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Entry Level Kitchen Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Cook

Roanoke, VA · On-site

$13.75 - $18.50/hr

The Cook position is an entry level cook who can operate at least one of 3 stations in the kitchen. Reliability and a willingness to learn are prerequisites. Duties/Responsibilities: * Set up kitchen

Cook

Roanoke, VA

$13.75 - $18.50/hr

The Cook position is an entry level cook who can operate at least one of 3 stations in the kitchen. Reliability and a willingness to learn are prerequisites. Duties/Responsibilities: * Set up kitchen

Cook

Roanoke, VA · On-site

$13.75 - $18.50/hr

The Cook position is an entry level cook who can operate at least one of 3 stations in the kitchen. Reliability and a willingness to learn are prerequisites. Duties/Responsibilities: * Set up kitchen

Cook

Roanoke, VA · On-site

$13.75 - $18.50/hr

The Cook position is an entry level cook who can operate at least one of 3 stations in the kitchen. Reliability and a willingness to learn are prerequisites. Duties/Responsibilities: * Set up kitchen

Culinary Specialist (U.S. Army)

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$36K - $49K/yr

This is an entry level position with no experience necessary. Position requirements ... Operate, maintain and clean field kitchen equipment * Perform preventive maintenance on garrison ...

Cook, PT

Williamsburg, VA

$13.50 - $18/hr

Culinary/Kitchen Organization: Theatres Schedule: Part-time Employee Status: Regular Job Type: Experienced Job Level: Entry Level Travel: No Job Posting: Jun 15, 2026, 10:29:50 PM Hourly/Yearly Wage ...

Promptly deliver food from the kitchen to the correct tables and seat positions, using proper tray ... Prior experience in hospitality or a similar entry-level role is preferred but often not required ...

Energetic Entry-Level Dishwasher Looking to get your foot in the door of fine dining? Want to join ... Keep kitchen equipment clean and functioning properly. * Be a Team Player: Jump in and help ...

Promptly deliver food from the kitchen to the correct tables and seat positions, using proper tray ... Prior experience in hospitality or a similar entry-level role is preferred but often not required ...

Line Cook

VA · On-site

$14.75 - $18.50/hr

... entry level experience and will seek to improve culinary skill sets. Required Excellent written and verbal communication skills Attention to detail and organizational skills Understanding of kitchen ...

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Entry Level Kitchen information

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How much do entry level kitchen jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level kitchen in Virginia is $15.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.37 and $16.44 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to work in a kitchen with no experience?

Entry level kitchen positions often require minimal experience and focus on basic tasks such as food prep, cleaning, and dishwashing. Demonstrating a willingness to learn, good work ethic, and the ability to follow instructions can help you get started; some employers may also provide on-the-job training. Having basic knowledge of kitchen safety and sanitation is beneficial.

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.

What is the easiest job in a kitchen?

Entry-level kitchen jobs such as dishwashing or prep cook are generally considered the easiest, as they involve basic tasks like cleaning dishes or preparing ingredients. These roles typically require minimal experience and skills, making them accessible for beginners in a kitchen environment.

What is an entry level kitchen job?

An entry level kitchen job is a position suitable for individuals with little or no prior experience working in a kitchen environment. These roles often include tasks such as food preparation, cleaning, and basic cooking, and may require basic skills, a willingness to learn, and the ability to work in a fast-paced setting.

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

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.

Which kitchen position is an entry level role?

An entry-level kitchen position is typically a line cook, prep cook, or dishwasher. These roles usually require minimal experience, focus on basic food preparation skills, and often do not require formal certifications. They serve as starting points for those seeking to build a career in culinary work.

What are entry level kitchen jobs?

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 most commonly searched types of Kitchen jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Kitchen jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Entry Level Kitchen jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Entry Level Kitchen job openings:

$13.75 - $18.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 26 days ago


Job description

We are seeking a dedicated and skilled Cook to join our culinary team. The ideal candidate will possess a passion for food preparation and presentation, as well as the ability to work in a fast-paced environment. As a Cook, you will collaborate with kitchen staff to create delicious and high-quality meals that align with our standards and delight our customers. A complete job description is included below.
Competitive Compensation and Benefits including health, vision, and dental insurance, group life and long term disability insurance, Flex Spending Account and Dependent Care Account, Tuition and Student Loan Reimbursement, as well as 401(k) plan.
We are an equal opportunity employer and a drug-free workplace. This is a position which will require work on weekends, nights and holidays. Please, no phone calls about this job.
EOE/AA. We provide equal opportunity without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, age, marital status, or disability.
Job Summary:
The Cook position is an entry level cook who can operate at least one of 3 stations in the kitchen. Reliability and a willingness to learn are prerequisites.
Duties/Responsibilities:
  • Set up kitchen
  • Restocking and maintaining cleanliness of kitchen area
  • Production of food products on station
  • Operation of relative kitchen equipment and tools
  • Breakdown and clean-up of kitchen
  • Washing dishes, pots, and pans related kitchen production
  • Ability to plate food products to specification
  • Follow departmental policies and procedures.
  • Follow all safety and sanitation policies and procedures
  • Sanitize all cleaning tools including mops, brooms, etc, at end of shift
  • Maintain a friendly and professional attitude when interacting with guests and fellow staff members
  • Assist other departments when needed to ensure optimum service to guests.
  • Performs other duties as assigned. The company reserves the right to add or change duties at any time.

Required Skills/Abilities:
  • Knowledge of proper cleaning and sanitation procedures
  • Ability to follow recipes and culinary procedures
  • Good organizational skills and attention to detail.
  • Good analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to function well in a high-paced and at times stressful environment.

Education and Experience:
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Serve Safe Employee Certification preferred or achieved in first 3 months
  • Food and Beverage service experience preferred

Physical Requirements:
  • Able to stand for prolonged periods
  • Able to climb stairs
  • Able to walk kitchen and service public areas
  • Able to twist, bend, reach and pull
  • Able to lift up to 50 pounds