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Entry Level Prep Cook Jobs in Maryland (NOW HIRING)

Marylandconnect

$19.91 - $20.43/hr

Non-Regular Fixed Term (Fixed Term) Open Date: 07-22-2026 Close Date: $19.91 - $20.43 Hourly Job Summary Under direct supervision, functions as an entry level Cook. The Prep Cook prepares a variety ...

Raising Cane's

Cook - Morning Shift

Columbia, MD · On-site

$16.50/hr

We are looking to immediately hire entry level and experienced Cooks who can thrive in an upbeat ... cook, prep cook, drive-thru cashier or any other restaurant or service-oriented role - we have a ...

Raising Cane's

Cook - Morning Shift

Bel Air, MD · On-site

$16.50/hr

We are looking to immediately hire entry level and experienced Cooks who can thrive in an upbeat ... cook, prep cook, drive-thru cashier or any other restaurant or service-oriented role - we have a ...

Raising Cane's

Cook - Morning Shift

Bel Air, MD · On-site

$16.50/hr

We are looking to immediately hire entry level and experienced Cooks who can thrive in an upbeat ... cook, prep cook, drive-thru cashier or any other restaurant or service-oriented role - we have a ...

Raising Cane's

Cook - Morning Shift

Bel Air, MD · On-site

$16.50/hr

We are looking to immediately hire entry level and experienced Cooks who can thrive in an upbeat ... cook, prep cook, drive-thru cashier or any other restaurant or service-oriented role - we have a ...

Raising Cane's

Cook - Late Night Shift

College Park, MD · On-site

$16.50/hr

We are looking to immediately hire entry level and experienced Cooks who can thrive in an upbeat ... cook, prep cook, drive-thru cashier or any other restaurant or service-oriented role - we have a ...

Raising Cane's

Cook - Late Night Shift

Glen Burnie, MD · On-site

$16.50/hr

We are looking to immediately hire entry level and experienced Cooks who can thrive in an upbeat ... cook, prep cook, drive-thru cashier or any other restaurant or service-oriented role - we have a ...

Raising Cane's

Cook - Dinner/Close Shift

Bowie, MD · On-site

$16.50/hr

We are looking to immediately hire entry level and experienced Cooks who can thrive in an upbeat ... cook, prep cook, drive-thru cashier or any other restaurant or service-oriented role - we have a ...

Raising Cane's

Cook - Late Night Shift

Glen Burnie, MD · On-site

$16.50/hr

We are looking to immediately hire entry level and experienced Cooks who can thrive in an upbeat ... cook, prep cook, drive-thru cashier or any other restaurant or service-oriented role - we have a ...

Raising Cane's

Cook - Dinner/Close Shift

Gambrills, MD · On-site

$16.50/hr

We are looking to immediately hire entry level and experienced Cooks who can thrive in an upbeat ... cook, prep cook, drive-thru cashier or any other restaurant or service-oriented role - we have a ...

Raising Cane's

Cook - Dinner/Close Shift

Gambrills, MD

$16.50/hr

We are looking to immediately hire entry level and experienced Cooks who can thrive in an upbeat ... cook, prep cook, drive-thru cashier or any other restaurant or service-oriented role - we have a ...

Raising Cane's

Cook - Dinner/Close Shift

Bowie, MD · On-site

$16.50/hr

We are looking to immediately hire entry level and experienced Cooks who can thrive in an upbeat ... cook, prep cook, drive-thru cashier or any other restaurant or service-oriented role - we have a ...

Raising Cane's

Cook - Dinner/Close Shift

Bowie, MD · On-site

$16.50/hr

We are looking to immediately hire entry level and experienced Cooks who can thrive in an upbeat ... cook, prep cook, drive-thru cashier or any other restaurant or service-oriented role - we have a ...

Raising Cane's

Cook - Late Night Shift

Glen Burnie, MD · On-site

$16.50/hr

We are looking to immediately hire entry level and experienced Cooks who can thrive in an upbeat ... cook, prep cook, drive-thru cashier or any other restaurant or service-oriented role - we have a ...

Raising Cane's

Cook - Dinner/Close Shift

Gambrills, MD · On-site

$16.50/hr

We are looking to immediately hire entry level and experienced Cooks who can thrive in an upbeat ... cook, prep cook, drive-thru cashier or any other restaurant or service-oriented role - we have a ...

Raising Cane's

Cook - Late Night Shift

College Park, MD · On-site

$16.50/hr

We are looking to immediately hire entry level and experienced Cooks who can thrive in an upbeat ... cook, prep cook, drive-thru cashier or any other restaurant or service-oriented role - we have a ...

Cinépolis Luxury Cinemas

Kitchen Staff

Gaithersburg, MD

$15.25 - $19.75/hr

Experience should include dishwashing, prep/cooking, and expediting experience. If does not meet experience requirements, the position can start as a dishwasher and/or prep cook at an entry-level ...

Raising Cane's

Restaurant Crewmember

Waldorf, MD

$16.50/hr

... cook, prep cook, drive thru cashier or any other restaurant or service-oriented role - we have a ... Even if you don't have previous Restaurant experience, this position is entry-level (yes, that's no ...

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All JobsPrep Cook JobsEntry Level Prep Cook JobsEntry Level Prep Cook Jobs in Maryland

Entry Level Prep Cook information

See Maryland salary details

$9

$15

$19

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

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level prep cook in Maryland is $15.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.32 and $16.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level prep cook?

Entry level prep cooks are kitchen workers who assist chefs and cooks by preparing ingredients and performing basic cooking tasks. Their duties often include washing and chopping vegetables, measuring ingredients, organizing the kitchen, and ensuring that all food items are ready for use. Prep cooks are essential for maintaining an efficient workflow in restaurants and other food establishments, especially during busy periods. This position is a great starting point for those interested in a culinary career, as it provides hands-on experience in a professional kitchen.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level prep cook, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Prep Cook, you need basic culinary knowledge, knife skills, and a willingness to follow recipes and food safety standards, typically with a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, proper food handling procedures, and sometimes a food handler's certification are important. Attention to detail, teamwork, and the ability to work efficiently under pressure are standout soft skills. These abilities ensure consistent food quality, maintain kitchen safety, and support smooth kitchen operations in a fast-paced environment.

What is the difference between Entry Level Prep Cook vs Line Cook?

AspectEntry Level Prep CookLine Cook
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; basic culinary skillsSimilar; may require more experience or certifications
Work EnvironmentKitchen prep area, assisting with ingredient preparationCooking stations, actively preparing dishes during service
Employer UsageEntry-level position in restaurants, hotels, cateringMore experienced role, often with specific station responsibilities

While both roles work in restaurant kitchens, an Entry Level Prep Cook primarily focuses on preparing ingredients and assisting with basic tasks, whereas a Line Cook actively cooks and manages specific stations during service. The prep cook position is ideal for those starting in the culinary industry, with opportunities to advance to a line cook role with experience.

What are some typical challenges faced by entry level prep cooks, and how can they overcome them?

Entry level prep cooks often face challenges such as managing time efficiently during busy meal periods, maintaining consistency in food preparation, and adapting quickly to the fast-paced kitchen environment. To overcome these challenges, it's important to stay organized, communicate clearly with team members, and follow recipes and instructions closely. Developing good knife skills and a strong sense of teamwork will also help new prep cooks work more efficiently and confidently as they gain experience.

How to become an entry level prep cook with no experience?

To become an entry level prep cook with no experience, focus on developing basic cooking skills, understanding food safety practices, and demonstrating reliability. Many employers provide on-the-job training, so a positive attitude and willingness to learn are valuable. Having a high school diploma or equivalent can also improve your chances of getting hired.
What are the most commonly searched types of Prep Cook jobs in Maryland? The most popular types of Prep Cook jobs in Maryland are:
What cities in Maryland are hiring for Entry Level Prep Cook jobs? Cities in Maryland with the most Entry Level Prep Cook job openings:
Entry Level Prep Cook jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Prep Cook job openings in Maryland as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, 48% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 72% Physical, and 28% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,667 per year, or $15.2 per hour.

Prep Cook

Marylandconnect

On-site

$19.91 - $20.43/hr

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Job Posting:

JR102042 Prep Cook (Open)

Department:

University Dining Svcs-The Commons - BOH, JM

Position Type:

Non-Regular Fixed Term (Fixed Term)

Open Date:

07-22-2026

Close Date:

$19.91 - $20.43 Hourly

Job Description:

Job Summary

Under direct supervision, functions as an entry level Cook. The Prep Cook prepares a variety of ingredients and menu items in a high-volume kitchen to support multiple retail, catering, and dining operations. This position follows standardized recipes, production schedules, and food safety guidelines to ensure consistent quality and timely delivery of products. The Prep Cook works collaboratively with the culinary team to maintain an organized, sanitary, and efficient production environment.

Authority and Accountability

Reports to Chef Manager, Michael Foster. This position has no budgetary responsibility or authority.

Required/Minimum Qualifications

  • Education: N/A. Work experience: Two years in institutional or commercial food service which involved the preparation or serving of food. Certification/Licensure: ServeSafe food handler certificate required within 6 months of position placement
  • Required knowledge, skills, and abilities: Working knowledge of various methods of meal and food preparation; of portion control standards; of related sanitary regulations and practices. Ability to interpret menus; to follow recipes and production schedules; to follow dining service policies and procedures; to develop and apply knowledge of food items served, their ingredients and preparation; to operate kitchen equipment and appliances, such as mixers, ovens, steamers, stoves, microwaves and grills; to select and use knives, hand tools, utensils and equipment to decorate, weigh, measure, maintain holding temperature, bake, cook, whip, refrigerate, fold, grate, pipe, coat or otherwise produce food in central kitchen or bakery area; to perform mathematical calculations; to keep records of supplies used for customers served; to work in irritating environments and adverse temperature conditions; to lift transport and stock related supplies and materials.
  • Physical demands: Walking, stooping, reaching, kneeling, standing, repetitive motion, twisting, bending, pushing, pulling. Lifting up to 50 lbs.

Additional Job Information:

The position is a Contingent II, full-time, non-exempt position.

Priority will be given to applicants who apply by August 4, 2026. However, the position will remain open until filled.

Please note, only applications submitted through Salisbury University's Online Employment Application System will be considered. Any supporting documents must be uploaded with the online application, as documents sent via email will not be accepted. Additionally, three professional references will be required during the final stages of the hiring process. Candidates will be notified prior to their references being contacted.

Salisbury University (SU) is an equal opportunity employer and complies with all applicable federal and state laws regarding nondiscrimination. SU is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all persons and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability, religion, ancestry, political affiliation or veteran status in employment, educational programs and activities, and admissions.

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