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Entry Level Kitchen Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Cook

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$15.25 - $19/hr

This entry-level cook role is ideal for recent culinary school graduates, career changers, or ... Basic knowledge of commercial kitchen equipment and cooking techniques * Foundational skills in ...

Entry Level Cook - Clubhouse

West Lafayette, IN · On-site

$12.50 - $16.75/hr

This entry-level cook role is ideal for recent culinary school graduates, career changers, or ... Basic knowledge of commercial kitchen equipment and cooking techniques * Foundational skills in ...

Prep Cook

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$15 - $16/hr

SIDE STREET FOOD SERVICE Form Division/Department Commissary/ Kitchen Location Commissary - Main Kitchen- Office Job Title Prep Cook Reports to Kitchen Manager STATUS Entry Level Type of position ...

Steward - CVI

Munster, IN · On-site

$14.75 - $20/hr

... entry level Steward / Dietary Kitchen positions Excellent Benefits for Full-time Employees! Excellent Schedule for Part-Time Employees! Benefits package includes: * Paid Time Off (PTO) * Medical ...

Steward - CVI

Munster, IN · On-site

$15.05 - $20.98/hr

... entry level Steward / Dietary Kitchen positions Excellent Benefits for Full-time Employees! Excellent Schedule for Part-Time Employees! Benefits package includes: * Paid Time Off (PTO) * Medical ...

Showing results 21-40

Entry Level Kitchen information

See Indiana salary details

$8

$14

$18

How much do entry level kitchen jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level kitchen in Indiana is $14.66, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.79 and $15.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level kitchen job?

Entry level kitchen jobs are positions in restaurant or food service kitchens that require little to no previous experience. Common roles include dishwasher, prep cook, or kitchen assistant. These jobs involve basic tasks such as washing dishes, prepping ingredients, cleaning, and assisting chefs or cooks. Entry level kitchen jobs are a great way to learn fundamental kitchen skills, gain experience in the food industry, and advance to higher positions over time.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level kitchen worker?

To thrive as an Entry Level Kitchen Worker, you need basic food preparation skills, knowledge of food safety guidelines, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with kitchen equipment, sanitation procedures, and sometimes a food handler’s certification are typically required. Strong teamwork, time management, and the ability to follow instructions are important soft skills in this role. These skills ensure efficient kitchen operations, maintain food safety standards, and support a positive working environment.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level kitchen staff and how can they be overcome?

Entry level kitchen staff often face challenges such as working in a fast-paced environment, managing multiple tasks simultaneously, and learning to follow strict food safety protocols. It's important to stay organized, communicate clearly with team members, and be open to feedback from more experienced colleagues. Consistent practice, asking questions when unsure, and being adaptable can help new team members quickly build confidence and improve their performance.

What is the difference between Entry Level Kitchen vs Line Cook?

AspectEntry Level KitchenLine Cook
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; basic culinary trainingSimilar credentials; some experience preferred
Work EnvironmentFast-paced kitchen, assisting with prep and basic tasksCooking on the line, preparing dishes during service
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level position in restaurants, hotels, cateringMid-level position in kitchens, often requiring some experience

Entry Level Kitchen roles focus on basic kitchen tasks and prep work, serving as an introduction to culinary work. Line Cooks are more experienced, responsible for cooking dishes during service. Both roles share similar credentials and work environments, but Line Cooks typically require more skills and experience.

Can I work in an entry level kitchen with no experience?

Entry level kitchen positions often do not require prior experience and are suitable for beginners. Employers typically look for a willingness to learn, good work ethic, and the ability to follow instructions; basic skills like knife handling and food safety knowledge can be learned on the job. Certifications such as a food handler's permit may be required or preferred.

How to start working in an entry level kitchen with no experience?

To start working in an entry level kitchen with no experience, apply for positions such as dishwasher, prep cook, or entry-level cook, which often require minimal skills. Gaining basic kitchen knowledge, such as food safety and sanitation, and demonstrating a willingness to learn can improve your chances. Some employers may also offer on-the-job training or require a food handler's permit.

What is the easiest job in an entry level kitchen?

The easiest job in an entry-level kitchen is often a dishwasher or dish pit worker, as it requires minimal skills and involves basic cleaning tasks. These roles typically do not require prior experience and may have flexible schedules, making them accessible for beginners.

What are the most commonly searched types of Kitchen jobs in Indiana?

The most popular types of Kitchen jobs in Indiana are:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Kitchen job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, 28% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,495 per year, or $14.7 per hour.

Entry Level Cook

White Lodging

Indianapolis, IN • On-site

$15.25 - $19/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


White Lodging rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 44 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

36th of 107 rated hotels


Job description

Description

Summary:

Enjoy advanced scheduling and the flexibility to swap or pick up shifts easily using our app-perfect for achieving better balance while pursuing your passion in the food and beverage industry!


Launch your culinary career with White Lodging - a hospitality company operating premium hotels, rooftop bars, and restaurants across top U.S. cities. 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 prior restaurant experience required.

Responsibilities:

What You'll Do

  • Train as a Culinarian - learning and practicing the full duties of a professional cook in a structured program
  • Follow company F&B procedures, health department regulations, and federal food safety guidelines
  • Practice proper food handling, storage, and sanitation procedures
  • Assist in maintaining food cost and labor cost standards
  • Check ingredient freshness; follow all recipes and portion-use records
  • Monitor guest feedback scores and work to positively influence rankings
  • Foster a climate of cooperation and respect among coworkers

What You'll Bring

  • Basic knowledge of commercial kitchen equipment and cooking techniques
  • Foundational skills in sauteing, broiling, frying, roasting, butchery, garde manger, pantry, and breakfast cookery
  • Culinary degree or apprenticeship preferred - not required; we will train the right candidate
  • Ability to stand and move at a fast pace for long periods

Other information:

What You Can Look Forward To

  • DailyPay - get paid when you need it
  • Advanced scheduling with easy shift swapping via our app
  • Unlimited employee referral bonuses
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Paid time off (PTO) with rollover
  • Complimentary wellness tools
  • Leadership development & tuition reimbursement
  • Discounts on hotel rooms, dining, and travel
  • Growth opportunities across multiple hotel properties in your market
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Full-time associates also receive:
    • Medical, dental, and vision insurance - starting day 1
    • Life and disability insurance
    • Paid parental leave

White Lodging is an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all associates.

Additional Information: This hotel is owned and operated by an independent franchisee. The franchisee is a separate company and a separate employer from Marriott International, Inc. and its subsidiary companies (collectively, "Marriott"). The franchisee solely controls all aspects of the hotel's employment policies and practices, including hiring, termination, discipline, staffing, compensation, benefits, and all other terms and conditions of employment. If you apply for this position, Marriott will have no involvement in the selection process. Your application information will not be provided to or accessible by Marriott. If you accept a position at this hotel, you will be employed by a franchisee, not Marriott.

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