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Entry Level Line Cook Jobs in Pennsylvania (NOW HIRING)

Great Summertime Work

Butler, PA · On-site

$12 - $16/hr

... line cooks and retail/customer service workers. Recruitment Video: Compensation: $12.00 - $16.00 per hour Fish Window Cleaning has grown to be the world's largest window cleaning company with more ...

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Entry Level Line Cook information

See Pennsylvania salary details

$9

$17

$22

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

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level line cook in Pennsylvania is $17.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.19 and $19.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

How hard is it to become an entry level line cook?

Becoming an entry level line cook typically requires minimal formal education and on-the-job training, with most employers valuing basic cooking skills, a willingness to learn, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment. Prior experience or certifications are not usually necessary but can be beneficial. The role often involves working flexible hours and following safety and food handling standards.

How to become an entry level 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. Many restaurants hire without experience and provide on-the-job training, so demonstrating a strong work ethic and willingness to learn can improve your chances of getting hired.

What is an entry level line cook?

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?

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 Pennsylvania? The most popular types of Line Cook jobs in Pennsylvania are:
What cities in Pennsylvania are hiring for Entry Level Line Cook jobs? Cities in Pennsylvania with the most Entry Level Line Cook job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Line Cook job openings in Pennsylvania as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,668 per year, or $17.1 per hour.

$11.75 - $16.25/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

Giant Center is a 10,500-seat multi-purpose arena, and hosts an impressive line-up of star-studded performances and events. Action-packed Hershey Bears hockey games, thrilling live entertainment, and one-of-a-kind events are a day in the life of our Hersheypark Entertainment Complex team members at Hersheypark, Giant Center, Hersheypark Stadium, or Hershey Theatre
The General Cook should demonstrate increased skill development, training capability, and management skills. Position must be experienced in food service operations.
As a Part-Time Team Member, you will enjoy sweet perks like FREE admission and parking to Hersheypark, discounts on food & shopping, and more as soon as you receive your Employee ID!
Job Duties (Duties marked with an asterisk are essential functions of this job):
  • Supervise food preparation, sanitation, and safety in the kitchen*
  • Maintain safe, clean and sanitized work areas*
  • Comply with safety and security procedures outlined in the employee handbook*
  • Adhere to policies of the Hershey Entertainment Complex*
  • Prepare all food items according to prep sheets and standardized recipes with speed and consistency of quality*
  • Assist utility personnel maintain cleanliness of the dish room and pot washing areas*
  • Wash and sanitize all kitchen equipment including, but not limited to: fryers, grill, tilt skillet, smokers, worktables, sinks, dishwasher, pots, pans, dishes and utensils*
  • Sweep and mop kitchen floor as needed
  • Remove all trash and break down boxes as needed
  • Assist the warehouse runner to properly receive and store all food, non-food, and cleaning related items, while maintaining a clean and orderly operation*
  • Maintain storage areas including temperature, proper labeling, rotations, and purchases utilizing cost effective practices*
  • Work with supervisors to acquire goods for locations
  • Deliver prepared items to assigned areas as needed
  • Perform all duties as assigned by Executive Chef and Sous Chefs as needed

Qualifications:
  • Must be a minimum of 16 years of age
  • Must have previous experience (minimum 1 year) in the culinary field or be enrolled in college or technical school for Culinary or Pastry Arts
  • Demonstrate ability to train and supervise entry level Culinary and Pastry staff
  • Must pass ServSafe Food Handler and Allergen programs within 90 days of employment

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
  • Must be able to project a positive, self-motivated, professional attitude at all times with a willingness to learn.
  • Ability to follow directions from direct supervisors and Chefs as well as give direction to others
  • Possess a working knowledge of food service equipment
  • Demonstrate understanding of inventory storage procedures (food, dry stock, liquids, chemicals, etc.)
  • Well-honed skill set that includes ability to oversee line production
  • Well versed in aesthetic presentation of food items
  • Must be versed in standardized food storage and standardized food cooling procedures
  • Ability to organize and maintain storage areas including the warehouse
  • Display kitchen management skills - oversee staff, mindful of costs, delegate tasks, etc.
  • Must use appropriate standards for food preparation and display skills
  • Capable of Culinary and Pastry oversight operations of kitchens, food stands, or special events/off-site catering.
  • Ability to work independently as well as lead teams
  • Must be able to read and write and understand English

Job Demands:
  • Must be able to do physical work and lift a minimum of 35 lbs.
  • Must wear approved uniform and footwear

Nothing in this job description restricts management's right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.
Hershey Entertainment & Resorts is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.