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Entry Level Line Cook Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Fast Food Cook

Williamsburg, VA · On-site

$16.50/hr

The Fast Food Cook is an entry level position that prepares food for guests in accordance with the ... logs, line check sheets and food waste sheets. * Ensure compliance with all food-handling and ...

Fast Food Cook

Williamsburg, VA · On-site

$16.50/hr

The Fast Food Cook is an entry level position that prepares food for guests in accordance with the ... logs, line check sheets and food waste sheets. * Ensure compliance with all food-handling and ...

This is an entry-level position with a real path forward for anyone who wants to grow in a ... Sorting and stacking clean dishes; carrying clean dishes to cook's line and other proper storage ...

New

This is an entry-level Packaging Technician or Make-up Monitor position at our bakery that requires ... Performing minor line equipment set ups, moving product trays, conducting product inspections

Showing results 21-27

Entry Level Line Cook information

See Virginia salary details

$9

$16

$21

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

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level line cook in Virginia is $16.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.00 and $18.85 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 Virginia?

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

Infographic showing various Entry Level Line Cook job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,277 per year, or $17 per hour.

Fast Food Cook

Great Wolf Lodge

Williamsburg, VA • On-site

$16.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago


Great Wolf Lodge rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 310 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

51st of 108 rated hotels


Job description

Pay: $16.50 

In addition to base pay, Pack Members in this role may receive tips from guests. Tips vary by shift and location and are not guaranteed. [Recent averages reported for this position have ranged from $2-$4 per hour.]


At Great Wolf, the Fast Food Cook works in a fast-paced quick service environment to deliver on our commitment to high quality hospitality. The Fast Food Cook is an entry level position that prepares food for guests in accordance with the highest standards, to exceed guest satisfaction. 


Hiring immediately with full-time, part-time, and flexible scheduling – must be at least sixteen (16) years or older 

Join our Pack:   

Grow your career: A great place to start or advance your career with cross-training, scholarship fund, and talent development programs at all levels   

Great Perks: Take advantage of exclusive perks for you, your family, and friends – including discounted vacations and employee referral incentives   

Learn While You Earn: Gain access to Great Wolf University for on-the-job training, functional, and leadership training   

Prioritize Your Well-Being: We offer flexible scheduling, access to a holistic wellness program and technology, and support through our Employee Assistance Program and Employee Relief Fund   

Celebrate Your Uniqueness: Join a team that cheers for diversity and inclusion through programs that make everyone feel welcome and recognized.   

Benefits:   

  • Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance   
  • Health savings account   
  • Telehealth resources   
  • Life insurance   
  • 401K with employer match   
  • Paid vacation time off   
  • Paid parental leave   


Essential Duties & Responsibilities

  • Maintain and follow all department operating procedures; ensure completion of daily temperature logs, daily cleaning logs, line check sheets and food waste sheets.
  • Ensure compliance with all food-handling and sanitation regulations.
  • Prepare all food items per recipe guidelines, tasting and adjusting for flavor with assistance of chef.
  • Executes food orders according to guest preference in a timely manner while working on multiple orders at once.
  • Provides food preparation assistance by washing, peeling, cutting and preparing a variety of ingredients
  • Controls recipes by weighing and measuring designated ingredients.
  • Provides food and utensils for chef by carrying pans, kettles, and trays of food to and from workstations, stove, and refrigerator.
  • Supports in stocking food & supply inventory, requisitioning supplies and food; verifying receipt.
  • Maintains safe, secure, and healthy work environment by cleaning work areas, food storage areas, equipment, and utensils; segregating and removing garbage; steam-cleaning or hosing garbage containers; following sanitation standards and procedures; complying with legal regulations.
  • Maintains correct cleaning schedules on all equipment; keeps equipment operating by following operating instructions; troubleshooting breakdowns; maintaining supplies; performing preventive maintenance; calling for repairs.
  • Maintain and follow all Ecosure or similar food safety and sanitation program standards.
  • Assist and support the operation at the request of the Sous Chef, Executive Chef or other property leadership.
  • At the end of the shift check out with outlet leader.


Basic Qualifications & Skills

  • High School diploma or equivalent experience; may have current enrollment.
  • Ability to learn correct and safe food preparation and demonstrated ability to understand sanitation related issues and precautions necessary to ensure a clean food preparation environment. 
  • Must be flexible regarding scheduling based on business demands, including nights, weekends and Holidays as needed.
  • Possess the ability to work with Point of Sale system and Kitchen Display System.
  • Must be able to obtain local or state food handling permits and serv safe food handling certification as required. 
  • Successful completion of criminal background check and drug screen.


Desired Qualifications & Traits

  • Previous cook experience
  • Proven teamwork
  • Projects professional image that inspires trust and confidence
  • Enthusiastic and positive energy
  • Multi-tasking ability


Physical Requirements

  • Able to lift up to 40 lbs.
  • Able to bend, stretch, and twist
  • Able to stand for long periods of time
  • Able to work in hot/cold environments
  • Able to work around continuous moderate noise levels 


Application Instructions:   

Click on “Apply Now” or chat with a recruiter (bottom of your screen on Great Wolf’s website). After a brief application, all qualified applicants will be immediately invited to setup an interview or attend an upcoming hiring event.     

 Position Close Date: 


Pay Rate: $$16.50  /hr

An employee’s pay position within the salary range will be based on several factors, including, but not limited to, relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, seniority, geographic location, performance, travel requirements, revenue-based metrics, any contractual agreements, and business or organizational needs. The range listed is just one component of Great Wolf’s total compensation package. Other rewards may include annual bonuses, a Paid Time Off policy, and other perks.


Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities 

The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor’s legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c) 


This contractor and subcontractor shall abide by the requirements of 41 CFR 60-1.4(a), 60-300.5(a) and 60-741.5(a). These regulations prohibit discrimination against qualified individuals based on their status as protected veterans or individuals with disabilities, and prohibit discrimination against all individuals based on their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, and for inquiring about, discussing or disclosing compensation. Moreover, these regulations require that covered prime contractors and subcontractors take affirmative action to employ and advance in employment individuals without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status.


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