Cook
Florissant, MO · On-site
$20 - $21/hr
... High school diploma or equivalent; culinary training is a plus Physical Requirements: * Ability to stand for extended periods * Lift and carry up to 50 pounds * Work in hot, humid, and noisy ...
Cook
Florissant, MO · On-site
$20 - $21/hr
... High school diploma or equivalent; culinary training is a plus Physical Requirements: * Ability to stand for extended periods * Lift and carry up to 50 pounds * Work in hot, humid, and noisy ...
Cook
Florissant, MO · On-site
$13 - $17.25/hr
... High school diploma or equivalent; culinary training is a plus Physical Requirements: * Ability to stand for extended periods * Lift and carry up to 50 pounds * Work in hot, humid, and noisy ...
Cook
Florissant, MO · On-site
$13 - $17.25/hr
... High school diploma or equivalent; culinary training is a plus Physical Requirements: * Ability to stand for extended periods * Lift and carry up to 50 pounds * Work in hot, humid, and noisy ...
Cook
Joplin, MO · On-site
$12.50 - $16.75/hr
Cook Duties and Responsibilities: * Prepares meals, desserts and snacks in accordance with the ... High school diploma or general education degree (GED) * Must be at least 18 years of age * Must be ...
Quick apply
Cook
Joplin, MO · On-site
$12.50 - $16.75/hr
Cook Duties and Responsibilities: * Prepares meals, desserts and snacks in accordance with the ... High school diploma or general education degree (GED) * Must be at least 18 years of age * Must be ...
Cook
Springfield, MO · On-site
$15 - $17/hr
Cook Duties and Responsibilities: * Prepares meals, desserts and snacks in accordance with the ... High school diploma or general education degree (GED) * Must be at least 18 years of age * Must be ...
Quick apply
Cook
Springfield, MO · On-site
$15 - $17/hr
Cook Duties and Responsibilities: * Prepares meals, desserts and snacks in accordance with the ... High school diploma or general education degree (GED) * Must be at least 18 years of age * Must be ...
Cook
Vienna, MO · On-site
$13.75 - $18.25/hr
Cook Duties and Responsibilities: * Prepares meals, desserts and snacks in accordance with the ... High school diploma or general education degree (GED) * Must be at least 18 years of age * Must be ...
Quick apply
Cook
Vienna, MO · On-site
$13.75 - $18.25/hr
Cook Duties and Responsibilities: * Prepares meals, desserts and snacks in accordance with the ... High school diploma or general education degree (GED) * Must be at least 18 years of age * Must be ...
Cook
Columbia, MO · On-site
$13.25 - $17.75/hr
Cook Duties and Responsibilities: * Prepares meals, desserts and snacks in accordance with the ... High school diploma or general education degree (GED) * Must be at least 18 years of age * Must be ...
Quick apply
Cook
Columbia, MO · On-site
$13.25 - $17.75/hr
Cook Duties and Responsibilities: * Prepares meals, desserts and snacks in accordance with the ... High school diploma or general education degree (GED) * Must be at least 18 years of age * Must be ...
Cook
$12.75 - $17/hr
Cook Duties and Responsibilities: * Prepares meals, desserts and snacks in accordance with the ... High school diploma or general education degree (GED) * Must be at least 18 years of age * Must be ...
Quick apply
Cook
$12.75 - $17/hr
Cook Duties and Responsibilities: * Prepares meals, desserts and snacks in accordance with the ... High school diploma or general education degree (GED) * Must be at least 18 years of age * Must be ...
Cook
Republic, MO · On-site
$13.25 - $18/hr
Cook Duties and Responsibilities: * Prepares meals, desserts and snacks in accordance with the ... High school diploma or general education degree (GED) * Must be at least 18 years of age * Must be ...
Quick apply
Cook
Republic, MO · On-site
$13.25 - $18/hr
Cook Duties and Responsibilities: * Prepares meals, desserts and snacks in accordance with the ... High school diploma or general education degree (GED) * Must be at least 18 years of age * Must be ...
Cook
Washington, MO · On-site
$12.50 - $16.50/hr
Cook Duties and Responsibilities: * Prepares meals, desserts and snacks in accordance with the ... High school diploma or general education degree (GED) * Must be at least 18 years of age * Must be ...
Cook
Washington, MO · On-site
$12.50 - $16.50/hr
Cook Duties and Responsibilities: * Prepares meals, desserts and snacks in accordance with the ... High school diploma or general education degree (GED) * Must be at least 18 years of age * Must be ...
Cook
Pacific, MO · On-site
$12.75 - $17/hr
Cook Duties and Responsibilities: * Prepares meals, desserts and snacks in accordance with the ... High school diploma or general education degree (GED) * Must be at least 18 years of age * Must be ...
Cook
Pacific, MO · On-site
$12.75 - $17/hr
Cook Duties and Responsibilities: * Prepares meals, desserts and snacks in accordance with the ... High school diploma or general education degree (GED) * Must be at least 18 years of age * Must be ...
Cook
Raymore, MO · On-site
$14 - $18.75/hr
This is a great opportunity for Culinary and Hospitality School Grads! Metz Culinary Management is growing and we have openings for Rock Star Cooks who shares our passion for Food and Service. We are ...
Cook
Raymore, MO · On-site
$14 - $18.75/hr
This is a great opportunity for Culinary and Hospitality School Grads! Metz Culinary Management is growing and we have openings for Rock Star Cooks who shares our passion for Food and Service. We are ...
Cook
Cameron, MO · On-site
$13.25 - $17.75/hr
High school diploma or GED preferred * Cooking experience in a large-scale or healthcare required * Knowledge of food safety and sanitation practices Benefits (Full-Time Employees) * Healthcare, ...
Quick apply
Cook
Cameron, MO · On-site
$13.25 - $17.75/hr
High school diploma or GED preferred * Cooking experience in a large-scale or healthcare required * Knowledge of food safety and sanitation practices Benefits (Full-Time Employees) * Healthcare, ...
Cook
Lebanon, MO · On-site
$12.25 - $16.25/hr
Cook Duties and Responsibilities: * Prepares meals, desserts and snacks in accordance with the ... High school diploma or general education degree (GED) * Must be at least 18 years of age * Must be ...
Quick apply
Cook
Lebanon, MO · On-site
$12.25 - $16.25/hr
Cook Duties and Responsibilities: * Prepares meals, desserts and snacks in accordance with the ... High school diploma or general education degree (GED) * Must be at least 18 years of age * Must be ...
Cook
Hollister, MO · On-site
$12 - $16/hr
Cook Duties and Responsibilities: * Prepares meals, desserts and snacks in accordance with the ... High school diploma or general education degree (GED) * Must be at least 18 years of age * Must be ...
Quick apply
Cook
Hollister, MO · On-site
$12 - $16/hr
Cook Duties and Responsibilities: * Prepares meals, desserts and snacks in accordance with the ... High school diploma or general education degree (GED) * Must be at least 18 years of age * Must be ...
Cook
Columbia, MO · On-site
$13.25 - $17.75/hr
Cook Duties and Responsibilities: * Prepares meals, desserts and snacks in accordance with the ... High school diploma or general education degree (GED) * Must be at least 18 years of age * Must be ...
Quick apply
Cook
Columbia, MO · On-site
$13.25 - $17.75/hr
Cook Duties and Responsibilities: * Prepares meals, desserts and snacks in accordance with the ... High school diploma or general education degree (GED) * Must be at least 18 years of age * Must be ...
School Cook information
See Missouri salary details
$9.92 - $10.86
3% of jobs
$10.86 - $11.81
7% of jobs
$12.69 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$11.81 - $12.75
16% of jobs
$12.75 - $13.69
13% of jobs
The median wage is $14.43 / hr.
$13.69 - $14.64
15% of jobs
$14.64 - $15.58
13% of jobs
$15.58 - $16.52
8% of jobs
$16.62 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$16.52 - $17.46
10% of jobs
$17.46 - $18.41
11% of jobs
$18.41 - $19.35
3% of jobs
$19.35 - $20.29
1% of jobs
$9
$15
$20
How much do school cook jobs pay per hour?
As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for school cook in Missouri is $15.12, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.64 and $17.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What is a school cook?
School cooks are food service professionals responsible for preparing and serving meals to students and staff within educational institutions. They follow specific recipes, ensure adherence to nutrition guidelines, and maintain food safety standards. School cooks may also help plan menus, manage inventory, and accommodate special dietary needs. Their role is essential in providing healthy, balanced meals that support students' learning and well-being.
What does a school cook do?
As a school cook, you prepare and serve food for students in a cafeteria. You typically cook lunch in a kitchen every day, but you may also prepare meals for breakfast and provide additional snacks after school or for school events. Your duties include ensuring that you and other cafeteria workers observe food safety and sanitation practices. Other responsibilities involve obtaining and storing ingredients, ensuring that equipment functions properly, and ordering additional supplies as needed. You also plan the menu for foodservice in advance. Schools may require you to continue your education in safe kitchen and food prep practices while employed.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a school cook, and why are they important?
To thrive as a School Cook, you need strong knowledge of nutrition, food preparation, and food safety, typically supported by a high school diploma and food handler certification. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, menu planning software, and inventory management systems is often required. Attention to detail, organization, and the ability to work efficiently as part of a team are essential soft skills. These skills ensure safe, nutritious, and timely meal service to large groups of students while maintaining compliance with health regulations.
What are some common challenges faced by a school cook, and how can they be effectively managed?
School Cooks often face challenges such as preparing large quantities of nutritious meals within tight timeframes and adhering to strict dietary guidelines and food safety regulations. Managing food allergies and accommodating special dietary needs among students can also be demanding. Effective organization, clear communication with staff, and staying updated on food safety protocols are key to overcoming these challenges. Collaborating closely with school nutritionists and kitchen team members helps ensure smooth meal service and a positive dining experience for students.
What is the difference between School Cook vs Cafeteria Worker?
| Aspect | School Cook | Cafeteria Worker |
|---|---|---|
| Credentials | Food safety certification, culinary skills | Food safety certification, basic food handling |
| Work Environment | Kitchen, food prep areas | Serving lines, dining areas |
| Employer & Industry | Schools, educational institutions | Schools, cafeterias, food service providers |
| Job Focus | Preparing and cooking meals | Serving food, assisting with meal distribution |
School Cooks primarily prepare and cook meals in school kitchens, requiring culinary skills and food safety certifications. Cafeteria Workers focus on serving food and assisting with meal distribution in dining areas. While both roles work within school food service environments, School Cooks handle cooking responsibilities, whereas Cafeteria Workers support meal service and customer interaction.
What do school cooks get paid?
School cooks typically earn an average hourly wage ranging from $12 to $20, depending on experience, location, and school district. Salaries can vary based on factors such as certifications, responsibilities, and whether they work full-time or part-time in a school environment.
More about School Cook jobs
What are popular job titles related to School Cook jobs in Missouri?
For School Cook jobs in Missouri, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching School Cook jobs in Missouri look for?
The top searched job categories for School Cook jobs in Missouri are:
What cities in Missouri are hiring for School Cook jobs?
Cities in Missouri with the most School Cook job openings:
What are popular job titles related to School Cook jobs in MO?
For School Cook jobs in MO, the most frequently searched job titles are:
$17.50/hr
Full-time
Posted 3 days ago
New
Job description
Cook – Hiring ASAP!
Rollo,MO
Looking for a steady weekday schedule, consistent hours, and a role where you can make a difference? We’re hiring a Cook to support our school cafeteria team!
What You’ll Do:
- Prepare and cook breakfast and lunch for students
- Assist with food prep (portioning, assembling meals, etc.)
- Ensure meals are prepared according to recipes and quality standards
- Maintain cleanliness of kitchen, serving lines, and dining areas
- Follow all food safety and sanitation guidelines
- Provide friendly and professional service to students and staff
What We’re Looking For:
- Positive attitude and team-oriented mindset
- Ability to work in a fast-paced kitchen environment
- Reliable, punctual, and detail-oriented
- Previous cooking or food service experience preferred (not required)
Schedule & Pay:
- Time and Day: Monday -Friday 10am-6pm
- Pay: $17.50
- Start Date: ASAP
Requirements:
- Reliable transportation
- Ability to pass a background check
- Ability to pass a drug screen
- Must be authorized to work in the U.S.