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

Missouri - KFC

Team Member 1

Springfield, MO

$15 - $16.25/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 ...

Missouri - KFC

Team Member 1

Springfield, MO · On-site

$15 - $16.25/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 ...

Missouri - KFC

Team Member 1

Ozark, MO

$10.75 - $14/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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All JobsCook JobsEntry Level Cook JobsEntry Level Cook Jobs in Springfield, MO

Entry Level Cook information

See Springfield, MO salary details

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$15

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How much do entry level cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level cook in Springfield, MO is $15.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.64 and $16.97 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, MO? The most popular types of Cook jobs in Springfield, MO are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Cook jobs in Springfield, MO? For Entry Level Cook jobs in Springfield, MO, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Cook jobs in Springfield, MO look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Cook jobs in Springfield, MO are:
What cities near Springfield, MO are hiring for Entry Level Cook jobs? Cities near Springfield, MO with the most Entry Level Cook job openings:
Entry Level Cook jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Cook job openings in Springfield, MO as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $31,373 per year, or $15.1 per hour.

Team Member 1

Missouri - KFC

Springfield, MO

$15 - $16.25/hr

Full-time

Posted yesterday

Job description

HIRING TEAM MEMBER LEVELS 1 - 2 - 3   (Includes; 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 nearly 60,000 restaurants globally, including over 30,000 KFC locations worldwide, along with Taco Bell, Pizza Hut, and The Habit Burger Grill.  As the world's largest restaurant company, Yum! Brands opens a new restaurant approximately every two hours. Mitra QSR is one of the Largest KFC Franchise Organizations in the Country.

COMPANY INTRODUCTION

  • At Mitra QSR: Our genuine passion for service, honesty, and growth drives us. This passion has helped us grow from one store in Texas to 180 stores in 15 states, making us the third-largest KFC franchisee in the U.S.
  • Our Journey and Growth: We enjoy every step, committed to learning and adapting in this fast-changing world
  • Our Belief and Commitment: We believe skills can be taught, but passion comes naturally. Our job is to provide the best resources and training for your success and career growth
  • Our Leadership and Team: Our operating leadership team brings 25+ years of experience in KFC/Taco Bell and 10+ years at Mitra QSR, supported by 30+ Area Leaders with an average tenure of over 8 years with us

WHY JOIN US?

  • Family-Oriented Company Culture
  • Great Working Hours (No breakfast and typical restaurant close by 11pm)
  • Employee Recognition Programs
  • Community Involvement Opportunities
  • Competitive Wages
  • Growth Opportunity
  • Employee Discounts
  • Education Opportunities
    • KFC Scholarships up to $20,000 for college or trade school
    • Tuition-Free Degree fully funded by the KFC Foundation
    • Career Advancement
Come join us and experience the Mitra family culture and build a rewarding career with ample opportunities for growth and financial success.

JOB SUMMARY
As a Team Member, you will play a role and take pride in delivering great food with a smile, served quickly in a clean restaurant. No experience required, you will receive comprehensive and detailed training on Customer Service, Food Preparation, Equipment, Technology, Brand and Mitra Standards.

RESPONSIBILITES:

  • Customer Experience: Ensure every customer has an excellent experience by greeting them warmly, providing quick and efficient service, and delivering great food with a smile
  • Food Safety: Follow all food safety protocols to ensure the health and safety of our customers
  • Food Preparation: If you are not a minor, you will be involved in prepping and cooking food according to our standards
  • Appearance: Maintain a professional appearance as you are the face of our restaurant. Wear the appropriate uniform and adhere to our grooming standards
  • Teamwork: Collaborate well with other team members, supporting each other to create a positive and productive work environment
  • Learning and Development: Take direction from supervisors and managers, actively participate in training sessions, and apply what you learn on the job
  • Cleanliness and Maintenance: Keep the restaurant clean and well-maintained, including the front-of-house, kitchen, and equipment, to ensure a safe and efficient environment

ROLE EXPECTATIONS

  • Work Ethic: Be dependable, punctual, and ready to work each shift with enthusiasm and dedication
  • Team Spirit: Collaborate with your team to make each shift enjoyable and successful
  • Deliver Great Service: Ensure guests have great experiences with friendly service, cleanliness, and quality food
  • Maintain Standards: Keep the restaurant clean and well-maintained, including equipment and overall operations
  • Ensure Compliance: Follow all laws and regulations and adhere to Brands/Mitra standards and policies

SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS

  • Great Attitude: Must be willing to smile. We will teach you the rest
  • Team Player: Success depends on the team's success
  • Learner Mindset: Enjoys learning and following processes and guidance

REQUIREMENTS

  • Must be at least 16 years old with valid U.S. ID
  • Must be flexible with work hours, including weekends and holidays, to meet business needs
  • Ability to stand for lengthy periods and lift up to twenty-five pounds
  • Be willing to have fun and be part of the Mitra culture

Join us at Mitra QSR and be part of a team where your passion fuels our success! Visit our website at Mitra QSR Careers to apply and learn more about us.