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Entry Level Prep Cook Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Wegmans Food Markets

Lead Cook

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$21.75 - $22.50/hr

This is an entry-level structured training program designed to be completed within 6 months with ... prep or line cook * Food safety and quality assurance knowledge Preferred Qualifications

Raising Cane's

Restaurant Crewmember

Waldorf, MD · On-site

$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 ...

Raising Cane's

Restaurant Crewmember

Waldorf, MD · On-site

$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 ...

Raising Cane's

Restaurant Crewmember

Waldorf, MD · On-site

$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 ...

Raising Cane's

Restaurant Crewmember

Arlington, VA · On-site

$12/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 ...

Raising Cane's

Restaurant Crewmember

Arlington, VA · On-site

$12/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 ...

Wegmans Food Markets

Lead Cook Trainee

Washington, DC · On-site

$26.25 - $27/hr

This is an entry-level structured training program designed to be completed within 6 months with ... prep or line cook * Food safety and quality assurance knowledge Preferred Qualifications

Cinépolis Luxury Cinemas

Kitchen Staff

Gaithersburg, MD · On-site

$14 - $18/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 ...

Invited

Cook 1

Leesburg, VA

$16.25 - $20.25/hr

This entry-level position requires a willingness to learn and adapt while performing foundational ... Set-up, execute daily prep tasks, and organize your workstation efficiently. * Prepare and store ...

Invited Clubs

Cook 1

Rockville, MD · On-site

$17 - $21.25/hr

This entry-level position requires a willingness to learn and adapt while performing foundational ... Set-up, execute daily prep tasks, and organize your workstation efficiently. * Prepare and store ...

Invited Clubs

Cook 1

Centreville, VA · On-site

$15.75 - $19.75/hr

This entry-level position requires a willingness to learn and adapt while performing foundational ... Set-up, execute daily prep tasks, and organize your workstation efficiently. * Prepare and store ...

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Entry Level Prep Cook information

See Washington salary details

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$17

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

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level prep cook in Washington is $17.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.53 and $19.62 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 Washington?

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

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

Cities in Washington 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 Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, 48% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 69% Physical, and 31% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,955 per year, or $17.8 per hour.

Lead Cook

Chantilly, VA • On-site

Wegmans Food Markets
Food and Beverage Stores • 10K+ employees
Learn more about Wegmans Food Marketsexternal

$21.75 - $22.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago

Wegmans Food Markets rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 846 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Location:
14361 Newbrook Drive Chantilly, VA 20151
Availability Requirement for this role:
Morning, afternoon, evening (includes weekends).
Age Requirement:
Must be 18 years or older
Time Type:
Full time
Pay Range:
$21.75 - $22.50 / hour
Why Work Here
Working at Wegmans provides opportunities to grow, flexible scheduling, incredible benefits, and the experience of working for a company with a reputation you can be proud of.
Job Description:
As a culinary leader in our kitchen, you are a team player and positive role model that ensures the development and education of the cooks. You will assist with bottom line profitability and make sure we are only serving the best products to our customers. If you are looking for an opportunity where the store is your pantry, the work is exciting and meaningful with some of the best culinarians in the industry, this could be the role for you!
This is an entry-level structured training program designed to be completed within 6 months with support from a mentor and trainer. Successful program completion will result in placement as a Lead Cook in our Restaurant Foods Kitchen area.
What will I do?
  • Assist the Sous Chef in running the kitchen and managing employees, overseeing the operations in the absence of the Sous Chef
  • Follow recipes and proper cooking techniques to ensure products are consistently prepared to showcase our high standards and giving our guests a meal they can't find elsewhere
  • Educate customers and employees on products, share knowledge to offer complete meal solutions and suggest ways for them to prepared meal items incorporating items from different departments.
  • Manage employee performance by providing resources, training, feedback and development opportunities
  • Note to Applicant: Candidates may be considered for multiple store locations within the specified region, based on current openings

Required Qualifications
  • 2 or more years' experience as a prep or line cook
  • Food safety and quality assurance knowledge

Preferred Qualifications
  • Associate's or Bachelor's Degree in Culinary Arts
  • Experience working in a multi-faceted food service facility, including restaurant, hotel, country club, conference center, casino, theme park, etc.

What Wegmans Food Markets employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Wegmans Food Markets logo

About Wegmans Food Markets

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Wegmans Food Markets, situated in Rochester, NY, US, is a widely recognized name in the retail grocery industry. The company was founded in 1916 by Walter Wegman as Rochester Fruit and Vegetable Company and has since been providing a diverse series of high-quality grocery products. It is built on the mission of “helping families live healthier, better lives through food.” Core values of caring, high standards, making a difference, respect, and empowerment drive the firm to uphold its quality, bringing every meal an opportunity for happiness. Wegmans has been celebrated with multiple accolades and was named the best grocery chain in the U.S. by Food & Wine in 2020.

Industry

Food and beverage stores

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Rochester, NY, US

Year founded

1916

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