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First Cook Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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

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 ...

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

Ithaca, NY

$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

$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

Rockland, 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

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 ...

First Cook

Medway, 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

Arlington, VA · On-site

$21/hr

Responsibilities for cooking according to airline customized menu, procedures and recipes. * The job includes sauting, poaching, baking, grilling, and sauce preparation, as well as working with ...

First Cook

Rockland, 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 ...

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

Foxboro, 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 ...

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 ...

First Cook

Louisville, KY · On-site

$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 ...

$16 - $20/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 ...

First Cook - Newton

Chestnut Hill, MA · On-site

$15.25 - $20.50/hr

First Cook Basic Function and Responsibility Responsible for supervising, monitoring and preparing food in large quantities at assigned work areas for high volume dining room feeding and for ...

First Cook

Weston, 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

Lexington, 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

Malden, 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

Braintree, 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 ...

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First Cook information

See salary details

$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.

$17.50 - $21.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

Site: The Brigham and Women's Hospital, Inc.


Mass General Brigham relies on a wide range of professionals, including doctors, nurses, business people, tech experts, researchers, and systems analysts to advance our mission. As a not-for-profit, we support patient care, research, teaching, and community service, striving to provide exceptional care. We believe that high-performing teams drive groundbreaking medical discoveries and invite all applicants to join us and experience what it means to be part of Mass General Brigham.



Job Summary

Reads and interprets sheets for assigned production for patient, cafeteria and/or special catering according to standardized recipes and department food nutritional requirements/quality standards. Takes inventory, records production usage and other data as assigned. Responsible for the safe and sanitary maintenance of work area and equipment. 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 exemplary service to patients, guests, and staff. This position requires working with and assisting other members of the Room Service team (Call Center Operator, Guest Service Attendant, and Expeditor) and Hospital staff to ensure that all patients receive prescribed foods, and guests and staff receive requested food following Federal, State and Local sanitation and safety procedures. As outlined in the Food Service Department's HAACP program. 1.Follows "opening & closing of kitchen" routines according to established procedures and Managers' assigned schedule. 2. Obtain the appropriate inventory quantities foodstuff from refrigerators, freezers and dry storage areas. 3. Assumes responsibilities for production work area by following standardized recipes and/or production sheets in the preparation, cooking, and seasoning of all food manufactured for a patients and cafeteria. 4. Monitor, collect and/or record operation specific data as required, finished product inventory and movement 5. Sets up or directs the set-up of prescribed amounts of food in appropriate containers for room service units. Maintains written records of food produced, checks & records usage and quality throughout service period. May help on the cooking line needed during peak periods. 6. Adheres to agencies'/hospital/departmental safety and sanitation standards to maintain food free of physical, bacterial, and chemical contamination during all aspects of food handling. Participate in and monitors, according to preset criteria, sanitation, and safety procedures - including HACCP program. 7. Records and maintains daily refrigerator/freezer temperature charts consistent with departmental policy & procedures. 8. Observes, tests temperatures, tastes, and confirms quality & quantity/portion sizes of food being prepared. 9. May assist in orientation and on-the-job training of new Food Service Team members. and in-service education. 10. Operates, maintains, sanitizes, and/or supervises assistants' use of equipment at various times. Responsible for adherence to policies and procedures which safeguard the well-being of co-workers and other customers. 11. Assures that the kitchen equipment (ovens, grill, refrigerators, fryer, mixers, slicers, choppers, etc.) is cleaned, sanitized, and maintained according to departmental standards. 12. Calls to the attention of the Shift-lead Cook or manager, any malfunctioning of equipment and/or safety hazards which could harm an individual and/or disrupt the operation and units of productivity. 13. Adhere to departmental, hospital policies and procedures and other foodservice regulations at all times. 14. Perform all other duties as assigned.


Qualifications

1. Must have the skills and knowledge to produce uniform quality food products for a patient's room service style menu, utilizing fresh foods, following a master recipe production system of cooking. 2. Must have the ability to maintain nutritional, quality and productivity guideline requirements for an assigned production work to meet the required patient food expectations. 3. As assigned and directed by the shift's lead cook or production manager, participates in new product development, standardization of recipes, testing procedures for the operation 4. Must have a basic knowledge of operational regulations pertaining to safety, applied food service sanitation and HACCP as mandated by Joint Commission, Federal, State and City regulatory agencies. 5. Must know the operational and sanitation procedures for all equipment used in the production area. 6. Must be able to take and record food and equipment temperatures accurately and appropriately. 7. Works with the production manager in the absence of the shift lead cook following Federal Government grades and quality classifications of meat, poultry, fresh and frozen fruits and vegetables, fish, shellfish, and canned goods to evaluate their acceptance or rejection utilizing written department specifications. 8. Evaluates any unforeseen mechanical or production crisis and brings it to the attention of the production manager for necessary action to correct the problem without curtailing productivity. 9. Plans productivity and personnel work assignments during the absence of the shift's lead cook with the assistance from the production manager. 10. Must be able to communicate with the production manager, assembly area, production work center staff, housekeeping, engineering, etc., in a clear and positive manner to maintain departmental objectives and standards. 11. Must have good hand-eye coordination, good manual dexterity and a good attention span. 12. Must have the ability to communicate well to discuss semi-complex and involved information with other employees, staff members, patients, or public in a sensitive manner. 13. Must be able to maintain confidentiality of patient information obtained through the hospital computer system and employee information obtained from employee files. Minimum Qualifications - External 1. High school education and graduate of a culinary program specializing in quantity food production. 2. 2-3 years of work experience, restaurant hot/cold production line and cooking line required. 3. The position requires the ability to read, write and speak English, to follow and give oral and written instructions, to be able to communicate with patients, hospital personnel, and co-workers. This level is normally acquired through completion of a high school education. 4. Knowledge of food regulations set by the federal, Massachusetts and Boston City Health Codes and Joint Commission on the Accreditation of Hospitals. 5. Must have computer skills and basic mathematics knowledge.


Additional Job Details (if applicable)

Additional Job Description


Remote Type

Onsite


Work Location

75 Francis Street


Scheduled Weekly Hours

40


Employee Type

Regular


Work Shift

Rotating (United States of America)


Pay Range

$18.58 - $26.58/Hourly


Grade

3


At Mass General Brigham, we believe in recognizing and rewarding the unique value each team member brings to our organization. Our approach to determining base pay is comprehensive, and any offer extended will take into account your skills, relevant experience if applicable, education, certifications and other essential factors. The base pay information provided offers an estimate based on the minimum job qualifications; however, it does not encompass all elements contributing to your total compensation package. In addition to competitive base pay, we offer comprehensive benefits, career advancement opportunities, differentials, premiums and bonuses as applicable and recognition programs designed to celebrate your contributions and support your professional growth. We invite you to apply, and our Talent Acquisition team will provide an overview of your potential compensation and benefits package.


EEO Statement:

2200 The Brigham and Women's Hospital, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religious creed, national origin, sex, age, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation, military service, genetic information, and/or other status protected under law. We will ensure that all individuals with a disability are provided a reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. To ensure reasonable accommodation for individuals protected by Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Vietnam Veteran's Readjustment Act of 1974, and Title I of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, applicants who require accommodation in the job application process may contact Human Resources at (857)-282-7642.


Mass General Brigham Competency Framework

At Mass General Brigham, our competency framework defines what effective leadership "looks like" by specifying which behaviors are most critical for successful performance at each job level. The framework is comprised of ten competencies (half People-Focused, half Performance-Focused) and are defined by observable and measurable skills and behaviors that contribute to workplace effectiveness and career success. These competencies are used to evaluate performance, make hiring decisions, identify development needs, mobilize employees across our system, and establish a strong talent pipeline.