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Professional Cook Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

White Lodging Careers

Entry Level Cook - Repeal

Louisville, KY · On-site

$13.50 - $18/hr

Train as a Culinarian - learning and practicing the full duties of a professional cook in a structured program * Follow company F&B procedures, health department regulations, and federal food safety ...

White Lodging

Entry Level Cook - Repeal

Louisville, KY

$13.50 - $18/hr

Train as a Culinarian - learning and practicing the full duties of a professional cook in a structured program * Follow company F&B procedures, health department regulations, and federal food safety ...

White Lodging

Entry Level Cook - Zombie Taco

Louisville, KY · On-site

$11.50 - $14.75/hr

Train as a Culinarian at Zombie Taco inside Moxy Louisville - learning and practicing the full duties of a professional cook in a structured culinary development program * Follow all White Lodging F ...

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All JobsProfessional Cook JobsProfessional Cook Jobs in Kentucky

Professional Cook information

See Kentucky salary details

$7

$13

$19

How much do professional cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for professional cook in Kentucky is $13.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.68 and $15.67 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Professional Cook vs Line Cook?

AspectProfessional CookLine Cook
CredentialsMay require culinary certifications or trainingOften no formal certification required
Work EnvironmentVaries from restaurants to catering, more supervisory rolesPrimarily kitchen station work in restaurants
Employer & Industry UsageUsed broadly across food service sectorsCommonly used in restaurant kitchens
Job FocusOversees food prep, manages kitchen operationsPrepares specific dishes on the line

While both roles involve cooking, a Professional Cook often has broader responsibilities, including supervision and menu planning, whereas a Line Cook focuses on preparing dishes at a specific station in the kitchen. The Professional Cook typically requires more training or certification and may work in diverse food service settings, while the Line Cook is primarily hands-on in restaurant kitchens.

What does a professional cook do?

A professional cook prepares, cooks, and presents food in restaurants, hotels, or other food service establishments. They follow recipes, ensure food safety standards, and may specialize in specific cuisines or techniques. Strong skills in knife work, time management, and knowledge of kitchen equipment are essential for the role.
What are the most commonly searched types of Cook jobs in Kentucky? The most popular types of Cook jobs in Kentucky are:
What cities in Kentucky are hiring for Professional Cook jobs? Cities in Kentucky with the most Professional Cook job openings:
Infographic showing various Professional Cook job openings in Kentucky as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $28,957 per year, or $13.9 per hour.

Entry Level Cook - Repeal

White Lodging Services Corp

Louisville, KY • On-site

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago

White Lodging rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 44 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

33rd of 108 rated hotels

Job description

Summary:
Enjoy advanced scheduling and the flexibility to swap or pick up shifts easily using our app-perfect for achieving better balance while pursuing your passion in the food and beverage industry!
Launch your culinary career with White Lodging - a hospitality company operating premium hotels, rooftop bars, and restaurants across top U.S. cities. This entry-level cook role is ideal for recent culinary school graduates, career changers, or anyone passionate about food and beverage who wants hands-on training in a professional hotel kitchen. No prior restaurant experience required.
Responsibilities:
What You'll Do
  • Train as a Culinarian - learning and practicing the full duties of a professional cook in a structured program
  • Follow company F&B procedures, health department regulations, and federal food safety guidelines
  • Practice proper food handling, storage, and sanitation procedures
  • Assist in maintaining food cost and labor cost standards
  • Check ingredient freshness; follow all recipes and portion-use records
  • Monitor guest feedback scores and work to positively influence rankings
  • Foster a climate of cooperation and respect among coworkers

What You'll Bring
  • Basic knowledge of commercial kitchen equipment and cooking techniques
  • Foundational skills in sautéing, broiling, frying, roasting, butchery, garde manger, pantry, and breakfast cookery
  • Culinary degree or apprenticeship preferred - not required; we will train the right candidate
  • Ability to stand and move at a fast pace for long periods

Other information:
What You Can Look Forward To
  • DailyPay - get paid when you need it
  • Advanced scheduling with easy shift swapping via our app
  • Unlimited employee referral bonuses
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Paid time off (PTO) with rollover
  • Complimentary wellness tools
  • Leadership development & tuition reimbursement
  • Discounts on hotel rooms, dining, and travel
  • Growth opportunities across multiple hotel properties in your market
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Full-time associates also receive:
    • Medical, dental, and vision insurance - starting day 1
    • Life and disability insurance
    • Paid parental leave

White Lodging is an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all associates.

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