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School Cook Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

School Cook - Fuel Young Minds with Every Meal! Monday-Friday | No Nights or Weekends! Are you passionate about cooking and looking for a job that aligns with your life? Join our school nutrition ...

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Cook

Green Bay, WI · On-site

$13.50 - $18.25/hr

High School Graduate/ High school or equivalent * SERVESAFE Certified * Cooking background in long-term care facility and /or Culinary Education * Knowledge of food sanitation and batch cooking ...

Cook

Sister Bay, WI · On-site

$15.25 - $20.50/hr

High School Graduate/ High school or equivalent * SERVESAFE Certified * Cooking background in long-term care facility and /or Culinary Education * Knowledge of food sanitation and batch cooking ...

Associate Cook

Sussex, WI · On-site

$18.36 - $22.82/hr

Maple Avenue Elementary School Date Available: 08/25/2026 Closing Date: until filled STARTING DATE: August 25, 2026 HOURS TO BE WORKED: 7.5 hrs/day, 37.50 hrs/week, 6:00AM - 1:30PM 183 work days per ...

Cook

Rhinelander, WI · On-site

$13.75 - $18.25/hr

Position: Full-Time Cook Available Open Shifts: Full-Time 11:30am - 7:30pm (with every other ... Diploma from a culinary school will be an advantage

Cook

Rhinelander, WI · On-site

$13.75 - $18.25/hr

Position: Full-Time Cook Available Open Shifts: Full-Time 11:30am - 7:30pm (with every other ... Diploma from a culinary school will be an advantage

Cook

Stoughton, WI · On-site

$13.50 - $18.25/hr

About the Role The Cook at Stoughton High School plays a vital role in preparing nutritious and appealing meals for students and staff, ensuring high standards of food quality and safety are ...

Cook

Caledonia, WI

$13.25 - $17.50/hr

The Cook/Line Cook will prepare and cook meal ingredients, simple dishes, condiments, and other ... High school or vocational school coursework in kitchen basics such as food safety, preferred.

Cook

Stoughton, WI · On-site

$13.50 - $18.25/hr

Ultimately, the Cook plays a key role in supporting the health and well-being of the school community through quality food preparation. Job Responsibilities * Prepare and cook meals according to ...

Cook

Oshkosh, WI · On-site

$18/hr

Cook Work Hours: 1:00 PM - 7:00 PM, Monday through Friday, with every other weekend (AM & PM double ... High school diploma or equivalent; Diploma from a culinary school will be an advantage Benefits ...

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The advantage goes to candidates with a diploma from a culinary school. Responsibilities of a Cook: * Maintaining a sanitized and well-organized kitchen. * Preparing workstations for cooking.

The advantage goes to candidates with a diploma from a culinary school. Responsibilities of a Cook: * Maintaining a sanitized and well-organized kitchen. * Preparing workstations for cooking.

Cook

Oshkosh, WI · On-site

$1.8K/hr

Cook Work Hours: 1:00 PM - 7:00 PM, Monday through Friday, with every other weekend (AM & PM double ... High school diploma or equivalent; Diploma from a culinary school will be an advantage Benefits ...

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Cook

Sturtevant, WI · On-site

$13.50 - $18.25/hr

High school diploma or equivalent preferred not required * Ability to cook from scratch and create recipes upon desired request

Cook

Sturtevant, WI · On-site

$13.50 - $18.25/hr

High school diploma or equivalent preferred not required * Ability to cook from scratch and create recipes upon desired request

Cook (Part-Time)

Appleton, WI · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

Cook (Part time) Schedule: 11 am to 7:30 pm | Shifting: Week 1 Tuesday and Saturday, Week 2 Sunday ... Diploma from a culinary school will be an advantage

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School Cook information

See Wisconsin salary details

$10

$16

$21

How much do school cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for school cook in Wisconsin is $16.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.61 and $18.46 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

Is being a school cook hard?

School cooks are responsible for preparing meals in a fast-paced environment, often requiring multitasking and adherence to food safety standards. The job can be physically demanding and may involve early mornings or long hours, but it generally involves routine tasks and basic cooking skills.

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.

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 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 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 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 are popular job titles related to School Cook jobs in Wisconsin? For School Cook jobs in Wisconsin, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Wisconsin are hiring for School Cook jobs? Cities in Wisconsin with the most School Cook job openings:
What are popular job titles related to School Cook jobs in WI? For School Cook jobs in WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various School Cook job openings in Wisconsin as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 72% Full Time, and 26% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $33,851 per year, or $16.3 per hour.

$15/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

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Whitsons Culinary Group rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 60 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

39th of 68 rated caterers


Job description

School Cook - Fuel Young Minds with Every Meal!
Monday-Friday | No Nights or Weekends!

Are you passionate about cooking and looking for a job that aligns with your life? Join our school nutrition team as a Cook and help prepare fresh, nutritious meals that give students the energy to learn and thrive!

What You'll Do:
  • Cook and prepare a variety of meals according to school menus
  • Ensure all food is safely cooked and presented with care
  • Maintain a clean and organized kitchen workspace
  • Work with team members to serve meals in a timely, friendly manner
  • Support special dietary needs and food allergy safety procedures
Why You'll Love This Job:
  • Family-friendly schedule - you're home by mid-afternoon
  • No nights, weekends, or holidays
  • Paid training and steady hours
  • Be part of a mission that matters - healthy meals fuel better learning
  • Friendly, team-oriented school environment
We're Looking For:
  • Basic knowledge of cooking techniques (we'll train the right person!)
  • A commitment to cleanliness and food safety
  • A dependable and positive attitude
  • Comfort working in a school kitchen environment
  • A passion for helping kids grow strong and healthy

Why Join Us?

  • Competitive pay + opportunities for growth
  • Comprehensive benefits: medical, dental, vision, and retirement
  • Paid time off
About Us:

At Whitsons, we believe food has the power to transform a school day. Our cooks are everyday heroes who prepare meals that nourish bodies and minds. Join us and bring your heart to the kitchen where it matters most.

Apply today and help cook up a brighter future-at Whitsons our mission isEnhancing Life One Meal at a Time.

$15/hour

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS AND COMPETENCIES

Education

  • High school diploma or equivalentrequired;must complete allWhitsonsand government-requiredtrainingas necessary.

Experience

  • Minimum 1 year of professional culinary or food service experiencerequired; school nutrition or institutional food service experience preferred.

Certifications

  • ServSafecertificationrequiredor mustobtainwithin a definedtimeframeupon hire; local food safety certificationrequiredin anyjurisdictionof employment.

Other Qualifications

  • Must be proficient in recipe procedures and cooking techniques; ability to speak and read English sufficient to understand and perform job assignments, follow recipes, andcomply withsafety requirements.
  • Alwayspresentsa positive and professional image; ability to work effectively as part of a food service team in a fast-paced kitchen environment; genuine interest in school nutrition and student health.

Core Competencies

  • Culinary Skill & Recipe Adherence:Demonstratesproficiencyin cooking techniques, batch cooking, and recipe execution; consistently meets portioning, presentation, and nutritional compliance standards for every meal served.
  • Food Safety & Compliance:Maintainsrigorous adherence to HACCP,ServSafe, and all applicable food safety and sanitation standards; completes temperature logs and production records accurately and on time every shift.
  • Execution & Reliability:Manages the timing and sequencing of cooking operations to meet meal service deadlines consistently; follows allWhitsonspolicies, production standards, and assigned schedules with accuracy and dependability.
  • Attention to Detail:Demonstratescare in portioning, temperature monitoring, station setup, signage, and documentation; ensures every station is stocked, clean, and properlymaintainedthroughout the service day.
  • Teamwork:Works cooperatively with the Chef Manager and fellow food service workers; contributes to a productive, positive kitchen environment and supports the team in achieving daily service goals.
  • Customer Focus:Takes pride in the quality and presentation of every meal served;maintainsa welcoming, clean, and visually appealing station and understands that student satisfaction and participation are the ultimate measure of success.

WORK ENVIRONMENT AND OTHER DETAILS

Expected Hours of Work

This is a full-time non-exempt position. Days and hours of work are aligned with the school district's food service schedule. Occasional extended hours may berequiredin support ofspecial eventsor operational needs.

Travel Requirements

This position is primarily site-based. Occasional travel to other school locations within the district may berequiredfor substitute coverage or operational support.

Physical Demands of the Job

The Team Member is required to stand on their feet forthe majority ofthe workday; frequently walk, talk, and hear; use hands and fingers to handle food, tools, and equipment; andreach withhands and arms. Must be able to lift and/or move up to 50 pounds, including while turning side to side. Exposure to extreme temperatures (hot and cold) due to cooking and refrigeration equipment. Movement in and out of storerooms and near ovens and freezers is regularlyrequired. Specific vision abilitiesrequiredinclude close vision and the ability to adjust focus. Reasonableaccommodationsmay be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Work Environment

This positionoperatesprimarily in a kitchen and food service production environment.Standing is required forthe majority ofthe workday.The noise level is moderate to loud during meal service periods.

The duties listed above are intended only as illustrations of thevarious typesof workand dutiesthat may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position, andWhitsonsreserves the right to addadditionalduties ormodifyexisting duties.

The job descriptiondoes not constitutean employment agreement betweenWhitsonsandteammemberand is subject to change byWhitsonsas the needs ofWhitsonsand requirements of the job change.


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About Whitsons Culinary Group

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Whitsons Culinary Group, located in Islandia, NY, US, operates in the food service industry, offering a diverse range of services including school nutrition, residential and healthcare dining, prepared meals, emergency dining, and culinary education. First established in 1979, the family-owned company has built a reputation for its bespoke catering services, committed to delivering nutritionally balanced, tastefully diverse and quality assured meals. The company embraces a mission to enrich life one meal at a time, underlined by a focus on food quality, health, wellness, superior service, and social responsibility.

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Islandia, NY, US

Year founded

1979

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