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Entry Level Line Cook Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Addington Place of Clarkston

Cook

Clarkston, MI

$14.25 - $19.25/hr

Work the food line during mealtimes. * Ensure that all food meets safety guidelines and that all ... You have basic computer skills. Entry level proficiency with Excel and Word is required. * You ...

Penn Station East Coast Subs

Shift Leader

Utica, MI

$14 - $16/hr

Managers, Line Cooks, Crew Members Penn Station East Coast Subs is a fast growing, quick casual sub ... All hiring positions are entry-level positions, where training is available immediately. Plan for a ...

Penn Station East Coast Subs

Team Member

Warren, MI

$13/hr

Friendly - Smile, have fun, and let your personality shine Managers, Line Cooks, Crew Members Penn ... All hiring positions are entry-level positions, where training is available immediately. Plan for a ...

Penn Station East Coast Subs

Crew Member

Utica, MI

$12 - $16/hr

Managers, Line Cooks, Crew Members Penn Station East Coast Subs is a fast growing, quick casual sub ... All hiring positions are entry-level positions, where training is available immediately. Plan for a ...

Penn Station East Coast Subs

Sandwich Maker

Utica, MI · On-site

$13/hr

Managers, Line Cooks, Crew Members Penn Station East Coast Subs is a fast growing, quick casual sub ... All hiring positions are entry-level positions, where training is available immediately. Plan for a ...

Penn Station East Coast Subs

Sandwich Maker

Warren, MI

$13/hr

Managers, Line Cooks, Crew Members Penn Station East Coast Subs is a fast growing, quick casual sub ... All hiring positions are entry-level positions, where training is available immediately. Plan for a ...

Holiday Market

Baker/Cake Decorator

Royal Oak, MI · On-site

$16/hr

Cake Decorator/Baker Holiday Market is seeking entry level Cake Decorators and experienced Bakers ... Producing our vegan dessert line. * Tracking food supply inventory and informing management when an ...

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All JobsEntry Level Line Cook JobsEntry Level Line Cook Jobs in Michigan

Entry Level Line Cook information

See Michigan salary details

$8

$14

$19

How much do entry level line cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level line cook in Michigan is $14.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.22 and $16.54 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to get a cooking job without experience?

Entry level line cook positions often do not require prior experience; applicants can improve their chances by demonstrating a willingness to learn, maintaining a positive attitude, and gaining basic kitchen skills through cooking classes or volunteering. Having a food handler's permit or certification can also be beneficial and shows commitment to food safety standards.

What are some common challenges new entry-level line cooks face, and how can they overcome them?

New entry-level line cooks often face challenges such as working efficiently under pressure, mastering kitchen equipment quickly, and accurately following recipes in a fast-paced environment. To overcome these hurdles, it's helpful to stay organized, communicate clearly with team members, and actively seek feedback from more experienced cooks. Building good time management skills and being open to learning will help you adapt quickly and become a valuable member of the kitchen team.

What is an entry level cook?

An entry level line cook is a beginner culinary worker responsible for preparing ingredients, cooking dishes, and maintaining kitchen cleanliness under supervision. This role typically requires basic cooking skills, knowledge of food safety, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment. It often serves as a starting point for a career in the culinary industry.

How to start cooking with no experience?

Entry level line cooks typically start by learning basic food preparation skills, such as knife handling and ingredient measurement, often through on-the-job training or culinary courses. Gaining familiarity with kitchen tools, safety procedures, and following recipes helps build competence and confidence in a professional kitchen environment.

How to get started as a line cook?

To start as a line cook, gain basic culinary skills through cooking classes or self-study, and seek entry-level kitchen positions to gain hands-on experience. Having a good work ethic, the ability to work in a fast-paced environment, and knowledge of kitchen safety and sanitation are essential for success in this role.

What are entry level line cooks?

Entry level line cooks are kitchen staff who assist in the preparation and cooking of food under the supervision of chefs or more experienced cooks. They typically work at specific stations, such as grilling, sautéing, or assembling dishes, and are responsible for following recipes, preparing ingredients, and maintaining cleanliness in their work area. These positions are often the starting point for a culinary career, offering opportunities to learn kitchen techniques and gain practical experience in a professional setting.

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

AspectEntry Level Line CookPrep Cook
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; basic culinary skillsHigh school diploma or equivalent; basic culinary skills
Work EnvironmentFast-paced kitchen stations during servicePrepping ingredients before service, often in a separate area
Employer & Industry UsageRestaurants, cafes, hotelsRestaurants, catering, hotels
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Entry Level Line Cooks and Prep Cooks both require basic culinary skills and work in restaurant kitchens. The main difference is that Line Cooks work during service at specific stations, while Prep Cooks focus on preparing ingredients beforehand. Both roles are essential for smooth kitchen operations and often overlap in skills and environment.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Line Cook, you need a basic understanding of food preparation, kitchen safety, and hygiene, often supported by a food handler certification. Familiarity with kitchen equipment, point-of-sale (POS) systems, and common culinary tools is typically required. Strong teamwork, the ability to follow directions, and time management are vital soft skills in this fast-paced environment. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining kitchen efficiency, food safety, and delivering a consistent dining experience.
What are the most commonly searched types of Line Cook jobs in Michigan? The most popular types of Line Cook jobs in Michigan are:
Entry Level Line Cook jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Line Cook job openings in Michigan as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 56% Full Time, 43% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,013 per year, or $14.9 per hour.

Cook

Addington Place of Clarkston

Clarkston, MI

$14.25 - $19.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Company Description

Do you have HEART? We are looking for individuals who can embrace our mission to purposely brighten and enrich the lives of those we serve with HEART; Hospitality, Excellence, Appreciation, Respect & Teamwork. In this role you will be responsible for providing high quality meals to the residents, guests and staff.

Job Description
  • Prepare all food using the daily planner and SLC standard recipes.
  • Work the food line during mealtimes.
  • Ensure that all food meets safety guidelines and that all kitchen areas meet sanitation guidelines.
  • Ensure resident and guest satisfaction by responding quickly to needs and requests. 
  • Maintain a positive and professional demeanor toward all residents, visitors and co-workers.
Qualifications
  • Experience in production cooking and/or preparing therapeutic diets is preferred.
  • You need to be able to communicate clearly and effectively in English.
  • You have and/or are willing to obtain the necessary food handling and sanitation licenses.
  • You have basic computer skills. Entry level proficiency with Excel and Word is required.
  • You possess the ability to make independent decisions when circumstances warrant such action.
  • You have the ability to solve practical problems and deal with variables in situations where only limited standardization exists.
  • You can maintain a positive and friendly demeanor toward the residents and your co-workers.

Additional Information

Senior Lifestyle offers a comprehensive benefits plan to eligible team members including health, dental, vision, retirement benefits, short-term disability, long-term disability, and paid time off. All Senior Lifestyle positions are eligible to use DailyPay, an application that allows you to access your earned but unpaid wages before your next payday. Senior Lifestyle requires that all employees provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination unless exempt due to medical, religious, or personal beliefs. Government requirements or exclusions may apply.