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First Cook Jobs (NOW HIRING)

2LIFE COMMUNITIES

First Cook

Framingham, MA · On-site

$23 - $25/hr

GENERAL SUMMARY As a Line/Prep Cook, you'll play a key role in creating fresh, delicious meals for our residents while supporting the daily operations of the vibrant 2Life Dining Program. This is ...

Nathan Littauer Hospital

First Cook

Gloversville, NY · On-site

$18.48 - $20.61/hr

Description Job Purpose: The purpose of the job is to supervise the production staff, prepare and present food for patients, residents, customers and increase satisfaction results. Education: High ...

Putnam Hospital Center

First Cook - FT

Carmel, NY · On-site

$22.20/hr

Requires two (2) years of experience as a First Cook. Institutional experience required. including hospital, nursing home, college feeding and full service restaurants. * License: N/A. Working ...

Stella Maris

Cook (Nursing Home)

Timonium, MD · On-site

$17.99/hr

We are currently recruiting for a First Cook to join our team. This is an exciting opportunity to join our mission driven organization to provide excellent care to our residents. The First Cook ...

Stella Maris

Cook (Nursing Home)

Timonium, MD

$27.20/hr

We are currently recruiting for a First Cook to join our team. This is an exciting opportunity to join our mission driven organization to provide excellent care to our residents. The First Cook ...

Stella Maris

Cook (Nursing Home)

Timonium, MD

$27.20/hr

We are currently recruiting for a First Cook to join our team. This is an exciting opportunity to join our mission driven organization to provide excellent care to our residents. The First Cook ...

Stella Maris

Cook (Nursing Home)

Timonium, MD · On-site

$17.99/hr

The First Cook facilitates the service of meals and ensures excellent customer service to our residents. First Cook - Part time Check out some of our benefits offered: • Paid time off (PTO ...

Stella Maris

Cook (Nursing Home)

Timonium, MD

$27.20/hr

The First Cook facilitates the service of meals and ensures excellent customer service to our residents. First Cook - Part time Check out some of our benefits offered: • Paid time off (PTO ...

Stella Maris

Cook (Nursing Home)

Timonium, MD

$27.20/hr

The First Cook facilitates the service of meals and ensures excellent customer service to our residents. First Cook - Part time Check out some of our benefits offered: • Paid time off (PTO ...

SkyChefs

First Production Cook

Raleigh, NC

$18.25/hr

Job Requirements & Responsibilities The First Cook is a key member of our culinary team and works in close cooperation with our team of Chefs and Second Cooks preparing and producing meals to meet ...

Sandia Resort and Casino

FIRST COOK BANQUET

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$19.62 - $22.08/hr

Assists the Sous Chef/Banquet Chef with the training of line cooks, and with the preparation of weekly work schedules, and daily break schedules for the pantry staff, daily food production schedule ...

Garnet Health

Cook

Harris, NY · On-site

$16.25 - $21.75/hr

Under the direction of the 1st Cook, the Cook prepares food for patients, employees, visitors and various hospital functions in a manner that will achieve a consistent quality product. Must be 18 ...

Yale New Haven Health

Per Diem First Cook

Bridgeport, CT · On-site

$16.25 - $20.50/hr

... COOK * 2.1 Prepares assigned recipes according to production sheets, and other special requests utilizing the standardized recipe card file to obtain the quality and quantity needed for daily ...

Yale New Haven Health

Per Diem First Cook

Bridgeport, CT

$16.25 - $20.50/hr

... COOK * 2.1 Prepares assigned recipes according to production sheets, and other special requests utilizing the standardized recipe card file to obtain the quality and quantity needed for daily ...

Yale New Haven Health

Per Diem First Cook

Bridgeport, CT · On-site

$16.25 - $20.50/hr

... COOK * 2.1 Prepares assigned recipes according to production sheets, and other special requests utilizing the standardized recipe card file to obtain the quality and quantity needed for daily ...

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All JobsFirst Cook Jobs

First COOK information

See salary details

$10

$17

$23

How much do first cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for first cook in the United States is $17.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between First Cook vs Line Cook?

AspectFirst CookLine Cook
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; culinary training or certification often preferredHigh school diploma or equivalent; culinary training often preferred
Work EnvironmentKitchen, often in supervisory or specialized rolesKitchen, focused on specific station or station tasks
ResponsibilitiesOversees kitchen operations, supervises staff, ensures qualityPrepares specific dishes, manages station tasks, supports team

The main difference between a First Cook and a Line Cook lies in their responsibilities and level of supervision. First Cooks typically oversee kitchen operations and supervise other cooks, while Line Cooks focus on preparing dishes at their designated station. Both roles require culinary skills and experience, but First Cooks often have more leadership duties.

How does a First Cook typically collaborate with other kitchen staff during busy service periods?

As a First Cook, you play a pivotal role in coordinating with line cooks, prep cooks, and kitchen assistants to ensure dishes are prepared accurately and efficiently during peak hours. Strong communication is essential, as you'll help delegate tasks, monitor food quality, and troubleshoot any issues that arise. You may also work closely with the Sous Chef or Head Chef to implement menu changes and maintain kitchen standards, fostering a team-oriented environment where everyone works together to deliver a seamless dining experience.

What Is a First Cook?

A first cook works with the kitchen team throughout a breakfast, lunch, and dinner service. In this career, you provide food to diners and learn the fundamental elements of the culinary arts. Because you have experience in food service and working with a team, companies expect you to coordinate activity in the kitchen as part of your duties. Skills including hiring and training personnel, creating menus, and supporting the local food hygiene standard. A first cook must exhibit leadership abilities and have strong time management skills. Companies expect a you to create a culture of productivity and enthusiasm, and support upcoming leaders within the kitchen. Qualifications include a culinary degree and years of work experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a First Cook, and why are they important?

To thrive as a First Cook, you need solid culinary skills, knowledge of food safety regulations, and prior experience in a professional kitchen, often supported by a culinary certificate or diploma. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, inventory systems, and food preparation tools is essential. Leadership, time management, and the ability to work well under pressure are standout soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure efficient kitchen operations, consistent food quality, and a safe, collaborative work environment.

What are First Cooks?

First Cooks are experienced culinary professionals responsible for preparing, cooking, and presenting food in restaurants, hotels, or other food service establishments. They often lead a team of kitchen staff, ensure food quality and safety standards are met, and may assist in menu planning and inventory management. First Cooks typically have advanced culinary skills and experience, and they play a key role in maintaining the kitchen’s efficiency and organization.

What does a first cook do?

A first cook is responsible for preparing and cooking food according to recipes and standards, supervising kitchen staff, and ensuring food quality and safety. They often oversee kitchen operations, manage inventory, and may assist in menu planning. Strong cooking skills, knowledge of food safety regulations, and leadership abilities are essential for this role.

What is the highest paying job for a cook?

The highest paying roles for cooks include executive chefs and head chefs in fine dining restaurants or luxury hotels, often earning six-figure salaries. These positions typically require extensive experience, advanced culinary skills, and management responsibilities. Specialized roles such as culinary directors or restaurant owners can also command higher compensation.

How do I start working as a cook with no experience?

First cooks often start by gaining basic kitchen skills through entry-level positions such as dishwashers or prep cooks, which provide experience in food handling and kitchen operations. Developing knowledge of food safety, sanitation, and cooking techniques, along with a willingness to learn, can help you advance to a cook role. Certifications like a food handler's permit may also improve your chances of employment.

How much does a beginner cook make?

A beginner cook, such as an entry-level first cook, typically earns between $10 and $15 per hour, depending on the location and establishment. Starting salaries may increase with experience, skills, and certifications like food safety training.
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First COOK jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Cook job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $36,873 per year, or $17.7 per hour.
First Cook

First Cook

2LIFE COMMUNITIES

Framingham, MA • On-site

$23 - $25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

GENERAL SUMMARY


As a Line/Prep Cook, you'll play a key role in creating fresh, delicious meals for our residents while supporting the daily operations of the vibrant 2Life Dining Program. This is more than just a cooking job — it's an opportunity to make a real impact through food, teamwork, and community care.


ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS*

  • Effectively communicate with the 2Life team and staff to ensure resident needs and requests are met

  • Communicates effectively and with empathy with residents and stakeholders, and effectively receives feedback

  • Conveys appropriate action plans and enforces policies and SOP’s (Standard Operating Procedures)

  • Assists in the planning and execution of menus and special diets

  • Prepares and/or supervises the preparation of meals and special diets

  • Assists the Executive Chef in ordering food and equipment for the kitchen and dining areas

  • Ensures the timely and orderly service of meals and proper nutritional diets

  • Ensures that the kitchen, food storage, and dining areas are maintained in compliance with applicable health codes, regulations, and department policies

  • Accounts for all kitchen stores, equipment, and utensils

  • Maintains the cleanliness of all kitchen, storage, and dining areas, equipment, and utensils

  • Participates in mandatory training

  • Other related duties as the Executive Chef may assign


PREPARATION, KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES

  • Must meet one or more of the following criteria:

    • three or more years’ experience as a Cook or Chef preparing food for large numbers of people;

    • a degree or certificate from a culinary arts institution

  • ServSafe Certification

  • Willingness to work with and train team in food preparation

  • Flexibility and ability to learn and perform new duties and skills as assigned

WORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL DEMANDS

  • Ability to stand on your feet for up to 8 hours

  • Ability to lift items weighing between 10 to 50 pounds

  • Constant bending and reaching as high as 8 feet, using step ladder if necessary

  • Ability to walk through and deliver meals through overheated hallways

  • Ability to handle equipment at temperatures as high as 500 degrees

  • Ability to handle temperatures as low as 10 below zero

  • Will be handling knives and other sharp objects


Qualified candidates are strongly encouraged to apply here


Beyond the Paycheck: Why You’ll Love Working Here:

We don’t just offer a job; we invest in your entire life. Our "Total Rewards" package adds an extra 27% to 30%+ in value on top of your base salary.

Comprehensive Health: Premium Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage for you and your family.

Future-Proofing: 401(k) retirement planning and employer-paid Life, AD&D, and Disability insurance (Short & Long Term).

Rest & Recharge: Generous paid vacation, official holidays, plus 2 floating holidays to use whenever you need a break.

Family-Friendly: Inclusion for your "+1" and dependents, plus Pet Insurance for your furry family members.


The above statements intend to describe the general nature and level of work performed by people assigned to do this job. The above does not intend to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties required.


We desire to build and cultivate an inclusive environment that brings together a diverse workforce with unique experiences, backgrounds, talents, and perspectives.


External and internal applicants, as well as position incumbents who become disabled as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act must be able to perform the essential job functions (as listed) either unaided or with the assistance of a reasonable accommodation to be determined by management on a case by case basis.