ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Prison Cook Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Volunteers of America Upstate NY

Cook - RRC

Rochester, NY · On-site

$18.03 - $18.88/hr

... Bureau of Prisons. ESSENTIAL JOB RESPONSIBILTIES: * Prepare and serve meals according to the posted menu and/or directions of the head cook, in a sanitary atmosphere at designated meal times in ...

Amity Foundation

Cook - LACTC - Full Time

Calabasas, CA

$14.75 - $19.75/hr

With this groundbreaking opportunity not only will you be working with our prison program students ... The Cook is responsible for the preparation of all meals, assuring that the meals are prepared on ...

Amity Foundation

Cook - Amistad - Full Time

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$15 - $20.25/hr

With this groundbreaking opportunity not only will you be working with our prison program students ... The Cook is responsible for the preparation of all meals, assuring that the meals are prepared on ...

Working Alternatives Inc

Cook I-PT

Flagstaff, AZ · On-site

$19.83/hr

The Cook I is responsible for ensuring a safe, sanitary environment in the facility kitchen ... Maintain the kitchen in a manner expected by the Bureau of Prisons. * Must be able to lift at least ...

New

Working Alternatives Inc

Cook I-PT

Flagstaff, AZ · On-site

$19.83/hr

The Cook I is responsible for ensuring a safe, sanitary environment in the facility kitchen ... Maintain the kitchen in a manner expected by the Bureau of Prisons. * Must be able to lift at least ...

New

Working Alternatives Inc

Cook I

Flagstaff, AZ · On-site

$19.83/hr

The Cook I is responsible for ensuring a safe, sanitary environment in the facility kitchen ... Maintain the kitchen in a manner expected by the Bureau of Prisons. * Must be able to lift at least ...

Amity Foundation

Cook - LACTC - Full Time

Calabasas, CA · On-site

$14.75 - $19.75/hr

With this groundbreaking opportunity not only will you be working with our prison program students ... The Cook is responsible for the preparation of all meals, assuring that the meals are prepared on ...

Amity Foundation

Cook - LACTC - Part Time

Calabasas, CA · On-site

$14.75 - $19.75/hr

With this groundbreaking opportunity not only will you be working with our prison program students ... The Cook is responsible for the preparation of all meals, assuring that the meals are prepared on ...

Management and Training Corporation

Cook

Chaparral, NM · On-site

$19.27/hr

Management & Training Corporation (MTC) operates the Otero County Prison in Chaparral, New Mexico ... Prepare and cook quantity of food required according to menu and production sheet. * Maintain ...

Management and Training Corporation

Cook

Chaparral, NM · On-site

$19.27/hr

Management & Training Corporation (MTC) operates the Otero County Prison in Chaparral, New Mexico ... Prepare and cook quantity of food required according to menu and production sheet. * Maintain ...

Management and Training Corporation

Cook

Chaparral, NM

$19.27/hr

Management & Training Corporation (MTC) operates the Otero County Prison in Chaparral, New Mexico ... Prepare and cook quantity of food required according to menu and production sheet. * Maintain ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

People also search for

All JobsPrison Cook Jobs

Prison Cook information

See salary details

$8

$16

$22

How much do prison cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for prison 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Prison Cook, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Prison Cook, you need strong culinary skills, food safety knowledge, and experience with large-scale meal preparation, often supported by a food handler's certificate. Familiarity with industrial kitchen equipment, inventory management systems, and adherence to institutional regulations is essential. Attention to detail, time management, and the ability to remain calm and cooperative in a controlled environment are standout soft skills. These abilities ensure safe, efficient meal service that meets nutritional standards while maintaining security and order within the facility.

What are some common challenges faced by a prison cook, and how can they be managed?

Prison cooks often work with limited resources, strict budgets, and must adhere to specific dietary guidelines to accommodate inmates' health needs and religious requirements. Security protocols are a major consideration, as kitchen tools and ingredients are closely monitored. To overcome these challenges, successful prison cooks focus on careful planning, creative use of available ingredients, and close collaboration with correctional officers to maintain safety and efficiency in the kitchen environment.

What are prison cooks?

Prison cooks are individuals responsible for preparing and serving meals to inmates within correctional facilities. They follow strict guidelines to ensure food safety and nutritional standards, often working with limited ingredients and under tight security measures. Prison cooks may be civilian staff or inmates themselves, depending on the facility's policies. Their duties include menu planning, food preparation, cleaning kitchen areas, and adhering to health regulations. The role is crucial for maintaining the well-being of inmates and the smooth operation of the facility.

What is the difference between Prison Cook vs Cafeteria Worker?

AspectPrison CookCafeteria Worker
Required CredentialsFood Handler's Permit, culinary skillsFood Handler's Permit, basic food prep skills
Work EnvironmentCorrectional facility kitchenSchool, hospital, or corporate cafeteria
Employer & IndustryCorrectional institutions

Prison Cooks and Cafeteria Workers both prepare food in institutional settings and require food safety certifications. However, Prison Cooks work specifically within correctional facilities, handling security protocols and specialized menus, while Cafeteria Workers typically serve in educational or healthcare environments with a focus on customer service. Both roles involve food prep and sanitation, but the work environment and security considerations distinguish them.

More about Prison Cook jobs
What cities are hiring for Prison Cook jobs? Cities with the most Prison Cook job openings:
What states have the most Prison Cook jobs? States with the most job openings for Prison Cook jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Prison Cook jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Prison Cook jobs are:
Prison Cook jobs near you
Cook - RRC

Cook - RRC

Volunteers of America Upstate NY

Rochester, NY • On-site

$18.03 - $18.88/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Make a difference in a family's life!
Volunteers of America Upstate New York's continuum of residential programs offer homeless & low-income individuals and families safe housing and support services. We provide long-term solutions to the problems of homelessness, addiction, incarceration, and poverty by helping the people we serve overcome obstacles and develop healthier, more self-sufficient lives.
Cook - Weekends Only
JOB SUMMARY:
To prepare and serve meals that are nutritious and in accordance with the posted menu and/or the directions of the head cook. Maintain an
environment that is sanitary and in compliance with all standards set forth by the New York State regulatory agencies and Volunteers of America of Western New York, Inc. and Federal Bureau of Prisons.
ESSENTIAL JOB RESPONSIBILTIES:
  • Prepare and serve meals according to the posted menu and/or directions of the head cook, in a sanitary atmosphere at designated meal times in accordance with agency policies.
  • Assist in the maintaining of a complete food inventory in accordance with regulatory agencies and Volunteers of America of Western New York, Inc. requirements and assure that all food is rotated and properly labeled clean up the kitchen and other designated areas, after each meal.
  • Maintain cleanliness and proper functioning of kitchen equipment in accordance with regulatory agency and Volunteers of America of Western New York, Inc. regulations.
  • Assist in the preparation and submit a weekly requisition for food stock, assisting in the acquisition of same and the restocking of inventory as it comes into the facility.
  • Treat residents, fellow staff and supervisors with respect and compassion at all times.
  • Other tasks as assigned.
  • Cover shifts as need for full time cooks.

EDUCTION & QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS:
  • High School diploma, GED, or equivalent.
  • 1 year or more of previous cooking experience.
  • Work various shifts, including weekends and holidays.
  • TB test required.
  • Receive Federal Background Clearance
  • Have a valid New York State Drivers license.

VOA provides comprehensive benefits for eligible employees including:
  • Competitive Pay
  • Paid Time Off
  • Health, Dental, Vision Insurance
  • Company Paid Life & LTD Insurance
  • 403(b), & more!

Volunteers of America is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, status as a protected veteran, among other things, or status as a qualified individual with a disability.

Apply