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Line Cook Jobs in Ames, IA (NOW HIRING)

Kinseth Hospitality

Line Cook

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$15 - $18.75/hr

Cooks and tests foods being prepared by tasting, smelling, and piercing with fork to determine that it is cooked. * Ensures that items are prepared according to recipes in a timely, efficient manner ...

Courtyard by Marriott

Line Cook

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$15 - $18.75/hr

Cooks and tests foods being prepared by tasting, smelling, and piercing with fork to determine that it is cooked. * Ensures that items are prepared according to recipes in a timely, efficient manner ...

Chili's Grill & Bar

Line Cook

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$14.75 - $18.50/hr

Role Overview Our Kitchen, or as we like to say at Chili's our Heart of House, Team Members are responsible for setting the pace for a great shift, every shift. They provide dependable, fast service ...

Pizza Ranch Ames

Full Time Evening Pizza Cook

Ames, IA · On-site

$14 - $20/hr

Line Cook: $14.00-$17.00 per hour, dependent on Availability and Experience Who We Are Pizza Ranch ® Inc., started as a single location in Hull, Iowa in 1981. Pizza Ranch is in the category of a ...

Pizza Ranch Ames

Full Time Evening Pizza Cook

Ames, IA · On-site

$14 - $20/hr

Line Cook: $14.00-$17.00 per hour, dependent on Availability and Experience Who We Are Pizza Ranch ® Inc., started as a single location in Hull, Iowa in 1981. Pizza Ranch is in the category of a ...

Pizza Ranch Ames

Full Time Evening Pizza Cook

Ames, IA · On-site

$14 - $20/hr

Line Cook: $14.00-$17.00 per hour, dependent on Availability and Experience Who We Are Pizza Ranch ® Inc., started as a single location in Hull, Iowa in 1981. Pizza Ranch is in the category of a ...

Pizza Ranch Ames

Full Time Evening Pizza Cook

Ames, IA · On-site

$14 - $20/hr

Line Cook: $14.00-$17.00 per hour, dependent on Availability and Experience Who We Are Pizza Ranch ® Inc., started as a single location in Hull, Iowa in 1981. Pizza Ranch is in the category of a ...

Chili's

Line Cook - Part Time

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$15 - $18.75/hr

Role Overview Our Kitchen, or as we like to say at Chili's our Heart of House, Team Members are responsible for setting the pace for a great shift, every shift. They provide dependable, fast service ...

Chili's

Line Cook - Full Time

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$15 - $18.75/hr

Role Overview Our Kitchen, or as we like to say at Chili's our Heart of House, Team Members are responsible for setting the pace for a great shift, every shift. They provide dependable, fast service ...

Chili's

Line Cook - Ankeny Chili's

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$15 - $18.75/hr

Role Overview Our Kitchen, or as we like to say at Chili's our Heart of House, Team Members are responsible for setting the pace for a great shift, every shift. They provide dependable, fast service ...

Chili's

Line Cook - Flexible Hours

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$15 - $18.75/hr

Role Overview Our Kitchen, or as we like to say at Chili's our Heart of House, Team Members are responsible for setting the pace for a great shift, every shift. They provide dependable, fast service ...

Laurus Home Care

Full-Time Cook

Johnston, IA · On-site

$13.25 - $17.50/hr

Line Cook StoryPoint Johnston Position Summary: Full-Time, 6am-2pm and 11am-7pm As a Cook, you will prepare food according to menus, recipes and planned events for residents and their guests. You ...

Chili's

Line Cook - Team Member

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$15 - $18.75/hr

Role Overview Our Kitchen, or as we like to say at Chili's our Heart of House, Team Members are responsible for setting the pace for a great shift, every shift. They provide dependable, fast service ...

Chili's

Line Cook - Now Hiring

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$15 - $18.75/hr

Role Overview Our Kitchen, or as we like to say at Chili's our Heart of House, Team Members are responsible for setting the pace for a great shift, every shift. They provide dependable, fast service ...

Wingstop

Cook

Ames, IA · On-site

$14/hr

Professional cooking: 1 year (Preferred) Cooking: 1 year (Preferred) Line cook: 1 year (Preferred) Disclaimer: The above is meant to describe the general nature and level of work being performed; and ...

Wingstop

Cook

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$14/hr

Professional cooking: 1 year (Preferred) Cooking: 1 year (Preferred) Line cook: 1 year (Preferred) Disclaimer: The above is meant to describe the general nature and level of work being performed; and ...

Wingstop

Cook

Ames, IA · On-site

$14/hr

Professional cooking: 1 year (Preferred) Cooking: 1 year (Preferred) Line cook: 1 year (Preferred) Disclaimer: The above is meant to describe the general nature and level of work being performed; and ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsLine Cook JobsLine Cook Jobs in Ames, IA

Line Cook information

See Ames, IA salary details

$9

$16

$21

How much do line cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for line cook in Ames, IA is $16.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.81 and $18.56 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are common challenges faced by line cooks, and how can they be overcome?

Line cooks often face fast-paced environments where multitasking and time management are essential. Managing multiple orders simultaneously and maintaining consistency in food quality can be challenging, especially during peak hours. Building strong communication with the kitchen team and staying organized at your station can help you overcome these challenges. Additionally, developing efficient prep habits and staying calm under pressure will contribute to your success as a line cook.

How to get hired as a line cook?

To get hired as a line cook, applicants should have basic cooking skills, knowledge of kitchen safety and sanitation, and experience with kitchen equipment. Preparing a professional resume highlighting relevant experience and certifications, such as food safety training, can improve chances. Applying directly to restaurants or through job boards and demonstrating a strong work ethic are also important steps.

What is the difference between Line Cook vs Prep Cook?

AspectLine CookPrep Cook
ResponsibilitiesPrepares menu items during service, follows recipes, manages stationPrepares ingredients, washes, chops, and preps food for cooking
Work EnvironmentKitchen during service hours, fast-pacedKitchen during prep hours, less hectic
CredentialsFood handler’s permit often required, culinary training optionalFood handler’s permit, basic culinary skills
Industry UsageCommonly employed in restaurants, hotels, cateringFound in similar settings, supports line cooks

While both roles work in kitchens and require food safety knowledge, a Line Cook actively prepares dishes during service, whereas a Prep Cook focuses on preparing ingredients beforehand. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

Do line cooks make money?

Line cooks earn an hourly wage or salary that varies by location, experience, and establishment. The average pay ranges from minimum wage to higher rates for experienced cooks, with many earning tips in addition to their base pay. Their income can also be affected by overtime, shift differentials, and the size of the restaurant.

What is a line cook?

Line cooks are culinary professionals who work in restaurant kitchens, responsible for preparing and cooking food according to recipes and standards set by the chef. They typically work at specific stations along the kitchen 'line,' such as grill, sauté, or fry, ensuring each dish is cooked correctly and presented well. Line cooks must manage their time efficiently, maintain food safety standards, and communicate effectively with other kitchen staff to ensure a smooth operation during busy service periods.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a line cook, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Line Cook, you need strong culinary skills, attention to detail, and knowledge of food safety, typically gained through experience or culinary training. Familiarity with kitchen equipment, point-of-sale (POS) systems, and health code certifications such as ServSafe are often required. Teamwork, adaptability, and the ability to perform well under pressure are essential soft skills in this fast-paced role. These skills and qualities ensure efficient kitchen operations, high-quality food, and a safe dining experience for customers.

Are line cooks in high demand?

Line cooks are generally in high demand due to the ongoing need for food service in restaurants, hotels, and catering establishments. Employment opportunities can vary by region and economic conditions, but skilled line cooks with experience and knowledge of kitchen operations are often sought after. Certifications such as food safety training can enhance job prospects.

What is a line cook?

A line cook is a restaurant staff member who works in the kitchen, usually working a particular station on the line during service. As a line cook, your responsibilities and duties may include setting your station mise en place, firing food to order, and plating food. Line cooks work at a station, for example, the grill or fryer, but they are cross-trained to work any position in the kitchen. Your job is to work as a team with the entire kitchen staff to prepare meals that are consistently high in quality and delivered rapidly to the front of the house.

More about Line Cook jobs
What are popular job titles related to Line Cook jobs in Ames, IA? For Line Cook jobs in Ames, IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Ames, IA are hiring for Line Cook jobs? Cities near Ames, IA with the most Line Cook job openings:
Line Cook jobs near you
Infographic showing various Line Cook job openings in Ames, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 55% Part Time, and 5% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $34,806 per year, or $16.7 per hour.

Line Cook

Kinseth Hospitality

Ankeny, IA • On-site

$15 - $18.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago

Kinseth Hospitality rating

5.2

Company rating: 5.2 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

What we offer:

  • Health, Dental, Vision and other benefits available after 60 days
  • DailyPay
  • 401k
  • Paid Training
  • Paid PTO
  • Referral program
  • Discounts at all Kinseth Hotel Corporation hotels and restaurants 


SUMMARY

Prepares, seasons, and cooks soups, meats, vegetables, desserts, and other foodstuffs for consumption in restaurant and banquets by performing the following duties.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

  • Adjusts thermostat controls to regulate temperature of ovens, broilers, grills, roasters, and steam kettles.
  • Measures and mixes ingredients according to recipe to prepare soups, salads, gravies, desserts, sauces, and casseroles.
  • Bakes, roasts, broils, and steams meats, fish, vegetables, and other foods.
  • Adds seasoning to foods during mixing or cooking.
  • Cooks and tests foods being prepared by tasting, smelling, and piercing with fork to determine that it is cooked.
  • Ensures that items are prepared according to recipes in a timely, efficient manner that prevents waste yet ensures quality and guest satisfaction.
  • Carves meats, portions food on serving plates, adds gravies and sauces, and garnishes servings to fill orders.
  • Washes, peels, cuts, and shreds vegetables and fruits to prepare them for use.
  • Cuts, trims, and bones meat prior to cooking.
  • Bakes bread, rolls, cakes, and pastry.
  • Follows proper procedures in handling food to ensure health and sanitation guidelines are met.
  • Uses tools and equipment properly to ensure safety and avoid injury or damage to equipment.
  • Assists in unloading trucks that arrive with supplies, storing and rotating inventory.
  • Cleans work area, freezers, kitchen area and dish area to ensure proper cleanliness is maintained.


KHC POLICIES: Responsible for following all KHC policies and procedures as set forth in the KHC handbook and property specific guidelines/standards. These policies include dress code, safety and performance standards. Employees must also maintain a professional image and report to work as scheduled.


SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:  This job has no supervisory responsibilities.


CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS: Franchise specific certifications may be required, as well as federal/state/local food handling certifications.


PHYSICAL DEMANDS: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. All employees must follow proper safety precautions at all times to avoid injuries. 

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand; walk; use hands to handle, grasp or type; reach with hands and arms; and taste or smell. The employee frequently is required to stoop, kneel, crouch, bend or twist and talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to climb or balance and to push, pull or lift over 10 pounds. The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.


What Kinseth Hospitality employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Kinseth Hospitality logo

About Kinseth Hospitality

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Kinseth Hospitality, located in North Liberty, IA, US, is a leading hotel management company in the hospitality industry. The company, with its wide assortment of services, manages over 90 hotels and restaurants across 13 states, focusing on key brands like Courtyard by Marriott, Hampton Inn, and Country Inn and Suites, among others. Founded in the late 70s by Bruce and Ken Kinseth, the company has progressively built a reputation for excellent service, having established a corporate mission to provide unmatched service to guests, compelling results to owners and investors, and a rewarding work environment for its employees. With more than four decades in the industry, Kinseth Hospitality also stands out for receiving multiple awards and recognitions, including the Marriott Partnership Circle Award, proving their sustained excellence in the industry.

Industry

Traveler accommodation

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

North Liberty, IA, US

Year founded

1963

Social media

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