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Entry Level Cooks Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Raising Cane's

Cook - Dinner/Close Shift

Cedar Falls, IA · On-site

$14/hr

We are looking to immediately hire entry level and experienced Cooks who can thrive in an upbeat and fast-paced food service environment. We are hiring immediately for Cooks that can work all shifts ...

Jackson Specialty Care

PM Cook - Part Time

Maquoketa, IA

$12.25 - $16.25/hr

Do you enjoy cooking? Do you enjoy interacting with a diverse population in the healthcare setting ... Education * High School Diploma/GED Experience * Entry Level (0-2 years) Benefits/Perks:

Jackson Specialty Care

Part Time AM Cook

Maquoketa, IA

$12.25 - $16.25/hr

Do you enjoy cooking? Do you enjoy interacting with a diverse population in the healthcare setting ... Education * Entry Level (0-2 years) Experience * High School Diploma/GED Benefits/Perks: * Dental

Marcus Theatres Corporation

Cook

Cedar Rapids, IA

$13.75 - $18.50/hr

As a cook with Marcus Theatres, you will be a part of a family you can connect with, grow with, and ... Experienced Job Level: Entry Level Job Posting: May 16, 2026, 7:27:45 PM Hourly/Yearly Wage: 13.00

Cassia

Cook/ Culinary Assistant

Boone, IA

$14.75 - $17.75/hr

This is a great opportunity for those seeking entry-level work or wanting to learn and grow in a ... As a Cook at Westhaven you will be working in a commercial kitchen to make specialized meals for ...

Cassia

Cook/ Culinary Assistant

Boone, IA · On-site

$14.75 - $17.75/hr

This is a great opportunity for those seeking entry-level work or wanting to learn and grow in a ... As a Cook at Westhaven you will be working in a commercial kitchen to make specialized meals for ...

Cassia

Cook/ Culinary Assistant

Boone, IA · On-site

$14.75 - $17.75/hr

This is a great opportunity for those seeking entry-level work or wanting to learn and grow in a ... As a Cook at Westhaven you will be working in a commercial kitchen to make specialized meals for ...

Avera Health

Dietary Aide and Cook

Cresco, IA · On-site

$13.75 - $16.50/hr

... cooks of simpler duties such as opening cans, preparing vegetables, making coffee, etc.; scrapes ... This is an entry-level food service position. POSITION QUALIFICATIONS: Must be 18 years or older ...

Avera Health

Dietary Aide and Cook

Cresco, IA · On-site

$13.75 - $16.50/hr

... cooks of simpler duties such as opening cans, preparing vegetables, making coffee, etc.; scrapes ... This is an entry-level food service position. POSITION QUALIFICATIONS: Must be 18 years or older ...

Avera Health

Dietary Aide and Cook

Cresco, IA

$13.75 - $16.50/hr

... cooks of simpler duties such as opening cans, preparing vegetables, making coffee, etc.; scrapes ... This is an entry-level food service position. POSITION QUALIFICATIONS: Must be 18 years or older ...

Avera Health

Dietary Aide and Cook

Cresco, IA · On-site

$13.75 - $16.50/hr

... cooks of simpler duties such as opening cans, preparing vegetables, making coffee, etc.; scrapes ... This is an entry-level food service position. POSITION QUALIFICATIONS: Must be 18 years or older ...

Avera Health

Dietary Aide and Cook

Cresco, IA

$13.75 - $16.50/hr

... cooks of simpler duties such as opening cans, preparing vegetables, making coffee, etc.; scrapes ... This is an entry-level food service position. * This position is 10:30am - 7:00pm Monday - Friday ...

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Entry Level Cooks information

What is the difference between Entry Level Cooks vs Line Cooks?

AspectEntry Level CooksLine Cooks
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; basic cooking skillsSimilar; often requires experience or training
Work EnvironmentFast-paced kitchens, entry-level positionsHigh-volume restaurants, busy kitchen stations
Employer & Industry UsageRestaurants, cafes, catering servicesRestaurants, hotels, catering
Search & Comparison IntentEntry Level Cooks vs Line CooksSimilar roles in culinary industry

Entry Level Cooks and Line Cooks often share similar work environments and credentials, with Entry Level Cooks typically being newcomers to the kitchen. Line Cooks usually have more experience and handle specific kitchen stations. Both roles are essential in restaurant operations, but Line Cooks tend to work in busier, more specialized settings.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Cook, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Cook, you need basic food preparation skills, knowledge of kitchen safety and sanitation, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, food handling certifications, and point-of-sale (POS) systems is typically required. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and the ability to work efficiently under pressure help you stand out in this role. These skills and qualities ensure consistent food quality, a safe work environment, and smooth kitchen operations.

How to get a first line cook job?

To get a first line cook job, applicants should gain basic cooking skills, often through culinary school or on-the-job training, and demonstrate reliability and a strong work ethic. Having a good understanding of kitchen safety, food preparation, and time management can improve chances, along with a resume highlighting relevant experience or certifications such as food safety training.

What are some common challenges entry level cooks might face during their first few months on the job?

Entry level cooks often encounter challenges such as adapting to a fast-paced kitchen environment, learning to multitask effectively, and consistently preparing dishes to meet quality standards. They may also need to quickly familiarize themselves with kitchen equipment, safety protocols, and inventory procedures. Working as part of a team, clear communication and the ability to accept feedback are essential for success and improvement in this role.

How to get a cooking job without experience?

Entry level cooks can secure jobs without prior experience by applying to restaurants that hire beginners, demonstrating enthusiasm and a willingness to learn, and highlighting any relevant skills such as teamwork or time management. Completing a basic food safety certification can also improve chances. Starting in a fast-paced environment helps build skills and gain references for future opportunities.

What are entry level cooks?

Entry level cooks are culinary professionals who are just beginning their careers in the kitchen. They typically assist with basic food preparation, cooking, and cleaning duties under the supervision of more experienced chefs. These positions require fundamental knowledge of kitchen safety, food handling, and basic cooking techniques. Entry level cooks gain hands-on experience and develop their skills, often working in restaurants, cafeterias, or catering companies. This role is a common starting point for those interested in advancing to higher positions in the culinary field.

Where to start as a beginner cook?

Entry level cooks typically start by learning basic food preparation skills, such as chopping, measuring, and following recipes. Gaining experience in a commercial kitchen environment, often through entry-level positions or apprenticeships, helps develop cooking techniques and understanding of kitchen safety and sanitation. Basic culinary skills, a willingness to learn, and sometimes a food handler's certification are helpful for starting out.

How do I start working as a cook with no experience?

Entry level cooks can start by applying for positions at restaurants or food establishments that offer on-the-job training. Gaining basic cooking skills, understanding food safety, and being willing to work flexible hours are important; some employers may also require a food handler's permit. Volunteering or taking short culinary courses can also help build foundational knowledge.
What are the most commonly searched types of Cooks jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Cooks jobs in Iowa are:
Entry Level Cooks jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Cooks job openings in Iowa as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 3% As Needed, 10% Full Time, 83% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution.
Cook - Dinner/Close Shift

Cook - Dinner/Close Shift

Raising Cane's

Des Moines, IA

$15/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago

Raising Cane's Chicken Fingers rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 1,528 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 103 rated fast food restaurants

Job description

Starting hiring pay at: $15.00


As a Cook at Raising Cane's, you will set the pace of the Restaurant by ensuring all of the food we serve meets our high standards. Working in the Kitchen at Raising Cane's is a fun and fast paced environment. Crank up the music and have some fun while you are working hard to prepare the highest quality chicken finger meals for our customers to enjoy. Starting out in the back of the house at Raising Cane's can lead to many promotional opportunities for Cooks to grow their career by moving into advanced roles like Bird Specialist or Certified Trainer.

We are looking to immediately hire entry level and experienced Cooks who can thrive in an upbeat and fast-paced food service environment.We are hiring immediately for Cooks that can work all shifts: opening shifts, closing shifts and everything in between. Whether you have previous experience as a customer service associate, retail team member, cashier, restaurant server, kitchen lead, cook, prep cook, drive-thru cashier or any other restaurant or service-oriented role - we have a position for you. We offer competitive pay and benefits for all positions. Even if you don't have previous Restaurant experience, this position is entry-level (yes, that's no experience required) and we provide paid training for every new Restaurant Cook on the team. We will make sure you are prepared to grow your Restaurant career with us.

Within your first year of working in the Restaurant, you can earn up to an extra $1.50 per hour in pay increases through additional training, certifications, and performance evaluations! If you want to be at Restaurant that is a FUN place to work, that values your growth and provides opportunities to impact your community, we want you on our team

Qualities of awesome Canes Restaurant Cook:

  • Team player
  • Excellent communicator
  • Happy, Courteous and Enthusiastic
  • Hard working and attentive
  • Responsible and dependable
  • Authentic and genuine
  • Takes pride in doing a good job

Benefits available for hourly Crew:

  • Access to voluntary benefits through an insurance marketplace, including Medical & Pharmacy, Dental, Vision Life Insurance, Short Term Disability, Hospital Indemnity, Legal Insurance, Auto and Renter's Insurance, and ID Theft Protection
  • OnePass Gym Membership Program
  • 401(k) With Safe Harbor Employer Match (age 21 & older)
  • Access to financial advisors for budget and retirement planning
  • Crewmember Assistance Program
  • Education assistance
  • Pet Insurance

Perks & Rewards for hourly Crew:

  • Paid Time Off*
  • Closed for all major holidays**
  • Early closure for company events
  • Casual Work Attire
  • Flexible Scheduling
  • Perkspot Employee Discount Program

*Must satisfy hours requirement per year

**Locations may vary


ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS OF THE POSITION:

The intellectual and physical demands described below are representative of what must be met by Crewmembers to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • Lift and carry, push or pull heavy objects up to 50 pounds
  • Kneel, bend, twist or stoop
  • Ascend or descend stairs
  • Reach and grasp objects (including above head and below waistline)
  • Excellent verbal and written communication
  • Ability to show up to scheduled shifts on time
  • Cleaning tables, floors and other areas of the Restaurant
  • Taking orders from Customers and processing payments efficiently
  • Follow proper safety procedures when handling and/or preparing food
  • Ability to multitask


ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Must be 16 years of age or older
  • Provide all Customers with quick and friendly service
  • Work together as a team, assisting other Crewmembers in completion of tasks and assignments to ensure continuity of service
  • Work under pressure and at a fast pace
  • Align with Raising Cane's culture by balancing Working Hard and Having Fun
  • Take initiative
  • Comply with Company policies

Raising Cane's appreciates & values individuality. EOE



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