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Lead Cook Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Hwy 55

Lead Cook

Benson, NC · On-site

$14 - $18/hr

Lead Cook Location: [McGee's] Department: Kitchen Reports to: Head Chef Position Type: Full-time Job Summary: We are seeking a talented and experienced Lead Cook to join our culinary team. The ideal ...

Hwy 55 of Mcgee's Crossroads, NC

Lead cook

Benson, NC

$14 - $18/hr

Lead Cook Location: [Insert Location] Department: Kitchen Reports to: Head Chef/ Position Type: Full-time Job Summary: We are seeking a talented and experienced Lead Cook to join our culinary team.

Hwy 55 of Mcgee's Crossroads, NC

Lead cook

Benson, NC

$14 - $18/hr

Lead Cook Location: [Insert Location] Department: Kitchen Reports to: Head Chef/ Position Type: Full-time Job Summary: We are seeking a talented and experienced Lead Cook to join our culinary team.

NCSU

Lead Cook

Raleigh, NC

$15 - $19.25/hr

Position Information Posting Number PG195138TM Position Number 47LEADCOOK0525 Position Type Temporary Essential Job Duties NC State Dining is seeking individuals to Join our Pack as a Lead Cook

North Carolina State University

Lead Cook

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$17/hr

Essential Job Duties | NC State Dining is seeking individuals to Join our Pack as a Lead Cook . Successful candidates will receive instructions from the chef and other culinary professionals in a ...

North Carolina State University

Lead Cook

Raleigh, NC

$17/hr

Essential Job Duties | NC State Dining is seeking individuals to Join our Pack as a Lead Cook . Successful candidates will receive instructions from the chef and other culinary professionals in a ...

Sodexo

Lead Cook

Durham, NC · On-site

$17.50 - $22/hr

Lead Cook Location: MERCK, DURHAM - 69945001 Workdays/shifts: Weekdays - varying shifts (open availability preferred). More details will be provided during the interview process. Employment Type ...

Sodexo

Lead Cook

Durham, NC · On-site

$17.50 - $22/hr

Lead Cook Location: MERCK, DURHAM - 69945001 Workdays/shifts : Weekdays - varying shifts (open availability preferred). More details will be provided during the interview process. Employment Type ...

SodexoMagic

Lead Cook

Durham, NC

$17.50 - $22/hr

Lead Cook Location: MERCK, DURHAM - 69945001 Workdays/shifts : Weekdays - varying shifts (open availability preferred). More details will be provided during the interview process. Employment Type ...

Hwy 55 of Mcgee's Crossroads, NC

Lead Cook

Benson, NC

$14 - $18/hr

... cooks, and controlling inventory and costs. The Hwy 55 Leadership Team is an entry-level ... A great communicator can lead diverse teams and approach difficult situations with respect and ...

Hwy 55 of Mcgee's Crossroads, NC

Lead Cook

Benson, NC · On-site

$14 - $18/hr

... cooks, and controlling inventory and costs. The Hwy 55 Leadership Team is an entry-level ... A great communicator can lead diverse teams and approach difficult situations with respect and ...

Popeyes Selma

LEAD COOK

Selma, NC · On-site

$12 - $14/hr

We're looking for a Lead Cook to become part of our Popeyes family with skills and behaviors to create memorable experiences for our guests. Must be passionate about providing guests with the best ...

Garner Popeyes

LEAD COOK

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$12 - $14/hr

We're looking for a Lead Cook to become part of our Popeyes family with skills and behaviors to create memorable experiences for our guests. Must be passionate about providing guests with the best ...

Raleigh Popeyes

LEAD COOK

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$12 - $14/hr

We're looking for a Lead Cook to become part of our Popeyes family with skills and behaviors to create memorable experiences for our guests. Must be passionate about providing guests with the best ...

Aramark

Lead Cook - North Carolina State

Raleigh, NC

$16.75 - $21.50/hr

The Lead Cook is responsible for cooking and preparing food using standard recipes and production guidelines while following food safety, food handling, and sanitation procedures. The individual in ...

Aramark

Lead Cook - North Carolina State

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$15.25 - $19.50/hr

The Lead Cook is responsible for cooking and preparing food using standard recipes and production guidelines while following food safety, food handling, and sanitation procedures. The individual in ...

Aramark

Lead Cook - North Carolina State

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$15.25 - $19.50/hr

The Lead Cook is responsible for cooking and preparing food using standard recipes and production guidelines while following food safety, food handling, and sanitation procedures. The individual in ...

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All JobsLead Cook JobsLead Cook Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Lead Cook information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$10

$18

$24

How much do lead cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for lead cook in Raleigh, NC is $18.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $20.58 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 lead cooks?

Lead cooks are experienced culinary professionals who oversee kitchen operations in restaurants, hotels, or other food service establishments. They are responsible for preparing meals, supervising kitchen staff, ensuring food quality and safety, and coordinating the workflow during meal service. Lead cooks often assist in menu planning, inventory management, and training new employees. Their leadership helps maintain a smooth, efficient kitchen and consistent food standards.

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 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.

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
What are popular job titles related to Lead Cook jobs in Raleigh, NC? For Lead Cook jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Lead Cook jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Lead Cook jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Lead Cook jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Lead Cook job openings:
Lead Cook jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lead Cook job openings in Raleigh, NC as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 11% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $38,860 per year, or $18.7 per hour.
Lead Cook

Lead Cook

Hwy 55

Benson, NC • On-site

$14 - $18/hr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Lead Cook
Location: [McGee's]
Department: Kitchen
Reports to: Head Chef
Position Type: Full-time
Job Summary:

We are seeking a talented and experienced Lead Cook to join our culinary team. The ideal candidate will possess a deep passion for cooking, excellent leadership skills, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced kitchen environment. As the Lead Cook, you will oversee kitchen operations, support the Head Chef in menu planning, and ensure the highest standards of food quality and presentation.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Cooking & Food Preparation: Prepare and cook high-quality meals in accordance with standard recipes and presentation specifications, ensuring food quality, flavor, and nutrition are at their best.
  • Team Leadership: Supervise and mentor kitchen staff, providing guidance and support to ensure efficient kitchen operations. Foster a positive working environment and promote teamwork among all kitchen personnel.
  • Menu Development: Collaborate with the Head Chef to create and implement innovative and seasonal menu items that meet the tastes and dietary needs of our guests.
  • Inventory Management: Monitor inventory levels, assist with ordering supplies, and ensure proper storage and rotation of ingredients to maintain freshness and prevent waste.
  • Food Safety & Hygiene: Adhere to and enforce food safety, sanitation, and hygiene standards in the kitchen, ensuring compliance with health regulations.
  • Quality Control: Conduct regular quality checks on prepared dishes to ensure consistency in taste, presentation, and portion control.
  • Kitchen Operations: Coordinate kitchen activities, including food preparation, cooking, and presentation, while ensuring a smooth workflow during peak service times.
  • Training & Development: Assist in the training of new kitchen staff, imparting skills and knowledge to foster their growth within the culinary team.

Qualifications:
  • Proven experience as a cook, with at least [X years] in a lead or supervisory role in a fast-paced kitchen.
  • Culinary degree or equivalent experience in a professional kitchen is preferred.
  • Strong knowledge of various cooking techniques, cuisines, and dietary restrictions.
  • Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
  • Ability to work effectively under pressure and handle multiple tasks simultaneously.
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
  • Knowledge of food safety and hygiene standards.

If you are a passionate culinary professional with the skills and experience to lead a dedicated team, we invite you to apply for the Lead Cook position at [Company Name]. Come join us in creating memorable dining experiences for our guests!
How to Apply:
Please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and culinary philosophy to [Insert Application Email/Link].
[Company Name] is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
Hwy 55 logo

About Hwy 55

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Kenney Moore opened the Inaugural Hwy55 restaurant in 1991 in a small-town North Carolina mall. Initially named Andy’s Cheesesteaks & Cheeseburgers, Kenney started by personally cooking each burger in view of hungry customers. This allowed him to personally greet and engage with every patron and showcase his dedication to quality. This concept embodied the essence of a true restaurant experience, Where neighbors could come together over delicious food and exceptional service. Hwy55’s mission remains true to Kenney’s original vision: to provide genuine Hospitality and Fresh, Flavorful Cuisine to anyone seeking an Authentic, Communal Dining experience.

Industry

Restaurants

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Mount Olive, NC, US

Year founded

1991

Social media

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