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Lead Cook Jobs in Mississippi (NOW HIRING)

MMI Hotel Group

Lead Cook

Starkville, MS · On-site

$15.50 - $19.75/hr

Lead Cook - Starkville Academy Location- Starkville, MS Zest Culinary Services at Starkville Academy has an exciting opportunity for an experienced Lead Cook! This position plays a key role in ...

MMI Hotel Group

Lead Cook

Jackson, MS · On-site

$15 - $19.25/hr

Lead Cook Location- Jackson, Ms Zest Culinary Services (formerly known as MMI Dining Systems) Zest Culinary Services is hiring a Lead Cook for our contract location in Jackson, MS - a multi-use ...

Sodexo

Lead Cook

Fulton, MS · On-site

$17 - $18/hr

Lead Cook Location: ITAWAMBA COMMUNITY COLLEGE - FULTON CAMPUS - 94205001 Workdays/shifts : Varying shifts, days/hours (open availability preferred). More details will be provided during the ...

Golden Nugget

Lead Cook - Banquets

Biloxi, MS · On-site

$17 - $19/hr

Overview Oversee the preparation, seasoning, and cooking of foods, following recipes for preplanned menus. Responsibilities * Broil steak chops, fish, and poultry according to order. * Toast bread ...

Golden Nugget

Lead Cook - Michael Patrick's

Biloxi, MS · On-site

$17 - $19/hr

Mix ingredients for cooked and uncooked desserts, such as pudding custard, gelatin, and fruit desserts. * Washes, peels, cuts, seeds, and cook vegetables according to recipes. * May oversee the ...

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Lead Cook information

See Mississippi salary details

$10

$18

$24

How much do lead cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for lead cook in Mississippi is $18.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.72 and $20.05 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a lead cook?

A lead cook is the head of the kitchen who oversees restaurant operations and the other cooks. As a lead cook, you work closely with restaurant managers, cooks, and front of house staff to coordinate food preparation and ensure the operations of the dining facility are running smoothly. Depending on the work environment, you may create menu dishes, order food supplies and equipment, review food and beverage purchases, and train other cooks. You typically need to gain several years of experience working as a line cook before beginning a career as a lead cook. Educational requirements vary, but professional training through vocational programs, culinary institutes, and degree programs may offer a competitive edge. Additional qualifications include excellent knowledge of cuisine, communication and organizational skills, and the ability to lead and manage others.

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

To thrive as a Lead Cook, you need strong culinary skills, experience with food preparation, kitchen management, and often a culinary degree or relevant certification. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, food safety systems, and inventory management software is typically required. Leadership, effective communication, and the ability to work under pressure are essential soft skills in this role. These skills ensure efficient kitchen operations, consistent food quality, and a positive team environment in fast-paced settings.

How does a lead cook typically collaborate with kitchen staff and management to ensure smooth kitchen operations?

A Lead Cook plays a central role in coordinating kitchen activities by communicating clearly with line cooks, prep staff, and servers to ensure that dishes are prepared correctly and timely. They work closely with management to implement menu changes, manage inventory, and uphold food safety standards. Effective collaboration involves training team members, delegating tasks based on skill level, and addressing any issues that arise during service. This teamwork not only keeps the kitchen running efficiently but also fosters a positive work environment.

What is the difference between Lead Cook vs Line Cook?

AspectLead CookLine Cook
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; culinary certificationsHigh school diploma or equivalent; culinary training often preferred
Work EnvironmentKitchen leadership, supervising staff, managing kitchen operationsPreparing dishes on the line, following recipes, working under supervision
ResponsibilitiesOversees kitchen staff, ensures quality, manages inventoryPrepares specific dishes, maintains station, follows head chef instructions

The main difference between a Lead Cook and a Line Cook is that the Lead Cook has supervisory responsibilities and oversees kitchen operations, while the Line Cook focuses on preparing dishes at their station. Lead Cooks often have more experience and may be responsible for training staff, whereas Line Cooks execute specific tasks within the kitchen. Both roles require culinary skills, but the Lead Cook's role includes leadership and management duties.

More about Lead Cook jobs

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What job categories do people searching Lead Cook jobs in Mississippi look for?

The top searched job categories for Lead Cook jobs in Mississippi are:

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For Lead Cook jobs in MS, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Lead Cook jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lead Cook job openings in Mississippi as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,863 per year, or $18.2 per hour.

Lead Cook

MMI Hotel Group

Starkville, MS • On-site

$15.50 - $19.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Job Description
Lead Cook - Starkville Academy
Location- Starkville, MS
Zest Culinary Services at Starkville Academy has an exciting opportunity for an experienced Lead Cook!
This position plays a key role in ensuring guest satisfaction by preparing high-quality meals that are cooked properly, presented beautifully, and served on time.
If you have a passion for food, a commitment to exceptional service, and a desire to work in a supportive team environment, this may be the perfect fit for you!
Responsibilities
  • Prepare and cook menu items according to recipes, quality, and presentation standards
  • Oversee daily kitchen operations and assist in coordinating the kitchen team
  • Ensure all food is served promptly and safely in compliance with food safety standards
  • Maintain cleanliness and organization of the kitchen area
  • Support opening and closing duties as assigned
  • Assist with inventory, ordering, and daily prep
  • Promote teamwork and uphold Zest Culinary's standards of southern hospitality

Qualifications
  • Minimum of 2 years of experience in a high-volume kitchen or similar food service environment
  • Strong understanding of food preparation, safety, and sanitation
  • Excellent teamwork and communication skills
  • Ability to work a flexible schedule following the school calendar: Monday - Friday (no evenings)

Why Join Zest Culinary Services?
Zest Culinary Services is a company deeply rooted in southern hospitality and a proud tradition of service excellence. With over 70 years of experience in the hospitality industry, we offer our team members a supportive, family-oriented environment and opportunities for growth.
Zest Culinary is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a member of E-Verify. All qualified applicants-including minorities, women, protected veterans, and individuals with disabilities-are encouraged to apply.

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