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Entry Level Cooks Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Production Associate

Clackamas, OR

$15.75 - $20/hr

... cooking, and other critical applications. We are looking for Production Associate to join our team on day shift, 7am-3:30pm Monday-Friday. This is an entry level position with opportunity to grow and ...

Production Associate

Clackamas, OR

$15.75 - $20/hr

... cooking, and other critical applications. We are looking for Production Associate to join our team on day shift, 7am-3:30pm Monday-Friday. This is an entry level position with opportunity to grow and ...

Production Associate

Clackamas, OR

$15.75 - $20/hr

... cooking, and other critical applications. We are looking for Production Associate to join our team on day shift, 7am-3:30pm Monday-Friday. This is an entry level position with opportunity to grow and ...

Crew Members are entry level positions, but advancement opportunities are available. All Team ... Experience as a server, cook, cashier, host, or equivalent related experience is preferred. What is ...

Crew Members are entry level positions, but advancement opportunities are available. All Team ... Experience as a server, cook, cashier, host, or equivalent related experience is preferred. What is ...

Crew Members are entry level positions, but advancement opportunities are available. All Team ... Experience as a server, cook, cashier, host, or equivalent related experience is preferred. What is ...

Crew Members are entry level positions, but advancement opportunities are available. All Team ... Experience as a server, cook, cashier, host, or equivalent related experience is preferred. What is ...

... commercial cooking, and other critical applications. We are looking for Production Assemblers to join our team on swing shift 3pm-11:30pm Monday-Friday. This is an entry level position with ...

... commercial cooking, and other critical applications. We are looking for Production Assemblers to join our team on swing shift 3pm-11:30pm Monday-Friday. This is an entry level position with ...

Crew Members are entry level positions, but advancement opportunities are available. All Team ... Experience as a server, cook, cashier, host, or equivalent related experience is preferred. What is ...

... cooking, and other critical applications. We are looking for Production Assemblers to join our team on day shift, 7am-3:30pm Monday-Friday. This is an entry level position with opportunity to grow ...

Production Assembler - Day shift

Clackamas, OR

$16.75 - $20.25/hr

... cooking, and other critical applications. We are looking for Production Assemblers to join our team on day shift, 7am-3:30pm Monday-Friday. This is an entry level position with opportunity to grow ...

... 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 ...

Bulk Grease Driver

Portland, OR · On-site

$34.65/hr

... 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 ...

Production Assembler - Swing Shift

Clackamas, OR · On-site

$16.75 - $20.25/hr

... commercial cooking, and other critical applications. We are looking for Production Assemblers to join our team on swing shift 3pm-11:30pm Monday-Friday. This is an entry level position with ...

Crew Members are entry level positions, but advancement opportunities are available. All Team ... Experience as a server, cook, cashier, host, or equivalent related experience is preferred. What is ...

... cooking, and other critical applications. We are looking for Production Assemblers to join our team on day shift, 7am-3:30pm Monday-Friday. This is an entry level position with opportunity to grow ...

Bulk Grease Driver

Portland, OR · On-site

$34.65/hr

... 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 Cooks information

See Portland, OR salary details

$9

$16

$23

How much do entry level cooks jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level cooks in Portland, OR is $17.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.28 and $19.13 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 Portland, OR? The most popular types of Cooks jobs in Portland, OR are:
Production Associate

$15.75 - $20/hr

Other

Posted 9 days ago


Astronics rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

55th of 143 rated electronics manufacturers


Job description

Astronics-PECO, located in picturesque Clackamas, Oregon near the foothills of Mt. Hood, designs, certifies, manufactures, and sells a wide range of products to commercial, government, and military markets throughout the world. Our highly engineered interior and structural aerospace products are supplied to the largest aircraft manufacturers and are installed in aircraft around the globe, and our military products are used in critical national defense applications.

The Max-Viz enhanced visions systems (EVS) are designed and certified for use as an improvement to safety by a vast array of airplanes, helicopters, and unmanned-aerial-vehicles in the commercial, government, and military marketplace. PECO-Controls are well established temperature control devices designed for applications where high quality is a must, such as the hospitality industry, commercial cooking, and other critical applications. We are looking for Production Associate to join our team on day shift, 7am-3:30pm Monday-Friday.

This is an entry level position with opportunity to grow and learn. What kinds of things will you be doing. Reading and interpreting blueprints, drawings, and/or production procedures to form a complete unit Performing set-ups required on production equipment and machinery Fitting and installing heli-coils, pins, bearings, screws, washers, and other parts Hand cleaning, sanding to remove burrs, trimming, tapping, straightening, and bonding using a variety of machinery to alter shape Degreasing parts using a washer Loading and unloading parts in vibratory, trims die casting products, using arbor presses, crank punch presses Operate micrometers, dial and digital calipers, dial indicators, veneer and thread gages, go/no-go pins, hand held sanders, grinders, drills, and taps Visually inspect surfaces for flaws and smoothness, make adjustments accordingly Wrap, pack, and label product for final shipment How do you know you are a good fit.

You have a high school diploma or equivalent, not required You may have experience working in power tool and equipment operation Ability and willingness to obtain a forklift license You are comfortable working with hand tools You feel confident you can lift up to 30lbs during your workday, some roles less You can read and interpret directions provided to you verbally, via diagram or as a schedule You can perform basic math such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division You are not afraid to use a computer to enter, access or retrieve information Willing to submit to a pre-employment drug screen and background check Employment Eligibility Requirements: This position may involve access to items subject to U.S. export-control laws. Employment is contingent upon the employee's authorization to access such items under applicable law

The company does not guarantee and is under no obligation to seek such authorization if it would be necessary. An offer of employment is contingent on successfully passing a pre-employment background and drug screening (including cannabis). Applicants who do not successfully pass both the drug and background screenings will not be considered for employment.

Accommodation Requests: Astronics PECO is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with physical and mental disabilities. If you need special assistance or an accommodation while seeking employment, please e-mail Peco.humanresources@astronics.com or call: 503-387-6045. We will make a determination on your request for reasonable accommodation on a case-by-case basis

Astronics-PECO is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other legally protected status. .


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