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First Cook Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Equum Medical

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 ...

2LIFE COMMUNITIES

First Cook

Framingham, MA · On-site

$23 - $25/hr

GENERAL SUMMARY As a Line/Prep Cook, you'll play a key role in creating fresh, delicious meals for our residents while supporting the daily operations of the vibrant 2Life Dining Program. This is ...

Nathan Littauer Hospital

First Cook

Gloversville, NY · On-site

$18.48 - $20.61/hr

Description Job Purpose: The purpose of the job is to supervise the production staff, prepare and present food for patients, residents, customers and increase satisfaction results. Education: High ...

Putnam Hospital Center

First Cook - FT

Carmel, NY · On-site

$22.20/hr

Requires two (2) years of experience as a First Cook. Institutional experience required. including hospital, nursing home, college feeding and full service restaurants. * License: N/A. Working ...

Stella Maris

Cook (Nursing Home)

Timonium, MD · On-site

$17.99/hr

We are currently recruiting for a First Cook to join our team. This is an exciting opportunity to join our mission driven organization to provide excellent care to our residents. The First Cook ...

Stella Maris

Cook (Nursing Home)

Timonium, MD

$27.20/hr

We are currently recruiting for a First Cook to join our team. This is an exciting opportunity to join our mission driven organization to provide excellent care to our residents. The First Cook ...

Stella Maris

Cook (Nursing Home)

Timonium, MD

$27.20/hr

We are currently recruiting for a First Cook to join our team. This is an exciting opportunity to join our mission driven organization to provide excellent care to our residents. The First Cook ...

Stella Maris

Cook (Nursing Home)

Timonium, MD · On-site

$17.99/hr

The First Cook facilitates the service of meals and ensures excellent customer service to our residents. First Cook - Part time Check out some of our benefits offered: • Paid time off (PTO ...

Stella Maris

Cook (Nursing Home)

Timonium, MD

$27.20/hr

The First Cook facilitates the service of meals and ensures excellent customer service to our residents. First Cook - Part time Check out some of our benefits offered: • Paid time off (PTO ...

Stella Maris

Cook (Nursing Home)

Timonium, MD

$27.20/hr

The First Cook facilitates the service of meals and ensures excellent customer service to our residents. First Cook - Part time Check out some of our benefits offered: • Paid time off (PTO ...

SkyChefs

First Production Cook

Raleigh, NC

$18.25/hr

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 Cooks preparing and producing meals to meet ...

Yale New Haven Health

Per Diem First Cook

Bridgeport, CT · On-site

$16.25 - $20.50/hr

... COOK * 2.1 Prepares assigned recipes according to production sheets, and other special requests utilizing the standardized recipe card file to obtain the quality and quantity needed for daily ...

Yale New Haven Health

Per Diem First Cook

Bridgeport, CT

$16.25 - $20.50/hr

... COOK * 2.1 Prepares assigned recipes according to production sheets, and other special requests utilizing the standardized recipe card file to obtain the quality and quantity needed for daily ...

Yale New Haven Health

Per Diem First Cook

Bridgeport, CT

$16.25 - $20.50/hr

... COOK * 2.1 Prepares assigned recipes according to production sheets, and other special requests utilizing the standardized recipe card file to obtain the quality and quantity needed for daily ...

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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 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

Equum Medical

Dedham, MA

$19.67 - $27.53/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

Job Description:

I. 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 philosophy and goals of the mission of Hebrew Senior Life and recognizes patient dignity and choice in aspects of daily life. Strives to make every encounter with a patient a positive and meaningful experience and opportunity, while providing safe and efficient quality of care.

I Core Competencies:

  • Possess and display all the hard skills that contribute to a successful cook

  • Promotes effective interpersonal and interdisciplinary relationships, maintaining professional conduct at all times.

  • Able to engage and train colleagues.

  • Knowledge of knife skills and safety.

  • Ability to read, speak, and understand English to execute food order slips well, while working under pressure in a fast-paced environment.

  • Knowledge of proper temperatures of beef, chicken, fish, and the reheating of food.

  • Ability to accurately measure.

  • Demonstrate good judgment and initiative in preparing food.

  • Motivated to learn.

  • Flexible to change.

  • Exemplifies professionalism and exhibits values that contribute to the achievement of the mission of the Culinary and Nutrition Department and the Hebrew Rehabilitation Center.

Position Responsibilities:

Kitchen Production:

  • Responsible for the preparation, cooking, and overall production of the meals during their assigned shift

  • Responsible for minimal food waste

  • Ensures that the proper amounts of entrees, vegetables, desserts, and salads are produced according to the menus and manages daily production sheets in accordance with standardized recipes and preparation methods, portion control, time schedules, and special diet needs.

  • Responsible for ensuring that all food in the walk-in refrigerators and freezers is covered, labeled, and dated to ensure all food is being properly rotated.

  • Properly uses, cleans, maintains, and stores equipment, identifying and taking appropriate action with any maintenance issues that exist.

  • Assists in establishing cooking procedures and methods for the Culinary Staff, including the development of recipes.

  • Tastes and smells food to determine quality and palatability.

  • Responsible for meals going out promptly. Works directly with Jr. Sous Chef and Exec Sous Chef to ensure proper execution of specials.

Sanitation:

  • cleaned, sanitized, and maintained in an orderly fashion according to the latest regulations: local, state, federal, and Kosher (if applicable)

  • Oversees proper food handling, sanitation techniques, food storage, and HACCP procedures

  • Follows and adheres to the sanitation action plan to address the company's EOC and Sanitation rounding, as well as local, state, and federal sanitation compliance surveys.

  • Logs temperatures of all food to be served and reports any temperatures that exceed industry standards to management.

  • Attends in-service training sessions to keep current with knowledge in the field of nutrition, sanitation, and dietetics, as well as general in-services.

Professionalism:

  • Promotes effective interpersonal and interdisciplinary relationships, maintaining professional conduct at all times. Identifies and resolves interpersonal conflicts constructively.

  • Demonstrates a positive,e supportive attitude towards all.

  • Displays patience and tact when dealing with all customers and staff.

  • Positively presents the department to visitors, patients, and staff.

  • Consistently maintains a courteous and pleasant attitude toward visitors, patients, and staff.

  • Communicates effectively in both written and verbal form.

  • Follows safety rules, uniform code, jewelry policy, personal hygiene policy, as well as state and federal regulations.

  • Contributes to the efficient and productive operation of the department. Completes assignments with minimal assistance and total follow-up.

  • Exercises initiative, seeking additional tasks and projects from the supervisor.

  • Accepts assignments readily. Recognizes problems independently and works toward improving systems and procedures.

Qualifications:

  • High School diploma preferred.

  • 5 years of cooking experience required.

  • ServSafe Certification required or obtained within 6 months of being in the role.

V Physical Requirements (ADA Requirements)

  • Must be able to lift 50 pounds.

  • Must be able to pull 50 pounds.

  • Must be able to push 50 pounds.

  • Must be able to stand for long periods of time.

  • Must be able to walk short distances.

  • Frequent bending is involved.

  • Must be able to withstand temperature changes when going in and out of the walk-in refrigerator.

Schedule :

Sunday 8 am-4:30 pm

Monday 8 am -4:30 pm

Tuesday OFF

Wednesday OFF

Thursday 8 am-4:30 pm

Friday 8 am - 4:30 pm

Saturday 9:30 am -6 PM

_

Remote Type:

On-site

Salary Range:

$19.67 - $27.53

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