Cook
$13.75 - $18.50/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 ...
Cook
$13.75 - $18.50/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 ...
Cook
Richmond, VA · On-site
$13.75 - $18.50/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 ...
Cook
Richmond, VA · On-site
$13.75 - $18.50/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 ...
Cook
Petersburg, VA · On-site
$13.75 - $18.50/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 ...
Cook
Petersburg, VA · On-site
$13.75 - $18.50/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 ...
Cook
Fredericksburg, VA · On-site
$13.75 - $18.50/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 ...
Cook
Fredericksburg, VA · On-site
$13.75 - $18.50/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 ...
Cook
Richmond, VA · 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 ...
Cook
Richmond, VA · 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 ...
Cook
$13.75 - $18.50/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 ...
Cook
$13.75 - $18.50/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 ...
Cook
Norfolk, VA · On-site
$17 - $19/hr
This is an excellent opportunity for someone with a passion for food service and nutrition, especially those with experience in healthcare, senior living, or institutional cooking. We offer a ...
Cook
Norfolk, VA · On-site
$17 - $19/hr
This is an excellent opportunity for someone with a passion for food service and nutrition, especially those with experience in healthcare, senior living, or institutional cooking. We offer a ...
PRN Cook
Manassas, VA · On-site
$14 - $18.75/hr
Previous experience in an institutional food setting * Exposure to the senior population * Desire to serve and care for the senior population Compensation & Benefits We offer remuneration ...
Quick apply
PRN Cook
Manassas, VA · On-site
$14 - $18.75/hr
Previous experience in an institutional food setting * Exposure to the senior population * Desire to serve and care for the senior population Compensation & Benefits We offer remuneration ...
Cook
Fredericksburg, VA · On-site
$13 - $17.50/hr
Previous experience in institutional or high-volume cooking preferred * Knowledge of food safety and sanitation standards * Ability to follow recipes, menus, and dietary guidelines accurately
Cook
Fredericksburg, VA · On-site
$13 - $17.50/hr
Previous experience in institutional or high-volume cooking preferred * Knowledge of food safety and sanitation standards * Ability to follow recipes, menus, and dietary guidelines accurately
Cook
Fredericksburg, VA · On-site
$13 - $17.50/hr
Previous experience in institutional or high-volume cooking preferred * Knowledge of food safety and sanitation standards * Ability to follow recipes, menus, and dietary guidelines accurately
Cook
Fredericksburg, VA · On-site
$13 - $17.50/hr
Previous experience in institutional or high-volume cooking preferred * Knowledge of food safety and sanitation standards * Ability to follow recipes, menus, and dietary guidelines accurately
Dietary Cook
Leesburg, VA · On-site
$14.50 - $18.50/hr
Experience as a cook (healthcare or institutional setting preferred) * Knowledge of food safety and sanitation practices * Ability to follow recipes and dietary guidelines closely * Strong time ...
Quick apply
Dietary Cook
Leesburg, VA · On-site
$14.50 - $18.50/hr
Experience as a cook (healthcare or institutional setting preferred) * Knowledge of food safety and sanitation practices * Ability to follow recipes and dietary guidelines closely * Strong time ...
Cook at Eisenhower East KinderCare
Alexandria, VA · On-site
$16.65 - $19.95/hr
At least one year of institutional cooking -- food ordering experience highly desirable * Two or more years working with children, highly desirable * Must be physically able to use the computer with ...
Cook at Eisenhower East KinderCare
Alexandria, VA · On-site
$16.65 - $19.95/hr
At least one year of institutional cooking -- food ordering experience highly desirable * Two or more years working with children, highly desirable * Must be physically able to use the computer with ...
Cook at Diamond Springs KinderCare
Virginia Beach, VA · On-site
$14.20 - $16.35/hr
At least one year of institutional cooking -- food ordering experience highly desirable * Two or more years working with children, highly desirable * Must be physically able to use the computer with ...
Cook at Diamond Springs KinderCare
Virginia Beach, VA · On-site
$14.20 - $16.35/hr
At least one year of institutional cooking -- food ordering experience highly desirable * Two or more years working with children, highly desirable * Must be physically able to use the computer with ...
COOK (FULL-TIME)
Newport News, VA · On-site
$12.75 - $17/hr
COOK (FULL-TIME) Apply Targer Hiring Range: $37,440.00 - $43,056.00 - Based on Experience Requires ... Experience in food service in an institutional setting preferred. ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS: An ...
COOK (FULL-TIME)
Newport News, VA · On-site
$12.75 - $17/hr
COOK (FULL-TIME) Apply Targer Hiring Range: $37,440.00 - $43,056.00 - Based on Experience Requires ... Experience in food service in an institutional setting preferred. ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS: An ...
COOK (PART-TIME)
Newport News, VA · On-site
$18 - $20.70/hr
COOK (PART-TIME) Apply Target Hiring Salary: $18.00 - $20.70 - Based on Experience This is a ... Experience in food service in an institutional setting preferred. ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS: An ...
COOK (PART-TIME)
Newport News, VA · On-site
$18 - $20.70/hr
COOK (PART-TIME) Apply Target Hiring Salary: $18.00 - $20.70 - Based on Experience This is a ... Experience in food service in an institutional setting preferred. ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS: An ...
Cook - Full Time
$13 - $17.25/hr
Have two years of experience in institutional or full-service restaurant cooking * Demonstrate ability to communicate effectively in English, both verbally and in writing * Maintain food handlers ...
Quick apply
Cook - Full Time
$13 - $17.25/hr
Have two years of experience in institutional or full-service restaurant cooking * Demonstrate ability to communicate effectively in English, both verbally and in writing * Maintain food handlers ...
Cook
Richmond, VA · On-site
$16 - $18/hr
... institutional setting. Preferred Food and Safety Certification. WORK EXPERIENCE: At least one year experience in Food Services industry providing meals in large quantities for residential facility ...
Quick apply
Cook
Richmond, VA · On-site
$16 - $18/hr
... institutional setting. Preferred Food and Safety Certification. WORK EXPERIENCE: At least one year experience in Food Services industry providing meals in large quantities for residential facility ...
Cook - Full Time
Henrico, VA · On-site
$13 - $17.25/hr
Have two years of experience in institutional or full-service restaurant cooking * Demonstrate ability to communicate effectively in English, both verbally and in writing * Maintain food handlers ...
Cook - Full Time
Henrico, VA · On-site
$13 - $17.25/hr
Have two years of experience in institutional or full-service restaurant cooking * Demonstrate ability to communicate effectively in English, both verbally and in writing * Maintain food handlers ...
Cook Evening
Salem, VA · On-site
$16/hr
) Salem Health & Rehabilitation Center in Salem, Virginia is currently seeking a Cook for our Dining ... This position requires: 1+ year experience in food preparation in a health care, institutional, or ...
Cook Evening
Salem, VA · On-site
$16/hr
) Salem Health & Rehabilitation Center in Salem, Virginia is currently seeking a Cook for our Dining ... This position requires: 1+ year experience in food preparation in a health care, institutional, or ...
Institutional Cook information
See Virginia salary details
$8.82 - $10.01
2% of jobs
$10.01 - $11.20
4% of jobs
$11.20 - $12.39
9% of jobs
$13.58 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$12.39 - $13.58
10% of jobs
$13.58 - $14.78
14% of jobs
The median wage is $15.57 / hr.
$14.78 - $15.97
16% of jobs
$15.97 - $17.16
15% of jobs
$17.59 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$17.16 - $18.35
12% of jobs
$18.35 - $19.54
9% of jobs
$19.54 - $20.73
5% of jobs
$20.73 - $21.93
3% of jobs
$8
$15
$21
How much do institutional cook jobs pay per hour?
As of Aug 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for institutional cook in Virginia is $15.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.37 and $17.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
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 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 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 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 job categories do people searching Institutional Cook jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Institutional Cook jobs in Virginia are:
$13.75 - $18.50/hr
Other
Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO
Re-posted 3 days ago
Encompass Health rating
7.0
Based on 421 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
412th of 887 rated healthcare providers
Job description
Cook Career Opportunity
Recognized for your culinary skills
Are you passionate about creating culinary delights that leave a lasting impression? If so, we have an exciting opportunity for a cook who not only brings skill to the kitchen but also seeks a career close to home and close to heart. In this role, you'll be instrumental in preparing therapeutic and modified diets for patients. Join us in a culinary journey that goes beyond the kitchen and resonates with the warmth of helping others. If you're ready to infuse your love for cooking into a career that matters, your next chapter starts here. Welcome to a kitchen where your skills meet a sense of belonging.
A Glimpse into Our World
At Encompass Health, you'll experience the difference the moment you become a part of our team. Working with us means aligning with a rapidly growing national inpatient rehabilitation leader. Our achievements include being named one of the "World's Most Admired Companies" and receiving the Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For Award, among other accolades, which is nothing short of amazing.
Starting Perks and Benefits
At Encompass Health, we are committed to creating a supportive, inclusive, and caring environment where you can thrive. From day one, you will have access to:
- Affordable medical, dental, and vision plans for both full-time and part-time employees and their families.
- Generous paid time off that accrues over time.
- Opportunities for tuition reimbursement and continuous education.
- Company-matching 401(k) and employee stock purchase plans.
- Flexible spending and health savings accounts.
- A vibrant community of individuals passionate about the work they do!
Become the Cook you always wanted to be
- Apportion servings according to menu combinations or orders for patients.
- Follow menus, recipes, and oral instructions in the preparation of various foods.
- Serve appropriate portion sizes based on menu specifications.
- Plan timing of preparation of the food to ensure food satisfaction.
- Ensure satisfaction regarding taste, texture, temperature and appearance.
Qualifications
- Possession of a food handler's permit, if required by state or county regulations.
- Training in food preparation for therapeutic diets.
- 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, weekends, evenings, or night shifts to meet deadlines is expected.
We're eagerly looking forward to meeting you, and we genuinely mean that. Join us on this remarkable journey!
The Encompass Health Way
We proudly set the standard in care by leading with empathy, doing what's right, focusing on the positive, and standing stronger together. Encompass Health is a trusted leader in post-acute care with over 150 nationwide locations and a team of 36,000 exceptional individuals and growing!
At Encompass Health, we celebrate and welcome diversity in our inclusive culture. We provide equal employment opportunities regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, national origin, color, creed, age, mental or physical disability, or any other protected classification.
What Encompass Health employees say
Pay
Benefits
Hours and flexibility
Workplace
Get the full story on Breakroom
About Encompass Health
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
Helping patients regain hope and independence, Encompass Health is a national leader in post-acute care. We operate rehabilitation hospitals in 36 states as well as Puerto Rico. Following the Encompass Way, we are driven by our core values: We proudly set the standard, lead with empathy, do what's right, focus on the positive, and remain stronger together.
Industry
Hospitals
Company size
10,000+ Employees
Headquarters location
Birmingham, AL, US