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Institutional Cook Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

TJM PROPERTY MANAGEMENT INC

Cook

Lakeland, FL · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Preferred Experience Restaurant, healthcare, assisted living, skilled nursing, hospitality, institutional cooking, food preparation, food safety, ServSafe certification. Requirements Cooking ...

New

TJM PROPERTY MANAGEMENT INC

Cook

Lakeland, FL · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

... institutional cooking, food preparation, food safety, ServSafe certification. Requirements Cooking experience preferred, strong customer service skills, ability to work in a fast-paced environment ...

New

Encompass Health

Cook

Sarasota, FL

$13.50 - $18/hr

Recent institutional cooking experience and/or exposure to special function cooking are desirable. * Familiarity with all H.A.C.C.P. and food safety guidelines. * Flexibility in working weekdays ...

Encompass Health Corporation

Cook

Sarasota, FL · On-site

$13.50 - $18/hr

Recent institutional cooking experience and/or exposure to special function cooking are desirable. * Familiarity with all H.A.C.C.P. and food safety guidelines. * Flexibility in working weekdays ...

Encompass Health Corporation

Cook

Vero Beach, FL · On-site

$12.25 - $16.50/hr

Recent institutional cooking experience and/or exposure to special function cooking are desirable. * Familiarity with all H.A.C.C.P. and food safety guidelines. * Flexibility in working weekdays ...

Encompass Health

Cook

Vero Beach, FL

$12.25 - $16.50/hr

Recent institutional cooking experience and/or exposure to special function cooking are desirable. * Familiarity with all H.A.C.C.P. and food safety guidelines. * Flexibility in working weekdays ...

Encompass Health

Cook

Vero Beach, FL · On-site

$12.25 - $16.50/hr

Recent institutional cooking experience and/or exposure to special function cooking are desirable. * Familiarity with all H.A.C.C.P. and food safety guidelines. * Flexibility in working weekdays ...

Encompass Health Corporation

Cook

Lake Worth, FL

$12.50 - $16.75/hr

Recent institutional cooking experience and/or exposure to special function cooking are desirable. * Familiarity with all H.A.C.C.P. and food safety guidelines. * Flexibility in working weekdays ...

Encompass Health

Cook

Naples, FL · On-site

$13.25 - $17.75/hr

Recent institutional cooking experience and/or exposure to special function cooking are desirable. * Familiarity with all H.A.C.C.P. and food safety guidelines. * Flexibility in working weekdays ...

Encompass Health Corporation

Cook

Clermont, FL · On-site

$12.50 - $16.75/hr

Recent institutional cooking experience and/or exposure to special function cooking are desirable. * Familiarity with all H.A.C.C.P. and food safety guidelines. * Flexibility in working weekdays ...

Encompass Health

Cook

Pensacola, FL

$13.25 - $17.75/hr

Recent institutional cooking experience and/or exposure to special function cooking are desirable. * Familiarity with all H.A.C.C.P. and food safety guidelines. * Flexibility in working weekdays ...

Encompass Health

Cook

Sunrise, FL · On-site

$13.25 - $18/hr

Recent institutional cooking experience and/or exposure to special function cooking are desirable. * Familiarity with all H.A.C.C.P. and food safety guidelines. * Flexibility in working weekdays ...

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Institutional Cook information

See Florida salary details

$6

$11

$16

How much do institutional cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for institutional cook in Florida is $11.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $10.05 and $13.46 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an institutional cook?

Institutional cooks are culinary professionals who prepare large quantities of meals in settings such as schools, hospitals, prisons, nursing homes, and other institutions. Their responsibilities include planning menus, following specific dietary guidelines, ensuring food safety, and working as part of a team to prepare and serve food efficiently. Unlike restaurant cooks, institutional cooks often follow strict regulations and standardized recipes to meet the nutritional and safety needs of large groups.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an institutional cook?

To thrive as an Institutional Cook, you need strong culinary skills, knowledge of food safety standards, and experience in large-scale meal preparation, often supported by a food handler’s permit or related certification. Familiarity with industrial kitchen equipment, inventory management systems, and standardized recipes is essential. Attention to detail, teamwork, and time management are valuable soft skills that set exceptional cooks apart. These abilities ensure efficient food service, compliance with regulations, and consistent meal quality in institutional settings.

What are some common challenges institutional cooks face when preparing meals for large groups, and how can they be addressed?

Institutional cooks often encounter challenges such as managing strict dietary requirements, ensuring food safety, and preparing meals in large quantities while maintaining quality and consistency. To address these issues, cooks must follow standardized recipes, stay organized, and work closely with nutritionists or dietitians. Effective communication and teamwork with kitchen staff are essential to coordinate tasks and meet tight meal schedules.

What is the difference between Institutional Cook vs Cafeteria Worker?

AspectInstitutional CookCafeteria Worker
CredentialsFood safety certification, culinary skillsBasic food handling, safety training
Work EnvironmentHospitals, schools, prisonsSchool cafeterias, institutional dining halls
Employer & IndustryEducational, healthcare, correctional facilitiesEducational institutions, corporate cafeterias

Institutional Cooks typically have culinary training and handle food preparation in large-scale settings, while Cafeteria Workers focus on serving and maintaining food stations. Both roles work in institutional environments but differ in responsibilities and skill requirements.

What are popular job titles related to Institutional Cook jobs in Florida?

For Institutional Cook jobs in Florida, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Institutional Cook jobs in Florida look for?

The top searched job categories for Institutional Cook jobs in Florida are:

Institutional Cook jobs near you
Infographic showing various Institutional Cook job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, 28% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $24,915 per year, or $12 per hour.

Cook

TJM PROPERTY MANAGEMENT INC

Lakeland, FL • On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

‍ Looking for a Career, Not Just Another Job?
We are seeking a dependable and passionate Cook to join our culinary team. This position plays a vital role in creating an exceptional dining experience for residents by preparing nutritious, high-quality meals in a professional senior living environment.

 Why Join Lake Morton Senior Living?
• Health, Dental & Vision Insurance
• Paid Time Off
• Employee Assistance Program
• Stable year-round employment
• Supportive team environment
• Opportunities for growth and advancement

 What You'll Be Doing
• Prepare and serve meals according to approved menus and recipes
• Ensure proper food handling, storage, and sanitation procedures
• Assist with food preparation for special events and resident functions
• Maintain kitchen cleanliness and organization
• Monitor food quality, presentation, and portion control
• Follow all safety and infection control standards
• Work closely with dining services team members to ensure resident satisfaction

 Schedule
• Full-Time
• Weekends and holidays as scheduled
• Flexible scheduling based on community needs

 About Lake Morton Senior Living
Lake Morton Senior Living is dedicated to providing exceptional hospitality, quality service, and meaningful experiences for seniors. Team members play an important role in creating a welcoming environment where residents feel valued, respected, and at home.

 Preferred Experience
Restaurant, healthcare, assisted living, skilled nursing, hospitality, institutional cooking, food preparation, food safety, ServSafe certification.

 Requirements
Cooking experience preferred, strong customer service skills, ability to work in a fast-paced environment, ability to lift up to 50 pounds, dependable attendance.

 Additional Requirements
Ability to pass a Level 2 Background Check.
Ability to pass a drug screen.

Required Notice
Each specified agency must include a clear and conspicuous link to the webpage on its website and provide the link in all job vacancy advertisements and posts by the qualified entity.

https://info.flclearinghouse.com/

Apply