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Lead Cook Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Kala Seattle LLC

Be Seen First

Lead Cook

Seattle, WA · On-site

$27 - $32/hr

We are seeking an energetic and detail-oriented Lead to join our dynamic culinary team. In this ... Supervise food preparation processes including poaching, braising, grilling, and other cooking ...

Sodexo

Lead Cook

Bellevue, WA · On-site

$29.62/hr

Lead Cook Location: META, BELLEVUE - 16919001 Workdays/shifts : Weekdays - morning shifts. More details will be provided during the interview process. Employment Type: Full-time Pay Range: $29.62 per ...

Sodexo

Lead Cook

Bellevue, WA · On-site

$29.62/hr

Lead Cook Location: META, BELLEVUE - 16919001 Workdays/shifts : Weekdays - morning shifts. More details will be provided during the interview process. Employment Type: Full-time Pay Range: $29.62 per ...

Sodexo

Lead Cook

Bellevue, WA · On-site

$29.62/hr

Lead Cook Location: META, BELLEVUE - 16919001 Workdays/shifts: Weekdays - morning shifts. More details will be provided during the interview process. Employment Type: Full-time Pay Range: $29.62 ...

Sodexo

Lead Cook

Bellevue, WA · On-site

$29.62/hr

Lead Cook Location: META, BELLEVUE - 16919001 Workdays/shifts : Weekdays - morning shifts. More details will be provided during the interview process. Employment Type: Full-time Pay Range: $29.62 ...

Town & Country Markets, Inc.

Lead Cook

Poulsbo, WA

$18.50 - $23.75/hr

Lead Our Line & Bring Flavor to the Fieldhouse! We're looking for a Lead Cook who thrives in a fastpaced kitchen and takes pride in delivering exceptional guest experiences through every plate served.

Town & Country Markets, Inc.

Lead Cook

Poulsbo, WA · On-site

$18.50 - $23.75/hr

Lead Our Line & Bring Flavor to the Fieldhouse! We're looking for a Lead Cook who thrives in a fastpaced kitchen and takes pride in delivering exceptional guest experiences through every plate served.

Town & Country Markets, Inc.

Lead Cook

Poulsbo, WA · On-site

$28.95 - $29.95/hr

Lead Our Line & Bring Flavor to the Fieldhouse! We're looking for a Lead Cook who thrives in a fast-paced kitchen and takes pride in delivering exceptional guest experiences through every plate ...

SpaceX

Lead Cook

Redmond, WA

$27/hr

LEAD COOK RESPONSIBILITIES: * Manage cost controls and control expenditures * Create pricing schedules for all meals * Source high quality ingredients with a focus on local, sustainable, and organic ...

Emerald Heights

Lead Cook

Redmond, WA · On-site

$19.25 - $24.75/hr

The Lead Cook is responsible for the production and preparation of food items per standardized recipes and procedures. The incumbent is responsible for kitchen operations in the absence of Food and ...

SpaceX

Lead Cook

Redmond, WA · On-site

$27/hr

LEAD COOK RESPONSIBILITIES: * Manage cost controls and control expenditures * Create pricing schedules for all meals * Source high quality ingredients with a focus on local, sustainable, and organic ...

Snoqualmie Casino

Lead Cook Hawks Peak

Snoqualmie, WA · On-site

$23.67/hr

PURPOSE The Lead Cook - Hawks Peak is responsible for overseeing food preparation and cooking operations in the Sports Bar, ensuring that all dishes are prepared to the highest standards of quality ...

Aramark

Lead Cook - Seattle Convention Center

Seattle, WA · On-site

$28.42 - $30.33/hr

The Lead Cook is responsible for cooking and preparing food according to recipes and production guidelines while adhering to food safety, food handling, and sanitation procedures. The individual ...

Aramark

Lead Cook - University of Washington

Seattle, WA · On-site

$28/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 - Seattle Convention Center

Seattle, WA · On-site

$28.42 - $30.33/hr

The Lead Cook is responsible for cooking and preparing food according to recipes and production guidelines while adhering to food safety, food handling, and sanitation procedures. The individual ...

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All JobsLead Cook JobsLead Cook Jobs in Seattle, WA

Lead Cook information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$12

$21

$29

How much do lead cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for lead cook in Seattle, WA is $21.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.89 and $24.09 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

What cities near Seattle, WA are hiring for Lead Cook jobs?

Cities near Seattle, WA with the most Lead Cook job openings:

Lead Cook jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lead Cook job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,523 per year, or $21.9 per hour.

Lead Cook

Kala Seattle LLC

Seattle, WA • On-site

$27 - $32/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Posted 25 days ago

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Job description

We are seeking an energetic and detail-oriented Lead to join our dynamic culinary team. In this pivotal role, you will oversee daily kitchen operations, ensuring the highest standards of food quality, safety, and service. Your leadership will inspire a team of culinary professionals to deliver exceptional meals that delight our guests and uphold our commitment to excellence. This position offers an exciting opportunity to showcase your culinary expertise while managing high-volume food production in a fast-paced environment. If you thrive on teamwork, have a passion for innovative menu planning, and possess a strong foundation in food safety and kitchen management, we want to hear from you!


Responsibilities

  • Lead and motivate kitchen staff to achieve outstanding food quality and efficiency during meal preparation and service
  • Oversee adherence to recipes, dietary restrictions, and presentation standards
  • Supervise food preparation processes including poaching, braising, grilling, and other cooking techniques to maintain consistency and quality
  • Operate and maintain kitchen equipment safely and effectively, including knives, stoves, ovens, and food processing tools
  • Ensure compliance with all food safety sanitizing procedures and food handling regulations to uphold health standards
  • Manage high-volume production schedules while maintaining attention to detail in food presentation and portion control
  • Collaborate with dietary department staff for meal customization and special dietary needs management

Requirements

  • Proven experience as a dietary aide or in a similar culinary role with extensive menu planning responsibilities
  • Strong background in fine dining or restaurant environments with high-volume food production experience
  • Demonstrated skills in food safety management, sanitizing procedures, and proper food handling techniques
  • Proficiency in operating various kitchen equipment safely and efficiently
  • Excellent knife skills along with expertise in cooking methods such as poaching, braising, grilling, and catering preparation
  • Knowledge of food industry standards including recipe adherence, meal preparation, and catering services
  • Prior experience working within dietary departments or healthcare settings is highly desirable
  • Ability to lead a team effectively while maintaining a positive work environment


Join us to be part of a vibrant team dedicated to culinary excellence! We offer a supportive environment where your leadership can make a real impact on the quality of our meals and the satisfaction of those we serve. If you are passionate about food safety, innovative cooking techniques, and leading high-performing teams in a fast-paced setting, this is the perfect opportunity for you!