skills, etc.) * Maintains and updates documentation in individual and program records. * Acts as an advocate for ...

Vinfen

Entry Level Autism Support Staff

West Roxbury, MA · On-site

$22.25/hr

... cooking, cleaning, recreational activities, personal hygiene, social and interpersonal skills, etc.) * Maintains and updates documentation in individual and program records. * Acts as an advocate for ...

Raising Cane's

Restaurant Crewmember

Framingham, MA

$17/hr

... cook, prep cook, drive thru cashier or any other restaurant or service-oriented role - we have a ... Even if you don't have previous Restaurant experience, this position is entry-level (yes, that's no ...

Raising Cane's

Restaurant Crewmember

Framingham, MA

$17/hr

... cook, prep cook, drive thru cashier or any other restaurant or service-oriented role - we have a ... Even if you don't have previous Restaurant experience, this position is entry-level (yes, that's no ...

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All JobsCook JobsEntry Level Cook JobsEntry Level Cook Jobs in Boston, MA

Entry Level Cook information

See Boston, MA salary details

$9

$17

$24

How much do entry level cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level cook in Boston, MA is $17.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.62 and $19.57 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 Boston, MA? The most popular types of Cook jobs in Boston, MA are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Cook jobs in Boston, MA? For Entry Level Cook jobs in Boston, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Cook jobs in Boston, MA look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Cook jobs in Boston, MA are:
What cities near Boston, MA are hiring for Entry Level Cook jobs? Cities near Boston, MA with the most Entry Level Cook job openings:
Entry Level Cook jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Cook job openings in Boston, MA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 30% Full Time, 68% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,220 per year, or $17.4 per hour.
Prep Cook

Prep Cook

California Pizza Kitchen

Natick, MA • On-site

$15 - $17/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement

Posted 24 days ago

California Pizza Kitchen rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 27 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

12th of 86 rated restaurants

Job description

At California Pizza Kitchen, R.O.C.K.S is our philosophy for a culture that rocks!
For over 35 years we've built a culture of Respect, amazing Opportunities, open Communication, acts of Kindness, and epic Service.
Are you ready to join our team and start your #ROCKSolid career?
The Perks
  • Competitive Compensation
  • Flexible Shifts
  • Full and Part-Time Opportunities
  • Benefits
  • Excellent Training Program
  • Unlimited Career Advancement Opportunities
  • Team Member Dining Discounts
  • Diverse Culture
  • Holiday Closures

Epic Service!
Do you love working in a dynamic, fun atmosphere? Do you have a passion for food and an adventurous spirit? If so, then being a Prep Cook at CPK may be for you! Our team members bring California creativity to every meal by making each guest their top priority. They ensure that each guest has a memorable dining experience by living out the CPK High 5:
  • We love CPK and we want you to notice.
  • We encourage everyone to have fun and be who they (really) are.
  • We always work as a team to better serve our guests.
  • We're obsessed with service details.
  • We sell what's on our menu because we're passionate about our food and drinks.

Job Duties
Our Prep Cooks maintain the highest standards for food quality and sanitation. This entry level position is responsible for following our recipes, procedures, specs, and techniques. They assist in the receiving of goods, daily inventory of prepared foods, and maintain proper storage and rotation of products. They practice and teach safe/sanitary handling of cutting boards, counter tops, knives, and equipment. They maintain the proper temperature of equipment and perform station opening/closing and side work duties each shift.
We look forward to meeting you!
California Pizza Kitchen is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against any applicant for employment based on race, color, religion, national origin, age, gender, or any other legally protected classification. Everyone has a seat at our table.
A full job description, including physical demands of the job is available upon request.
The current pay range for this position is USD:
$15.00 - $17.00
Various benefits are available for this position if coverage requirements are met, including 401K, health, dental, and disability insurance (state mandated offerings available) through CPK's designated providers. CPK regularly reviews its benefits offerings and may change benefits and providers from time to time. Server, Bartender, Take Out, Host, and Busser positions are all eligible for tips at CPK.

What California Pizza Kitchen employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

California Pizza Kitchen logo

About California Pizza Kitchen

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

California Pizza Kitchen (CPK), based in Los Angeles, California, US, operates in the restaurant industry, particularly renowned for its unique style of pizza. Established in 1985 by attorneys Rick Rosenfield and Larry Flax, CPK quickly gained popularity for its innovative recipes, including the iconic BBQ Chicken Pizza. With a firm commitment to quality and creativity, the mission at CPK is to give a unique dining experience where authentic California-style cuisine is presented in imaginative ways. The company's offerings extend beyond pizzas to include a wide variety of salads, pastas, soups, sandwiches and desserts among other items.

Industry

Food services and drinking places

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Los Angeles, CA, US

Year founded

1985

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