Lead Cook
$18/hr
Now Hiring: Full-Time Lead CookDeKalb County Jail | Auburn, IndianaLooking for More Than Just a Kitchen Job?If you're a dependable leader who enjoys cooking, mentoring others, and being part of a ...
Quick apply
Lead Cook
$18/hr
Now Hiring: Full-Time Lead CookDeKalb County Jail | Auburn, IndianaLooking for More Than Just a Kitchen Job?If you're a dependable leader who enjoys cooking, mentoring others, and being part of a ...
Lead Cook
Auburn, IN · On-site
$18/hr
Now Hiring: Full-Time Lead Cook DeKalb County Jail | Auburn, Indiana Looking for More Than Just a Kitchen Job? If you're a dependable leader who enjoys cooking, mentoring others, and being part of a ...
Lead Cook
Auburn, IN · On-site
$18/hr
Now Hiring: Full-Time Lead Cook DeKalb County Jail | Auburn, Indiana Looking for More Than Just a Kitchen Job? If you're a dependable leader who enjoys cooking, mentoring others, and being part of a ...
Lead Cook
Auburn, IN · On-site
$18/hr
Now Hiring: Full-Time Lead Cook DeKalb County Jail | Auburn, Indiana Looking for More Than Just a Kitchen Job? If you're a dependable leader who enjoys cooking, mentoring others, and being part of a ...
Lead Cook
Auburn, IN · On-site
$18/hr
Now Hiring: Full-Time Lead Cook DeKalb County Jail | Auburn, Indiana Looking for More Than Just a Kitchen Job? If you're a dependable leader who enjoys cooking, mentoring others, and being part of a ...
Cook
Charleston, WV · On-site
$26K - $44K/yr
Nature of Work Under general supervision, the Cook performs full-performance work in the ... Huttonsville Correctional Center and Jail, Mount Olive Correctional Complex and Jail, Western ...
Cook
Charleston, WV · On-site
$26K - $44K/yr
Nature of Work Under general supervision, the Cook performs full-performance work in the ... Huttonsville Correctional Center and Jail, Mount Olive Correctional Complex and Jail, Western ...
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 ...
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 ...
Lead Cook
Battle Creek, MI · On-site
$18/hr
Full-Time Lead Cook 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 ...
Lead Cook
Battle Creek, MI · On-site
$18/hr
Full-Time Lead Cook 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 ...
Lead Cook
Battle Creek, MI · On-site
$21/hr
Full-Time Lead CookCalhoun County Jail/ Battle Creek MichiganTigg's Canteen Services is currently seeking a dedicated and reliable Full-Time Lead Cook to join our food service team at the Calhoun ...
Quick apply
Lead Cook
Battle Creek, MI · On-site
$21/hr
Full-Time Lead CookCalhoun County Jail/ Battle Creek MichiganTigg's Canteen Services is currently seeking a dedicated and reliable Full-Time Lead Cook to join our food service team at the Calhoun ...
Cook - Summit County Jail
Akron, OH · On-site
$15 - $17/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 ...
Cook - Summit County Jail
Akron, OH · On-site
$15 - $17/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 ...
Lead Cook
Suttons Bay, MI · On-site
$20/hr
Lead Cook (Part-Time) Leelanau County Jail | Suttons Bay, Michigan Looking for More Than Just Another Kitchen Job? If you're an experienced food service professional who enjoys leading a team, takes ...
Lead Cook
Suttons Bay, MI · On-site
$20/hr
Lead Cook (Part-Time) Leelanau County Jail | Suttons Bay, Michigan Looking for More Than Just Another Kitchen Job? If you're an experienced food service professional who enjoys leading a team, takes ...
Lead Cook
Suttons Bay, MI · On-site
$20/hr
Lead Cook (Part-Time) Leelanau County Jail | Suttons Bay, Michigan Looking for More Than Just Another Kitchen Job? If you're an experienced food service professional who enjoys leading a team, takes ...
Lead Cook
Suttons Bay, MI · On-site
$20/hr
Lead Cook (Part-Time) Leelanau County Jail | Suttons Bay, Michigan Looking for More Than Just Another Kitchen Job? If you're an experienced food service professional who enjoys leading a team, takes ...
Cook - Taylor County Jail
Medford, MN · On-site
$16 - $18/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 ...
Cook - Taylor County Jail
Medford, MN · On-site
$16 - $18/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 ...
Cook - Taylor County Jail
Medford, WI · On-site
$16 - $18/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 ...
Cook - Taylor County Jail
Medford, WI · On-site
$16 - $18/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 ...
Lead Cook
Traverse City, MI · On-site
$21/hr
Now Hiring: Full-Time Lead Cook Grand Traverse County Jail | Traverse City, Michigan Join the Tigg's Canteen Services Team! Are you an experienced food service professional looking to take the next ...
Lead Cook
Traverse City, MI · On-site
$21/hr
Now Hiring: Full-Time Lead Cook Grand Traverse County Jail | Traverse City, Michigan Join the Tigg's Canteen Services Team! Are you an experienced food service professional looking to take the next ...
Lead Cook
Suttons Bay, MI · On-site
$20/hr
Lead Cook (Part-Time)Leelanau County Jail | Suttons Bay, MichiganLooking for More Than Just Another Kitchen Job?If you're an experienced food service professional who enjoys leading a team, takes ...
Quick apply
Lead Cook
Suttons Bay, MI · On-site
$20/hr
Lead Cook (Part-Time)Leelanau County Jail | Suttons Bay, MichiganLooking for More Than Just Another Kitchen Job?If you're an experienced food service professional who enjoys leading a team, takes ...
Cook - Ulster County Jail
Kingston, NY · On-site
$20/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 ...
Cook - Ulster County Jail
Kingston, NY · On-site
$20/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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
Cook - Hancock County Jail
Findlay, OH · On-site
$17 - $20/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 ...
Cook - Hancock County Jail
Findlay, OH · On-site
$17 - $20/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 ...
Cook - Taylor County Jail
Medford, WI · On-site
$16 - $18/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 ...
Cook - Taylor County Jail
Medford, WI · On-site
$16 - $18/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 ...
Cook - Summit County Jail
Akron, OH · On-site
$15 - $17/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 ...
Cook - Summit County Jail
Akron, OH · On-site
$15 - $17/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 ...
Lead Cook
Traverse City, MI · On-site
$21/hr
Now Hiring: Full-Time Lead CookGrand Traverse County Jail | Traverse City, MichiganJoin the Tigg ... Tigg's Canteen Services is seeking a Full-Time Lead Cook to oversee daily kitchen operations and ...
Quick apply
Lead Cook
Traverse City, MI · On-site
$21/hr
Now Hiring: Full-Time Lead CookGrand Traverse County Jail | Traverse City, MichiganJoin the Tigg ... Tigg's Canteen Services is seeking a Full-Time Lead Cook to oversee daily kitchen operations and ...
Jail Cook information
See salary details
$8.89 - $10.10
2% of jobs
$10.10 - $11.30
4% of jobs
$11.30 - $12.50
9% of jobs
$13.70 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$12.50 - $13.70
10% of jobs
$13.70 - $14.90
14% of jobs
The median wage is $15.71 / hr.
$14.90 - $16.11
16% of jobs
$16.11 - $17.31
15% of jobs
$17.74 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$17.31 - $18.51
12% of jobs
$18.51 - $19.71
9% of jobs
$19.71 - $20.91
5% of jobs
$20.91 - $22.12
3% of jobs
$8
$16
$22
How much do jail cook jobs pay per hour?
As of Aug 19, 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?
| Aspect | Jail Cook | Food Service Worker in correctional facilities |
|---|---|---|
| Certifications | Food safety certification often required | Food safety certification often required |
| Work Environment | Correctional facility kitchens, secure environment | Correctional facility kitchens, secure environment |
| Employer & Industry | Jails, prisons, detention centers | Jails, prisons, detention centers |
| Job Duties | Preparing meals, following menus, maintaining hygiene | Preparing 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 job categories do people searching Jail Cook jobs look for?
The top searched job categories for Jail Cook jobs are:
Job description
Now Hiring: Full-Time Lead CookDeKalb County Jail | Auburn, IndianaLooking for More Than Just a Kitchen Job?If you're a dependable leader who enjoys cooking, mentoring others, and being part of a team that makes a difference every day, Tigg's Canteen Services has an opportunity for you.We're seeking a Full-Time Lead Cook to oversee daily meal preparation and help lead our kitchen team at the DeKalb County Jail in Auburn, Indiana.Why You'll Love This OpportunityCompetitive PayStarting at $18.00 per hourOutstanding BenefitsMedical InsuranceDental InsuranceVision Insurance401(k) Retirement PlanPaid Time OffAdditional employee benefitsStable ScheduleFull-time, year-round employmentShifts between 9:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.Rotating weekends and holidaysWhat You'll Bring to the TeamWe're looking for someone who:Demonstrates integrity, professionalism, and a positive attitudeEnjoys leading and supporting othersThrives in a structured correctional environmentCan follow standardized recipes and food production proceduresIs able to lift up to 50 poundsTakes pride in preparing quality meals and maintaining a clean, organized kitchenYour ResponsibilitiesAs a Lead Cook, you'll help ensure our kitchen operates efficiently by:Supervising and assisting with daily food preparationPreparing, cooking, and baking meals according to company standardsTraining and supporting kitchen team membersMaintaining food safety, sanitation, and quality standardsAssisting with kitchen clean-up and organizationHelping deliver consistent meal service every dayWhat You'll NeedHigh school diploma or GEDAbility to obtain facility security clearanceFlexibility to work assigned shifts, weekends, and holidaysPrevious food service experience is helpful-but we're happy to train motivated individuals with the right attitude and work ethic.Join a Company That Invests in Its PeopleAt Tigg's Canteen Services, we're committed to providing quality food service while creating opportunities for our employees to grow and succeed. If you're ready for a rewarding leadership role with a company that values teamwork, accountability, and professionalism, we'd love to hear from you.Apply Today!Visit www.canteenservices.com, click "Jobs," and follow the application instructions to begin your career with Tigg's Canteen Services.Your leadership journey starts here.#ZR
Job Posted by ApplicantPro
Job Posted by ApplicantPro
About Canteen Services
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
Industry
Food and drink manufacturing
Company size
51 - 200 Employees
Headquarters location
Coldwater, MI, US