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

Pastry Cook I

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$21.16/hr

As a Pastry Cook I at The Pfister Hotel, you will be responsible for preparing, baking, and ... This entry-level position provides a foundation in pastry arts while supporting the overall pastry ...

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

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

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

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

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

Sous Chef (3013)

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$49K - $66K/yr

... in an entry level role. Our focus is to create a collaborative culture for our restaurant ... Solid understanding of cooking methods, ingredients, kitchen equipment, and related processes

Sous Chef (3013)

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$49K - $66K/yr

... in an entry level role. Our focus is to create a collaborative culture for our restaurant ... Solid understanding of cooking methods, ingredients, kitchen equipment, and related processes

Team Member 1

Racine, WI

$13.50 - $14.75/hr

Cashiers, Cooks, Entry Level Shift Manager Positions) Do you want to be a part of a dynamic and growing industry with over 200,000 restaurants in the U.S.? Yum Brands, a leader in the industry, owns ...

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Entry Level Cook information

See Milwaukee, WI salary details

$8

$15

$21

How much do entry level cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level cook in Milwaukee, WI is $15.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.22 and $17.69 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 Milwaukee, WI? The most popular types of Cook jobs in Milwaukee, WI are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Cook jobs in Milwaukee, WI? For Entry Level Cook jobs in Milwaukee, WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Cook jobs in Milwaukee, WI look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Cook jobs in Milwaukee, WI are:
What cities near Milwaukee, WI are hiring for Entry Level Cook jobs? Cities near Milwaukee, WI with the most Entry Level Cook job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Cook job openings in Milwaukee, WI as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,762 per year, or $15.8 per hour.
Pastry Cook I

$21.16/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Do you strive to set yourself apart by your gracious service and impeccable style? Are you passionate and energetic about delivering exceptional experiences to guests in the premier luxury hotel in downtown Milwaukee? If so, The Pfister is looking for a Pastry Cook I to be a part of our team and continue its iconic legacy.

As a Pastry Cook I at The Pfister Hotel, you will be responsible for preparing, baking, and presenting a variety of pastries, desserts, and breads. You will follow recipes and Chef direction, ensure consistent quality, and uphold our high standards of presentation and sanitation. This entry-level position provides a foundation in pastry arts while supporting the overall pastry kitchen operation.

Built in 1893, The Pfister Hotel in Milwaukee has been a hotel icon for nearly 130 years. As one of the best hotels in Milwaukee and the Midwest, we continue to celebrate a grand tradition of gracious service and impeccable style. The Pfister Hotel has received AAA Four Diamond hotel status for 46 consecutive years. The hotel is one of only 11 properties throughout North America to maintain the AAA Four Diamond designation since the inception of the Diamond Rating program in 1976.

What you will be doing:

         Prepare and bake pastries, breads, desserts, and other items according to standard recipes and Chef instructions.

         Monitor product storage, proper rotation, and portion sizes.

         Maintain cleanliness and organization of pastry areas, equipment, and tools in compliance with Health Department standards.

         Set up and break down workstations with necessary prep and equipment.

         Assist with daily production, banquet functions, and special pastry projects.

         Follow all sanitation and safety practices to ensure product quality and guest satisfaction.

         Perform other duties as assigned by Executive Pastry Chef or Sous Chefs.

Position Requirements:

         2 years of pastry or baking experience strongly preferred, preferably in a hotel, resort, high-end restaurant, or bakery.

         Formal culinary training a plus (degree or certification preferred).

         High school diploma or GED required.

         Knowledge of proper pastry techniques, scaling, mise en place, and knife handling.

         Ability to operate pastry and bakery equipment such as mixers, ovens, and scales.

         Ability to stand for long periods, work in varied temperature ranges, and tolerate frequent interruptions.

         Ability to lift, push, or pull up to 100 pounds.

         Basic English language comprehension required.

         Must adhere to Local 122 Collective Bargaining Agreement regulations, with the option to obtain union membership after 90 days of employment.

What's in it for you?

         Complimentary, well-balanced meal every shift.

         Room discounts at Marcus Hotels & Resorts and Historic Hotels of America properties.

         Savings at Marcus Hotels & Resorts restaurants, cafes, lounges, golf courses, ski resorts, and spas.

         Discounted parking and "two-for-one" Marcus Theatres movie tickets.

         Career growth opportunities, with the ability to transfer between properties while maintaining service credit.

         Early wage access, paid time off, and company-paid life insurance.

         Medical, dental, and vision insurance available after 30 days of employment.

         Employee Assistance Program and 401(k) with employer match.

Job Type: Full-Time, Hourly

Pay Rate: $21.16 per hour

About Us:

A division of The Marcus Corporation, Marcus Hotels & Resorts has a rich 60-year history of operational and service excellence. We are "People Pleasing People," striving daily to create extraordinary experiences for guests and associates alike. With a growing portfolio of 15 U.S.-based hotels and resorts, our properties are known for their unique character and style.

Note: This document describes the general nature and level of work required of people in the job. It is not intended to be an all-encompassing list of responsibilities, duties, and skills.

The Pfister Hotel is an Equal Opportunity Employer.