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First Cook Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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First Cook

Mullica Hill, NJ · On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Busy South Jersey Restaurant looking for a First cook to complete our team. Candidate should be well rounded in sautee, pasta making and also some short order cookery. Looking for a candidate that ...

Be Seen First

First Cook

Mullica Hill, NJ · On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Busy South Jersey Restaurant looking for a First cook to complete our team. Candidate should be well rounded in sautee, pasta making and also some short order cookery. Looking for a candidate that ...

First Cook

Des Plaines, IL · On-site

$22/hr

Touhy Ave., Des Plaines, IL60018 FIRST COOK 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 ...

First Cook

Bennington, VT · On-site

$22.96/hr

The First Cook is responsible for the preparation of all menu items for assigned meals and general food production. All dining employees must comply with applicable sanitation, health, and safety ...

First Cook

Bennington, VT · On-site

$22.96/hr

The First Cook is responsible for the preparation of all menu items for assigned meals and general food production. All dining employees must comply with applicable sanitation, health, and safety ...

First Cook

New York, NY · On-site

$17.50 - $22/hr

We have an exciting opportunity to join our team as a First Cook. In this role, the successful candidate is responsible for performing work of moderate difficulty in preparation of various menu items ...

First Cook

Ithaca, NY · On-site

$15.50 - $19.25/hr

Cook menu items in cooperation with the rest of the kitchen staff. * Answer, report and follow the ... Date, FIFO (First In, First Out) * Take and document temperatures of all refrigerators and freezers ...

First Cook

Dedham, MA · On-site

$16.50 - $20.50/hr

Follow modified diets in accordance with diet spreads as approved by Sous Chef / First cook, or the consulting dietitian. * Read and execute Banquet Event Orders (BEO) to handle functions ...

First Cook

Boston, MA · On-site

$17.50 - $21.75/hr

As a member of the Room Service team, in the role as First Cook, the individual will be tasked to assist and deliver in a pleasant, friendly, and timely manner patient specific high-quality food and ...

First Cook

Ithaca, NY · On-site

$15.50 - $19.25/hr

Cook menu items in cooperation with the rest of the kitchen staff. * Answer, report and follow the ... Date, FIFO (First In, First Out) * Take and document temperatures of all refrigerators and freezers ...

First Cook

Dedham, MA · On-site

$16.50 - $20.75/hr

First Cook Position Summary: Prepares, cooks and presents food in accordance with quality standards, productivity standards, cost controls and forecast needs. Demonstrates a strong commitment to the ...

First Cook

Dedham, MA

$16.50 - $20.75/hr

Follow modified diets in accordance with diet spreads as approved by Sous Chef / First cook, or the consulting dietitian. * Read and execute Banquet Event Orders (BEO) to handle functions ...

First Cook

Dedham, MA · On-site

$16.50 - $20.50/hr

First Cook Position Summary: Prepares, cooks and presents food in accordance with quality standards, productivity standards, cost controls and forecast needs. Demonstrates a strong commitment to the ...

First Cook

Boston, MA

$19.67 - $27.53/hr

Prepares, cooks, and presents food in accordance with quality standards, productivity standards, cost controls, and forecast needs. Demonstrates a strong commitment to the philosophy and goals of the ...

First Cook

Concord, MA

$19.67 - $27.53/hr

Prepares, cooks, and presents food in accordance with quality standards, productivity standards, cost controls, and forecast needs. Demonstrates a strong commitment to the philosophy and goals of the ...

First Cook

Easton, MA

$19.67 - $27.53/hr

Prepares, cooks, and presents food in accordance with quality standards, productivity standards, cost controls, and forecast needs. Demonstrates a strong commitment to the philosophy and goals of the ...

First Cook

Boston, MA

$19.67 - $27.53/hr

Prepares, cooks, and presents food in accordance with quality standards, productivity standards, cost controls, and forecast needs. Demonstrates a strong commitment to the philosophy and goals of the ...

First Cook

Dedham, MA · On-site

$16.50 - $20.50/hr

Follow modified diets in accordance with diet spreads as approved by Sous Chef / First cook, or the consulting dietitian. * Read and execute Banquet Event Orders (BEO) to handle functions ...

First Cook

Dedham, MA · On-site

$19.67 - $27.53/hr

Prepares, cooks, and presents food in accordance with quality standards, productivity standards, cost controls, and forecast needs. Demonstrates a strong commitment to the philosophy and goals of the ...

First Cook

Camden, NJ · On-site

$33/hr

Short Description Accurately and efficiently prepare, portion, cook, and present a variety of hot and/or cold food items for all meal periods including patient service, retail, and catering. Assist ...

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First Cook information

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$10

$17

$23

How much do first cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 7, 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 cities are hiring for First Cook jobs? Cities with the most First Cook job openings:
What states have the most First Cook jobs? States with the most job openings for First Cook jobs include:
What job categories do people searching First Cook jobs look for? The top searched job categories for First Cook jobs are:
What are popular job titles related to First Cook jobs? For First Cook jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various First Cook job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% Internship, 61% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 5% Temporary, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $36,873 per year, or $17.7 per hour.

First Cook

blueplate

Mullica Hill, NJ • On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

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Job description

Busy South Jersey Restaurant looking for a First cook to complete our team. Candidate should be well rounded in sautee, pasta making and also some short order cookery. Looking for a candidate that has great communication skills working with Chef. 

40 Hour work week, standard days off

These are the core responsibilities:

Food Preparation

  • Prepare dishes as described
  • Follow recipes, prep lists, and chef instructions exactly
  • Set up and stock your station before service

Cooking & Service

  • Cook menu items during service to quality and time standards
  • Plate food consistently and correctly
  • Communicate with the kitchen team during service

Food Safety & Hygiene

  • Follow food safety standards (temperature control, storage, labeling)
  • Maintain personal hygiene and wear proper uniform
  • Food Safety Certificate a plus

Station & Equipment Care

  • Keep your station clean and organized at all times
  • Use kitchen equipment safely (knives, fryers, grills, ovens)
  • Clean equipment and work areas during and after shifts

Inventory & Waste Control

Company Description

20 Years in business, long time employees. We are a friendly, family business who owners and employees love what they do!