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Entry Level Cook Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

Cook II

Rochester, NY · On-site

$17 - $18.75/hr

Performs a variety of assigned cooking duties which may include short orders such as hamburgers ... May provide assistance to entry level staff. FLSA Category Non-Exempt Work Location On Campus ...

Cook II

Rochester, NY · On-site

$17 - $18.75/hr

Performs a variety of assigned cooking duties which may include short orders such as hamburgers ... May provide assistance to entry level staff. Why Work for RIT Dining RIT Dining serves thousands of ...

Cook II

Rochester, NY · On-site

$13.75 - $18.50/hr

Performs a variety of assigned cooking duties which may include short orders such as hamburgers ... May provide assistance to entry level staff. Why Work for RIT Dining RIT Dining serves thousands of ...

Cook II

Rochester, NY · On-site

$16.90 - $19/hr

Performs a variety of assigned cooking duties which may include short orders such as hamburgers ... May provide assistance to entry level staff. Why Work for RIT Dining RIT Dining serves thousands of ...

Cook I

Rochester, NY · On-site

$16.50 - $17/hr

Performs a variety of assigned cooking duties which may include short orders such as hamburgers ... An entry-level role building knowledge and skills. Performs routine, well-defined, easy-to ...

Cook I

Rochester, NY · On-site

$16.50 - $17/hr

Performs a variety of assigned cooking duties which may include short orders such as hamburgers ... An entry-level role building knowledge and skills. Performs routine, well-defined, easy-to ...

Cook I

Rochester, NY · On-site

$15.75 - $19.75/hr

Performs a variety of assigned cooking duties which may include short orders such as hamburgers ... An entry-level role building knowledge and skills. Performs routine, well-defined, easy-to ...

Cook I

Rochester, NY · On-site

$15.75 - $19.75/hr

Performs a variety of assigned cooking duties which may include short orders such as hamburgers ... An entry-level role building knowledge and skills. Performs routine, well-defined, easy-to ...

High School Student Paid Internships

Newark, NY · On-site

$15 - $19.50/hr

... hiring immediately entry-level per diem/relief High School Students for Experiential Learning ... Specific tasks the Intern can perform independently: * organizing * cleaning * cooking * gardening ...

Direct Support Professional

Newark, NY · On-site

$17.69 - $22.25/hr

... immediately entry-level full-time, part-time, and per diem/relief Residential Direct Support ... Support individuals with daily living skills including housekeeping, cooking, hygiene, and self ...

... immediately entry-level full-time, part-time, and per diem/relief Residential Direct Support ... Support individuals with daily living skills including housekeeping, cooking, hygiene, and self ...

Direct Support Professional

Newark, NY · On-site

$17.69 - $22.25/hr

... immediately entry-level full-time, part-time, and per diem/relief Residential Direct Support ... Support individuals with daily living skills including housekeeping, cooking, hygiene, and self ...

Executes assigned job duties for the agreed upon role, duties could include cooking and/or serving ... Employment Type: ENTRY_LEVEL

Baker

Rochester, NY · On-site

$16.90 - $19/hr

Cleans cooking utensils, grills, ovens, hoods, and other kitchen equipment * Assists with special ... May provide assistance to entry level staff. FLSA Category Non-Exempt Work Location On Campus ...

New

Pizza Team Leader

Webster, NY · On-site

$1.5K/day

EARN A BONUS UP TO $1,500! We're looking for entry-level leaders who are passionate and ready to ... Cook to Executive Chef. Learn about our career paths, training programs, and the heart of what ...

Showing results 21-39

Entry Level Cook information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$8

$15

$21

How much do entry level cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level cook in Rochester, NY is $15.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.27 and $17.79 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 Rochester, NY? The most popular types of Cook jobs in Rochester, NY are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Cook jobs in Rochester, NY? For Entry Level Cook jobs in Rochester, NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Cook jobs in Rochester, NY look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Cook jobs in Rochester, NY are:
What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Entry Level Cook jobs? Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Entry Level Cook job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Cook job openings in Rochester, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $32,910 per year, or $15.8 per hour.

$17 - $18.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago


Rochester Institute Of Technology rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 32 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

285th of 615 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Why Work for RIT Dining

RIT Dining serves thousands of students, faculty, and staff each day, creating meaningful moments across campus. As auniversityownedoperation,we'recommitted to delivering personalized culinary experiences whileprovidingvaluable growth opportunities for bothfulltimeemployees and student workers.You'llwork alongside a diverse team, including students from many backgrounds-to create a welcoming, inclusive environment. Your contributions enhance the student experience as customers and support employees in building the teamwork, confidence, andrealworldskills that drivelongtermsuccess.

  • Work-Life Balance You Can Count On
    Predictable schedules with added flexibility during academic breaks.

  • Strong Benefits That Support You
    Comprehensive health coverage,employerpaiddisability, and wellness resources.

  • Grow With Us
    Tuitionassistancefor you and your family, plus career development in a collaborative, innovative environment.

  • Invest in Your Future
    Competitive retirement plan with up to8% employer match.

  • Time to Recharge
    Generous PTO, 12 paid holidays, and a culture that values yourwellbeing.

  • Meaningful Perks
    Weekly meal benefits and access to campus amenities.

  • A Community That Welcomes You
    Inclusive, supportive teams where your contributions make a real impact.

Current Anticipated Hours/Work Location:

  • Location:Ritz

  • Work Schedule:Mon-Fri 12pm-8:30pm, Sat/Sun OFF

  • Workschedulemayneed tofluctuate based onUniversity-wide events,andacademicbreaks.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

  • Washes produce, cuts ingredients, and prepares hot and cold foods
  • Ensures all food is of satisfactory quality and quantity, and is prepared, served, and stored at proper temperatures and times
  • Performs a variety of assigned cooking duties which may include short orders such as hamburgers, chicken, eggs, and other grill items, as well as cold foods such as items for delicatessen/salad bar and compound salads
  • Assists in maintaining sanitation and health and safety standards, including the proper labeling, rotation, and storage of food items
  • Prepares menu items according to product specifications and recipes provided by culinary leadership
  • Cleans and/or sanitizes cooking utensils, grills, ovens, hoods, and other kitchen equipment
  • Other duties as assigned

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

  • Knowledge of culinary environments, techniques, and standards
  • Knowledge of allergens, food sensitivities, and dietetic restrictions
  • Skill in time management, organization, and multi-tasking
  • Ability to follow New York State, Monroe County, and university health codes as they relate to health, sanitation, and safety
  • Ability to deliver exceptional customer service

Minimum Education & Experience

  • High School diploma or GED
  • 1 year of relevant experience
  • Equivalent combination of experience and education may be considered

Job Level Overview

Operations, Administrative, Service, or Technical Support Level 2 - An intermediate level role with working foundational knowledge and skills to perform routine and occasionally non-routine tasks. Tasks may require interpretation or deviation from standard procedures. May provide assistance to entry level staff.


FLSA Category

Non-Exempt

Work Location

On Campus

Compensation

$17.00-$18.75

Application Materials

When you are ready to complete an application for this position please be prepared to submit the below requested information. This will be required to ensure your application is processed in a timely manner.

Curriculum Vitae or Resume

Candidates must be eligible to work in the United States.


Additional Details

In compliance with NYS's Pay Transparency Act, the salary range for this position is listed above. Rochester Institute of Technology considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, as well as, market and organizational considerations when extending an offer. The hiring process for this position may require a criminal background check and/or motor vehicle records check. Any verbal or written offer made is contingent on satisfactory results, as determined by Human Resources. RIT provides equal opportunity to all qualified individuals and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, age, marital status, sex, gender, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, veteran status or disability in its hiring, admissions, educational programs and activities. RIT provides reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities under the Rehabilitation Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act, the New York Human Rights Law, or similar applicable law.


If you need reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process, please contact the Human Resources office at 585-475-2424 or email your request tocareers@rit.edu. Determinations on requests for reasonable accommodation will be made on a case-by-case basis.


What Rochester Institute Of Technology employees say

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About Rochester Institute of Technology

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) is a preeminent institution in the education services industry, located in Rochester, NY, US. Renowned globally for its innovative and industry-aligned education, RIT was established in 1829 and has since then been committed to offering academic rigor in fields of study with an emphasis on applied learning. This is evidenced by their broad spectrum of undergraduate and graduate programs in areas such as engineering, science, business, and fine arts. RIT's mission centers on providing technology-based educational programs for career-minded students.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Rochester, NY, US

Year founded

1829

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