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Per Diem Cook Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Cook -Per Diem

Monroe, WA

$27.01 - $40.10/hr

Wage Range: $27.01 - $40.10 per hour. The amounts listed are the base pay range; additional ... Cleans cooking equipment and refrigerators, and maintains work station in a clean and orderly ...

Cook - Per Diem

Monroe, WA

$27.01 - $40.10/hr

Wage Range: $27.01 - $40.10 per hour. The amounts listed are the base pay range; additional ... Cleans cooking equipment and refrigerators, and maintains work station in a clean and orderly ...

Cook - Per Diem

Monroe, WA · On-site

$27.01 - $40.10/hr

Wage Range: $27.01 - $40.10 per hour. The amounts listed are the base pay range; additional ... Cleans cooking equipment and refrigerators, and maintains work station in a clean and orderly ...

Cook -Per Diem

Monroe, WA · On-site

$27.01 - $40.10/hr

Wage Range: $27.01 - $40.10 per hour. The amounts listed are the base pay range; additional ... Cleans cooking equipment and refrigerators, and maintains work station in a clean and orderly ...

Cook

Tacoma, WA

$22.87 - $34.78/hr

Per diem Position Summary The Cook is a collaborative member of the Nutrition Services team that follows department recipes and production standards to provide high quality and healthy food in ...

Cook

Tacoma, WA

$22.87 - $34.78/hr

Per Diem Position Summary The Cook is a collaborative member of the Nutrition Services team that follows department recipes and production standards to provide high quality and healthy food in ...

Per diem Position Summary The Food Service Worker is a collaborative opportunity on our Nutrition ... You will perform a wide range of cashiering and grill cook duties applying excellent customer ...

Per Diem Position Summary The Food Service Worker is a collaborative opportunity on our Nutrition ... You will perform a wide range of cashiering and grill cook duties applying excellent customer ...

FSW

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$20.86 - $31.73/hr

FTE: .001, Shift: variable, Schedule: per diem Position Summary The Food Service Worker is a ... You will perform a wide range of cashiering and grill cook duties applying excellent customer ...

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Showing results 1-20

Per Diem Cook information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$10

$18

$25

How much do per diem cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for per diem cook in Seattle, WA is $18.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.34 and $20.53 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a per diem cook?

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 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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Cook jobs in Seattle, WA?

The most popular types of Cook jobs in Seattle, WA are:

What cities near Seattle, WA are hiring for Per Diem Cook jobs?

Cities near Seattle, WA with the most Per Diem Cook job openings:

Cook - PYR - Per Diem

Tacoma, WA • On-site


Comprehensive Life Resources
Offices of Mental Health Practitioners • 201 - 500 employees

5.5

Company rating: 5.5 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Respectful managers


$20.25 - $27.63/hr

Per diem

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

Per Diem

Youth Residential Treatment Program

$20.25 - $27.63

Shifts can start as early as 5:30am and go as late as 7 pm.

Comprehensive Life Resources is looking for an on call Cook to join our team in Tacoma, Washington.

Per Diem Benefits - Employee Assistance Program (up to 6 consultations a year) and paid sick leave.

Scope

Pearl Youth Residence is a positive learning place for youth, families, and staff. The program serves youth ages 12-17 from all around Washington state. 

The cooks prepare meals for residents and staff. They ensure the goals and objectives of the dietary programs are implemented. They serve as a member of an organization that welcomes, engages, and serves individuals with complex wellness needs.

Responsibilities

  • Prepare, cook, and serve meals and snacks for residents and staff.
  • Ensure cleanup of meals and snacks.
  • Ensure that food services comply with dietary program and/or dietician recommendations.
  • Maintain sanitary conditions that comply with State and Federal regulations. 
  • Track and record temperatures of prepared food and food storage equipment.
  • Participate in meal preparations, maintaining equipment, and monitoring food supplies.
  • Ensure that ethical and professional standards of practice are maintained by following all CLR and Pearl Youth Residence policies and seeking regular consultation.
  • In addition to the above, perform other duties as assigned.
  • Attend all assigned meetings, staff meetings, and designated staff training and consultation sessions.

Qualifications

  • Minimum of one year's experience working in a food service capacity recommended.
  • Current Food Handler’s Permit or ability to acquire one.
  • Ability to work independently, take initiative, and maintain confidentiality.
  • Annual flu shot and TB test verification and willing to follow other measures as directed by Infection Control Manager.

Comprehensive Life Resources is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.  We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, veteran status, disability status, and any other applicable legally protected characteristics and or class.



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