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Jail Cook Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Canteen Services

Lead Cook

Charlotte, MI · On-site

$21/hr

Calhoun County Jail/ Battle Creek Michigan Tigg's Canteen Services is currently seeking a dedicated and reliable Full-Time Lead Cook to join our food service team at the Calhoun County Jail in Battle ...

Tigg's Canteen Services

Lead Cook

Charlotte, MI · On-site

$21/hr

Calhoun County Jail/ Battle Creek Michigan Tigg's Canteen Services is currently seeking a dedicated and reliable Full-Time Lead Cook to join our food service team at the Calhoun County Jail in Battle ...

Trinity Services Group

Cook

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$20.75/hr

About This Position This position is working inside a jail/correctional facility at the Wake County Detention Center. The Cook prepares a variety of food items following assigned work instructions ...

Trinity Services Group

Cook

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$20.75/hr

About This Position This position is working inside a jail/correctional facility at the Wake County Detention Center. The Cook prepares a variety of food items following assigned work instructions ...

Hamilton County Indiana

Cook

Noblesville, IN

$25.73/hr

Jail WORK SCHEDULE: As assigned STATUS: Full-time FLSA STATUS: Non-exempt HOURLY RATE: $25.7269 per hour To perform this position successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential ...

Canteen Services

Lead Cook

Fort Wayne, IN

$18/hr

NOW HIRING: FULL-TIME LEAD COOKDeKalb County Jail | Auburn, IndianaAre you looking for a rewarding ... Tigg's Canteen Services is currently hiring a Permanent Full-Time Lead Cook to join our team at the ...

Hamilton County Indiana

Cook

Noblesville, IN · On-site

$25.73/hr

Jail WORK SCHEDULE: As assigned STATUS: Full-time FLSA STATUS: Non-exempt HOURLY RATE: $25.7269 per hour To perform this position successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential ...

Canteen Services

Lead Cook

Connersville, IN · On-site

$19/hr

NOW HIRING: FULL-TIME LEAD COOKFayette County Jail | Connersville, IndianaAre you looking for a ... Tigg's Canteen Services is currently hiring a Permanent Full-Time Lead Cook to join our team at the ...

Elior North America

Cook

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$16.50/hr

Summit Location: , ((stateProvince))Black Hawk County Jail, IA The Role at a glance: We are looking to add an experienced cook to work with a highly motivated and energetic kitchen staff in our ...

Canteen Services

Lead Cook

Kalkaska, MI · On-site

$21/hr

Tigg's Canteen Services is currently seeking a Full-Time Permanent Lead Cook to work at both Grand Traverse County Jail in Traverse City Michigan . This is a great opportunity for someone who enjoys ...

Tigg's Canteen Services

Lead Cook

Connersville, IN · On-site

$19/hr

NOW HIRING: FULL-TIME LEAD COOKFayette County Jail | Connersville, Indiana Are you looking for a ... Tigg's Canteen Services is currently hiring a Permanent Full-Time Lead Cook to join our team at the ...

Canteen Services

Lead Cook

Fort Wayne, IN · On-site

$18/hr

NOW HIRING: FULL-TIME LEAD COOKDeKalb County Jail | Auburn, IndianaAre you looking for a rewarding ... Tigg's Canteen Services is currently hiring a Permanent Full-Time Lead Cook to join our team at the ...

Canteen Services

Lead Cook

Connersville, IN · On-site

$19/hr

NOW HIRING: FULL-TIME LEAD COOKFayette County Jail | Connersville, IndianaAre you looking for a ... Tigg's Canteen Services is currently hiring a Permanent Full-Time Lead Cook to join our team at the ...

Tigg's Canteen Services

Lead Cook

Fort Wayne, IN · On-site

$18/hr

NOW HIRING: FULL-TIME LEAD COOKDeKalb County Jail | Auburn, Indiana Are you looking for a rewarding ... Tigg's Canteen Services is currently hiring a Permanent Full-Time Lead Cook to join our team at the ...

Tigg's Canteen Services

Lead Cook

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$25/hr

Temporary Full-Time Lead Cook Washtenaw County Jail - Ann Arbor, MI Join the Tigg's Canteen Services Team! Are you a dependable, motivated individual who takes pride in providing quality meals and ...

Aramark

Cook - Mecklenburg County Jail

Charlotte, NC · On-site

$12.50 - $16.75/hr

As a Cook on our team, you'll help bring recipes to life while being able to flex your creativity! Surrounded by fresh ingredients and the best equipment, you'll be immersed in a world that goes ...

Canteen Services

Lead Cook

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$25/hr

Temporary Full-Time Lead Cook Washtenaw County Jail - Ann Arbor, MI Join the Tigg's Canteen Services Team! Are you a dependable, motivated individual who takes pride in providing quality meals and ...

Aramark

Cook - Escambia County Jail

Pensacola, FL · On-site

$13.25 - $17.75/hr

As a Cook on our team, you'll help bring recipes to life while being able to flex your creativity! Surrounded by fresh ingredients and the best equipment, you'll be immersed in a world that goes ...

Canteen Services

Lead Cook

Saint Joseph, MI · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Berrien County Jail | St. Joseph, MichiganReady for Your Next Leadership Opportunity in Food ... We are looking for a Permanent Full-Time Lead Cook to join our team at the Berrien County Jail in ...

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Jail Cook information

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$8

$16

$22

How much do jail cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for jail cook in the United States is $16.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.46 and $18.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a jail cook?

Jail Cooks are food service workers responsible for preparing and serving meals to inmates in correctional facilities. They follow strict guidelines to ensure food safety and meet nutritional requirements while working under supervision. Jail Cooks may also be responsible for maintaining kitchen cleanliness, managing inventory, and sometimes supervising inmate kitchen helpers. Their work is essential to the daily operations of jails and prisons. The role requires attention to detail, the ability to follow rules, and a commitment to safety and security.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a jail cook, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Jail Cook, you need experience in large-scale food preparation, knowledge of food safety standards, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, inventory management systems, and food handler certifications are typically required. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work efficiently under pressure help someone excel in this role. These skills ensure meals are prepared safely, efficiently, and in compliance with institutional regulations, supporting the health and well-being of inmates.

What are some common challenges faced by jail cooks and how can they be managed?

Jail cooks often work in fast-paced environments where they must prepare large quantities of food on a strict schedule while adhering to safety and security protocols. Managing limited resources and accommodating dietary restrictions—such as religious or medical needs—are common challenges. Effective communication with correctional officers and adherence to sanitation standards are crucial for maintaining a safe and efficient kitchen. Learning to adapt recipes and stay organized can help manage these challenges and ensure meal service runs smoothly.

What is the difference between Jail Cook vs Food Service Worker in correctional facilities?

AspectJail CookFood Service Worker in correctional facilities
CertificationsFood safety certification often requiredFood safety certification often required
Work EnvironmentCorrectional facility kitchens, secure environmentCorrectional facility kitchens, secure environment
Employer & IndustryJails, prisons, detention centersJails, prisons, detention centers
Job DutiesPreparing meals, following menus, maintaining hygienePreparing meals, assisting with food service, maintaining hygiene

Both Jail Cooks and Food Service Workers in correctional facilities work in secure environments preparing and serving food. Jail Cooks typically have more responsibility for meal planning and cooking, while Food Service Workers assist with food distribution and support kitchen operations. Both roles require food safety certifications and are essential in correctional food services.

More about Jail Cook jobs

What cities are hiring for Jail Cook jobs?

Cities with the most Jail Cook job openings:

What states have the most Jail Cook jobs?

States with the most job openings for Jail Cook jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Jail Cook jobs?

For Jail Cook jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Jail Cook jobs near you
Infographic showing various Jail Cook job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 62% Full Time, and 38% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $33,340 per year, or $16 per hour.

Lead Cook

Charlotte, MI • On-site

Canteen Services
Food and Drink Manufacturing • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about Canteen Servicesexternal

$21/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

Calhoun County Jail/ Battle Creek Michigan
Tigg's Canteen Services is currently seeking a dedicated and reliable Full-Time Lead Cook to join our food service team at the Calhoun County Jail in Battle Creek MI.
Compensation & Benefits
We believe in rewarding our team members with competitive pay and valuable benefits, including:
  • Starting pay of $21.00 per hour
  • Medical Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Additional employee benefits and programs
Position Summary
The Lead Cook plays an important role in daily meal production and kitchen operations. This individual will help coordinate food preparation activities, ensure recipes and procedures are followed, and assist in maintaining a safe and sanitary kitchen environment.
Key Responsibilities
  • Leading, directing, and assisting inmates within the kitchen
  • Prepare, cook, and serve meals according to company standards
  • Follow approved recipes and production schedules
  • Assist with baking, food preparation, and kitchen cleanup
  • Provide guidance and direction to kitchen staff when needed
  • Monitor food quality, safety, and sanitation practices
  • Help maintain an organized and efficient work environment
Qualifications
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Ability to work effectively in a structured correctional facility setting
  • Ability to read, understand, and follow recipes and instructions
  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds
  • Strong leadership and communication skills
  • Dependability and attention to detail
Scheduling Requirements
  • Availability to work weekends and holidays
  • Flexibility to work shifts between 7:30 AM and 7:30 PM
  • Ability to successfully obtain facility clearance

If you're looking for a stable, full-time position with competitive benefits and opportunities for growth, we'd like to hear from you.
Visit our website and select "Jobs" to complete an application and learn more about career opportunities with Tigg's Canteen Services.
Start your next career move with Tigg's Canteen Services today.
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