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Per Diem Cook Jobs (NOW HIRING)

White Oaks Nursing and Rehab

Per Diem Cook

Woodbury, NY · On-site

$30/hr

White Oaks Rehabilitation & Nursing Center is seeking a Per Diem Cook for our skilled nursing facility in Woodbury, NY. DUTIES: • Preparation, cooking, and service of a variety of foods • Baking ...

Liberation Programs Inc.

Per Diem Cook

Stamford, CT · On-site

$15 - $20/hr

The Per Diem Cook will temporarily work full-time from August through October. Following this time, the schedule will be reevaluated. Who We Are: Liberation Programs is one of Fairfield County ...

Benchmark Electronics, Inc.

Per Diem Cook

Rye, NH · On-site

$18.50 - $19.75/hr

Benchmark at Rye is looking for a Per Diem Cook to join our team! $18.50-$19.75/HR As a Benchmark cook, your main role will be to make a difference in the lives of our residents by providing ...

CONCERN HOUSING

Cook- Per Diem

Medford, NY

$16 - $20/hr

Concern Housing is seeking a per diem Cook that allows the opportunity to be creative while working independently. Includes preparing dinner for approximately 40 residents on a daily basis. Flexible ...

Peregrine Salisbury

Per Diem Cook

Salisbury, MD

$16 - $18/hr

Per Diem Salary: Starting at $16-18/hour - based on experience Benefits: * Generous PTO * Paid ... Cook Responsibilities include: * Provide a high level of culinary customer service and promote a ...

benchmark

$18.50 - $19.75/hr

Benchmark at Rye is looking for a Per Diem Cook to join our team! $18.50-$19.75/HR As a Benchmark cook, your main role will be to make a difference in the lives of our residents by providing ...

Granville Place

Per Diem Cook

Burlington, NJ

$13.75 - $18.25/hr

Per Diem Coverage for Vacations and Requests off. About Seaton Senior Living Seaton Senior Living ... Cook Responsibilities: * Prepare hot and cold menu items which requires working on the grill, saute ...

Concern Housing

$17/hr

Concern Housing is seeking a per diem Cook that allows the opportunity to be creative while working independently. Includes preparing dinner for approximately 40 residents on a daily basis. Flexible ...

Peregrine Senior Living

Per Diem Cook

Salisbury, MD · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

Per Diem Salary: Starting at $16-18/hour - based on experience Benefits: * Generous PTO * Paid ... Cook Responsibilities include: * Provide a high level of culinary customer service and promote a ...

Peregrine Salisbury

Per Diem Cook

Salisbury, MD · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

Per Diem Salary: Starting at $16-18/hour - based on experience Benefits: * Generous PTO * Paid ... Cook Responsibilities include: * Provide a high level of culinary customer service and promote a ...

Granville Place

Per Diem Cook

Burlington, NJ

$22/hr

Per Diem Coverage for Vacations and Requests off. About Seaton Senior Living Seaton Senior Living ... Cook Responsibilities: * Prepare hot and cold menu items which requires working on the grill ...

Granville Place

Per Diem Cook

Burlington, NJ · On-site

$22/hr

Per Diem Coverage for Vacations and Requests off. About Seaton Senior Living Seaton Senior Living ... Cook Responsibilities: * Prepare hot and cold menu items which requires working on the grill ...

Dynamic Campus

Cook - Per Diem - Day Hours

Portland, ME · On-site

$21/hr

Per Diem Cook Position Profile : Responsible for executing meal preparation, plating, and kitchen upkeep on a Per Diem basis primarily at our Detox and Short-Term Residential facility (for 26 clients ...

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Per Diem Cook information

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How much do per diem cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for per diem cook in the United States is $16.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.46 and $18.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Per Diem Cook vs Full-Time Cook?

AspectPer Diem CookFull-Time Cook
Work ScheduleOn-call, flexible shiftsRegular, scheduled shifts
Employment StatusTemporary or as-needed basisFull-time employment
CredentialsBasic culinary skills, food handler’s permitSame as Per Diem, often with more experience
Work EnvironmentHospitals, hotels, cateringRestaurants, cafeterias, hospitals

The main difference between a Per Diem Cook and a Full-Time Cook lies in employment status and scheduling. Per Diem Cooks work on an as-needed basis with flexible hours, while Full-Time Cooks have scheduled shifts and consistent employment. Both roles require similar skills and certifications, but Per Diem Cooks offer greater flexibility for those seeking part-time or temporary work.

What is a Per Diem Cook?

A Per Diem Cook is a culinary professional who works on an as-needed basis, often filling in for regular staff or providing extra help during busy periods. Unlike full-time or part-time cooks, per diem cooks have flexible schedules and are typically compensated for each shift or day they work rather than receiving a consistent salary. This role is common in hospitals, catering companies, hotels, and other food service establishments that require flexible staffing. Per diem cooks are expected to be experienced and adaptable, quickly adjusting to different kitchens and menu requirements.

What are some common challenges faced by Per Diem Cooks, and how can they adapt to different kitchen environments?

Per Diem Cooks often work in various facilities, such as hospitals, schools, or catering events, requiring them to quickly adapt to new kitchen layouts, equipment, and team dynamics. A common challenge is learning new menus and food safety procedures on short notice. Being flexible, having strong communication skills, and maintaining a positive attitude are key to succeeding in this role. Proactively asking questions and observing established staff can help ease the transition and ensure high-quality meal preparation.

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

To thrive as a Per Diem Cook, you need strong culinary skills, food safety knowledge, and experience in fast-paced kitchen environments, often supported by a food handler’s certification. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, inventory systems, and menu management software is typically required. Adaptability, reliability, and effective time management are standout soft skills in this role. These abilities ensure safe, high-quality food preparation and smooth kitchen operations, even with changing schedules and staffing needs.

What is the highest paying per diem job?

Per diem cooks working in high-volume or specialized settings, such as hospital or airline catering, can earn higher pay rates due to the demanding environment and skill requirements. Generally, per diem positions in healthcare or industrial food services tend to offer higher hourly wages compared to standard restaurant roles.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Per Diem cooks can potentially earn around $4,000 a week depending on the number of shifts, location, and experience. High-volume or specialized kitchens, along with overtime and tips, can contribute to such earnings, especially in busy or upscale environments. However, consistent weekly earnings of this level are uncommon and typically require extensive experience and a flexible schedule.

What is the highest paying job for a cook?

The highest paying jobs for cooks are often executive chefs or head cooks in high-end restaurants, hotels, or private clubs, with salaries reaching six figures in some cases. Specialized skills, extensive experience, and certifications like ServSafe can also lead to higher-paying culinary roles. Per diem cooks typically earn less than these senior positions, but top-tier establishments may offer higher compensation for experienced professionals.

What does "cook per diem" mean?

A cook per diem is a temporary or on-call cooking position where the employee is paid a daily rate rather than a fixed salary or hourly wage. These roles often involve short-term assignments, flexible schedules, and may require the cook to work in various locations or shifts as needed.
What cities are hiring for Per Diem Cook jobs? Cities with the most Per Diem Cook job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Cook jobs? The most popular types of Cook jobs are:
What states have the most Per Diem Cook jobs? States with the most job openings for Per Diem Cook jobs include:
Per Diem Cook jobs near you
Per Diem Cook

Per Diem Cook

Upper Manhattan Mental Health Center

Manhattan, NY • On-site

$15.25 - $20.50/hr

Per diem

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

EMMA L. BOWEN COMMUNITY SERVICE CENTER
Also known as
UPPER MANHATTAN MENTAL HEALTH CENTER, INC.
The Emma L. Bowen Community Service Center is seeking a Per Diem Cook to join our team. This position is a terrific opportunity for someone to gain additional experience and make a difference in the lives of our clients.
For over 45 forty-five years, our organization has provided mental health and holistic services in northern Manhattan for families, children, adolescents, and other adults including the elderly in a supportive and caring environment. We also have an out-patient and residential substance abuse program as well as a Therapeutic Preschool for 3-5 year olds.
Upper Manhattan Mental Health Center is a Certified National Health Service Corps (NHSC) site.
For additional information about our organization and programs, please visit us on our website at www.bowencsc.org
JOB DESCRIPTION
Job Title: Per Diem Cook
Location: ABLE House
Hours: Per Diem
Union: Non-Union
Duties:
  • Perform all sanitation and cleaning tasks on food contact surfaces.
  • Perform a full range of cooking such as breakfast, lunch and dinner.
  • Disassemble, clean, and assemble components in accordance with sanitation rules.
  • Operate large scale kitchen equipment using gas, electric, steam or microwave power sources
  • Follow workplace safety rules to include wearing personal protective equipment.
  • Maintains open communication and good relationships with others.
  • Ensure that food is handled in accordance with all applicable rules, regulations and requirements; maintain all necessary forms and records.
  • Knowledge of NYS Food Protection guidelines and must have the Food Handler's Certificate.
  • Assist in preparation of menu and supply requisitions as directed.

Reports to: Program Director, Office Manager
Requirements
Qualifications:
  • Must have a High School diploma or equivalent.
  • Requires a minimum of two year of cooking experience as Cook in a high volume health care institution or commercial establishment with a large volume food service.
  • Must be able to read, write and speak English.
  • Must be knowledgeable of DOHMH guidelines and follow this in all operations
  • Culinary degree and/or NYS Food Protection Certificate

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