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Entry Level Cook Jobs in Eugene, OR (NOW HIRING)

Crew Members are entry level positions, but advancement opportunities are available. All Team ... Experience as a server, cook, cashier, host, or equivalent related experience is preferred. What is ...

Entry Level Cook information

See Eugene, OR salary details

$8

$16

$22

How much do entry level cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level cook in Eugene, OR 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.

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 Eugene, OR? The most popular types of Cook jobs in Eugene, OR are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Cook jobs in Eugene, OR? For Entry Level Cook jobs in Eugene, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Cook jobs in Eugene, OR look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Cook jobs in Eugene, OR are:
What cities near Eugene, OR are hiring for Entry Level Cook jobs? Cities near Eugene, OR with the most Entry Level Cook job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Cook job openings in Eugene, OR as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,340 per year, or $16 per hour.
Join Our Market of Choice Culinary Team

Join Our Market of Choice Culinary Team

Market of Choice

Eugene, OR • On-site

$16.10 - $18.60/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 5 days ago


Market of Choice rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 31 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

37th of 121 rated grocery stores


Job description

Market of Choice in Eugene is now hiring!

Market of Choice is hiring now for local food enthusiasts to join our culinary team! Entry-level hourly culinary positions start at $16.10/hour up to $18.60/hour depending on experience, with growth opportunity up to $19.10/hour. Apply now to advance your culinary career!

DESCRIPTION

Our kitchens feature state of the art, modern facilities in a friendly and professional work environment. As a Culinary Team Member, you will provide front line customer service that is prompt, courteous and consistent while serving and preparing wholesome, unique and delicious entrees, soups, salads, sandwiches and other fresh, made-from-scratch artisan creations developed by our local professional gourmet Chefs!

This is a unique opportunity to be part of a tight-knit team atmosphere that is creative, fast-paced and fueled by our passion for quality and our commitment to an exceptional customer experience.

DUTIES

As a Culinary Team Member, your responsibilities may include:

  • Assisting customers in selection and recommendations of our delicious cuisine
  • Accurately preparing made-to-order and/or ready-made cuisine in a prompt and courteous manner
  • Maintain consistently clean and appealing presentation of full-service and self-service areas
  • Rotate and stock product as needed
  • Maintain Health and Safety sanitation requirements

QUALIFICATIONS

  • Ideal applicants will have open availability.
  • Obtain Food Handler's Card within first 30 days of employment
  • You must be 18 years or older for this position.

Market of Choice is a growing, local company with excellent benefits and opportunity for growth. Our company offers a benefits package that includes health, dental, and vision insurance, competitive wages, and a matching 401(k) retirement plan.

COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY

A diverse community and workplace benefits us all. Market of Choice is committed to recruiting, hiring and promoting qualified applicants as well as giving people of all backgrounds an opportunity to work and contribute to our company and community. We uphold our tradition of valuing our employees by providing equal opportunities to all applicants.


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