Cook I PRN
$13.50 - $18/hr
Preferred Qualifications - Prefer five (5) years of experience in high volume hospital, institutional or restaurant cooking preferred. - Prefer ability to read and understand written instructions ...
Cook I PRN
$13.50 - $18/hr
Preferred Qualifications - Prefer five (5) years of experience in high volume hospital, institutional or restaurant cooking preferred. - Prefer ability to read and understand written instructions ...
Cook I PRN
$13.50 - $18/hr
Preferred Qualifications - Prefer five (5) years of experience in high volume hospital, institutional or restaurant cooking preferred. - Prefer ability to read and understand written instructions ...
Cook I PRN
$13.50 - $18/hr
Preferred Qualifications - Prefer five (5) years of experience in high volume hospital, institutional or restaurant cooking preferred. - Prefer ability to read and understand written instructions ...
Cook I
$14.75 - $18.25/hr
Preferred Qualifications - Prefer five (5) years of experience in high volume hospital, institutional or restaurant cooking preferred. - Prefer ability to read and understand written instructions ...
Cook I
$14.75 - $18.25/hr
Preferred Qualifications - Prefer five (5) years of experience in high volume hospital, institutional or restaurant cooking preferred. - Prefer ability to read and understand written instructions ...
Cook I
$14.75 - $18.25/hr
Preferred Qualifications - Prefer five (5) years of experience in high volume hospital, institutional or restaurant cooking preferred. - Prefer ability to read and understand written instructions ...
Cook I
$14.75 - $18.25/hr
Preferred Qualifications - Prefer five (5) years of experience in high volume hospital, institutional or restaurant cooking preferred. - Prefer ability to read and understand written instructions ...
Cook
$13.50 - $18/hr
Minimum of one year as a cook in an institutional setting. Specific experience in nursing home, hospital or other healthcare setting is preferred. * Training in cost control, food management, diet ...
Cook
$13.50 - $18/hr
Minimum of one year as a cook in an institutional setting. Specific experience in nursing home, hospital or other healthcare setting is preferred. * Training in cost control, food management, diet ...
COOK
Bradenton, FL · On-site
$16/hr
Prior experience as a cook, line cook, or sous chef (institutional or residential facility experience preferred). * Knowledge of food safety, sanitation, and handling procedures. * Ability to work in ...
Quick apply
COOK
Bradenton, FL · On-site
$16/hr
Prior experience as a cook, line cook, or sous chef (institutional or residential facility experience preferred). * Knowledge of food safety, sanitation, and handling procedures. * Ability to work in ...
Part Time Cook
Clearwater, FL · On-site
$12.75 - $17.25/hr
Adhere to dietary guidelines and portion requirements appropriate for a residential treatment setting Requirements * 2+ years of cooking experience (professional or institutional preferred)
Part Time Cook
Clearwater, FL · On-site
$12.75 - $17.25/hr
Adhere to dietary guidelines and portion requirements appropriate for a residential treatment setting Requirements * 2+ years of cooking experience (professional or institutional preferred)
COOK
Bradenton, FL · On-site
$16/hr
Prior experience as a cook, line cook, or sous chef (institutional or residential facility experience preferred). * Knowledge of food safety, sanitation, and handling procedures. * Ability to work in ...
Quick apply
COOK
Bradenton, FL · On-site
$16/hr
Prior experience as a cook, line cook, or sous chef (institutional or residential facility experience preferred). * Knowledge of food safety, sanitation, and handling procedures. * Ability to work in ...
COOK
Bradenton, FL · On-site
$16/hr
Prior experience as a cook, line cook, or sous chef (institutional or residential facility experience preferred). * Knowledge of food safety, sanitation, and handling procedures. * Ability to work in ...
COOK
Bradenton, FL · On-site
$16/hr
Prior experience as a cook, line cook, or sous chef (institutional or residential facility experience preferred). * Knowledge of food safety, sanitation, and handling procedures. * Ability to work in ...
Part Time Cook
Clearwater, FL · On-site
$12.75 - $17.25/hr
Adhere to dietary guidelines and portion requirements appropriate for a residential treatment setting Requirements * 2+ years of cooking experience (professional or institutional preferred)
Part Time Cook
Clearwater, FL · On-site
$12.75 - $17.25/hr
Adhere to dietary guidelines and portion requirements appropriate for a residential treatment setting Requirements * 2+ years of cooking experience (professional or institutional preferred)
Part Time Cook
Clearwater, FL · On-site
$12.75 - $17.25/hr
Adhere to dietary guidelines and portion requirements appropriate for a residential treatment setting Requirements * 2+ years of cooking experience (professional or institutional preferred)
Quick apply
Part Time Cook
Clearwater, FL · On-site
$12.75 - $17.25/hr
Adhere to dietary guidelines and portion requirements appropriate for a residential treatment setting Requirements * 2+ years of cooking experience (professional or institutional preferred)
Cook
Sarasota, FL · On-site
$13.50 - $18/hr
Minimum of one year as a cook in an institutional setting. Specific experience in nursing home, hospital or other healthcare setting is preferred. * Training in cost control, food management, diet ...
Cook
Sarasota, FL · On-site
$13.50 - $18/hr
Minimum of one year as a cook in an institutional setting. Specific experience in nursing home, hospital or other healthcare setting is preferred. * Training in cost control, food management, diet ...
Cook - Kosher
Miami, FL · On-site
$13.50 - $18/hr
Cook ***5-10 years of experience with kosher kitchen standards such as food preparation, sourcing, and cooking processes, preferably in an institutional environment*** Join Healthcare Services Group ...
Quick apply
Cook - Kosher
Miami, FL · On-site
$13.50 - $18/hr
Cook ***5-10 years of experience with kosher kitchen standards such as food preparation, sourcing, and cooking processes, preferably in an institutional environment*** Join Healthcare Services Group ...
Cook I PRN
Sarasota, FL · On-site
$13.50 - $18/hr
Preferred Qualifications - Prefer five (5) years of experience in high volume hospital, institutional or restaurant cooking preferred. - Prefer ability to read and understand written instructions ...
Cook I PRN
Sarasota, FL · On-site
$13.50 - $18/hr
Preferred Qualifications - Prefer five (5) years of experience in high volume hospital, institutional or restaurant cooking preferred. - Prefer ability to read and understand written instructions ...
Cook I PRN
Sarasota, FL · On-site
$13.50 - $18/hr
Preferred Qualifications - Prefer five (5) years of experience in high volume hospital, institutional or restaurant cooking preferred. - Prefer ability to read and understand written instructions ...
Cook I PRN
Sarasota, FL · On-site
$13.50 - $18/hr
Preferred Qualifications - Prefer five (5) years of experience in high volume hospital, institutional or restaurant cooking preferred. - Prefer ability to read and understand written instructions ...
Cook I
Sarasota, FL · On-site
$14.75 - $18.25/hr
Preferred Qualifications - Prefer five (5) years of experience in high volume hospital, institutional or restaurant cooking preferred. - Prefer ability to read and understand written instructions ...
Cook I
Sarasota, FL · On-site
$14.75 - $18.25/hr
Preferred Qualifications - Prefer five (5) years of experience in high volume hospital, institutional or restaurant cooking preferred. - Prefer ability to read and understand written instructions ...
Institutional Cook information
See Florida salary details
$6.65 - $7.54
2% of jobs
$7.54 - $8.44
4% of jobs
$8.44 - $9.34
9% of jobs
$10.24 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$9.34 - $10.24
10% of jobs
$10.24 - $11.14
14% of jobs
The median wage is $11.74 / hr.
$11.14 - $12.04
16% of jobs
$12.04 - $12.93
15% of jobs
$13.26 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$12.93 - $13.83
12% of jobs
$13.83 - $14.73
9% of jobs
$14.73 - $15.63
5% of jobs
$15.63 - $16.53
3% of jobs
$6
$11
$16
How much do institutional cook jobs pay per hour?
As of Aug 23, 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?
| Aspect | Institutional Cook | Cafeteria Worker |
|---|---|---|
| Credentials | Food safety certification, culinary skills | Basic food handling, safety training |
| Work Environment | Hospitals, schools, prisons | School cafeterias, institutional dining halls |
| Employer & Industry | Educational, healthcare, correctional facilities | Educational 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:
Independent Living Systems rating
6.5
Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
Job description
We are seeking a Cook to join our team at Independent Living Systems (ILS). ILS, along with its affiliated health plans known as Florida Community Care and Florida Complete Care, is committed to promoting a higher quality of life and maximizing independence for all vulnerable populations.
About the Role:
As a Cook within the Health Care Services industry, you will play a vital role in preparing nutritious and safe meals tailored to the dietary needs of members, residents, and staff. Your work will directly contribute to the overall health and well-being of individuals by ensuring food quality, hygiene, and presentation meet strict healthcare standards. You will collaborate closely with dietitians, head chefs, and kitchen staff to accommodate special dietary requirements and maintain efficient kitchen operations. This role demands attention to detail, adherence to food safety regulations, and the ability to work in fast-paced environment while maintaining a positive attitude. Ultimately, your efforts will support the delivery of compassionate care through the provision of wholesome and appealing meals every day.
Minimum Qualifications:
- High school or GED
- Proven experience in food preparation and cooking, preferably in healthcare or institutional setting.
- Ability to read and speak English to understand recipes, safety instructions, and communicate with team members.
- Knowledge of food safety regulations and proper hygiene practices.
- Basic understanding of dietary needs and restrictions common in healthcare environments.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Certification in food safety or culinary arts.
- Experience working under the supervision of a head chef or in team-oriented kitchen environment.
- Familiarity with specialized diets such as diabetic, low sodium, or allergen-free meal preparation.
- Ability to use kitchen equipment and tools efficiently and safely.
- Previous experience in healthcare services kitchen or similar institutional food service.
Responsibilities:
- Prepare and cook meals according to established health care dietary guidelines and individual member needs.
- Maintain cleanliness and organization of the kitchen and food preparation areas to comply with health and safety standards.
- Assist the head chef in menu planning and food production to ensure variety and nutritional balance.
- Handle food storage, inventory management, and proper labeling to prevent contamination and waste.
- Communicate effectively with kitchen staff and healthcare professionals to accommodate special dietary requests and restrictions.
What Independent Living Systems employees say
Pay
Benefits
Hours and flexibility
Workplace
Get the full story on Breakroom
About Independent Living Systems
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
Industry
Health care and social assistance
Company size
501 - 1,000 Employees
Headquarters location
Miami, FL, US
Year founded
2001