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Kitchen Cook Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Sardi's Pollo A La Brasa

Kitchen Cook

Beltsville, MD · On-site

$16 - $20/hr

Our Kitchen Cooks are tasked with properly preparing all menu items according to company standards and specifications in an expeditious, safe and sanitary manner. You are expected to support our team ...

Sardi's Pollo A La Brasa

Kitchen Cook

Hyattsville, MD

$15.75 - $19.75/hr

Our Kitchen Cooks are tasked with properly preparing all menu items according to company standards and specifications in an expeditious, safe and sanitary manner. You are expected to support our team ...

Sardi's Pollo A La Brasa

Kitchen Cook

Olney, MD

$16 - $20.25/hr

Our Kitchen Cooks are tasked with properly preparing all menu items according to company standards and specifications in an expeditious, safe and sanitary manner. You are expected to support our team ...

Picca Pollo A La Brasa

Kitchen Cook

Germantown, MD · On-site

$16 - $20/hr

Our Kitchen Cooks are tasked with properly preparing all menu items according to company standards and specifications in an expeditious, safe and sanitary manner. You are expected to support our team ...

Sardi's Pollo A La Brasa

Kitchen Cook

Annapolis, MD · On-site

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

Our Kitchen Cooks are tasked with properly preparing all menu items according to company standards and specifications in an expeditious, safe and sanitary manner. You are expected to support our team ...

Sardi's Pollo A La Brasa

Kitchen Cook

Alexandria, VA

$16 - $20/hr

Our Kitchen Cooks are tasked with properly preparing all menu items according to company standards and specifications in an expeditious, safe and sanitary manner. You are expected to support our team ...

Sardi's Pollo A La Brasa

Kitchen Cook

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$16 - $20/hr

Our Kitchen Cooks are tasked with properly preparing all menu items according to company standards and specifications in an expeditious, safe and sanitary manner. You are expected to support our team ...

Sardi's Pollo A La Brasa

Kitchen Cook

Takoma Park, MD · On-site

$16.25 - $20.25/hr

Our Kitchen Cooks are tasked with properly preparing all menu items according to company standards and specifications in an expeditious, safe and sanitary manner. You are expected to support our team ...

Sardi's Pollo A La Brasa

Kitchen Cook

Rockville, MD · On-site

$16 - $20.25/hr

Our Kitchen Cooks are tasked with properly preparing all menu items according to company standards and specifications in an expeditious, safe and sanitary manner. You are expected to support our team ...

Sardi's Pollo A La Brasa

Kitchen Cook

Bowie, MD

$15.25 - $19/hr

Our Kitchen Cooks are tasked with properly preparing all menu items according to company standards and specifications in an expeditious, safe and sanitary manner. You are expected to support our team ...

Sardi's Pollo A La Brasa

Kitchen Cook

Takoma Park, MD

$16.25 - $20.25/hr

Our Kitchen Cooks are tasked with properly preparing all menu items according to company standards and specifications in an expeditious, safe and sanitary manner. You are expected to support our team ...

Sardi's Pollo A La Brasa

Kitchen Cook

Capitol Heights, MD · On-site

$15.75 - $19.75/hr

Our Kitchen Cooks are tasked with properly preparing all menu items according to company standards and specifications in an expeditious, safe and sanitary manner. You are expected to support our team ...

Sardi's Pollo A La Brasa

Kitchen Cook

Gaithersburg, MD · On-site

$17 - $21.25/hr

Our Kitchen Cooks are tasked with properly preparing all menu items according to company standards and specifications in an expeditious, safe and sanitary manner. You are expected to support our team ...

Sardi's Pollo A La Brasa

Kitchen Cook

Oxon Hill, MD

$16 - $20/hr

Our Kitchen Cooks are tasked with properly preparing all menu items according to company standards and specifications in an expeditious, safe and sanitary manner. You are expected to support our team ...

Facets

Weekend Kitchen Cook - Part-Time

Falls Church, VA · On-site

$18 - $21/hr

Kitchen Cook REPORTS TO: Operations Coordinator CATEGORY: Part-Time/Non-Exempt/Permanent LOCATION: In-Person/ Falls Church, Virginia PROGRAM: Bailey's Community Shelter Position Summary: FACETS is ...

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Kitchen Cook information

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How much do kitchen cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for kitchen cook in Washington is $18.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.24 and $20.43 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest paying job for a cook?

The highest paying roles for cooks typically include executive chefs, head chefs, or culinary directors in high-end restaurants or hotel chains, with salaries often exceeding $70,000 annually. Specialized cuisines, extensive experience, and management responsibilities contribute to higher compensation in these positions.

What are some typical challenges kitchen cooks face during busy service hours, and how can they be managed?

Kitchen cooks often encounter high-pressure situations during peak meal times, which can lead to stress and a fast-paced work environment. Managing these challenges involves strong organizational skills, effective communication with team members, and the ability to prioritize tasks quickly. Many kitchens rely on 'mise en place' (everything in its place) to ensure ingredients and tools are ready before service begins, helping cooks stay efficient and focused. Developing these habits not only improves performance but also builds resilience and teamwork in a professional kitchen.

Can I get paid to cook at home?

Kitchen cooks typically work in commercial kitchens and are paid for preparing food on-site. Cooking at home is usually a personal activity and not a paid job unless you offer catering or private chef services, which require proper licensing and client agreements.

What is the work of a cook in the kitchen?

A kitchen cook prepares, cooks, and presents food according to recipes and standards. They handle tasks such as chopping, cooking, plating, and maintaining cleanliness, often working with kitchen tools and following safety protocols. Cooks may specialize in specific cuisines or stations within the kitchen environment.

What jobs make $3,000 a month without a degree?

A kitchen cook can earn around $3,000 a month with experience, especially in high-volume restaurants or hotels. Additional income can come from overtime, tips, or working in specialized roles like sous chef or line cook, which may require culinary skills but not necessarily a degree.

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

To thrive as a Kitchen Cook, you need strong culinary skills, knowledge of food safety standards, and often a high school diploma or culinary training. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, POS systems, and food handling certifications (such as ServSafe) is typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and the ability to work efficiently under pressure are standout soft skills for this position. These skills ensure consistent food quality, safe kitchen operations, and smooth service in a fast-paced environment.

What is the difference between Kitchen Cook vs Line Cook?

AspectKitchen CookLine Cook
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; culinary training often preferredHigh school diploma or equivalent; culinary training often preferred
Work EnvironmentKitchen, various stations, prep and cooking areasKitchen, specific station, fast-paced cooking line
Employer & Industry UsageRestaurants, hotels, catering servicesRestaurants, hotels, catering services
Common Search & ComparisonKitchen Cook vs Line Cook

Both Kitchen Cooks and Line Cooks work in similar culinary environments, often sharing credentials and industry settings. The main difference is that Kitchen Cooks may have broader responsibilities, including prep work and overseeing multiple stations, while Line Cooks focus specifically on preparing dishes at a designated station during service. Understanding these roles helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus within the culinary industry.

What does a kitchen cook do?

A kitchen cook is responsible for preparing, cooking, and presenting food according to recipes and restaurant standards. They handle various tasks such as chopping ingredients, monitoring food safety, maintaining cleanliness, and ensuring meals are served on time. Kitchen cooks may also assist in menu planning, inventory management, and training new staff. Their role is essential to creating a positive dining experience for customers.
Kitchen Cook jobs near you
Infographic showing various Kitchen Cook job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 68% Full Time, and 32% Part Time. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $37,761 per year, or $18.2 per hour.
Kitchen Cook

Kitchen Cook

Sardi's Pollo A La Brasa

Beltsville, MD • On-site

$16 - $20/hr

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

JOB DESCRIPTION

We're hiring Kitchen Cooks to join our team!


Our Kitchen Cooks are tasked with properly preparing all menu items according to company standards and specifications in an expeditious, safe and sanitary manner. You are expected to support our team service goal by serving high quality food in a respectful work environment.


Responsibilities

  • Masters the initial assigned station and develops abilities to master other stations
  • Shows care for and maintains all restaurant facilities while using them in a safe manner
  • Knows proper set-up, usage and break-down of station and all food production equipment. Operates equipment in only the safest manner
  • Rotates, labels and dates all food stores, resulting in only the freshest highest-quality ingredients
  • Understands and follows proper food safety and sanitation procedures
  • Prepares broiled food items following Sardi’s Pollo A La Brasa specifications
  • Maintains a clean and sanitary work station
  • Coordinates timing of station items with other stations under direction of Managers
  • Complete knowledge of menu ticket times for all kitchen stations.
  • Send food orders to the expediter in a complete and organized fashion
  • Meets the needs of the operation by assisting in any area requested by the management

Why work with us?

We offer great benefits to our team members including:

  • PTO- Paid Time Off
  • Free meals
  • Health Insurance contribution
  • Holiday Pay
  • Weekly Pay



Sardi’s is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against any applicant or employee because of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, age, or military or veteran status in accordance with federal law. In addition, Sardi’s complies with applicable state and local laws governing non discrimination in employment in every jurisdiction in which it maintains facilities. Sardi’s also provides reasonable accommodation to qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with applicable laws.


Disclaimer - Sardi's values diversity among our team members and the unique perspective this brings to the Company


Disclaimer - It is unlawful in Maryland to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this provision is guilty of a misdemeanor and subject to a fine not exceeding $100.


REQUIREMENTS
  • Previous broiler or related kitchen experience.
  • Completes station training requirements under the direction of an approved company trainer.
  • Follows good organizational habits.
  • Arrives to work on time, and according to schedule. Demonstrates the courteous and helpful attitude that exemplifies our team service goal. Treats others with respect.
  • Frequent lifting and transporting up to 50 pounds.
  • Communicates pertinent information effectively.
  • Follows recipe/production specifications.
  • Works quickly, efficiently and well under pressure.
  • Minimizes waste

ABOUT THE COMPANY

It all started with a dream. Founder's Phil and Phil dreamt of a place to bring their families, to enjoy fresh food and fun together. Their idea of mixing bold ideas, rich Peruvian flavors, and fresh ingredients kept them awake at night.


Today, the dream is real. Sardi's serves millions of customers every year and employs individuals committed to making your meal memorable.