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Entry Level Cook Jobs in Houston, MO (NOW HIRING)

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Entry Level Cook information

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How much do entry level cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level cook in Houston, MO is $13.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.68 and $15.67 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level cook?

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 does an entry level cook do?

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.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as an entry level cook?

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.

How do I start working as an entry level cook with no experience?

To start as an entry level cook with no experience, focus on gaining basic kitchen skills, such as knife handling and food safety, through online courses or volunteering. Apply for entry-level positions at restaurants or cafes, emphasizing your willingness to learn and work in a team; some employers may provide on-the-job training. Obtaining a food handler's permit can also improve your chances of getting hired.

What are the most commonly searched types of Cook jobs in Houston, MO?

The most popular types of Cook jobs in Houston, MO are:

What cities near Houston, MO are hiring for Entry Level Cook jobs?

Cities near Houston, MO with the most Entry Level Cook job openings:

Entry Level Cook jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Cook job openings in Houston, MO as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, 28% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $28,978 per year, or $13.9 per hour.

Kitchen Supervisor

Houston, MO • On-site

Tiger Correctional Services
See more jobs at Tiger Correctional Servicesexternal

$15/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, PTO

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Position Information

  • Job Title: Kitchen Supervisor
  • Location: Texas County Jail – 519 N Grand Ave Ste 101 Houston, MO 65483
  • Kitchen Hours: 9:00am-5:30pm with a rotating or split weekend schedule
  • Pay: $15.00 per hour PLUS BENEFITS
  • Benefits: 100% Company paid Employee Medical, Dental, Life Insurance and Short-Term Disability Insurance. Paid time off available after 90 days of employment.

*Must be at least 21 years of age*

**This position does require a very thorough/strict background check**

Position Summary

Tiger Correctional Services is looking for a kitchen supervisor to oversee and administer food service operations and ensure health & sanitation standards are in compliance with company and jail policy and federal, state and local law. This a full-time, non-exempt, entry level position. Paid training is provided.

Responsibilities

  • Prepare meals in accordance with established recipes & menus.
  • Maintain sanitary & safe conditions and equipment to comply with federal & state standards.
  • Assign & oversee the work of facility-provided labor.
  • Conduct daily inventory and maintain tracking logs.
  • Responsible for kitchen stock levels and reorders.
  • Perform quality checks as required.
  • Establish a professional work relationship with company employees, jail administration and facility-provided labor while upholding our company values.
  • Responsible for compliance & administration of all security procedures identified by the company and jail administration.
  • Performs other duties as assigned or required.

Skills

  • Excellent cooking skills
  • Dependable and able to meet deadlines.
  • Adhere to Tiger Correctional safety policies and procedures, including proper food safety and sanitation.
  • Ability to work well with others and have good oral and written communication skills, as well as the ability to read.
  • Good computer skills, including experience with Microsoft Excel Spreadsheets.
  • Physical requirements include standing 3-4 hours at a time and frequent lifting of 50 pounds.
  • Must have the ability to perform basic math of addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.

Remote work is not allowed.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, age, marital status, pregnancy, genetic information, or other legally protected status. Background check and drug screen is required to ensure applicant meets all eligibility requirements for the assigned customer/location.