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Entry Level Line Cook Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

SpaceXAI

Cook

Memphis, TN · On-site

$13.50 - $18.25/hr

This is an entry-level line cook position for individuals who are familiar with basic cooking principles and techniques, have a firm understanding of all basic food safety principles, and can ...

SpaceXAI

Cook

Memphis, TN · On-site

$13.50 - $18.25/hr

This is an entry-level line cook position for individuals who are familiar with basic cooking principles and techniques, have a firm understanding of all basic food safety principles, and can ...

SpaceXAI

Cook

Memphis, TN

$13.50 - $18.25/hr

This is an entry-level line cook position for individuals who are familiar with basic cooking principles and techniques, have a firm understanding of all basic food safety principles, and can ...

Soho House & Co.

Line Cook II - Nasvhille

Nashville, TN · On-site

$15.25 - $19/hr

As Line Cook II , you thrive in fast-paced environments and positively influence the team by ... Whether you're seeking entry-level employment or a new opportunity to expand your profession, we ...

Soho House & Co.

Line Cook II - Nasvhille

Nashville, TN · On-site

$15.25 - $19/hr

As Line Cook II , you thrive in fast-paced environments and positively influence the team by ... Whether you're seeking entry-level employment or a new opportunity to expand your profession, we ...

Stratas Foods

Mixer Operator - 2nd Shift

Nashville, TN · On-site

$16 - $19.25/hr

Mixer I is the entry-level mixer position. Employees in this role are responsible for learning ... Operation of CIP skids in addition to breakdown and cleaning of line components. * Knowledge of ...

Stratas Foods

Mixer Operator - 1st Shift

Nashville, TN

$16 - $19.25/hr

Mixer I is the entry-level mixer position. Employees in this role are responsible for learning ... Operation of CIP skids in addition to breakdown and cleaning of line components. * Knowledge of ...

Stratas Foods

Mixer Operator - 2nd Shift

Nashville, TN

$16 - $19.25/hr

Mixer I is the entry-level mixer position. Employees in this role are responsible for learning ... Operation of CIP skids in addition to breakdown and cleaning of line components. * Knowledge of ...

Stratas Foods

Mixer Operator - 1st Shift

Nashville, TN · On-site

$16 - $19.25/hr

Mixer I is the entry-level mixer position. Employees in this role are responsible for learning ... Operation of CIP skids in addition to breakdown and cleaning of line components. * Knowledge of ...

Stratas Foods

Mixer Operator - 1st Shift

Nashville, TN · On-site

$16 - $19.25/hr

Mixer I is the entry-level mixer position. Employees in this role are responsible for learning ... Operation of CIP skids in addition to breakdown and cleaning of line components. * Knowledge of ...

Stratas Foods

Mixer Operator - 2nd Shift

Nashville, TN · On-site

$16 - $19.25/hr

Mixer I is the entry-level mixer position. Employees in this role are responsible for learning ... Operation of CIP skids in addition to breakdown and cleaning of line components. * Knowledge of ...

All JobsLine Cook JobsEntry Level Line Cook JobsEntry Level Line Cook Jobs in Tennessee

Entry Level Line Cook information

See Tennessee salary details

$8

$15

$20

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

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level line cook in Tennessee is $15.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.75 and $17.21 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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.

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. Apply to restaurants that offer on-the-job training and demonstrate a strong work ethic and willingness to learn during interviews.

What are the most commonly searched types of Line Cook jobs in Tennessee?

The most popular types of Line Cook jobs in Tennessee are:

Entry Level Line Cook jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Line Cook job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $32,295 per year, or $15.5 per hour.

Cook

Memphis, TN • On-site

SpaceXAI
Aerospace Product and Parts Manufacturing • 1 - 5K employees

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 150 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

16th of 72 rated aerospace companies

Great coworkers

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Learn more about SpaceXAIexternal

$13.50 - $18.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

ABOUT THE ROLE:

This is an entry-level line cook position for individuals who are familiar with basic cooking principles and techniques, have a firm understanding of all basic food safety principles, and can identify and use standard cooking equipment. Daily tasks will focus on food preparation and operating a station at one of our various food outlets, according to leadership's specifications. The cook position supports SpaceXAI's success by providing quality food options that boost morale and productivity. 

RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Set up, work, and maintain a clean and safe workstation
  • Complete daily prep tasks
  • Help the team meet time and quality standards set by the supervisor
  • Cook and plate completed dishes for service
  • Clean kitchen equipment and work/storage areas
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
  • High school diploma or equivalency certificate
  • Culinary degree or 2+ years of experience in the food service industry
  • Ability to carry large heavy items, such as dishes in tubs or trays unassisted (up to 25 lbs.)
  • Ability to stand for long periods of time - up to 8 hours a day
  • Ability to work all shifts and be available for overtime and weekends, as needed
  • Ability to perform frequent bending, stooping, and lifting of objects 
  • Must be able to work all shifts and available for overtime, weekends and holiday(s) as needed
PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
  • Basic knife skills and knowledge of kitchen equipment
  • Possession of or willingness to obtain a food handler card
  • High level of professionalism
  • Experience in a corporate environment
  • Strong communication skills, both written and verbal
  • Basic computer skills (Microsoft Office, Excel, and Outlook primarily)
  • Understanding of standard kitchen hierarchy and roles
  • Understanding of basic cooking methods, including sauce making and meat and vegetable preparations
  • Sound understanding of food safety and sanitation practices
  • Willingness to learn and take guidance from others
ITAR REQUIREMENTS:
  • To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here. 
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About SpaceX

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Aerospace product and parts manufacturing, data services, guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing and satellite telecommunications

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Hawthorne, CA, US

View All SpaceX Jobs

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Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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