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First Cook Jobs in Rochester, MN (NOW HIRING)

Border Foods

Cook

Rochester, MN

$10 - $20/hr

At Border Foods, we work with a people-first mantra. From cooks to cashiers to restaurant managers and beyond, we work together to bring to life the Core Values of Border Foods. Welcome to our family ...

Border Foods

Cook

Rochester, MN

$10 - $20/hr

At Border Foods, we work with a people-first mantra. From cooks to cashiers to restaurant managers and beyond, we work together to bring to life the Core Values of Border Foods. Welcome to our family ...

Border Foods

Cook

Rochester, MN

$10 - $20/hr

At Border Foods, we work with a people-first mantra. From cooks to cashiers to restaurant managers and beyond, we work together to bring to life the Core Values of Border Foods. Welcome to our family ...

Border Foods

Cook

Stewartville, MN

$10 - $20/hr

At Border Foods, we work with a people-first mantra. From cooks to cashiers to restaurant managers and beyond, we work together to bring to life the Core Values of Border Foods. Welcome to our family ...

Mayo Clinic

Cook - Historic Properties

Rochester, MN · On-site

$14.25 - $19/hr

A Historic Properties Cook will assist in the preparation and plating of food for all events at the ... As we work together to put the needs of the patient first, we are also dedicated to our employees ...

Mayo Clinic

Cook - Historic Properties

Rochester, MN

$14.25 - $19/hr

A Historic Properties Cook will assist in the preparation and plating of food for all events at the ... As we work together to put the needs of the patient first, we are also dedicated to our employees ...

Mayo Clinic

Cook - Historic Properties

Rochester, MN · On-site

$14.25 - $19/hr

A Historic Properties Cook will assist in the preparation and plating of food for all events at the ... As we work together to put the needs of the patient first, we are also dedicated to our employees ...

Mayo Clinic

Cook - Historic Properties

Rochester, MN

$21.55 - $30.22/hr

As we work together to put the needs of the patient first, we are also dedicated to our employees ... A Historic Properties Cook will assist in the preparation and plating of food for all events at the ...

Family Partners Of Minnesota

Caregiver

Kasson, MN

$17 - $17.50/hr

First aid and CPR-certified but can train * Knowledge of basic housekeeping tasks and cooking skills * Ability to adhere to all health and safety guidelines * Excellent communication and ...

Family Partners Of Minnesota

Caregiver

Kasson, MN · On-site

$17 - $17.50/hr

First aid and CPR-certified but can train * Knowledge of basic housekeeping tasks and cooking skills * Ability to adhere to all health and safety guidelines * Excellent communication and ...

Chipotle

Crew Member

Rochester, MN

$12.75 - $16.75/hr

Desire to learn how to cook (a lot) * Be at least 16 years old * Ability to communicate in the ... As a values-driven, people-first company, we are committed to fostering a workplace where all ...

CHIPOTLE

Crew Member

Rochester, MN · On-site

$12.25 - $16/hr

Desire to learn how to cook (a lot) * Be at least 16 years old * Ability to communicate in the ... As a values-driven, people-first company, we are committed to fostering a workplace where all ...

Chipotle

Crew Member

Rochester, MN

$11.75 - $15.50/hr

Desire to learn how to cook (a lot) * Be at least 16 years old * Ability to communicate in the ... As a values-driven, people-first company, we are committed to fostering a workplace where all ...

CHIPOTLE

Crew Member

Rochester, MN · On-site

$12.25 - $16/hr

Desire to learn how to cook (a lot) * Be at least 16 years old * Ability to communicate in the ... As a values-driven, people-first company, we are committed to fostering a workplace where all ...

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All JobsFirst Cook JobsFirst Cook Jobs in Rochester, MN

First Cook information

See Rochester, MN salary details

$9

$16

$21

How much do first cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for first cook in Rochester, MN is $16.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.09 and $17.64 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.
More about First Cook jobs
What are popular job titles related to First Cook jobs in Rochester, MN? For First Cook jobs in Rochester, MN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching First Cook jobs in Rochester, MN look for? The top searched job categories for First Cook jobs in Rochester, MN are:
What cities near Rochester, MN are hiring for First Cook jobs? Cities near Rochester, MN with the most First Cook job openings:
First Cook jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Cook job openings in Rochester, MN as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, 50% Part Time, and 7% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $33,816 per year, or $16.3 per hour.
Cook

Cook

Border Foods

Rochester, MN

$10 - $20/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago

Border Foods rating

4.0

Company rating: 4.0 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

What began as an idea between two brothers to open a Mexican restaurant has since grown into one of the largest, privately held Taco Bell franchisees in America. At Border Foods, we work with a people-first mantra. From cooks to cashiers to restaurant managers and beyond, we work together to bring to life the Core Values of Border Foods. Welcome to our family where you will continue to learn, evolve, and shape what comes next on our mission of making lives better.

At Border Foods, our purpose is to Make Lives Better and it is at the foundation of all that we do. We are proud of our family culture that develops people and provides career growth in pristine restaurants where people aspire to work, guests desire to dine… where Live Más comes to life. 

Your role as a Team Member is to feed people's lives with Más. You'll feed customers with great tasting food and provide great service, so our customers keep coming back! You're a representation of the brand in everything you do. 

What’s in it for you? 

-Flexible scheduling 

-Top pay in the industry 

-Education programs, including GED and Tuition Reimbursement offerings  

-Scholarship opportunities 

-Medical/Dental/Vision benefits offered for all positions – even part-time! 

-Free food! 

-Vacation Time (Paid Time Off) 

-Vacation Donation Program 

-An incredible culture that encourages career growth and support 

Team Member Responsibilities:

Food Champion 

  • Prepare food ingredients 
  • Assemble food orders and check to make sure orders are correct 
  • Package products 
  • Maintain a clean, safe work environment 
  • Be knowledgeable about menu items and promotions 
  •  

Service Champion 

  • Greet customers in the restaurant 
  • Take orders 
  • Handle payments and thank customers 
  • Maintain a clean, safe working and dining environment 
  • Be knowledgeable about menu items and promotions 
  •  

Priority Sequence 



  • Safety 
  • Service 
  • Cleaning 
  • Stocking  

Physical Demands:

The physical demands for this position are sits, stands, bends, lifts, and moves intermittently during working hours. These physical requirements may be accomplished with or without reasonable accommodation.

 The duties of this position may change from time to time. Border Foods reserves the right to add or delete duties and responsibilities at the discretion of Border Foods or its managers. This job description is intended to describe the general level of work being performed. It is not intended to be all-inclusive.

 Border Foods is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer of Minorities, Women, Protected Veterans, and individuals with Disabilities and does not discriminate based on gender identity or sexual orientation.

“You are applying for work with a franchisee of Taco Bell, not Taco Bell Corp. or any of its affiliates. If hired, the franchisee will be your only employer. Franchisees are independent business owners who set their own wage and benefit programs that can vary among franchisees.”

$10 per hour - $20 per hour

What Border Foods employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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