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Lead Cook Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lead Cook

Georgetown, TX · On-site

$23 - $25/hr

Key Responsibilities of the Lead Cook: * Incorporates safe work practices in job performance. * Prepare and cook menu items according to established recipes and standards. * Lead and coordinate ...

Lead Cook

Bourbonnais, IL

$16.75 - $21.25/hr

We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Lead Cook to join our culinary team. The ideal candidate will have a passion for food and a strong background in food service, with the ability to oversee ...

Lead Cook

Beaufort, NC · On-site

$15.25 - $19.50/hr

Lead Cook - 34° North Restaurant at the Beaufort Hotel The 34° North Restaurant located inside the Beaufort Hotel is currently seeking an experienced and motivated Lead Cook to join our culinary ...

Lead Cook

Tampa, FL · On-site

$18 - $21/hr

Job Type Full-time Description Lead Cook * This position is responsible for leading a team of line cooks to ensure dishes are prepared and served to company standards by giving daily instructions and ...

Lead Cook

Indian Wells, CA · On-site

$25/hr

The Lead Cook is responsible for oversight of the kitchen staff who prepare, cook, and garnish meals for hotel guests and patrons. The Lead Cook will provide leadership and guidance to the shift ...

Lead Cook

Riverside, CA · On-site

$22 - $24.50/hr

The lead cook will report to the Culinary Director. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES In addition to all components of the above position summary the following "Essential Duties and ...

Lead Cook

Tampa, FL · On-site

$16.25 - $20.75/hr

Lead Cook * This position is responsible for leading a team of line cooks to ensure dishes are prepared and served to company standards by giving daily instructions and feedback to the team * At ...

Lead Cook

Chicago, IL · On-site

$17.75 - $22.75/hr

Lead Cook The Lead Cook is a senior hourly culinary team member who serves as a working leader within the kitchen operation. This position supports the Executive Chef, Executive Sous Chef, and Sous ...

Lead Cook

Springboro, OH

$15.25 - $19.50/hr

The Lead Cook participates in the preparation, cooking and serving of all food items to residents, guests, and partners under strict sanitary conditions. Perform other appropriate related tasks and ...

New

Lead Cook

West Chester, OH

$16.25 - $20.75/hr

The Lead Cook participates in the preparation, cooking and serving of all food items to residents, guests, and partners under strict sanitary conditions. Perform other appropriate related tasks and ...

New

Lead Cook

Tampa, FL · On-site

$16.25 - $20.75/hr

Description Lead Cook * This position is responsible for leading a team of line cooks to ensure dishes are prepared and served to company standards by giving daily instructions and feedback to the ...

Lead Cook

Canby, OR · On-site

$19 - $23/hr

The Lead Cook must be willing and able to adjust schedules, responsibilities, menus, and priorities as needed to support resident care, staffing needs, special events, and overall community ...

Lead Cook

Canby, OR · On-site

$18 - $23/hr

The Lead Cook must be willing and able to adjust schedules, responsibilities, menus, and priorities as needed to support resident care, staffing needs, special events, and overall community ...

Lead Cook

Kailua, HI · On-site

$20.75/hr

Lead Cook Department: Food Service Direct Supervisor: Kitchen Manager or Chef FLSA Status: Non- Exempt Starting rate of pay: $20.75/hr Company Benefits: Flexible Hours Employee Discount 10 Paid ...

Lead Cook -- hed 11 (Michelin-Recognized Thai Fine Dining, San Francisco) hed 11 is a Michelin-recognized Thai tasting menu restaurant in San Francisco, part of East West Cuisine Hospitality -- a ...

Lead Cook Department: Food Service Direct Supervisor: Kitchen Manager or Chef FLSA Status: Non- Exempt Starting rate of pay: $20.75/hr Company Benefits: Flexible Hours Employee Discount 10 Paid ...

Lead Cook

Lebanon, OH

$15.75 - $20/hr

The Lead Cook participates in the preparation, cooking and serving of all food items to residents, guests, and partners under strict sanitary conditions. Perform other appropriate related tasks and ...

New

Lead Cook

Saint Francis, WI · On-site

$21 - $25/hr

Lead Cook - Saint Francis de Sales Seminary Saint Francis de Sales Seminary is seeking a skilled and dedicated Lead Cook to join our culinary team in St. Francis, WI. The ideal candidate will have ...

Lead Cook

Kaneohe, HI · On-site

$20.75/hr

Lead Cook Department: Food Service Direct Supervisor: Kitchen Manager or Chef FLSA Status: Non- Exempt Starting rate of pay: $20.75/hr Company Benefits: • Flexible Hours • Employee Discount • ...

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Lead Cook information

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How much do lead cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for lead cook in the United States is $19.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $21.15 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.

What cities are hiring for Lead Cook jobs? Cities with the most Lead Cook job openings:
What states have the most Lead Cook jobs? States with the most job openings for Lead Cook jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Lead Cook jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Lead Cook jobs are:
What are popular job titles related to Lead Cook jobs? For Lead Cook jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Lead Cook job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $39,979 per year, or $19.2 per hour.
Lead Cook

Lead Cook

Troon Golf

Georgetown, TX • On-site

$23 - $25/hr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago


Troon rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 122 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

16th of 27 rated golf clubs


Job description

Qualified candidates will thrive in a hospitality environment and be highly focused on providing superior service.
Key Responsibilities of the Lead Cook:
  • Incorporates safe work practices in job performance.
  • Prepare and cook menu items according to established recipes and standards.
  • Lead and coordinate kitchen line operations during service, ensuring timing, quality, and presentation.
  • Supervise and train line cooks and prep staff in proper cooking methods, food handling, and sanitation procedures.
  • Monitor food levels and assist with ordering, receiving, and proper storage of ingredients.
  • Ensure all stations are set up and stocked prior to service.
  • Maintain high standards of cleanliness and organization in all kitchen areas.
  • Work closely with the Sous Chef and Executive Chef to assist in menu development, specials, and seasonal offerings.
  • Uphold health, safety, and sanitation regulations as required by local, state, and federal laws.
  • Support a positive and professional kitchen culture built on teamwork and respect.
  • Assist in inventory control and minimizing food waste.
  • Incorporates safe work practices in job performance.

Minimum Qualifications for the Lead Cook:
  • Minimum 1-3 years of professional cooking experience; supervisory or lead experience preferred.
  • Strong knowledge of cooking techniques, knife skills, and food safety standards.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced, high-volume environment while maintaining quality and composure.
  • Excellent organizational and communication skills.
  • ServSafe or equivalent food handler certification preferred.

Compensation: $23 - $25 depending on experience
Other Qualifications:
  • Ability to read and speak English may be required in order to perform the duties of the job.
  • Ability to work flexible hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays as business requires.

Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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About Troon Golf

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Troon started as one facility in 1990 and has since grown to become the world's largest professional club management company. We offer careers around the world at all levels of golf operations, opportunities for professional development, growth opportunities and a comprehensive benefits package. Our goal is to create extraordinary guest and member experiences through personalized service, consistency, and uncompromising attention to detail. For more information about the Troon Experience, please visit

Industry

Fitness and sports centers, hospitality services and traveler accommodation

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Scottsdale, AZ, US