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Institutional Cook Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Job Title: Full-Time Cook Hourly rate: $16-$18/hr. based on experience Location: Saint Ignatius ... Minimum of 2 years professional kitchen experience required (school, institutional, restaurant, or ...

Cook

Sidney, OH

$13 - $17.50/hr

One-year experience as a cook in an institutional food services setting preferred. * Must be able to read, write, and speak the English language. Must be able to express self adequately in written ...

Cook

Tipp City, OH · On-site

$13.25 - $17.75/hr

One-year experience as a cook in an institutional food services setting preferred. * Must be able to read, write, and speak the English language. Must be able to express self adequately in written ...

Cook

Tipp City, OH

$13.25 - $17.75/hr

One-year experience as a cook in an institutional food services setting preferred. * Must be able to read, write, and speak the English language. Must be able to express self adequately in written ...

Cook

Vandalia, OH

$13.25 - $17.75/hr

One-year experience as a cook in an institutional food services setting preferred. * Must be able to read, write, and speak the English language. Must be able to express self adequately in written ...

Cook

Tipp City, OH

$13.25 - $17.75/hr

One-year experience as a cook in an institutional food services setting preferred. * Must be able to read, write, and speak the English language. Must be able to express self adequately in written ...

Cook

Tipp City, OH

$13.25 - $17.75/hr

One-year experience as a cook in an institutional food services setting preferred. * Must be able to read, write, and speak the English language. Must be able to express self adequately in written ...

Part Time Cook

Springfield, OH

$12 - $15.75/hr

Minimum 2 years of cooking experience , preferably in healthcare, long-term care, or institutional food service * Previous supervisory or lead cook experience strongly preferred * Knowledge of ...

Cook Centralized Kitchen

Cleveland, OH

$13.50 - $18.25/hr

Job Summary Cook is responsible for preparing, cooking and packaging all meals in a timely and ... Experience in institutional (large scale) meal planning and preparation preferred. * Basic ...

Cook Centralized Kitchen

Cleveland, OH

$13.50 - $18.25/hr

Job Summary Cook is responsible for preparing, cooking and packaging all meals in a timely and ... Experience in institutional (large scale) meal planning and preparation preferred. * Basic ...

Cook Centralized Kitchen

Cleveland, OH

$13.50 - $18.25/hr

Job Summary Cook is responsible for preparing, cooking and packaging all meals in a timely and ... Experience in institutional (large scale) meal planning and preparation preferred. * Basic ...

Cook

Vandalia, OH · On-site

$17 - $18/hr

Minimum of 1 year experience as a cook in a healthcare, behavioral health, or institutional setting preferred. * Knowledge of nutrition and dietary needs for individuals in recovery preferred.

Entry Level Cook - Full Time

Wooster, OH · On-site

$12.25 - $16.25/hr

At least one year of cooking or food preparation experience * Healthcare, senior living, hospitality, or institutional food service experience is a plus * Basic computer skills * Valid driver ...

Cook

Dayton, OH · On-site

$12.25 - $16.50/hr

Cook FLSA STATUS: Non-Exempt EMPLOYMENT STATUS: Part-Time DEPARTMENT: NRTC REPORTS TO: Food Service ... Skill in: institutional food preparation; operation and utilization of standard kitchen equipment ...

Cook: Assisted Living

Ashland, OH · On-site

$15 - $16.80/hr

Prior cooking experience in a restaurant or institutional setting is preferred but not required * ServSafe Certification is a PLUS, but not required. * Onsite presence required. We recognize the ...

Cook: Assisted Living

Ashland, OH · On-site

$15 - $16.80/hr

Prior cooking experience in a restaurant or institutional setting is preferred but not required * ServSafe Certification is a PLUS, but not required. * Onsite presence required. We recognize the ...

Cook: Assisted Living

Ashland, OH · On-site

$15 - $16.80/hr

A High School Degree or equivalent in preferredPrior cooking experience in a restaurant or institutional setting is preferred but not requiredServSafe Certification is a PLUS, but not required.Onsite ...

Dietary Cook / Aide

Mansfield, OH · On-site

$13.75 - $16.75/hr

Minimum of one (1) year cooking experience for a large group; long-term care or institutional experience preferred * Ability to scale and quantify recipes to meet facility needs * Strong written and ...

Showing results 41-60

Institutional Cook information

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 Ohio?

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

Infographic showing various Institutional Cook job openings in Ohio as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution.

Full Time Cook Position

Cleveland, OH

$16 - $18/hr

Full-time

PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Full-Time Cook
Hourly rate: $16-$18/hr. based on experience 
Location: Saint Ignatius High School, Cleveland Ohio
Schedule: Monday Friday, First Shift
Reports To: Director/Assistant Director
]




Position Summary:
Saint Ignatius High School is seeking a dependable, experienced Full-Time Cook to join our
campus dining team. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in professional kitchen
settings and a passion for preparing nutritious, high-quality meals for students and staff. This role
requires early morning availability, strong organizational skills, and a team-oriented mindset.
Key Responsibilities:





  • Prepare and cook meals in accordance with planned menus, nutritional guidelines, and portion control standards
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary kitchen and work environment in compliance with health and safety regulations
  • Assist in receiving, inspecting, and storing food deliveries
  • Operate standard kitchen equipment including ovens, grills, steamers, mixers, and slicers
  • Follow recipes and production schedules to ensure meal consistency and efficiency
  • Work collaboratively with the kitchen team to ensure timely meal service during breakfast and lunch periods
  • Assist with cleanup and kitchen shutdown procedures at the end of the shift
  • Communicate any supply shortages, equipment malfunctions, or safety concerns to the supervisor
  • Assist with school related catering events.

Qualifications:

  • Minimum of 2 years professional kitchen experience required (school, institutional, restaurant, or catering settings)
  • Knowledge of basic nutrition, food safety, and sanitation practices (ServSafe Certification is a plus)
  • Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced, high-volume environment
  • Reliable and punctual with strong time management skills
  • Able to lift up to 50 lbs and stand for long periods
  • Team player with a positive attitude and strong communication skills

Compensation & Benefits:

  • Competitive hourly wage based on experience
  • Paid time off and school holidays
  • Employee meal included during shift
  • Opportunities for professional development and training