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School Cook Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

FACCES

School Cook

Columbus, OH · On-site

Prepare and cook meals according to approved recipes and dietary guidelines Clean and sanitize kitchen surfaces, equipment, appliances, and utensils. Create weekly menus that align with Child and ...

FACCES

School Cook

Columbus, OH · On-site

Prepare and cook meals according to approved recipes and dietary guidelines Clean and sanitize kitchen surfaces, equipment, appliances, and utensils. Create weekly menus that align with Child and ...

Franklin County Board of Developmental Disabilities

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School Cook - Substitute

Columbus, OH · On-site

$18.47/hr

The School Cook operates standard kitchen equipment to prepare meals according to predetermined menus, ensuring nutritional standards and quality. This role involves assisting staff and students in ...

Franklin County Board of Developmental Disabilities

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School Cook - Substitute

Columbus, OH · On-site

$18.47/hr

The School Cook operates standard kitchen equipment to prepare meals according to predetermined menus, ensuring nutritional standards and quality. This role involves assisting staff and students in ...

Hillsdale Local School District

3 Hour Cook

Jeromesville, OH · On-site

$12.25 - $16.25/hr

HILLSDALE LOCAL SCHOOLS COOK 3 hours per day QUALIFICATIONS: 1. High School diploma or general education degree (GED). 2. Training and/or experience in institutional food preparation or equivalent ...

Primrose School

Child Care Teacher

Worthington, OH · On-site

$15 - $16/hr

Meals and snacks for students and staff prepared by school cook * Childcare Discount * Health Insurance, company pays 75% * Dental Insurance * Vision Insurance * Short-Term Disability Insurance ...

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School Cook information

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How much do school cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for school cook in Ohio is $15.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.79 and $17.36 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?

AspectSchool CookCafeteria Worker
CredentialsFood safety certification, culinary skillsFood safety certification, basic food handling
Work EnvironmentKitchen, food prep areasServing lines, dining areas
Employer & IndustrySchools, educational institutionsSchools, cafeterias, food service providers
Job FocusPreparing and cooking mealsServing 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.
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School Cook jobs near you
Infographic showing various School Cook job openings in Ohio as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 34% Full Time, 33% Part Time, and 33% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $31,883 per year, or $15.3 per hour.

School Cook

Columbus, OH • On-site

FACCES
See more jobs at FACCESexternal

Part-time

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Schedule will be anywhere from 25-30hours a week, and must be ok working with children
Here are the details:
Prepare and cook meals according to approved recipes and dietary guidelines
Clean and sanitize kitchen surfaces, equipment, appliances, and utensils.
Create weekly menus that align with Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) and Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) guidelines.
Monitor and maintain inventory of food and supplies, including organizing the kitchen and its inventory.
Supervise kitchen staff and volunteers, providing guidance and support as needed.
Host culinary cooking classes for families and youth, both in-person and virtual.
Qualifications:
Culinary degree or equivalent experience. Previous experience working in a commercial kitchen.
Knowledge of CACFP and SFSP guidelines preferred but not required.
Strong organizational and communication skills.
Ability to work well in a team environment.
Flexibility to adapt to changing circumstances and priorities.
Passion for cooking and promoting healthy eating habits.
Certification in ServSafe or willingness to become certified upon hire and renew certification every five years.
Apply today for immediate consideration!
**Must be able to pass a background screening. **
Department Learning Center Role Chef/Cook Locations The Starting Point, FACCES Employment type Part-time Client The Starting Point

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