ZipRecruiter

Log In

2

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

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 ...

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 ...

FOOD FIGHT INC

Prep Cook (1918)

Madison, WI · On-site

$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 · On-site

$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 ...

FOOD FIGHT INC

Line Cook (2736)

Madison, WI · On-site

$19 - $21/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 (3170)

Madison, WI

$16 - $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 ...

FOOD FIGHT INC

Line Cook (2957)

Madison, WI · On-site

$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 (3124)

Madison, WI · On-site

$18 - $22/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 ...

Bassett Street Brunch Club

Line Cook (3170)

Madison, WI

$16 - $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 ...

Fresco

Line Cook (3124)

Madison, WI · On-site

$18 - $22/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 ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsCook JobsEntry Level Cook JobsEntry Level Cook Jobs in Madison, WI

Entry Level Cook information

See Madison, WI 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 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.

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 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:
Entry Level Cook jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Cook job openings in Madison, WI as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 8% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $33,599 per year, or $16.2 per hour.

Line Cook

Luigi's Pizza

Madison, WI

$16 - $19/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

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.

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

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

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
More detail about Luigi's Pizza part of Food Fight Restaurant Group, please visit https://culinaryagents.com/entities/1077814-Luigi%2527s-Pizza