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Part Time Cook Jobs in Topeka, KS (NOW HIRING)

Sonic

Cook

Osage City, KS · On-site

$12 - $16/hr

Preparing and cooking food orders to meet product quality standards * Food preparation and ... PART_TIME

Sonic

Cook

Osage City, KS · On-site

$12 - $16/hr

Preparing and cooking food orders to meet product quality standards * Food preparation and ... PART_TIME

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How much do part time cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for part time cook in Topeka, KS is $15.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.69 and $16.97 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a part time cook?

Part time cooks are culinary professionals who work fewer hours than full-time kitchen staff, typically preparing and cooking food in restaurants, cafeterias, or other food service establishments. Their responsibilities may include chopping ingredients, cooking meals according to recipes, maintaining kitchen cleanliness, and assisting with inventory. Part time cooks often work flexible hours, such as evenings or weekends, and may fill in during busy periods or staff shortages. This role is ideal for those seeking work-life balance or supplemental income while gaining valuable cooking experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a part time cook?

To thrive as a Part Time Cook, you need a solid understanding of basic cooking techniques, food safety, and kitchen hygiene, often supported by a food handler's permit or similar certification. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment and inventory management systems is highly beneficial. Strong teamwork, time management, and adaptability are essential soft skills for succeeding during busy service hours. These skills ensure high-quality food preparation, operational efficiency, and a safe, collaborative kitchen environment.

What are some common challenges faced by part time cooks, and how can they effectively manage their workload during busy shifts?

Part-time cooks often face challenges such as managing multiple orders simultaneously, adapting to different kitchen routines, and quickly learning new menu items. To handle these demands, it's important to stay organized, communicate clearly with team members, and prioritize tasks efficiently. Many kitchens foster a collaborative environment where cooks support each other during peak times, so being a team player and asking for help when needed can greatly reduce stress. Additionally, maintaining a positive attitude and being open to feedback helps part-time cooks improve their skills and adapt to the fast-paced nature of the job.

What is the difference between Part Time Cook vs Part Time Chef?

AspectPart Time CookPart Time Chef
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent, food safety certificationSimilar credentials, often with additional culinary training
Work EnvironmentRestaurants, cafeterias, catering servicesUpscale restaurants, hotels, private clubs
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in casual dining and institutional settingsFound in fine dining and high-end establishments
Search & Comparison IntentPeople looking for flexible kitchen rolesIndividuals seeking more advanced culinary positions

The main difference between a Part Time Cook and a Part Time Chef lies in their experience level, responsibilities, and the type of establishment they work in. Cooks typically perform basic food preparation, while Chefs often have more culinary training and may oversee kitchen operations. Both roles require food safety certifications and are common in various food service settings, but Chefs usually work in higher-end environments and have more advanced skills.

What jobs can you do if you like cooking?

If you enjoy cooking, you can pursue roles such as a chef, line cook, prep cook, or catering chef. These jobs typically require culinary skills, knowledge of food safety, and the ability to work in fast-paced kitchen environments.

What are the most commonly searched types of Cook jobs in Topeka, KS?

The most popular types of Cook jobs in Topeka, KS are:

What cities near Topeka, KS are hiring for Part Time Cook jobs?

Cities near Topeka, KS with the most Part Time Cook job openings:

Part Time Cook jobs near you
Infographic showing various Part Time Cook job openings in Topeka, KS as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $31,416 per year, or $15.1 per hour.

The Underground - Part Time Cook

UNIVERSITY OF KANSAS MEMORIAL

Lawrence, KS

$12.50/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Schedule: This is a part-time position averaging up to 29 hours per week.

  • Operating Hours: Monday through Friday; 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
  • Preferred Shift Availability:
    • 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. OR 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Pay Rate: The anticipated pay for this position starts at $12.50. The final rate will be determined based on qualifications, experience, education, and years within the job or industry.

What We're Looking For

The Part-Time Cook at The Underground located in Wescoe on KU Campus is responsible for preparing meals in accordance with daily production sheets, adhering to food safety and health standards set by HACCP and ServSafe, and maintaining a clean and sanitary workstation. This role ensures the consistent quality and presentation of food while supporting efficient kitchen operations

What You'll Do

  • Review and interpret daily production sheets to understand the schedule and specific requirements.
  • Follow recipes meticulously to ensure consistency in flavor, presentation, and quality.
  • Sample foods regularly to verify flavor, texture, and consistency while ensuring adherence to quality standards.
  • Handle raw ingredients, cook foods, and store products in compliance with HACCP and ServSafe standards.
  • Ensure all products are accurately labeled and stored for optimal food safety and quality.
  • Maintain a clean and sanitary work environment, including walls, floors, equipment, and refrigeration units.
  • Clean and maintain kitchen equipment and stainless-steel appliances, ensuring Efficiently manage tasks in both hot and cold kitchen areas.
  • Work effectively within a team setting to ensure smooth kitchen operations.
  • Perform other duties as assigned by the supervisor.

What's Required to be Considered

  • High school diploma or equivalent, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Ability to read and follow recipes and production sheets.
  • Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced food service environment.
  • Ability to obtain any required food safety certifications upon hire.

The Ideal Candidate

  • Previous commercial kitchen or food service experience.
  • Knowledge of HACCP and ServSafe food safety practices.
  • Experience preparing food in high-volume operations.

Why You'll Love Working Here

At KU Dining, our mission is to create an unparalleled dining experience for our guests, foster a culture of excellence among our well-trained and empowered staff, and provide inviting spaces that reflect the warmth of the KU community. We strive to set a standard where every meal becomes a highlight of the KU experience.

Whether you're looking for supplemental income or a flexible part-time opportunity, you'll join a collaborative team that values quality, teamwork, and exceptional service.

Working Conditions

Work is performed primarily in a commercial kitchen environment. The position requires prolonged standing, walking, bending, reaching, and repetitive hand motions. Employees are regularly exposed to hot cooking equipment, steam, refrigeration units, wet floors, cleaning chemicals, and moderate to high noise levels.

Physical Requirements

  • Stand and walk for extended periods.
  • Frequently lift, carry, push, and pull up to 50 pounds.
  • Safely operate commercial kitchen equipment.
  • Perform repetitive motions while preparing food and cleaning work areas.

Duties & Responsibilities of All KU Memorial Union Positions

  1. Adhere to University and KU Memorial Union policies and procedures.
  2. Demonstrate the organization's core values and apply the seven Team Principles by aligning work with the Lines of Effort: Our People, Engaging Programs, Outstanding Service, Collaborative Partnerships, Inviting Spaces, and Budget Management.
  3. Support the KU Memorial Unions End State as described by the Executive Director and uphold the department's core values of community, dignity, empowerment, excellence, innovation, and safety.
  4. Follow the Seven Team Principles by demonstrating competence, building mutual trust, creating shared understanding, communicating leader intent, practicing effective written and verbal communication, exercising disciplined initiative, and managing risk.
  5. Demonstrate a positive, solution-oriented attitude while contributing to a respectful and productive work environment.
  6. Always exhibit professional decorum while representing the KU Memorial Unions and the University of Kansas.

Apply