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Per Diem Cook Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Cook

Whiting, NJ · On-site

$15.25 - $20.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

) AristaCare is seeking for a Per Diem Cook. In this role, you will prepare food and assure the quality of food is provided in accordance with state/federal guidelines. This role includes cooking, prep ...

Cook - Per Diem

Albany, NY

$14 - $18.50/hr

We are currently seeking a Per Diem Cook prepare high-quality, nutritious meals while supporting the daily operations of our kitchen. This role reports to our Dietary Director. What You'll Do

Cook

Philadelphia, PA · On-site

$14.25 - $19/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We are currently looking for a Pool/Per Diem Cook to join our enthusiastic team at Paul's Run. Paul's Run Retirement Community in Northeast Philadelphia has a reputation as one of the BEST senior ...

Cook

Bristol, RI

$14.50 - $19.50/hr

Full Time, Part Time and Per diem Cook- NEW RATES AND $500 Sign-on Bonus!! Join our team at Dawn Hill Home for Rehab and Nursing, where we are committed to Total Solutions!! We are seeking a talented ...

Per Diem Hospital Cook

Woodsville, NH · On-site

$13.50 - $17.25/hr

Cottage Hospital is seeking a Per Diem Cook to join our Dietary Services team. This position is responsible for preparing and producing meals for patients, employees, visitors, and special hospital ...

Cook

Hot Springs Village, AR · On-site

$11.25 - $15/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

) Per Diem Cook Lake Forest Senior Living at Hot Springs Village Lake Forest Senior Living at Hot Springs Village is dedicated to providing high-quality care and services to our residents. Our team is ...

Cook

Manchester, CT · On-site

$20.69/hr

  • Medical

Seeking a Per Diem Cook. Summary: The primary role of the Cook is to prepare food for the facility residents at scheduled meal times while following appropriate sanitation procedures and therapeutic ...

Cook (PER DIEM)

Chester, CT · On-site

$18.39 - $25/hr

  • PTO

Cook (PER DIEM) Masonicare at Chester Village - Chester, CT Per Diem Benefits include: Cooking Upscale Cuisine with no late nights (out by 8pm daily) Every other weekend off, additional Paid Time Off ...

Cook

Buffalo, NY · On-site

$21.50 - $21.80/hr

  • Retirement

Under the supervision of the Dietary Director, the Cook prepares and serves meals in a timely ... PER_DIEM

Cook

Manchester, CT · On-site

$20.69/hr

  • Medical

) Seeking a Per Diem Cook. Summary: The primary role of the Cook is to prepare food for the facility residents at scheduled meal times while following appropriate sanitation procedures and therapeutic ...

Cook (PER DIEM)

Wallingford, CT · On-site

$17.80 - $25/hr

Cook (PER DIEM) Masonicare Health Center - Wallingford, CT Per Diem - Looking for coverage for days/evenings/weekends The Cook is responsible for food preparation by following approved recipes for ...

Cook

Buffalo, NY

$21.50 - $21.80/hr

  • Retirement

Seneca Square, a DePaul Community Residence-Single Room Occupancy (CR-SRO) Program, is now hiring a per diem Cook! Under the supervision of the Dietary Director, the Cook prepares and serves meals in ...

Showing results 41-60

Per Diem Cook information

See salary details

$8

$16

$22

How much do per diem cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 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 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 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:

$18 - $20/hr

Other

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Come Join Our Team!
The Daughters of Charity, provides a safe, welcoming home for the retired Sisters of the Daughters of Charity Ministries. We offer independent living, assisted living and memory care and our team plays a vital role in creating an environment where Sisters feel respected.
We are currently seeking a Per Diem Cook prepare high-quality, nutritious meals while supporting the daily operations of our kitchen. This role reports to our Dietary Director.
What You'll Do
  • Review menus and assemble foods, supplies and equipment for daily food preparation
  • Follow standardized recipes to achieve the highest quality nutritional meals
  • Evaluate food preparations and confer with the Dietary Director to determine changes needed to improve quality
  • Prepare and cook all entrees: dish out food to achieve effective portion control and optimum utilization of food supplies
  • Perform other tasks as needed/directed to facilitate workflow in the kitchen
  • Inform Dietary Director of problems and needs concerning food supplies and equipment
  • Document temperature of all menu items served on the Daily Record Sheet
  • Complete and document cleaning assignments as scheduled
  • Report supply shortages and low stock levels to the Director

What We're Looking For
We're looking for a dependable, organized, and quality-focused individual who takes pride in preparing meals in a fast-paced kitchen environment. The ideal candidate follows recipes and food safety procedures carefully, demonstrates strong attention to detail, and understands the importance of portion control, cleanliness, and accurate documentation. They should be able to manage multiple priorities, communicate proactively about supply or equipment needs, and work collaboratively with the Dietary Director and other team members. A flexible, team-oriented attitude and willingness to assist wherever needed are essential, along with a genuine commitment to providing consistent, high-quality meals for residents.
Physical Demands: Must be physically able to efficiently perform the duties of the position, which may involve the following: standing and walking over 2/3 of the day, lifting up to 50 lbs., climbing, bending, reaching, and stooping for 1/3 to 2/3 of the day.
Come join us - exciting changes are in the works!