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Part Time Cook Jobs in Waterloo, IA (NOW HIRING)

Line Cook

Waterloo, IA

$14.75 - $18.50/hr

Sunnyside Country Club, located in Waterloo, IA , is pleased to announce an excellent career opportunity for a Part-Time Line Cook ! We are seeking a driven individual who is eager to learn ...

Line Cook

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$14.75 - $18.50/hr

Sunnyside Country Club, located in Waterloo, IA , is pleased to announce an excellent career opportunity for a Part-Time Line Cook ! We are seeking a driven individual who is eager to learn ...

Line Cook

Cedar Falls, IA · On-site

$14.75 - $18.25/hr

As a Line Cook for Texas Roadhouse, you'll make made-from-scratch Legendary Food for our guests to ... Employment Type: PART_TIME

***TEMPORARY Part- Time Monday, Wednesday and Friday 8:00 A.M.- 2:00 P.M., Pay Rate: $12.00 Per Hour ... To assist the cook in the preparation of wholesome, nutritious meals primarily using donated food ...

Culinary Cook- Full Time

Independence, IA · On-site

$13.25 - $17.75/hr

Flexible scheduling options with full-time and part-time hours * Paid time off and Holidays ... Meals and uniforms Cook Responsibilities: * Prepare hot and cold menu items which requires working ...

In-Home Caregiver

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$14 - $15/hr

Job Type Part-time Description Vibrant is searching for a compassionate caregiver who understands ... Meal preparation & cooking * Grocery shopping for or with the client * Transportation & errands

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Part Time Cook information

See Waterloo, IA salary details

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$15

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How much do part time cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for part time cook in Waterloo, IA is $15.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.27 and $17.79 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are part time cooks?

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.

Is it possible to be a part-time chef?

Yes, it is common for chefs, including those in the role of a part-time cook, to work part-time schedules. Many restaurants and food service establishments hire part-time cooks to cover busy hours or supplement full-time staff, often requiring culinary skills and food safety certifications. Part-time positions can offer flexible hours and are suitable for individuals seeking work outside of full-time commitments.

Can I get paid to cook at home?

Part time cooks can earn money by preparing meals at home through freelance catering, meal prep services, or private chef opportunities. These roles often require cooking skills, food safety knowledge, and sometimes certifications, and they typically involve flexible schedules outside traditional employment settings.

What cooking job pays the most?

Executive chefs and head cooks typically earn the highest salaries in cooking jobs, especially in upscale restaurants or hotels. These roles require extensive experience, leadership skills, and often involve managing kitchen staff and menu planning. Salaries can vary based on location, establishment size, and individual expertise.

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.

How much do part-time cooks make?

Part-time cooks typically earn between $10 and $15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the establishment. Some may receive tips or additional benefits based on their work environment and hours worked.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Part Time Cook, and why are they important?

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 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 cities near Waterloo, IA are hiring for Part Time Cook jobs? Cities near Waterloo, IA with the most Part Time Cook job openings:
Restaurant Team Member - Cook

Restaurant Team Member - Cook

Noodles & Company

Waterloo, IA • On-site

$12 - $17/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 14 days ago


Noodles & Company rating

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 187 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 18 rated casual dining restaurants


Job description

Overview

At Noodles and Company, our mission is to nourish and inspire every team member, guest, and community we serve. We are hiring Team Members to join our back-of-house kitchen crew as cooks and line cooks who prepare fresh ingredients, cook dishes to order, and help keep our kitchens running smoothly and consistently.

We know noodles, and we know how great food, made with care, brings people together. Our back-of-house teams bring that to life every day through fresh prep, real cooking techniques, and care put into every bowl we serve. Whether you're learning our saute skills, supporting your team during a rush, or helping maintain a positive kitchen environment, your work shapes every bowl we serve.

If you're ready to build skills, learn something new, and grow with a team that values your contribution, apply today. After your interview, we'll treat you to a complimentary meal (up to $10 value), because every great connection starts with great food.

Why Choose Noodles & Company?

We offer a place to learn, grow, and build confidence, with perks designed to support both work and life:

  • Competitive pay plus tips
  • Flexible schedules for part-time or full-time needs
  • Ability to get early access to earned pay
  • Meal and lifestyle discounts, including event tickets and cell phones
  • Tuition assistance and scholarship opportunities
  • Recognition programs that celebrate your achievements
  • Free mental health, legal, and financial resources to support your well-being
  • Medical & pharmacy, dental, vision, and pet insurance
  • 401(k) with employer match and stock purchase discounts
  • Leadership development programs to fuel your growth
  • Free online Spanish and English courses
  • Noodles Resource Groups - inclusive communities that foster belonging, build connections, and support your personal and professional growth
  • Learn more about our benefits: https://www.noodles.com/careers/perks

What You Bring to the Table

As a Back-of-House Team Member, you help create a great guest experience by:

  • Preparing fresh ingredients and cooking dishes to order. No experience with a saute pan is needed; we will provide paid training.
  • Ensuring each dish is made with consistency, quality, and attention to presentation.
  • Following recipes, prep guides, and standard procedures accurately.
  • Learning and refining kitchen and saute skills through hands-on training.
  • Maintaining pace during peak hours and supporting smooth kitchen flow.
  • Working in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment where communication matters.
  • Managing multiple tasks effectively to help meet guest expectations during busy shifts.
  • Working safely around kitchen equipment, heat, and steam.
  • Using kitchen tools, timers, and basic systems as part of daily routines.
  • Keeping the restaurant clean and organized while following food safety and sanitation standards.
  • Bringing dependability, positivity, and a supportive attitude to every shift.
  • Meeting the physical requirements of the role, which may include, but are not limited to, standing for long periods, bending, twisting, reaching, lifting up to 55 pounds, and performing routine restaurant tasks, with or without reasonable accommodation.
  • Obtaining and maintaining any required food safety licenses or certifications in accordance with local, state, and federal regulations.
  • Must be at least 16 years old, making this a great opportunity for teens or anyone eager to gain new skills and start building their career.

Noodles & Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a Military Friendly workplace. We encourage Veterans and their spouses to apply. We are proud to be recognized on Forbes' Best Employers for Diversity, Forbes' Best Employers for Women, and Forbes' Best Employers for Company Culture lists, and are committed to creating a workplace where Noodlers feel supported, respected, and able to bring their full self to work.

Application Deadline: We accept applications for this position on an ongoing basis. There is no specific application deadline, and we encourage interested individuals to submit their applications at their convenience.

Pay RangeUSD $12.00 - USD $17.00 /Hr.Location : Address2833 Crossroads BlvdLocation : CityWaterlooLocation : State/ProvinceIAEmployment Type: PART_TIME

What Noodles & Company employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Noodles & Company logo

About Noodles & Company

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Noodles & Company, our mission is to always nourish and inspire every team member, guest and community we serve. We accomplish this by living our values of We Care, We Show Pride, We are Passionate, and We Love Life! We provide opportunities to learn culinary skills working with fresh food and the art of personal connection with our guests. Come join our amazing team, make new friends, develop your career, skills, and have fun. We are proud to be recognized on Forbes' America's Best Employers for Diversity 2021 and Forbes' Best Employers for Women 2021 lists and are committed to creating an inclusive environment where Noodlers can bring their full self to work.

Industry

Food services and drinking places

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Broomfield, CO, US

Year founded

1995