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Entry Level Cook Jobs in Olympia, WA (NOW HIRING)

Tin Hut BBQ LLC

Pit Master for Tin Hut BBQ

Dupont, WA · On-site

$16 - $22/hr

You must understand temperature controls and cooking techniques and must have the ability to remain calm and focused in a fast paced environment. No experience? at entry level you must be willing and ...

Tin Hut BBQ LLC

Pit Master for Tin Hut BBQ

Dupont, WA · On-site

$16 - $22/hr

You must understand temperature controls and cooking techniques and must have the ability to remain calm and focused in a fast paced environment. No experience? at entry level you must be willing and ...

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All JobsCook JobsEntry Level Cook JobsEntry Level Cook Jobs in Olympia, WA

Entry Level Cook information

See Olympia, WA salary details

$9

$16

$22

How much do entry level cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level cook in Olympia, WA is $16.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.89 and $18.61 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 Olympia, WA?

The most popular types of Cook jobs in Olympia, WA are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Cook jobs in Olympia, WA?

For Entry Level Cook jobs in Olympia, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Cook jobs in Olympia, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Cook jobs in Olympia, WA are:

What cities near Olympia, WA are hiring for Entry Level Cook jobs?

Cities near Olympia, WA with the most Entry Level Cook job openings:

Entry Level Cook jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Cook job openings in Olympia, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 68% Full Time, 31% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $35,751 per year, or $17.2 per hour.

Assistant Cook (Part-time, Tacoma)

Korean Women's Association

Tacoma, WA

$20.35/hr

Part-time

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

Korean Women's Association (KWA) is seeking a reliable and team-oriented Assistant Cook to join our team in Tacoma, WA. This is a part-time position working up to 20 hours per week supporting meal preparation and kitchen operations at our meal site programs.  MUST SPEAK KOREAN.

Starting Pay: $20.35 per hour. Apply at www.kwacares.org/careers 

Job Summary

The Assistant Cook supports meal planning, food preparation, cooking, serving, and kitchen sanitation activities. This position works closely with the Head Cook to help ensure nutritious meals are prepared and served efficiently while maintaining a clean and organized kitchen environment.

Essential Duties

  • Prepare meats, soups, sauces, vegetables, and other food items for cooking.
  • Cook food according to menu requirements and meal counts.
  • Portion prepared foods and assist with meal presentation.
  • Serve meals as needed.
  • Wash dishes and kitchen utensils.
  • Maintain a clean, safe, and organized kitchen.
  • Assist with ordering supplies and maintaining inventory records.
  • Receive and inspect food deliveries to ensure quality and quantity standards.
  • Perform other related duties as assigned.

Position Requirements

  • Must speak Korean
  • Must pass a criminal background check

Apply at www.kwacares.org/careers

Assistant cook, part-time cook, kitchen assistant, food preparation, kitchen staff, cook assistant, cooking, Korean speaking, assistant cook position, entry-level cook, food service worker, Tacoma.

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