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Entry Level Cook Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

Line Cook (3501)

Madison, WI · On-site

$17 - $20/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 ...

... cooking times and temperatures to ensure pizzas are cooked to perfection. Our Promise & Culture ... in an entry level role. Our focus is to create a collaborative culture for our restaurant ...

... store cooking demonstrations. CROSSMARK offers weekly pay, a 401K plan, and health benefits ... entry-level or those looking to obtain new skills.

... store cooking demonstrations. CROSSMARK offers weekly pay, a 401K plan, and health benefits ... entry-level or those looking to obtain new skills.

... have to cook staff or expeditor (e.g., food allergies). Our Promise & Culture: Food Fight ... in an entry level role. Our focus is to create a collaborative culture for our restaurant ...

Supervise Cooks, Kitchen Aides, and Production Cook * Create and maintain staff schedules and ... degree (entry-level candidates considered) * Previous experience developing menus, inventory ...

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Entry Level Cook information

See Madison, WI salary details

$8

$16

$22

How much do entry level cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level cook in Madison, WI is $16.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.56 and $18.17 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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.

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 cafeterias, 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 employment.
What are the most commonly searched types of Cook jobs in Madison, WI? The most popular types of Cook jobs in Madison, WI are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Cook jobs in Madison, WI? For Entry Level Cook jobs in Madison, WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Cook jobs in Madison, WI look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Cook jobs in Madison, WI are:
What cities near Madison, WI are hiring for Entry Level Cook jobs? Cities near Madison, WI with the most Entry Level Cook job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Cook job openings in Madison, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, and 14% Part Time. Highlights an 90% In-person, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,599 per year, or $16.2 per hour.

Line Cook (3501)

Canteen

Madison, WI • On-site

$17 - $20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Canteen rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 97 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

23rd of 68 rated caterers


Job description

Benefits package including:

  • Medical, Dental, Vision, and Disability Insurance with Employer Contribution
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan with Employer Match
  • Paid Time Off
  • Wellness Benefits
  • And Much More (Head here for a full list)

About Position:

The Line Cook prepares food to the exact Chef’s specifications. The Line cook position is responsible for preparing food for service (e.g. chopping vegetables, butchering meat, or preparing sauces). The Line Cook assists with menu items in cooperation with the rest of the kitchen staff.

Our Promise & Culture:

Food Fight Restaurant Group is an ambitious collection of professionals who are constantly focused on the growth and improvement of our teams. We are a passionate and dedicated group of hospitality leaders looking to work with like-minded professionals who want to grow both their restaurants and their careers, and we mean it. 100% of our executive leadership team started their Food Fight careers in an entry level role. Our focus is to create a collaborative culture for our restaurant leadership and minimize the most common stressors the restaurant industry is known for by:

  • Extending freedom and autonomy to our restaurant leaderships teams
  • Allowing flexible scheduling that both fits the needs of our managers and fulfills the needs of our restaurants
  • Offering continued education opportunities and tuition reimbursement to our managers
  • Providing opportunities for advancement and career growth
  • Directly supporting the administrative functions of our restaurants

Apply Today:

If our culture and team sound like something you’d like to be a part of, apply today.

Job Requirements:

  • Professional kitchen experience, including working a hot line and grill is required
  • Experience in full service restaurant is desired
  • Understanding of cooking methods, ingredients, and equipment
  • Flexible schedule
  • Task-driven individual

What Canteen employees say

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Benefits

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