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Entry Level Culinary Jobs (NOW HIRING)

University of Wyoming

Cook I - Dining Center

Laramie, WY

$14 - $19/hr

The University is excited to offer entry-level culinary positions with on-the-job training to help you develop your skills. Plus, we offer a career ladder that allows you to grow from Cook I to Cook ...

University of Wyoming

Cook I - Dining Center

Laramie, WY · On-site

$14 - $19/hr

The University is excited to offer entry-level culinary positions with on-the-job training to help you develop your skills. Plus, we offer a career ladder that allows you to grow from Cook I to Cook ...

Hyatt Regency Dallas

Culinary Supervisor

Dallas, TX · On-site

$24/hr

... Entry Level Computer Skills related to Microsoft Office • Ensuring the proper amount for needed food preparation • Support in the supervision, training and development of the culinary team • ...

ARC Broward

Substitute Teacher / Instructor

Sunrise, FL · On-site

$19/hr

Teaches curriculum related to entry-level culinary arts, material handler, animal care, healthcare operations, and or hospitality. On occasion, financial literacy, social skills trainings and or ...

Pacific Hospitality Group

Cook III

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$17 - $20.75/hr

Integrity, Compliance, Value Creation, Principled Entrepreneurship, Customer Focus, Knowledge, Change, Humility, Respect, & Fulfillment Position Summary The Cook III is an entry-level culinary ...

New

Pacifichospitality

Cook III

Phoenix, AZ

$17 - $20.75/hr

Integrity, Compliance, Value Creation, Principled Entrepreneurship, Customer Focus, Knowledge, Change, Humility, Respect, & Fulfillment Position Summary The Cook III is an entry-level culinary ...

New

Sea Island

Cook 3 - Banquet Kitchen (Full-Time)

Sea Island, GA · On-site

$15.25 - $19/hr

Job Requirements: * Entry level culinary experience * Current ServSafe Certification or ability to obtain certification upon hire * Ability to follow standardized recipes and determine proper cooking ...

Santa Ana Star Casino Hotel

COOK I

Bernalillo, NM · On-site

$15.50 - $19.25/hr

The Cook I position is an entry level culinary position that requires only the most basic cooking or culinary skills. It does however require good communication skills and a positive attitude. This ...

Sea Island

Cook 3 - Sea Strike (Full-Time)

Sea Island, GA · On-site

$11.75 - $16/hr

Job Requirements: * Entry level culinary experience * Current ServSafe Certification or ability to obtain certification upon hire * Ability to follow standardized recipes and determine proper cooking ...

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Entry Level Culinary information

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How much do entry level culinary jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level culinary in the United States is $18.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $18.75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level culinary professionals in a commercial kitchen?

Entry-level culinary professionals often find the fast-paced environment of a commercial kitchen challenging, especially during peak service hours when multitasking is essential. Adapting to strict hygiene standards, learning efficient prep techniques, and communicating effectively with the kitchen team are also common hurdles. However, with time and practice, many newcomers quickly develop the stamina, organizational skills, and teamwork necessary to thrive and advance in the culinary industry.

What are entry level culinary jobs?

Entry level culinary jobs are positions in the food industry that require little to no prior professional kitchen experience. These roles often include responsibilities such as food preparation, assisting chefs, maintaining cleanliness, and following recipes. Common job titles include prep cook, line cook, dishwasher, or kitchen assistant. Entry level culinary jobs are a great way to learn basic kitchen skills, gain hands-on experience, and start a career in the culinary field. Advancement is possible with experience, training, and dedication.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Culinary professional, a basic understanding of food preparation, kitchen safety, and sanitation is essential, often supported by a high school diploma or culinary coursework. Familiarity with commercial kitchen tools, knives, and food handling certifications like ServSafe are typically required. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and a willingness to learn make someone stand out in this role. These skills and qualities are vital for maintaining a safe, efficient kitchen and delivering high-quality dishes to customers.

What is the difference between Entry Level Culinary vs Entry Level Cook?

AspectEntry Level CulinaryEntry Level Cook
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; culinary school preferredHigh school diploma or equivalent; culinary training beneficial
Work EnvironmentRestaurants, hotels, catering servicesKitchen settings in restaurants, cafes, hotels
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly used in hospitality and food service industriesPrimarily used in restaurant kitchens and food establishments
Search & Comparison IntentPeople exploring entry-level culinary roles and career pathsIndividuals seeking basic cooking positions in food service

Entry Level Culinary and Entry Level Cook roles often overlap, with both requiring similar credentials and work environments. The term 'Entry Level Culinary' may encompass a broader range of food service positions, including prep cooks and kitchen assistants, while 'Entry Level Cook' specifically refers to basic cooking roles. Both are ideal starting points for those interested in a culinary career in hospitality settings.

More about Entry Level Culinary jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Culinary jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Culinary job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Culinary jobs? The most popular types of Culinary jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Culinary jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Culinary jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Culinary jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Culinary jobs are:
Entry Level Culinary jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Culinary job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 24% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $39,420 per year, or $19 per hour.
Join Our Culinary Team and Make a Difference Every Day

Join Our Culinary Team and Make a Difference Every Day

Mennonite Village

Albany, OR • On-site

$18.50 - $24/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago

Mennonite Village rating

5.6

Company rating: 5.6 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

At Mennonite Village, our dining services team plays a vital role in supporting the health, comfort, and quality of life of the residents we serve. We are currently seeking a Cook I who is passionate about preparing nutritious, high-quality meals and enjoys working as part of a collaborative team in a senior living environment.

This is an entry-level culinary position and a great opportunity for individuals looking to grow their skills while making meaningful connections with residents and coworkers.

Why Work at Mennonite Village?
  • Be part of a mission-driven organization serving older adults with dignity and respect
  • Supportive team environment with ongoing training and development
  • Meaningful work that directly impacts resident well-being
  • Commitment to safety, inclusion, and professional growth

We value teamwork, reliability, and a positive attitude-and we welcome individuals who share our passion for quality service and compassionate care.

What You'll Do

As a Cook I, you will support daily food service operations by assisting with meal preparation, cooking, and service while following standardized recipes, portion control guidelines, and food safety regulations. You'll help ensure meals are prepared accurately, safely, and on time-always with resident satisfaction in mind.

Key responsibilities include:

  • Preparing and cooking food according to standardized recipes and approved menus
  • Supporting therapeutic, modified texture, and special diet meal preparation
  • Maintaining accurate food temperature, refrigeration, and sanitation logs
  • Assisting with meal setup, service, and production line operations
  • Ensuring food is cooked, held, and served at appropriate temperatures
  • Following FIFO inventory practices and monitoring food quality and freshness
  • Maintaining a clean, safe, and sanitary kitchen environment
  • Collaborating with the culinary team to support special events and holiday meals
What We're Looking For

We're looking for someone who is dependable, team-oriented, and takes pride in their work.

Required qualifications:

  • Valid Food Handler's Card (or ability to obtain within 30 days of hire)
  • Previous experience in a restaurant or institutional food service setting
  • Valid Oregon driver's license or golf cart driver's license
  • Ability to follow written and verbal instructions and work on a fixed meal schedule

The Qualities That Set You Apart

  • One year of cooking experience
  • Approachable, organized, and people-centered
  • Detail-oriented with the ability to balance multiple priorities
  • Professional, proactive, and dependable
  • A team player who values collaboration and service

Pay range, depending on experience: $18.50 to $24.00 per hour depending on experience.

  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • Paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and holidays
  • Retirement savings plan with company contributions or matching
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Professional development opportunities, including training, certifications, and conferences
  • Employee wellness programs
  • Employee recognition programs and team celebrations

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Mennonite Village values diversity and inclusion and is committed to equal employment opportunity for all. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and organizational need, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected classification under applicable law. We welcome individuals who share our mission of serving older adults with dignity, respect, and compassion.

We are committed to providing a workplace free from discrimination and harassment and to offering reasonable accommodations in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and applicable state laws for qualified individuals with disabilities.


Criminal background check is required for new hires. Mennonite Village is a drug-free workplace. In addition, information may be obtained through the Driver and Motor Vehicle Services Division (DMV), court records, and other states' data systems. Fingerprints may be required as part of the check.


Job Posted by ApplicantPro

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