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Lead Cook Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Drive Shack

BOH Team Lead

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$18 - $21/hr

A BOH Lead should be well informed about culinary positions, recipe standards, and hospitality for ... Demonstrate skills for preparation, cooking, and serving safe and inspiring culinary items.

Raising Cane's

Cook - Nights/Weekends

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$15.50/hr

Starting out in the back of the house at Raising Cane's can lead to many promotional opportunities for Cooks to grow their career by moving into advanced roles like Bird Specialist or Certified ...

CORBITT PARTNERS LLC

Station Chef

Kenly, NC · On-site

$14 - $15/hr

Opportunities for growth into Lead Cook or Kitchen Management roles * Supportive, team-focused work environment Our Company is family-owned and operated since 1964! Kenly 95 is committed to providing ...

Kenly 95 Petro Truckstop

Kitchen Staff

Kenly, NC · On-site

$14 - $15/hr

Opportunities for growth into Lead Cook or Kitchen Management roles * Supportive, team-focused work environment Our Company is family-owned and operated since 1964! Kenly 95 is committed to providing ...

CORBITT PARTNERS LLC

Chef

Kenly, NC

$14 - $15/hr

Opportunities for growth into Lead Cook or Kitchen Management roles * Supportive, team-focused work environment Our Company is family-owned and operated since 1964! Kenly 95 is committed to providing ...

Kenly 95 Petro Truckstop

Station Chef

Kenly, NC · On-site

$14 - $15/hr

Opportunities for growth into Lead Cook or Kitchen Management roles * Supportive, team-focused work environment Our Company is family-owned and operated since 1964! Kenly 95 is committed to providing ...

CORBITT PARTNERS LLC

Kitchen Staff

Kenly, NC

$14 - $15/hr

Opportunities for growth into Lead Cook or Kitchen Management roles * Supportive, team-focused work environment Our Company is family-owned and operated since 1964! Kenly 95 is committed to providing ...

Kenly 95 Petro Truckstop

Chef

Kenly, NC · On-site

$14 - $15/hr

Opportunities for growth into Lead Cook or Kitchen Management roles * Supportive, team-focused work environment Our Company is family-owned and operated since 1964! Kenly 95 is committed to providing ...

Fred Investments LLC

Be Seen First

Lead Line Cook or Line Cook

Chapel Hill, NC · On-site

$14 - $17/hr

Might as Well Bar & Grill is looking for line cook and a lead line cook. For line cook experience is great but we are always willing to train a motivated candidate. For lead line cook we are looking ...

Fred Investments LLC

Be Seen First

Lead Line Cook or Line Cook

Chapel Hill, NC · On-site

$14 - $17/hr

Might as Well Bar & Grill is looking for line cook and a lead line cook. For line cook experience is great but we are always willing to train a motivated candidate. For lead line cook we are looking ...

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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 Jul 3, 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 does a lead cook do?

A lead cook oversees kitchen operations, supervises kitchen staff, ensures food quality and safety standards are met, and assists with meal preparation. They often coordinate with management, manage inventory, and ensure timely service in a fast-paced environment.

What jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

Lead cooks typically do not earn $500,000 annually; such high salaries are usually associated with executive roles, specialized surgeons, or successful entrepreneurs. Top chefs in high-end restaurants or culinary entrepreneurs may reach high six-figure incomes, but reaching half a million dollars annually is uncommon for standard cooking positions. Achieving this level often requires extensive experience, ownership, or additional business ventures.

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 is the lead cook called?

The lead cook is often called the head cook, executive cook, or kitchen supervisor. They are responsible for managing kitchen staff, overseeing food preparation, and ensuring quality standards. This role typically requires culinary skills, leadership ability, and experience in a professional kitchen.

What is the highest paying job for a cook?

The highest paying roles for cooks typically include executive chef, head chef, or culinary director, especially in high-end restaurants, hotels, or private clubs. These positions often require extensive experience, leadership skills, and culinary certifications, and they can offer salaries significantly higher than standard line cook or prep cook roles.

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 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $38,860 per year, or $18.7 per hour.
BOH Team Lead

BOH Team Lead

Drive Shack

Raleigh, NC • On-site

$18 - $21/hr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

ABOUT DRIVE SHACK
Drive Shack is a modern entertainment destination that blends the energy of nightlife with the fun of tech-driven golf games. We’re all about creating spaces where guests can relax, connect, and make lasting memories.
With interactive golf experiences, chef-inspired food, and craft cocktails, we offer something for everyone from casual nights out to birthdays and corporate events. At Drive Shack, great food, good vibes, and friendly competition come together for an unforgettable time.
Job Purpose
The BOH Lead is responsible for daily operations in the kitchen. A BOH Lead should be well informed about culinary positions, recipe standards, and hospitality for guests. During their shift, a BOH Lead will open amp; close the venue following standard procedures, verify recipe adherence through line checks and visual inspection during service, and support management, staff, and guest requests as needed.
In addition, all BOH Leads are expected to create and maintain an inviting atmosphere in the kitchen for staff. This atmosphere is created through positivity, support, shared knowledge, and effective communication.
No direct reports. However, this role will assist in supervising the culinary team in the absence of the Executive Chef or Sous Chef.
Responsibilities
  • Oversee daily culinary operations and deliver an outstanding food experience for Drive Shack guests, which they will immediately recognize as unique and satisfying.
  • Follow culinary standards and training guidelines.
  • Reward and express genuine appreciation of the team’s dedication, hard work, and time.
  • Escalate issues and complaints related to staff, guests, and the kitchen.
  • Demonstrate skills for preparation, cooking, and serving safe and inspiring culinary items.
  • Ensure all culinary products are served to meet or exceed our high standards.
  • Develop and maintain good working relationships with a variety of people, including vendors, internal stakeholders, staff, and senior management.
  • Contribute to a climate of appreciation and respect for all Drive Shack Team Members.
  • Perform other duties as assigned and requested by the General Manager and the Executive Chef.
  • Additional projects may be assigned to this position to assist the company leadership on major initiatives, as deemed necessary.
Qualifications
  • Work extended hours as required and/or during busy periods based on business needs.
  • Work with minimal supervision.
  • Support the Executive Chef in the general operation of the kitchen.
  • Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills.
  • Establish strong relationships with staff in other areas of the Drive Shack operations, including managers and front-of-house departments.
  • Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
  • Supervising all food preparation and ensuring strict adherence to food hygiene regulations.
  • Recognize, maintain, and improve safety and sanitation in the kitchen.
  • Demonstrated understanding of various cooking methods, ingredients, equipment, and procedures.
  • Prior experience in a leading position with an excellent record of kitchen and staff management.
  • Accuracy and speed in handling in-the-moment conditions and providing solutions with hospitality and guest experience as a priority.
  • Working knowledge of various computer software programs (MS Office, inventory management software, Point of Sale systems).
Working Conditions
  • Fast-paced kitchen and entertainment environment with both indoor and outdoor operations
  • Frequent standing, walking, bending, and reaching for extended periods during shifts
  • Exposure to varying temperatures, including heat from ovens, grills, and dishwashing areas
  • Work schedule includes early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays as required by business needs
  • Regular handling of hot items, sharp utensils, and kitchen equipment in a high-traffic workspace
  • Must be able to lift, move, and carry up to 50 lbs. frequently throughout the shift
  • Requires focus, attention to detail, and adaptability in a busy, team-oriented environment
  • Noise levels and guest activity may be high during peak service periods
*Additional responsibilities/tasks within the position's goals may also be assigned. Drive Shack reserves the right to change job descriptions at any time based on business conditions/needs.
Drive Shack is committed to equal opportunity in the workplace, preventing discrimination and harassment, including sexual misconduct, based on legally protected diversity characteristics (such as race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, family status, citizenship, genetic information and veteran status) in its application and hiring processes and in its employment decisions. Additionally, Drive Shack takes action to prevent retaliation and to create a respectful, equitable and inclusive environment for everyone.

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