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First Cook Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Sodexo

Cook I

Lynchburg, VA · On-site

$12.50 - $15/hr

Cook I Location: LIBERTY UNIVERSITY - 10700027 Workdays/shifts: Varying shifts, days/hours (open availability preferred). More details will be provided during the interview process. Employment Type ...

Sodexo

Cook I

Lynchburg, VA

$12.50 - $15/hr

Cook I Location: LIBERTY UNIVERSITY - 10700027 Workdays/shifts : Varying shifts, days/hours (open availability preferred). More details will be provided during the interview process. Employment Type ...

Sodexo

Cook I

Lynchburg, VA

$12.50 - $15/hr

Cook I Location: LIBERTY UNIVERSITY - 10700027 Workdays/shifts : Varying shifts, days/hours (open availability preferred). More details will be provided during the interview process. Employment Type ...

Sodexo

Cook I

Lynchburg, VA

$12.50 - $15/hr

Cook I Location: LIBERTY UNIVERSITY - 10700001 Workdays/shifts : Varying shifts, days/hours (open availability preferred). More details will be provided during the interview process. Employment Type ...

The Providence Fairfax

Cook

Fairfax, VA

$16 - $19.75/hr

... first and surpassing their wildest expectations with unparalleled quality. Our best-in-class ... Minimum of two years experience as cook preparing full line of menu items. Able to read, write, and ...

Wlu

Cook II, Marketplace

Lexington, VA

$14 - $17.50/hr

Primary cooking responsibilities include grilling, deep frying, sauteing, broiling and roasting. Produces high quality, properly seasoned, nutritious food in a timely and efficient manner, adhering ...

Blackstone Consulting Inc.

COOK I

Fort Eustis, VA · On-site

$15.25 - $19/hr

Follows proper cooking procedures, recipe cards, SOPs and special instructions on the Production Schedules. * Follow proper procedures, temperatures and time periods during food preparation. * Ensure ...

The Providence Fairfax

Cook

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$16 - $19.75/hr

... first and surpassing their wildest expectations with unparalleled quality. Our best-in-class ... Minimum of two years experience as cook preparing full line of menu items. Able to read, write, and ...

The Providence Fairfax

Cook

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

... first and surpassing their wildest expectations with unparalleled quality. Our best-in-class ... Educational Requirements and Experience: • Minimum of two years experience as cook preparing full ...

Blackstone Consulting, Inc.

COOK I

VA · On-site

$15.25 - $19/hr

Follows proper cooking procedures, recipe cards, SOPs and special instructions on the Production Schedules. * Follow proper procedures, temperatures and time periods during food preparation. * Ensure ...

Marriott

Cook I

Chantilly, VA

$16.50 - $20.75/hr

Prepare and cook food according to recipes, quality standards, presentation standards, and food ... JW believes our associates come first. Because if you're happy, our guests will be happy. JW ...

Westminster Canterbury Richmond

Cook I

Richmond, VA

$15.75 - $19.75/hr

We are seeking an experienced Lead Cook to assist in running the main production kitchen that produces food healthcare and assisted living. Supervising and assigning prep tasks and ensuring items are ...

Marriott

Cook I

Chantilly, VA

$16.50 - $20.75/hr

Prepare and cook food according to recipes, quality standards, presentation standards, and food ... JW believes our associates come first. Because if you're happy, our guests will be happy. JW ...

Marriott International

Cook I

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$16.50 - $20.75/hr

Prepare and cook food according to recipes, quality standards, presentation standards, and food ... JW believes our associates come first. Because if you're happy, our guests will be happy. JW ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsFirst Cook JobsFirst Cook Jobs in Virginia

First Cook information

See Virginia salary details

$10

$17

$23

How much do first cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for first cook in Virginia is $17.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.24 and $19.09 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.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

First cooks in high-end restaurants or private settings can earn around $10,000 a month through tips and high wages, especially with experience and specialized skills. Other jobs that can reach this income level without a degree include sales managers, real estate brokers, and certain skilled trades like electricians or plumbers in lucrative markets, often requiring certifications and extensive experience.

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 jobs pay 2000 a day?

First cooks typically do not earn $2000 a day; such high daily earnings are usually associated with specialized roles like executive chefs in luxury establishments, private chefs for high-net-worth individuals, or consultants in the culinary industry. These positions often require extensive experience, advanced skills, and sometimes additional certifications or business arrangements. Most standard cooking jobs pay hourly or salary-based wages significantly below this level.

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.

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

First Cook positions often require basic cooking skills and a willingness to learn. Gaining experience through entry-level kitchen jobs, volunteering, or taking culinary courses can improve your chances; demonstrating reliability and a positive attitude is also important when applying for such roles.

How much does a beginner cook make?

A beginner cook typically earns between $10 and $15 per hour, depending on the location and establishment. Entry-level cooks often gain skills in food preparation, safety, and kitchen operations, which can lead to higher wages with experience.
More about First Cook jobs
What are popular job titles related to First Cook jobs in Virginia? For First Cook jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching First Cook jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for First Cook jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to First Cook jobs in VA? For First Cook jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
First Cook jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Cook job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 94% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,557 per year, or $17.6 per hour.
Cook I

Cook I

Sodexo

Lynchburg, VA • On-site

$12.50 - $15/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Sodexo rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 1,114 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

301st of 430 rated business services

Job description

Cook I
Location: LIBERTY UNIVERSITY - 10700027
Workdays/shifts: Varying shifts, days/hours (open availability preferred). More details will be provided during the interview process.
Employment Type: Full-Time or Part-Time
Pay Range: $12.50 per hour - $15.00 per hour
University students with restrictions on number of hours they can work, including international students, should apply for open student worker positions at the school they attend. You can search student worker jobs here (https://sodexo.paradox.ai/7nq0G05)
Working with Sodexo is more than a job; it's a chance to be part of something greater because we believe our everyday actions have a big impact. You belong in a company that allows you to act with purpose and thrive in your own way.
What You'll Do: As a Cook I at Sodexo, you will be responsible for accurately and efficiently preparing, portioning, cooking, and presenting a variety of hot and cold food items for all meal periods and events in accordance with Sodexo's culinary standards for quality, presentation, and consistency. Working in a fast-paced kitchen environment, this position ensures all food products are prepared safely, accurately, and efficiently while maintaining a clean and organized workstation. The Cook I supports Sodexo's commitment to providing an exceptional dining experience by delivering high-quality dishes, contributing to effective kitchen teamwork, and upholding the highest standards of food safety and sanitation. Responsibilities may vary by account based on business needs and client requirements, and additional duties may be assigned as necessary.
Responsibilities include:
  • Prepare food in accordance with current applicable federal, state and corporate standards, guidelines, and regulations to ensure high-quality food service is provided.
  • Follow basic recipes and/or product directions for preparing, seasoning, cooking, tasting, carving, and serving soups, meats, vegetables, desserts, and other foodstuffs for consumption in eating establishments.
  • Taste products, read menus, estimate food requirements, check production, and keep records to accurately plan production requirements and requisition supplies and equipment.
  • Significant walking or other means of mobility.
  • Ability to walk or stand for extended periods of time, throughout the entire duration of a shift, which may exceed 8 hours.
  • Ability to reach, bend, stoop, push and/or pull, and frequently lift up to 35 pounds and occasionally lift/move 50 pounds.
  • Ability to perform repetitive motions.
  • Attends work and shows for scheduled shift on time with satisfactory regularity
  • Other duties may be assigned and can differ among accounts, depending on business necessities and client requirements.

What You Bring:
  • High School diploma, GED or equivalent experience.
  • 0 to 2 years of related work experience.
  • Knowledge of basic operation of equipment and food-handling procedures preferred.
  • Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
  • Good working knowledge of food preparation.
  • Requires familiarity of kitchen equipment.
  • Must be able to read and follow a recipe unsupervised.

Link to full Job description
What We Offer:
  • Flexible and supportive work environment, so you can be home for life's important moments.
  • Access to ongoing training/development and advancement opportunities to turn your job into a career
  • Full array of benefits that support you and your family's wellbeing, including paid time off, holidays, medical, dental, vision, tuition reimbursement, 401k, discount programs, and more.
  • In addition to Sodexo's standard, some locations may offer additional site-specific benefits, including free "shift" meals (and/or allowances/per diems), uniforms, safety shoes, public transportation support and/or parking.

Link to benefits summary
Overall, Sodexo strives to offer comprehensive summaries of our benefits packages and detailed descriptions of the positions candidates are applying for. However, due to the contractual nature of our business, some job duties and employee benefits may vary based on the unit/work location. We encourage you to discuss any questions about Sodexo's benefit offerings during the interview process.
Who we are:
At Sodexo, our purpose is to create a better everyday for everyone and build a better life for all. We believe in improving the quality of life for those we serve and contributing to the economic, social, and environmental progress in the communities where we operate. Sodexo partners with clients to provide a truly memorable experience for both customers and employees alike. We do this by providing food service, catering, facilities management, and other integrated solutions worldwide.
Our company values you for you; you will be treated fairly and with respect, and you can be yourself. You will have your ideas count and your opinions heard because we can be a stronger team when you're happy at work. This is why we embrace culture and belonging as core values, fostering an environment where all employees are valued and respected. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to individuals regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, gender identity, pregnancy, disability, sexual orientation, military status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. Should you need assistance with the online application process, please complete this form.

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