2

Entry Level Cook Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Cook

Orlando, FL · On-site

$13 - $17.50/hr

Prepare ingredients for cooking, including portioning, chopping, and storing food. Wash and peel fresh fruits and vegetables. Weigh, measure, and mix ingredients. Prepare and cook food according to ...

Line Cook-Entry Level

Orlando, FL · On-site

$14.75 - $18.50/hr

The Entry Level Cook is a culinary position that requires basic culinary skills or related cooking experience and good communication skills. This is typically a production position that requires ...

Entry Level Cook

Orlando, FL · On-site

$13 - $17.50/hr

Prepare ingredients for cooking, including portioning, chopping, and storing food. Wash and peel fresh fruits and vegetables. Weigh, measure, and mix ingredients. Prepare and cook food according to ...

Entry Level Cook - Corner

Louisville, KY · On-site

$13.50 - $18/hr

This entry-level cook role is ideal for recent culinary school graduates, career changers, or anyone passionate about food and beverage who wants hands-on training in a professional hotel kitchen. No ...

Entry Level Cook

Orlando, FL · On-site

$13 - $17.50/hr

Prepare ingredients for cooking, including portioning, chopping, and storing food. Wash and peel fresh fruits and vegetables. Weigh, measure, and mix ingredients. Prepare and cook food according to ...

Cook 1 - Entry Level

Washington, DC · On-site

$22.69 - $25.47/hr

This entry-level Cook position requires good communication and basic culinary skills. The desired candidate will have some professional cooking experience, knowledge of cooking ingredients, and ...

Entry Level Cook - Zombie Taco

Louisville, KY · On-site

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

This entry-level cook role is ideal for recent culinary school graduates, career changers, or anyone passionate about food and beverage who wants hands-on training in a professional hotel kitchen. No ...

Cook ll

Montgomery, AL · On-site

$13.75 - $18.50/hr

Supervise and train entry-level cooks and kitchen staff. * Ensure food quality and presentation meet the restaurant's standards. * Assist with menu development and recipe modification. * Maintain ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Entry Level Cook information

See salary details

$8

$16

$22

How much do entry level cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level cook in the United States is $16.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.46 and $18.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to get a first line cook job?

To get a first line cook job, candidates should gain basic culinary skills through culinary school or on-the-job training, and demonstrate reliability, teamwork, and a strong work ethic. Experience in food preparation, knowledge of kitchen safety, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment are also important. Applying to entry-level positions and networking with industry professionals can improve chances of securing a first line cook role.

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.

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 or prep cook to gain experience. Many employers offer on-the-job training, so demonstrating a willingness to learn and a good work ethic can help you get hired without prior experience.

How to get a cooking job without experience?

Entry level cook positions often do not require prior experience; applicants can improve their chances by demonstrating a willingness to learn, maintaining a positive attitude, and gaining basic skills through cooking classes or volunteering. Highlighting reliability, teamwork, and a strong work ethic during interviews can also help secure a job in a 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.

Where to start as a beginner cook?

Entry level cooks should start by learning basic food preparation skills, such as chopping, measuring, and following recipes. Gaining experience in a professional kitchen environment, understanding food safety, and possibly obtaining a food handler's certification can help build a foundation for advancement.
More about Entry Level Cook jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Cook jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Cook job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Cook jobs? The most popular types of Cook jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Cook jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Cook jobs include:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Cook job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 20% Full Time, 79% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,340 per year, or $16 per hour.
Entry Level Cook

Entry Level Cook

Country Club of St. Albans

Saint Albans, MO

$15 - $20/hr

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

JOB DESCRIPTION

Pay is commensurate with experience. Hours 10am - 4pm or 4pm-8pm 3-4 shifts a week.


Prepares food in accordance with Company recipes and standards. Potential for advancement into the main kitchen and dining services with upward mobility.


Duties and Responsibilities:


  • Completing all tasks, in order, on the prep list from the Executive Chef or Sous Chef
  • Labeling and stocking all ingredients on easily accessible shelves
  • Washing, chopping and sorting ingredients like fruits, vegetables and meats
  • Measuring quantities of seasonings and other cooking ingredients
  • Cleaning dishes, washing cooking utensils and cookware, taking out the trash and sanitizing kitchen
  • Ensure all food and other items are stored properly

REQUIREMENTS

    ABOUT THE COMPANY

    Our award-winning course designers embraced the natural surroundings preserving natural habitats for hundreds of wildlife and plant species that call St. Albans home. A visit to the Country Club of St. Albans is a retreat to an unspoiled reserve safeguarded for generations to come.