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First Cook Jobs (NOW HIRING)

BronxCare Health System

First Cook

Bronx, NY

$16.75 - $20.75/hr

Overview Performs a variety of tasks and operations to prepare and cook foods for patients, visitors, employees and others as directed, following standard practices and procedures in compliance with ...

MaineHealth

First Cook

Portland, ME · On-site

$16.25 - $20.25/hr

Summary The First Cook role performs a variety of duties normally performed in serving customers, preparing food, transporting and emptying trash receptacles, cleaning the kitchen, serving and ...

Maine Medical Center

First Cook

Portland, ME · On-site

$16.25 - $20.50/hr

Summary The First Cook role performs a variety of duties normally performed in serving customers, preparing food, transporting and emptying trash receptacles, cleaning the kitchen, serving and ...

Hebrew SeniorLife

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 ...

NYU Langone Health

First Cook

Manhattan, NY

$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 ...

Equum Medical

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 ...

Hebrew SeniorLife

First Cook

Roslindale, MA · On-site

$19.67 - $27.53/hr

Under the direction of the Executive Chef or a manager, the Floating First Cook provide support to different schedules, campuses and assignments to fill in open cook's position. This position is ...

Hebrew SeniorLife

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 ...

Oglebay

First Cook

Wheeling, WV · On-site

$17 - $19/hr

Individual will possess advanced cooking skills, including: knife skills, charbroiling, and poaching, deep-frying, sautéing, braising, roasting and par-cooking. Ideal candidates will look forward to ...

Cooper University Hospital

First Cook

Camden, NJ · On-site

$21 - $33/hr

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 with the ...

Equum Medical

First Cook

Roslindale, MA

$19.67 - $27.53/hr

Under the direction of the Executive Chef or a manager, the Floating First Cook provide support to different schedules, campuses and assignments to fill in open cook's position. This position is ...

Ditto'sGrill

First Cook

Louisville, KY

$15 - $24/hr

Cook for Established Highland's Bardstown Road restaurant. We are looking to hire a line cook with at least five years experience. You must be proficient in high volume grilling and sauting. This ...

Equum Medical

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 ...

Cooper University Hospital

First Cook

Camden, NJ

$33/hr

Short DescriptionAccurately 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 ...

Hebrew SeniorLife

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 ...

Hebrew SeniorLife

First Cook

Roslindale, 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 ...

Tufts Medicine

First Cook

Lowell, MA · On-site

$15.75 - $19.75/hr

This position is responsible to accurately and efficiently prepare, portion, cook, and present a ... We balance the first-rate care of a premier medical center with the warmth of a four-time Magnet ...

Cooper University Hospital

First Cook

Camden, NJ · On-site

$33/hr

Short DescriptionAccurately 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 ...

Fairview Health Services

First Cook

Edina, MN · On-site

$21.96 - $28.78/hr

Job Overview Fairview is looking for a Cook to join the Southdale Campus in Edina, MN! This position is approved for a 0.6 FTE 48 hours over a 2-week pay period and is benefit eligible! This position ...

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Fairview Health Services

First Cook

Edina, MN · On-site

$21.96 - $28.78/hr

Job Overview Fairview is looking for a Cook to join the Southdale Campus in Edina, MN! This position is approved for a 0.6 FTE 48 hours over a 2-week pay period and is benefit eligible! This position ...

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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 19, 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

BronxCare Health System

Bronx, NY

$16.75 - $20.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago

BronxCare Health System rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Overview

Performs a variety of tasks and operations to prepare and cook foods for patients, visitors, employees and others as directed, following standard practices and procedures in compliance with regulatory agency requirements, regular scheduled hours, productivity and employee behavior.  Maintains and promotes awareness of hospital mission statement and programs in order to assist in accomplishing its goals.

Responsibilities

1.             Establish and maintain positive relationships with patients, visitors, and other employees.  Interacts professionally, courteously, and appropriately with patients, visitors and other employees.  Behaves in a manner consistent with maintaining and furthering a positive public perception of BronxCare Health System and its employees.    

2.             Contributes to and participates in the Performance/Quality Improvement activities of the assigned department.  Contribution and participation includes data collection, analysis, implementation of and compliance with risk management and claims activities, support of and participation in Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) teams, consistent adherence to the specific rules and regulations of the BronxCare Health System (a) Safety and Security Policies, (b) Risk Management: Incident and Occurrence Reporting, (c) Infection Control Policies and Procedures and (d) Patient and Customer Service.

 

3.             Consults with Food Production Manger or Assistant Food Service Director of production tasks.

4.             Follows instruction on procedures and scheduling of production.

5.             Follows recipes and other production information to complete preparation of all menu items.

6.             Performs tasks such as cutting and trimming meats, fish and poultry; spice and season as required by recipe.

7.             Cooks, bakes, etc. using appropriate utensils and/or cooking equipment.

8.             Carves, slices or otherwise portions cooked foods to assure effective portion control and optimum utilization of food.  Performs other tasks as needed/directed to facilitate workflow in kitchen and food distribution areas.

9.             Prepares or assists Food Production Manager or Assistant Food Service Director.

10.          Ensures proper monitoring of food quality, temperature and accuracy.  Responds to correct deficiencies.

11.          Ensures accurate recording of statistics to maintain production systems integrity.  Follow-up to complete missing information.

12.          Ensure proper care, maintenance and sanitation of work areas, equipment and supplies.  Assists in care and maintenance.  Reports supply shortages/low stock.

13.          Maintains established policies and procedures, standards and practices in food preparation to achieve department objective of high quality, nutritional meals.

14.          Attends all Department and Hospital in-service/orientation and other meetings as required.  Follows Hospital policy on verification of attendance at same.

15.          Participates in educational programs or developmental in-services to improve skill level.

 

16.          Performs other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Knowledge of cooking methods and procedures, including various types of preparation and related routines. Familiar with kitchen equipment. Training in institutional food preparation or equivalent demonstrated knowledge and skills. Sufficient previous experience in large-scale food preparation. Vocational courses in cooking, sanitation and operation of equipment.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

What BronxCare Health System employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

BronxCare Health System logo

About BronxCare Health System

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

BronxCare is the largest voluntary, not-for-profit health and teaching hospital system serving the South and Central Bronx, with 859 beds and more than 4,500 employees. Its two main hospital divisions, comprehensive psychiatric and chemical dependency programs, long-term care facility, and extensive outpatient network are delivering the highest quality and accessible services to the community. BronxCare is now among the largest providers of outpatient services in New York City, with close to one million visits annually. Its ER is one of the busiest in New York.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

New York, NY, US

Year founded

1890

Social media

Twitter

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