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Food Prep Cook Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Outlook Restaurant

Food Prep Cook

Westford, MA · On-site

$17 - $18/hr

Food Prep Cook - Mornings - 10am-4pmLocation: Westford, MA, 01886Skills Required: Food Prep Cook We are seeking a skilled Food Prep Cook to join our team in Westford, MA. The ideal candidate will ...

Holiday Inn Redding

Food Prep Cook

Redding, CA

$20/hr

We're looking for an enthusiastic food prep worker who can deliver outstanding results in the kitchen, prepping meals for our chef/cook. Your main responsibilities will be to stock, prepare, and ...

Zaxby's

Food Prep/Cook

Adairsville, GA

$12/hr

You will receive and stock inventory, prepare, cook and assemble orders,assist in keeping the kitchen prep area clean and organized, and maintain food safety and quality standards by following ...

CoreLife Eatery

Food Prep/Cook

Murfreesboro, TN

$12 - $15/hr

We have immediate openings for a Part-Time Prep Cook / Veggie Prep position. Typically (9-2PM) 3-5 ... Experience using a knife, food processor, stick mixer preferred. * Able to slice, dice, read a ...

Zaxby's

Food Prep/Cook

Adairsville, GA

$12/hr

You will receive and stock inventory, prepare, cook and assemble orders,assist in keeping the kitchen prep area clean and organized, and maintain food safety and quality standards by following ...

CoreLife Eatery

Food Prep/Cook

Murfreesboro, TN · On-site

$12 - $15/hr

DESCRIPTION We have immediate openings for a Part-Time Prep Cook / Veggie Prep position. Typically ... Experience using a knife, food processor, stick mixer preferred. * Able to slice, dice, read a ...

CoreLife Eatery

Food Prep/Cook

Franklin, TN · On-site

$12 - $15/hr

DESCRIPTION We have immediate openings for a Part-Time Prep Cook / Veggie Prep position. Typically ... Experience using a knife, food processor, stick mixer preferred. * Able to slice, dice, read a ...

CoreLife Eatery

Food Prep/Cook

Franklin, TN

$12 - $15/hr

We have immediate openings for a Part-Time Prep Cook / Veggie Prep position. Typically (9-2PM) 3-5 ... Experience using a knife, food processor, stick mixer preferred. * Able to slice, dice, read a ...

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Food Prep Cook information

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How much do food prep cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for food prep cook in the United States is $15.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.70 and $17.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a food prep cook?

Food Prep Cooks are kitchen staff responsible for preparing ingredients and assisting in the preparation of meals in restaurants, cafeterias, and other food service establishments. Their duties often include washing, chopping, and measuring ingredients, as well as maintaining a clean and organized work area. Food Prep Cooks support chefs and cooks by ensuring that all necessary items are ready for meal service, which helps keep the kitchen running smoothly. This entry-level position is ideal for those interested in gaining experience in the culinary field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a food prep cook, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Food Prep Cook, you need a solid understanding of basic culinary techniques, food safety practices, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with kitchen equipment, food handling procedures, and certifications like ServSafe are commonly required. Attention to detail, time management, and the ability to work efficiently in a team are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills ensure that food is prepared safely, efficiently, and to a consistent quality standard, which is critical for kitchen operations.

What are some common challenges food prep cooks face during busy shifts, and how can they be managed?

Food Prep Cooks often encounter high-pressure situations during peak meal times, which can make it challenging to keep up with large volumes of orders while maintaining food quality and safety standards. Staying organized, preparing ingredients in advance (mise en place), and maintaining clear communication with team members are essential strategies for managing these challenges. Adapting quickly to last-minute changes and prioritizing tasks also help ensure a smooth workflow and consistent service.

What is the difference between Food Prep Cook vs Line Cook?

AspectFood Prep CookLine Cook
ResponsibilitiesPrepares ingredients, washes, cuts, and organizes food items before cookingCooks and plates dishes during service, following recipes and timing
Work EnvironmentKitchen prep area, often before service hoursHot line during meal service, fast-paced environment
CredentialsBasic culinary skills, food safety knowledgeSimilar credentials, often with more experience

Food Prep Cooks focus on preparing ingredients and organizing food items, while Line Cooks handle cooking and plating dishes during service. Both roles require culinary skills and food safety knowledge, but their daily tasks and work environments differ significantly.

Do food prep cooks make good money?

Food prep cooks typically earn an hourly wage that varies by location and experience, with the median wage around minimum wage to slightly above. They may also receive tips and benefits depending on the employer. Advancement opportunities and additional skills can lead to higher pay in the culinary industry.

How to get a job as a food prep cook?

To get a job as a food prep cook, you should gain basic cooking skills, often through on-the-job training or culinary courses, and demonstrate reliability and attention to hygiene. Experience in a kitchen environment and knowledge of food safety standards can improve your chances of employment. Applying to restaurants, cafes, or catering services and highlighting relevant skills in your resume can help you secure a position.
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Food Prep Cook jobs near you
Infographic showing various Food Prep Cook job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 69% Full Time, 30% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,628 per year, or $15.7 per hour.

Food Prep Cook

The Outlook Restaurant

Westford, MA • On-site

$17 - $18/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

Job Description: Food Prep Cook - Mornings - 10am-4pmLocation: Westford, MA, 01886Skills Required: Food Prep Cook

We are seeking a skilled Food Prep Cook to join our team in Westford, MA. The ideal candidate will have experience in food preparation and cooking, as well as a passion for creating delicious and visually appealing dishes.

Responsibilities:
  • Prepare and cook food according to recipes and quality standards
  • Assist with inventory management and ordering of supplies
  • Clean and maintain kitchen equipment and work areas
  • Follow all food safety and sanitation guidelines
  • Collaborate with other kitchen staff to ensure timely and efficient service
Requirements:
  • Proven experience as a Food Prep Cook or similar role is a plus
  • Knowledge of food safety and sanitation guidelines
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
  • Excellent communication and teamwork skills
  • Flexibility to work mornings/daytime, weekends, and holidays as needed
Pay Range:
  • Pay Range: $17-$18 hourly

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