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Entry Level Cook Jobs in Springfield, MA (NOW HIRING)

Whether that is in an entry level or leadership role, Gandara will provide the tools and resources ... To assist clients in carrying out daily tasks and responsibilities including cleaning, cooking, and ...

Whether that is in an entry level or leadership role, Gandara will provide the tools and resources ... To assist clients in carrying out daily tasks and responsibilities including cleaning, cooking, and ...

... used cooking oil in accordance with local ordinances and environmental regulations. Visit our ... Ability to complete Entry Level Driver program if less than 2 years commercial vehicle driving ...

... used cooking oil in accordance with local ordinances and environmental regulations. Visit our ... Ability to complete Entry Level Driver program if less than 2 years commercial vehicle driving ...

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Entry Level Cook information

See Springfield, MA salary details

$8

$15

$22

How much do entry level cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level cook in Springfield, MA is $15.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.41 and $17.98 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 Springfield, MA? The most popular types of Cook jobs in Springfield, MA are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Cook jobs in Springfield, MA look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Cook jobs in Springfield, MA are:
What cities near Springfield, MA are hiring for Entry Level Cook jobs? Cities near Springfield, MA with the most Entry Level Cook job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Cook job openings in Springfield, MA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Part Time. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,223 per year, or $16 per hour.

Residential Counselor | Adolescent & Family Services

Gándara Center

Springfield, MA

$21/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Residential Counselor I
Residential Counselor II
Relief Residential Counselor (per diem) 
 
Why Work for Gandara:
 

Explore the career pathways in Behavioral Health, Substance Use and Recovery, Community Based Clinical services, Adolescent and Family services, Adult Residential, Maintenance and Administration! Whether that is in an entry level or leadership role, Gandara will provide the tools and resources to better enhance your career growth. The opportunities are presented with the ability to transition your skills and experience in meeting the organizations mission. There is grand landscape of opportunities that supports the community we serve, so Join the Gándara team today!

Benefits:

  • Retirement Plan 403(b)
  • Health, Dental, Vision, Pet and Life Insurance
  • Paid vacations
  • Paid holidays
  • 8 discretionary days
  • Mileage Reimbursement

Salary: Hourly 

  • Relief Residential Counselor - $17.00 Hourly
  • Residential Counselor I - $20.oo Hourly
  • Residential Counselor II - $21.00 Hourly

Additional Benefits:

  • Career Growth Opportunities
  • Culturally Diverse population
  • Clinical Licensing Support

Job Title: Residential Counselor

Work Location: Greater Springfield Area

 Holyoke 

Chicopee 

Springfield 

*Bilingual Candidates Encouraged to Apply 

*EOE M/F/D/V

*Union/Non-Union

 

Job Summary:

We're looking for a Residential Counselor for our Youth Residential Program to maintain a therapeutic environment within the residence, which includes meeting the needs of the client in the following areas: safety, medical, emotional, food, clothing, and shelter. To participate in the development of reasonable limits and structure for each child and to implement these limits on a daily basis in the residence and community in a fair and consistent manner.

Duties and Responsibilities:

  • To implement each client's individual Level Plan objectives under the direction of the Clinical Supervisor and Direct Care Supervisor.
  • To accurately log all required documentation.
  • Responsible for acting as a "Staff Advocate" for one client.
  • Necessary to meet overall program and agency goals, and provide support to management and program staff.
  • To work as a cooperative team member and to be a positive role model for clients.
  • To assist clients in carrying out daily tasks and responsibilities including cleaning, cooking, maintenance, and laundry. To willingly perform these tasks when clients in a fair and consistent manner.
  • To plan and organize a variety of appropriate recreational and social activities.
  • To assume other duties and responsibilities as requested by the Program Director or Program Supervisor

Minimum Qualifications:

  • High School Diploma/GED required.
  • Previous work in the related field dealing with youths is preferred.
  • Must possess the ability to communicate effectively in a professional manner both verbally and in writing.
  • Ability to work as a team member.

The Gándara Mental Health Center provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training