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Institutional Cook Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Grace Management INC

Be Seen First

Line Cook/Cook II (PM Shift)

Arlington, VA · On-site

$23/hr

Cook II performs a wide variety of simple cooking tasks under general supervision, or performs ... Two years of job related experience in a Commercial (Institutional), restaurant, cafeteria or ...

New

Willow Creek

PM Cook (Full-Time + Benefits)

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

$13.50 - $18.25/hr

The successful candidate for this position must be 18 years of age and have two years' experience in institutional or full service restaurant cooking. It is preferred that this individual have ...

Carilion Clinic

Culinary Center Cook

Roanoke, VA · On-site

$18.70 - $26.18/hr

R161219 Culinary Center Cook (Open) How You'll Help Transform Healthcare: Sign on Bonus Eligible ... Experience: 1 year of experience in commercial or institutional food preparation preferred.

New

Carilion Clinic

Culinary Center Cook

Roanoke, VA · On-site

$18.70 - $26.18/hr

R161219 Culinary Center Cook (Open) How You'll Help Transform Healthcare: Sign on Bonus Eligible ... Experience: 1 year of experience in commercial or institutional food preparation preferred.

New

Gategroup

First Cook - $22.00/hr

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$22/hr

At least 2 years of experience cooking in a high volume institutional catering environment is preferred * Experience with maintaining temperature logs for all food items prepared. * Recipe conversion ...

Gategroup

First Cook - $22.00/hr

Chantilly, VA

$22/hr

At least 2 years of experience cooking in a high volume institutional catering environment is preferred * Experience with maintaining temperature logs for all food items prepared. * Recipe conversion ...

gategroup

First Cook - $22.00/hr

Dulles, VA

$22/hr

At least 2 years of experience cooking in a high volume institutional catering environment is preferred * Experience with maintaining temperature logs for all food items prepared. * Recipe conversion ...

gategroup

First Cook - $22.00/hr

Dulles, VA · On-site

$22/hr

At least 2 years of experience cooking in a high volume institutional catering environment is preferred Experience with maintaining temperature logs for all food items prepared. Recipe conversion ...

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Institutional Cook information

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How much do institutional cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 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?

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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Institutional Cook, and why are they important?

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 institutional cooks?

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:
Institutional Cook jobs near you
Infographic showing various Institutional Cook job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $33,054 per year, or $15.9 per hour.

Cook Dining Services

Harrisonburg Health & Rehabilitation Center

Harrisonburg, VA • On-site

$16 - $17/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

Harrisonburg Health & Rehabilitation Center in Harrisonburg, Virginia is currently seeking a F.T. 6am - 2pm or 12pm - 8pm Cook for our Dining Services Department. Must be available to work every other Sat. & Sun. We know food brings people together, and dining is an important part of the outstanding experience we provide for our patients.

Working at Harrisonburg Health & Rehabilitation Center is more than just a job - it is an opportunity to do meaningful work that improves the lives of others. As a member of our team, you will enjoy a genuine spirit of caring. We understand the responsibilities that come with caring for others, and we consider it a privilege. Our team members experience the daily joy of enriching the lives of others, while building genuine relationships with patients and their families. We love our patients, and we think you will too.

The Cook prepares all food according to the menu in a safe and sanitary manner.

Ensures proper preparation, portioning, and serving of foods according to standardized recipes and menus.

This position requires: 1+ year experience in food preparation in a health care, institutional, or restaurant setting. If you are mature with proven leadership skills and good verbal and written communication skills, then we are looking for you! You must be able to work effectively among co-workers, residents, family members, and externally and internally with customers in a team environment.

We offer a competitive rate of pay, including differentials, and a comprehensive benefits package for full time employees which include affordable medical, dental, and vision insurance, paid time off, extra pay for holidays, and a 401k match. If you are looking to join a group of friendly team members who enjoy a busy work environment and truly want to make a difference in the lives of our patients, please apply today!