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Lead Cook Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

13 Coins Restaurants

Lead Cook

Seattle, WA · On-site

$21 - $26/hr

The Lead Cook plays a pivotal role in the culinary operations of our establishment, ensuring that all dishes are prepared to the highest standards of quality and presentation. This position involves ...

13 Coins Restaurants

Lead Cook

Bellevue, WA · On-site

$21 - $26/hr

The Lead Cook plays a pivotal role in the culinary operations of our establishment, ensuring that all dishes are prepared to the highest standards of quality and presentation. This position involves ...

13 Coins Restaurants

Lead Cook

Seattle, WA · On-site

$21.30 - $26/hr

The Lead Cook plays a pivotal role in the culinary operations of our establishment, ensuring that all dishes are prepared to the highest standards of quality and presentation. This position involves ...

13 Coins Restaurants

Lead Cook

Seattle, WA · On-site

$21.30 - $26/hr

The Lead Cook plays a pivotal role in the culinary operations of our establishment, ensuring that all dishes are prepared to the highest standards of quality and presentation. This position involves ...

13 Coins Restaurants

Lead Cook

Seattle, WA · On-site

$21 - $26/hr

The Lead Cook plays a pivotal role in the culinary operations of our establishment, ensuring that all dishes are prepared to the highest standards of quality and presentation. This position involves ...

13 Coins Restaurants

Lead Cook

Bellevue, WA · On-site

$21 - $26/hr

The Lead Cook plays a pivotal role in the culinary operations of our establishment, ensuring that all dishes are prepared to the highest standards of quality and presentation. This position involves ...

Quail Park

Lead Cook

Lynnwood, WA · On-site

$25 - $26/hr

Lead Cook Do you have a passion for working with older adults? We are searching for our dream team! Come and be a part of our premiere senior living community. Do you love to feed people delicious ...

Kitsap Mental Health Services

Lead Cook

Bremerton, WA

$20.07 - $24.83/hr

Lead Cook Full-Time, On-Site Hiring Range: $20.07 - $24.83 Per Hour Benefits at a Glance * Comprehensive Coverage: Health, Dental & Vision * Generous PTO: Up to 19 days + 2 mental health days + 10 ...

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 ...

Kitsap Mental Health Services

Lead Cook

Bremerton, WA

$20.07 - $24.83/hr

Lead Cook Full-Time, On-Site Hiring Range: $20.07 - $24.83 Per Hour Benefits at a Glance * Comprehensive Coverage: Health, Dental & Vision * Generous PTO: Up to 19 days + 2 mental health days + 10 ...

Kitsap Mental Health Services

Lead Cook

Bremerton, WA · On-site

$20.07 - $24.83/hr

Description Lead Cook Full-Time, On-Site Hiring Range: $20.07 - $24.83 Per Hour Benefits at a Glance * Comprehensive Coverage: Health, Dental & Vision * Generous PTO: Up to 19 days + 2 mental health ...

Kitsap Mental Health Services

Lead Cook

Bremerton, WA · On-site

$18.25 - $23.25/hr

Lead Cook Full-Time , On-Site Hiring Range: $ 20.07 - $ 24.83 Per Hour Benefits at a Glance * Comprehensive Coverage: Health, Dental & Vision * Generous PTO: Up to 19 days + 2 mental health days + 10 ...

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

$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 ...

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.

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 - 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 ...

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All JobsLead Cook JobsLead Cook Jobs in Seattle, WA

Lead Cook information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$12

$21

$28

How much do lead cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for lead cook in Seattle, WA is $21.87, 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 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 Seattle, WA? For Lead Cook jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Lead Cook jobs in Seattle, WA look for? The top searched job categories for Lead Cook jobs in Seattle, WA are:
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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,497 per year, or $21.9 per hour.

Lead Cook

13 Coins Restaurants

Seattle, WA • On-site

$21 - $26/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

About the Role:

The Lead Cook plays a pivotal role in the culinary operations of our establishment, ensuring that all dishes are prepared to the highest standards of quality and presentation. This position involves overseeing kitchen staff, managing food inventory, and maintaining a clean and organized kitchen environment. The Lead Cook will be responsible for creating innovative menu items that reflect seasonal ingredients and customer preferences. Additionally, this role requires collaboration with management to ensure that food costs are controlled while maintaining exceptional service. Ultimately, the Lead Cook is essential in delivering a memorable dining experience that keeps our guests returning.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Proven experience as a cook, with at least 3 years in a kitchen environment.
  • Strong knowledge of food safety and sanitation practices.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • 2+ years in a high volume, fast paced kitchen
  • Attention to detail
  • Team player
  • Guest first attitude

Responsibilities:

  • Set up stations according to restaurant guidelines.
  • Prepare all food items as directed in a sanitary and timely manner.
  • Follow recipes, portion controls and presentation specifications as set by the restaurant.
  • Restock all items as needed throughout the shift.
  • Clean and maintain station in practicing good safety, sanitation and organization skills.
  • Understanding and knowledge to properly use and maintain equipment in station.
  • Assist with the cleaning, sanitation and organization of kitchen, walk-in coolers and all storage areas.

Benefits:

  • Paid time off, 1 hour per every 40 hours worked up to year 3; 1.54 hours per every 40 hours worked thereafter; eligible after 90 days
  • Holiday Pay: Easter, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day paid 1.5 times base wage if worked, based on eligibility
  • Medical, dental, vision and life insurance plans available. Eligibility after 60 days, working 30 hours per week (average)
  • Employee meal discounts on shift (50%) and off shift (30%)
  • Referral bonuses up to $400 per referral
  • Flexible work schedules
  • Opportunity for growth and career planning

13 Coins Commitment: 13 Coins is committed to developing each of our individual team members and setting them up for success by providing initial training courses and then continuous 1:1 development sessions. It is our priority to ensure that you feel equipped to do your job well and feel supported by your team.


13 Coins is open 7 days per week, including evenings, weekends and holidays.

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