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School Cook Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

Gates Chili Central School District

Cook

Rochester, NY · On-site

$17.65/hr

The Gates Chili Central School District is dedicated to fostering curiosity, growth, and diversity ... Cook- Walt Disney Position Purpose: This is a food service position responsible for the preparation ...

Monroe County, NY

Cook

Rochester, NY · On-site

$40K - $51K/yr

When assigned to an educational facility, the Cook may either be the responsible food service employee in an elementary school or work under the general supervision of a Cook Manager in an elementary ...

Greece Central School District

Cook

Rochester, NY · On-site

$19/hr

Greece Central School District welcomes stakeholders who can collaborate with other staff to ensure that our policies, regulations, practices, programs and services promote equity, inclusion, and ...

Greece Central School District

Cook

North Greece, NY

$19/hr

The Greece Central School District believes that all students benefit from a culture where ... Cook (Non-Competitive) Minimum Requirements: EITHER: (A) Graduation from a regionally accredited or ...

Victor Central School District

Head Cook

Victor, NY · On-site

$16.98/hr

Regular use of school email * General Cook assignments * Prepares and cooks a variety of food * Bakes cakes, pies, rolls, and a variety of other pastries * Cuts, cleans and dresses meat, fish, and ...

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

Head Cook

Victor, NY · On-site

$16.98/hr

Regular use of school email * General Cook assignments * Prepares and cooks a variety of food * Bakes cakes, pies, rolls, and a variety of other pastries * Cuts, cleans and dresses meat, fish, and ...

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How much do school cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for school cook in Rochester, NY is $15.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.27 and $18.03 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 Rochester, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 60% Full Time, and 40% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $33,090 per year, or $15.9 per hour.

Cook Manager - High School

Brockport Central School District

Brockport, NY • On-site

$21.50/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Position Type:
Food Service/Cook Manager
Date Posted:
8/27/2026
Location:
Food Service
Location: Oliver Middle School
Hours Per Day: 8.00 (6:00 - 2:30)
Work Year: 10 Months -- Off during school breaks.
Minimum Pay Rate: $21.50/Hour
Classification: Non-Competitive
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITY:
This is an important food service position involving responsibility for the supervision, coordination and participation in the preparation, cooking and service of hot and cold foods to students and faculty in a school lunch room or cafeteria. The work is performed under the general supervision of a Food Service Director. Direct supervision is exercised over Cooks, Assistant Cooks and Food Service Helpers. Does related work as required.
JOB RESPONSIBILITIES: (All need not be performed in a given position. Other related activities may be performed although not listed.)
  • Supervises and coordinates the activities of workers engaged in preparing, cooking, and serving meals.
  • Participates in the preparation, cooking, and serving of meals.
  • Supervises the preservation and storage of food.
  • Orders food and supplies.
  • Coordinates and insures adherence to safety and sanitary procedures in the food preparation area.
  • Supervises and participates in the cleaning and care of kitchen equipment.
  • Supervises the training of kitchen staff, has responsibility for evaluating building employees.
  • Maintains records of inventory, production, daily meal counts and sales.
  • Maintains time and payroll records.
  • Plans work schedule.
  • Understands and operates computerized cash register system.
  • Catering large events.

QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Either:

A. Graduation from a regionally accredited or New York State registered college or university with an Associate's degree in Food Service Administration, plus one (1) year of paid full-time or its part-time equivalent experience in the preparation and cooking of a complete menu of foodstuffs for consumption on a large scale for a restaurant, hotel or institution, other than short order or fast food; OR,
B. Graduation from high school or possession of a high school equivalency diploma, plus three (3) years of paid full-time or its part-time equivalent experience in the preparation and cooking of a complete menu of foodstuffs for consumption on a large scale for a restaurant, hotel or institution, other than short order or fast food, OR ,
C. An equivalent combination of training and experience as defined by the limits of (A) and (B) above.
NOTE: Where the educational requirement is not met, additional experience as described in (A) may be substituted on a year-for-year basis.
  • The ability to work independently and manage time effectively.
  • The ability to work collaboratively with peers and colleagues.
  • The ability to carry out oral and written instructions.
  • The ability to lift a minimum of 50-60 pounds.
  • Displays a positive attitude and builds healthy relationships with students, staff and families.
  • Servsafe Certified (desired qualification or willing to obtain after permanent hire).
  • Ability to supervise staff.
  • Knowledge of the principles of nutrition and a balanced diet.
  • Understand meal components for reimbursable breakfasts and lunches.
  • Understanding of basic food safety and sanitation.
  • Possess the basic computer skills necessary to perform management duties.
  • Daily attendance is expected.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: If you are appointed, you will be required to have a valid license to operate a motor vehicle in New York State or otherwise demonstrate your capacity to meet the transportation needs of the job.
FLSA: Non-Exempt

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