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Entry Level Cooks Jobs in Maine (NOW HIRING)

Bowdoin College

Cook

Brunswick, ME · On-site

$21.35/hr

Posting Details Posting Details Title Cook Posting Number S01573JP Department Dining Service - Thorne Hall Job Summary Entry level cooking position supporting cooks and chefs. Provides daily food ...

Bowdoin College

Cook III

Brunswick, ME · On-site

$21.35/hr

Posting Details Posting Details Title Cook III Posting Number S01539JP Department Dining Service - Smith Union Job Summary Entry level cooking position supporting cooks and chefs. Provides daily food ...

Boyne Resorts

Level 1 Cook

Newry, ME

$18.50/hr

On-the-job training and career development is available for those Level 1 Cooks looking to elevate ... This position is entry-level, and training is available Compensation & Benefits * Wages range from ...

Boyne Resorts

Level 1 Cook

Newry, ME · On-site

$18.50/hr

On-the-job training and career development is available for those Level 1 Cooks looking to elevate ... This position is entry-level, and training is available Compensation & Benefits * Wages range from ...

Boyne Resorts

Level 1 Cook

Newry, ME · On-site

$18.50/hr

On-the-job training and career development is available for those Level 1 Cooks looking to elevate ... This position is entry-level, and training is available Compensation & Benefits * Wages range from ...

Senior Lifestyle

Cook

Gorham, ME

$13.75 - $18.50/hr

Experience in production cooking and/or preparing therapeutic diets is preferred. * You need to be ... You have basic computer skills. Entry level proficiency with Excel and Word is required. * You ...

Senior Lifestyle

Cook

York, ME

$13.75 - $18.50/hr

Experience in production cooking and/or preparing therapeutic diets is preferred. * You need to be ... You have basic computer skills. Entry level proficiency with Excel and Word is required. * You ...

Senior Lifestyle

Cook

Auburn, ME

$15 - $20.25/hr

Experience in production cooking and/or preparing therapeutic diets is preferred. * You need to be ... You have basic computer skills. Entry level proficiency with Excel and Word is required. * You ...

Senior Lifestyle

Cook

Gorham, ME · On-site

$13.75 - $18.50/hr

Experience in production cooking and/or preparing therapeutic diets is preferred. * You need to be ... You have basic computer skills. Entry level proficiency with Excel and Word is required. * You ...

Clover Healthcare

Cook

Auburn, ME · On-site

$15 - $20.25/hr

Experience in production cooking and/or preparing therapeutic diets is preferred. * You need to be ... You have basic computer skills. Entry level proficiency with Excel and Word is required. * You ...

Senior Lifestyle

Cook

York, ME · On-site

$13.75 - $18.50/hr

Experience in production cooking and/or preparing therapeutic diets is preferred. * You need to be ... You have basic computer skills. Entry level proficiency with Excel and Word is required. * You ...

Sentry Hill at York Harbor

Cook

York, ME · On-site

$13.75 - $18.50/hr

Experience in production cooking and/or preparing therapeutic diets is preferred. * You need to be ... You have basic computer skills. Entry level proficiency with Excel and Word is required. * You ...

Senior Lifestyle

Cook

Auburn, ME · On-site

$15 - $20.25/hr

Experience in production cooking and/or preparing therapeutic diets is preferred. * You need to be ... You have basic computer skills. Entry level proficiency with Excel and Word is required. * You ...

CROSSMARK1

Events Specialist

Brunswick, ME · On-site

... store cooking demonstrations. CROSSMARK offers weekly pay, a 401K plan, and health benefits ... entry-level or those looking to obtain new skills.

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All JobsCooks JobsEntry Level Cooks JobsEntry Level Cooks Jobs in Maine

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.

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.

Can I work in a kitchen with no experience?

Entry level cooks can often find jobs without prior experience, as many kitchens provide on-the-job training. Basic skills such as understanding food safety, knife handling, and teamwork are helpful, and some positions may require a food handler's permit or certification. Employers typically look for reliability and willingness to learn in entry-level roles.

Can I be a restaurant cook if I have no job experience?

Entry level cooks can often start without prior work experience, as many restaurants provide on-the-job training. Basic skills such as food safety knowledge and the ability to follow instructions are helpful, and some employers may require a food handler's certification. Experience in a kitchen environment can improve chances but is not always necessary for entry-level positions.

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.

How do I become a cook with no experience?

Entry level cooks can start by gaining basic cooking skills through online tutorials or cooking classes, and volunteering or working in fast food or cafeteria settings to build experience. Many employers offer on-the-job training, so demonstrating enthusiasm, reliability, and a willingness to learn can help you secure an entry-level position without prior experience.

What is an entry level cook called?

An entry-level cook is typically called a line cook, prep cook, or kitchen assistant. These roles involve basic food preparation and cooking tasks, often requiring minimal experience and offering on-the-job training. They are common starting positions in restaurant kitchens and food service environments.
What are the most commonly searched types of Cooks jobs in Maine? The most popular types of Cooks jobs in Maine are:
Entry Level Cooks jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Cooks job openings in Maine as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% Locum Tenens, 63% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution.
Cook

Cook

Bowdoin College

Brunswick, ME • On-site

$21.35/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Posting Details
Posting Details
Title
Cook
Posting Number
S01573JP
Department
Dining Service - Thorne Hall
Job Summary
Entry level cooking position supporting cooks and chefs. Provides daily food preparation and work environment sanitation. Under supervision of the Lead Cook, prepare daily menu items to recipe specifications.
This position has a regular work schedule of Tuesday - Friday from 6:30AM to 2:30PM and Saturday from 7:00AM to 3:00PM with Sunday's and Monday's off.
This position will start mid-August
  • Hourly rate for this position is $21.35/per hour

BENEFITS AND PERKS
  • A variety of health insurance plans (Medical - effective date of hire, Vision, Dental)
  • Generous Retirement Plan - 10.12% annual compensation contribution (Eligible after 1 year of service and age 26), no match or vesting required!
  • Life and Disability Insurance
  • Paid Time Off: 10 days of vacation (1st year), 15 days (2nd year), 12 days of personal/sick time (PTO accruals based on hours worked).
  • Paid Holidays and Special Days Off: https://www.bowdoin.edu/hr/our-workplace/college-holidays-and-special-days-off.html
  • Paid Parental Leave (Available after one year of service)
  • Access to many of the College's facilities including the gym and pool (Including household members)

Education/Skills Requirements
High School Diploma or G.E.D. required. One to three years in kitchen production preferred. Demonstrated ability to work in a fast-paced team-oriented environment is required.
Experience Requirements and/or Equivalents
Demonstrated understanding of basic cooking techniques and their application in quick-service and/or institutional settings. Serve Safe Certification preferred. Certification may be obtained after hiring.
Applicants must meet the minimum qualifications in this posting to be considered for hire.
Standard Work Days and Hours
  • This is an onsite, full-time, academic year-round position, working 40 hours per week for 38 weeks per year (0.73 FTE). The role includes occasional overtime, weekends, holidays, and weather emergencies, as well as coverage during major college events such as Parents Weekend, Commencement, and Reunions.
  • An academic year-round employee works from August through May and is not scheduled to work during winter, spring, or summer breaks.
  • This position has a regular work schedule of Tuesday - Friday from 6:30AM to 2:30PM and Saturday from 7:00AM to 3:00PM with Sunday's and Monday's off.

We regret that Bowdoin College is unable to provide visa sponsorship for staff positions.
Employment at Bowdoin College is contingent upon satisfactory completion of applicable background checks including but not limited to: criminal records, educational verifications, driving records (when job-related), and/or credit history (when job related).
#bcindeed
About Bowdoin
Bowdoin embraces diversity in all forms, and the College is home to talented students, faculty and staff-with a variety of racial, ethnic, cultural, and socioeconomic backgrounds; religious beliefs; and gender identities, among other factors.
We encourage applications from candidates committed to the support of an inclusive campus community and those who will enrich and contribute to the College's multifaceted diversity. We value a community in which individuals of all backgrounds are warmly welcomed and encouraged to succeed.
Founded in 1794, Bowdoin has maintained its commitment to the liberal arts for well over 200 years. Bowdoin's reputation as a preeminent liberal arts college rests on the excellence of its faculty, students, and staff; intimate size; strong sense of community; and connections to the people, history, and natural beauty of Maine.
Bowdoin's campus is situated in a beautiful natural setting. Located in Brunswick, Maine, a town of approximately 20,000, the College is a short drive from the Maine coast, twenty-five miles from Portland and 120 miles from Boston.
Shift
First Shift
Employment Category
Full Time Academic Year
FTE
0.73
Benefits Eligible
Yes
Pay Type
Hourly
Background Check Package Requirements
Support Staff
Is driving a vehicle (e.g. Bowdoin vehicle or off road vehicle, rental car, personal car) an essential function of this job?
No
Is a pre-placement physical required for this position?
Yes
Posting Date
07/24/2026
Applications Accepted Until
Open Until Filled
No
Type of Posting
Internal/External
Special Instructions to Applicants
If selected as a finalist, you will be required to submit information for three references, including name, email address, phone number and how you know the reference.
EEO Information
Bowdoin College complies with applicable provisions of federal and state laws that prohibit unlawful discrimination in employment, admission, or access to its educational or extracurricular programs, activities, or facilities based on race, color, ethnicity, ancestry and national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, age, marital status, place of birth, genetic predisposition, veteran status, or against qualified individuals with physical or mental disabilities on the basis of disability, or any other legally protected statuses.

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