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First Cook Jobs (NOW HIRING)

First Cook

Needham, 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

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

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

Easton, 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

Quincy, 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

Minneapolis, MN

$16.75 - $21/hr

Job Overview Fairview is looking for a Cook at our UMMC - West Bank location, in Minneapolis, MN! This position is 8 hours bi-weekly. You can pick up more hours if you desire. This position is ...

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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 ...

First Cook

Malden, 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 ...

First Cook

Norwood, 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

Brockton, 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 ...

Training & development Summary Experienced cook position in culinary of Food and Beverage, assisting with the direction, preparation of and service of all foods produced in the culinary area.

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 ...

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

Brighton, 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

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 ...

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

Concord, 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 ...

First Cook

Norwood, 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

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 ...

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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 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.
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What job categories do people searching First Cook jobs look for? The top searched job categories for First Cook jobs are:
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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.
First Cook

$19.67 - $27.53/hr

Full-time

Posted 23 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

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Remote Type:

On-site

Salary Range:

$19.67 - $27.53