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Entry Level Prep Cook Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Restaurant Cook - Entry Level

Seville, OH ยท On-site

$11 - $14.25/hr

Previous cook, line cook, prep cook, sous chef or other back of house (BOH) experience is beneficial. High school diploma or equivalent preferred but not mandatory. Food Handlers certification or ...

Restaurant Cook - Entry Level

Medina, OH ยท On-site

$10.75 - $13.75/hr

Previous cook, line cook, prep cook, sous chef or other back of house (BOH) experience is beneficial. High school diploma or equivalent preferred but not mandatory. Food Handlers certification or ...

Restaurant Cook - Entry Level

Seville, OH ยท On-site

$11 - $14.25/hr

Previous cook, line cook, prep cook, sous chef or other back of house (BOH) experience is beneficial. High school diploma or equivalent preferred but not mandatory. Food Handlers certification or ...

Restaurant Cook - Entry Level

Seville, OH ยท On-site

$11 - $14.25/hr

Previous cook, line cook, prep cook, sous chef or other back of house (BOH) experience is beneficial. High school diploma or equivalent preferred but not mandatory. Food Handlers certification or ...

Restaurant Cook - Entry Level

Seville, OH ยท On-site

$11 - $14.25/hr

Previous cook, line cook, prep cook, sous chef or other back of house (BOH) experience is beneficial. High school diploma or equivalent preferred but not mandatory. Food Handlers certification or ...

Cook

Cuyahoga Falls, OH ยท On-site

$14/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 ...

Cook

Cuyahoga Falls, OH ยท On-site

$14/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 ...

Cook

Lancaster, OH ยท On-site

$14/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 ...

Cook

Whitehall, OH ยท On-site

$14/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 ...

Cook

Middleburg Heights, OH ยท On-site

$14/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 ...

Cook

Streetsboro, OH ยท On-site

$14/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 ...

Cook

North Olmsted, OH ยท On-site

$14/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 ...

Cook

Columbus, OH ยท On-site

$14/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 ...

Cook

Groveport, OH ยท On-site

$14/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 ...

Cook

Strongsville, OH ยท On-site

$14/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 ...

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Showing results 1-20

Entry Level Prep Cook information

See Ohio salary details

$8

$14

$19

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

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level prep cook in Ohio is $14.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.03 and $16.44 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 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.

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.

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 gaining familiarity with kitchen tools. Many employers offer on-the-job training, so a positive attitude and willingness to learn are important. Having a high school diploma or equivalent can also improve your chances of getting hired.

What qualifications do I need to be an entry level prep cook?

Entry level prep cooks typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and basic cooking skills. Prior experience is not required, but familiarity with kitchen safety, sanitation standards, and food handling is beneficial. Strong communication skills and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment are also important.

What are the most commonly searched types of Prep Cook jobs in Ohio?

The most popular types of Prep Cook jobs in Ohio are:

What cities in Ohio are hiring for Entry Level Prep Cook jobs?

Cities in Ohio with the most Entry Level Prep Cook job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Prep Cook job openings in Ohio as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 44% Full Time, 52% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 63% Physical, and 37% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,020 per year, or $14.9 per hour.

Restaurant Cook - Entry Level

Seville, OH โ€ข On-site

$11 - $14.25/hr

Full-time, Part-time

This job post hasย expired 1 day ago.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Applebee's - Medina is looking for a Restaurant Cook to join our team in Medina, OH. This position is full time or part time. The restaurant cook is responsible for food preparation that meets or exceeds hospitality and service standards and must be able to prepare all foods to meet quantity and deadline requirements. As a restaurant cook at Applebee's - Medina you will prepare food items according to the menu, recipes, and special dietary or nutritional restrictions. You will also determine food and supplies needed to keep the kitchen running and stocked during service. Cooks make sure that proper health procedures are followed. You should maintain or exceed standards of appearance, cleanliness, hygiene, and health. Previous cook, line cook, prep cook, sous chef or other back of house (BOH) experience is beneficial. High school diploma or equivalent preferred but not mandatory. Food Handlers certification or willingness to obtain. Most importantly, a strong work ethic and a willingness to learn will help you go far at Applebee's - Medina.