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Entry Level Line Cook Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Shirlington - Busboys and Poets

Line Cook

Arlington, VA

$18.50 - $21/hr

All positions will initially be offered at the entry-level rate, with consideration for annual ... Over 60% of our managers were promoted from within to their existing role from line staff or from ...

Busboys and Poets

Line Cook

Arlington, VA · On-site

$18.50 - $21/hr

All positions will initially be offered at the entry-level rate, with consideration for annual ... Over 60% of our managers were promoted from within to their existing role from line staff or from ...

Donohoe Hospitality Services

Cook

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$15 - $20/hr

We believe in developing our team members, with many of our supervisors starting in entry-level ... Work closely with Food and Beverage Manager to create new menu items for cook to order line. * Date ...

Donohoe Hospitality

Cook

Alexandria, VA

$15 - $20/hr

We believe in developing our team members, with many of our supervisors starting in entry-level ... Work closely with Food and Beverage Manager to create new menu items for cook to order line. * Date ...

Shirlington - Busboys and Poets

Cook

Arlington, VA

$18.50 - $21/hr

All positions will initially be offered at the entry-level rate, with consideration for annual ... Over 60% of our managers were promoted from within to their existing role from line staff or from ...

Busboys and Poets

Food Runner

Washington, DC · On-site

$10 - $12/hr

All positions will initially be offered at the entry-level rate, with consideration for annual ... Effectively communicate customer needs to line cooks and/or servers * Expedite food and insure ...

Busboys and Poets

Food Runner

Washington, DC · On-site

$10 - $12/hr

All positions will initially be offered at the entry-level rate, with consideration for annual ... Effectively communicate customer needs to line cooks and/or servers * Expedite food and insure ...

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All JobsEntry Level Line Cook JobsEntry Level Line Cook Jobs in Washington, DC

Entry Level Line Cook information

See Washington, DC salary details

$10

$18

$24

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

As of Jun 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level line cook in Washington, DC is $18.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.73 and $21.01 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 Washington, DC? The most popular types of Line Cook jobs in Washington, DC are:
Entry Level Line Cook jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Line Cook job openings in Washington, DC as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,337 per year, or $18.9 per hour.

Line Cook

Shirlington - Busboys and Poets

Arlington, VA

$18.50 - $21/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Please note that this salary range is accurate as of July 1st, 2024. It reflects our starting rate as well as the compensation for our most senior employees at this time. All positions will initially be offered at the entry-level rate, with consideration for annual increases based on performance assessments.
Busboys and Poets is a restaurant/bar/bookstore/event space/community where racial and cultural connections are consciously uplifted and a place to take a deliberate pause and feed your mind, body and soul. It is also a space for art, culture and politics to intentionally collide. We believe that by creating such a space we can inspire social change and begin to transform our community and the world.
We are always looking for passionate, hospitality-driven, people-persons! Do you want to serve delicious food in a diverse space where you truly be yourself? As a server, you will work in a team-oriented, fast-paced, guest-centric environment where we want to see you succeed and ultimately grow, both personally and professionally. If this sounds like the vibe you’re looking for, we hope you will apply!
Job Type: Variable
Pay: $18.50-$21 per hour


COMPANY BENEFITS

Busboys and Poets offers competitive pay and benefits including a wide choice of health insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, 401(k) retirement plan with employer match 100% of 4% and 50% of the next 2% of contributions, 1 week sick leave per year, paid parental leave, a company paid life insurance policy, pet insurance and so much more!
WHY WORK FOR US

Join a diverse space:
81% of our total workforce identifies as a person of color, 45% of our total workforce identifies as female and 5% of our workforce identifies as a person with disabilities. Our executive team also represents gender diversity, ethnic diversity, sexual orientation, and more. Men and women equally represented as well as various cultural and religious backgrounds. We strive to provide an inclusive workplace where you can bring your authentic self to work.

Grow with us:
Over 60% of our managers were promoted from within to their existing role from line staff or from Front-of-House manager to Assistant or General Manager. Our entire Executive Team consists of existing employees who showed promise and were promoted into leadership positions.

Work with latest technologies:
Striving to be a leader in our industry, we utilize a broad spectrum of technologies including our tech-forward training program, employee payroll system, a self-managed tip distribution system, an events and catering platform, inventory management system, our POS Toast, and much more!

Happy staff:
Busboys and Poets is always looking for the next best way to engage with our staff. This includes raffles, anniversary boxes, an employee dedicated web-based forum and information site, blog and podcast.

Job duties include but are not limited to:

  • Work well with a team, jumping in where needed (Substitute for or assist other cooks during emergencies or rush periods)
  • Prepare food according to the recipes provided
  • Turn or stir foods to ensure even cooking
  • Observe and test foods to determine if they have been cooked sufficiently, using methods such as tasting, smelling, or piercing them with utensils.
  • Weigh, measure, and mix ingredients according to recipes, using various kitchen utensils and equipment.
  • Portion, arrange, and garnish food
  • Inspect and clean food preparation areas, such as equipment and work surfaces, or serving areas to ensure safe and sanitary food-handling practices.
  • Ensure food is stored and cooked at correct temperature by regulating temperature of ovens, broilers, grills, and roasters.
    Ensure freshness of food and ingredients by checking for quality, keeping track of old and new items, and rotating stock.


Physical Requirements:

  • Spend time bending or twisting the body
  • Spend time lifting heavy weight
  • Spend time standing on feet for long hours
  • Spend time using your hands to handle, control, or feel objects/tools

Qualifications:

  • More than 1 year working in a fast-paced, full-service restaurant preferred
  • Must be at least 18 years of age in order to work in the kitchen
  • Must work a minimum of 3 shifts per week
  • Must be a team player
Busboys and Poets owns and operates 8 multi-concept restaurant, bar, event and bookstore spaces in DC, Maryland and Virginia. Our locations include: 14th & V, 450K, Anacostia, Brookland, Columbia, Hyattsville, Shirlington and Takoma with more on the horizon!
We use eVerify to confirm U.S. Employment eligibility.