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Entry Level Line Cook Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

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Join the Culinary Team

Eugene, OR · On-site

$16.10 - $21/hr

... team! Entry-level hourly culinary positions start at $16.10/hour - $19.10/hour depending on ... As a Culinary Team Member, you will provide front line customer service that is prompt, courteous ...

Cafe Yumm!

Restaurant Crew Member - Airport

Portland, OR

$27.15/hr

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 ...

Apply Early

Cafe Yumm!

Restaurant Crew Member

Springfield, OR

$22.94/hr

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 ...

Cafe Yumm!

Restaurant Crew Member

Clackamas, OR

$22.79/hr

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 ...

Apply Early

Cafe Yumm!

Restaurant Crew Member

Clackamas, OR

$22.79/hr

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 ...

Cafe Yumm!

Restaurant Crew Member

Springfield, OR

$22.94/hr

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 ...

Apply Early

Cafe Yumm!

Restaurant Crew Member

Eugene, OR · On-site

$21.02/hr

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 ...

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All JobsEntry Level Line Cook JobsEntry Level Line Cook Jobs in Oregon

Entry Level Line Cook information

See Oregon salary details

$10

$18

$23

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

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level line cook in Oregon is $18.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.01 and $20.10 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Can I be a restaurant cook if I have no job experience?

Entry level line cook positions typically do not require prior professional experience, as employers often provide on-the-job training. Having basic cooking skills, a willingness to learn, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment are important for starting in this role.

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.

Can I get a cooking job with no experience?

Entry level line cook positions often do not require prior experience, as employers may provide on-the-job training. Basic skills such as the ability to follow instructions, work efficiently, and maintain cleanliness are important. Certifications like a food handler's permit can also improve chances of hiring.

How to become a line cook with no experience?

To become an entry-level line cook with no experience, focus on gaining basic kitchen skills, such as knife handling and food safety, through online courses or volunteering. Apply to restaurants that offer on-the-job training and demonstrate a strong work ethic, reliability, and willingness to learn during interviews.

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.

Are line cooks entry-level?

Line cooks are often considered entry-level positions in the culinary industry, suitable for individuals with basic cooking skills and a willingness to learn. Many employers provide on-the-job training, and some require minimal prior experience, making it accessible for beginners. Advancement typically involves gaining experience and developing specialized skills or certifications.

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 Oregon? The most popular types of Line Cook jobs in Oregon are:
Entry Level Line Cook jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Line Cook job openings in Oregon as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 58% Full Time, 41% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,621 per year, or $18.1 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

Posted 26 days ago

Be an early applicant

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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