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School Cook Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

Fulenwider Enterprises

Cook

Holley, NY · On-site

$12.75 - $17/hr

Prepares world-famous chicken that is cooked to order or kept warm until ordered and sold ... High school or vocational school coursework in kitchen basics, such as food safety, preferred.

Victor Central School District

Assistant Cook

Victor, NY · On-site

$16.39/hr

Food Service/Assistant Cook Date Posted: 7/23/2026 Location: Food Service Closing Date: until ... Contracts can be found on the Victor Central School District website under the Human Resources tab.

Churchville-Chili Central School District

Cook Manager

NY · On-site

$20.57 - $21.57/hr

Under the direction of the Director of Nutritional Services, the Cook Manger is responsible for all food production services and functions in a small kitchen facility within the school. The Cook ...

Confidence Management Systems

Cook

Batavia, NY · On-site

$18/hr

High school diploma or general education degree (GED). * ServSafe Certification preferred or will become ServSafe certified after hired. * 1 year Nursing Home, Senior Living, Hospital, or Healthcare ...

Confidence Management Systems

Cook

Batavia, NY

$18/hr

High school diploma or general education degree (GED). * ServSafe Certification preferred or will become ServSafe certified after hired. * 1 year Nursing Home, Senior Living, Hospital, or Healthcare ...

Confidence Management Systems

Cook

Batavia, NY · On-site

$18/hr

High school diploma or general education degree (GED). * ServSafe Certification preferred or will become ServSafe certified after hired. * 1 year Nursing Home, Senior Living, Hospital, or Healthcare ...

IHOP

Cook

Rochester, NY

$18/hr

Must carry at least a high school diploma. Responsibilities of a Cook:: Maintaining a sanitized and well-organized kitchen. Preparing workstations for cooking. Preparing and maintaining kitchen ...

IHOP

Cook

Rochester, NY · On-site

$18/hr

Must carry at least a high school diploma. Responsibilities of a Cook:: Maintaining a sanitized and well-organized kitchen. Preparing workstations for cooking. Preparing and maintaining kitchen ...

Metz Culinary Management

Cook

Rochester, NY · On-site

$13.75 - $18.50/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 ...

Crest Manor Living & Rehab

Cook

Fairport, NY

$17.50/hr

High school Diploma or GED. Experience: One year cooking and Managerial experience required. Two years of cooking and Managerial experience preferred. Skills : Ability to read, write, and do simple ...

Oak Hill Country Club

Cook

Rochester, NY · On-site

$17 - $24/hr

Whether you're a recent culinary school graduate looking to gain hands-on experience or an experienced cook interested in transitioning into the country club environment, we'd love to meet you. This ...

Confidence Management Systems

Cook

Batavia, NY

$18/hr

Cook Full-Time and Part-time Positions Available. Apply Today! Nursing Home, Senior Living ... High school diploma or general education degree (GED). * ServSafe Certification preferred or will ...

Nexdine Hospitality

Cook

Rochester, NY · On-site

$18.75/hr

... schools, higher education, senior living, and hospitals nationwide. We put our people first to ... Cook Location: Rochester, NY Hours Per Week: Full Time Starting Pay Rate: $18.75/hr Pay Frequency:

Monroe One BOCES

Assistant Cook

Fairport, NY · On-site

$16 - $22.59/hr

DUTIES: 1. Cook and supervise the work of Food Service personnel in the absence of the Cook Manager. 2. Assist in the preparation and service of food served in the school food service department. 3. ...

Blossom Healthcare Center

Cook

Rochester, NY

Preparation, cooking, and service of a variety of foods. * Baking a variety of rolls, cookies ... High School Diploma or Equivalent. * Should be a strong team player. * Excellent customer service ...

AMF

Cook

Fairport, NY · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

Join us as a Cook and become part of a vibrant atmosphere filled with dynamic experiences and ... High School Diploma or Equivalent (Optional) * Well-developed interpersonal skills and a commitment ...

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All JobsSchool Cook JobsSchool Cook Jobs in Rochester, NY

School Cook information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$10

$16

$22

How much do school cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for school cook in Rochester, NY is $16.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.94 and $18.89 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.

More about School Cook jobs
What are popular job titles related to School Cook jobs in Rochester, NY? For School Cook jobs in Rochester, NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching School Cook jobs in Rochester, NY look for? The top searched job categories for School Cook jobs in Rochester, NY are:
What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for School Cook jobs? Cities near Rochester, NY with the most School Cook job openings:
School Cook jobs near you
Infographic showing various School Cook job openings in Rochester, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 58% Full Time, and 42% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $34,713 per year, or $16.7 per hour.

Assistant Cook Manager - Martha Brown Middle School

Fairport Central School District

Fairport, NY • On-site

$18.25/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Position Type:
Food Service/Assistant Cook Manager
Date Posted:
7/13/2026
Location:
Martha Brown Middle School
Date Available:
08/31/2026
Closing Date:
08/28/2026
Hours
Full Time
School Year Availability (10 months)
Monday - Friday
7.5 hours/day
7:00 am -2:30 pm
Salary
Minimum $18.25/hour
Based on related experience, plus full time benefits
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
EITHER:
(A) Successful completion of a recognized certificate program in Food Service Administration specifically dealing in Food Production rather than Management; OR,
(B) One (1) year paid full-time or its part-time equivalent experience in food preparation on a large scale for a cafeteria, restaurant, hotel, or institution, other than short order or fast food.
NOTE: Applicants qualifying under option (A) must submit a copy of a certificate or diploma in support of satisfactory program completion.
ADDITIONAL QUALIFICATIONS
*Ability to supervise staff;
*Knowledge of principles of nutrition and a balanced diet;
*Possess the basic computer skills necessary to perform management duties;
*Possess the ability and desire to work in a fast paced production and serving environment;
*Previous catering experience
*Ability to promote a positive work environment
*Must be Sanitation Certified - Serve Safe
JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
*Function as a Manager in the absence of a Manager;
*Assist in the preparation and service of foods for consumption in the school food service program;
*Assist the Managers with routine management functions including but not limited to menu forecasting, production planning and scheduling, inventory management, stock and delivery management, cash and meal accountability, and other management duties as assigned by the Cook Manager;
*Participates in the maintenance of acceptable health, safety and sanitary practices as required by various regulatory agencies;
*Participates in the care and safe operation of the equipment assigned to the School Food Service program;
*Ability to follow oral and written instructions;
*Assist the Manager with catering activities that may be scheduled before, during and after regular hours plus evenings and non-school days;
*Participate in Management Activities and Meetings;
*Ability to receive and make change and operate point of sale terminal;
*Physical condition commensurate with the lifting demands of the position;
*Daily attendance is expected
The Fairport Central School District is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. The District is committed to achieving a more diverse workforce. Candidates of diverse backgrounds and experience are strongly encouraged to apply.

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