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School Cook Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

Cook

Geneseo, NY · On-site

$17.30/hr

CAMPUS AUXILIARY SERVICES AT SUNY GENESEO CAREER OPPORTUNITY COOK JOIN CAMPUS AUXILIARY SERVICES AT ... Minimum - High School Diploma/GED or equivalent combination education and/or experience * Has ...

Cook

Geneseo, NY · On-site

$17.30/hr

CAMPUS AUXILIARY SERVICES AT SUNY GENESEO CAREER OPPORTUNITY COOK JOIN CAMPUS AUXILIARY SERVICES AT ... Minimum - High School Diploma/GED or equivalent combination education and/or experience * Has ...

Cook

Rochester, NY · On-site

$18.50 - $23.50/hr

Education: High school diploma. Associate, technical, trade or vocational school degree, or ... Two years cooking experience preferred. * Skills: Ability to read, write, and do simple math ...

Cook

Rochester, NY · On-site

$18.50 - $23.50/hr

Education: High school diploma. Associate, technical, trade or vocational school degree, or ... Two years cooking experience preferred. * Skills: Ability to read, write, and do simple math ...

Line Cook

Rochester, NY

$16 - $19.65/hr

High school diploma or equivalent * 2 - 3 years experience in all aspects of cooking in fine dining restaurants, hotel or senior community * Knowledge of cooking methods and procedures * ability to ...

Line Cook

Rochester, NY · On-site

$16 - $19.65/hr

High school diploma or equivalent * 2 - 3 years experience in all aspects of cooking in fine dining restaurants, hotel or senior community * Knowledge of cooking methods and procedures * ability to ...

Minimum of high school diploma preferred Why Join Mamma G's: * Flexible schedule to accommodate ... talented cook with a passion for Italian cuisine, we would love to hear from you! Apply now and ...

Cook

Rochester, NY

$13.50 - $18.25/hr

Cook Immediate Supervisor: Manager on Duty (MOD) Status: Nonexempt Position Summary: This position cooks, prepares, and packages product. Essential Job Duties: * Cook, prepare, and package food ...

Cook

Rochester, NY · On-site

$13.50 - $18.25/hr

Cook Immediate Supervisor: Manager on Duty (MOD) Status: Nonexempt Position Summary: This position cooks, prepares, and packages product. Essential Job Duties: * Cook, prepare, and package food ...

Cook

Rochester, NY · On-site

$13.50 - $18.25/hr

Cook Immediate Supervisor: Manager on Duty (MOD) Status: Nonexempt Position Summary: This position cooks, prepares, and packages product. Essential Job Duties: * Cook, prepare, and package food ...

Cook

Rochester, NY · On-site

$13.50 - $18.25/hr

Cook Immediate Supervisor: Manager on Duty (MOD) Status: Nonexempt Position Summary: This position cooks, prepares, and packages product. Essential Job Duties: * Cook, prepare, and package food ...

Cook

Irondequoit, NY · On-site

$17 - $18/hr

Cook Location: Irondequoit, NY Company: Cirrus Manor Job Summary: We are seeking a highly skilled and dedicated Cook to join our culinary team at Cirrus Manor. As a key member of our food service ...

Cook

Rochester, NY · On-site

$13.75 - $18.50/hr

Minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent. Experience: 1 year of cooking/food prep experience. A combination of related training and experience may be substituted. Physical/Mental Abilities:

Cook

Rochester, NY

$13.75 - $18.50/hr

Minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent. Experience: 1 year of cooking/food prep experience. A combination of related training and experience may be substituted. Physical/Mental Abilities:

Cook

Rochester, NY · On-site

$13.75 - $18.50/hr

Minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent. Experience: 1 year of cooking/food prep experience. A combination of related training and experience may be substituted. Physical/Mental Abilities:

Showing results 41-60

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.

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:
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.

$17.30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

CAMPUS AUXILIARY SERVICES AT SUNY GENESEO CAREER OPPORTUNITY 

COOK  

JOIN CAMPUS AUXILIARY SERVICES AT SUNY GENESEO! 

Our people are the lifeline of the organization. We are committed to continuously developing our employees in an environment of trust and integrity. We strive to cultivate a culture that produces inclusivity, passion, celebration of accomplishments and strong communication. As a teammate in our culinary and dining services, operations or administration teams, you will have the opportunity to utilize skills in the areas of exceptional customer service, team collaboration, adaptability and determination. As one of our teammates, you not only have the opportunity to serve others and immerse yourself in the organization – you get paid to make a true difference! 

OUR MISSION:

We provide essential services that positively impact campus life and all who engage in our community, including students, faculty, staff, guests, and friends of the college.

OUR VALUES:

Our pursuit of excellence will reinforce SUNY Geneseo's vision of being a distinctive, equity-centered, public honors college by providing quality services and supporting innovative and transformative experiences in an inclusive community.

We Value COMMUNITY

We Embrace ACCEPTANCE

We Pursue SUCCESS

PURPOSE

The cook is directly responsible to the Food Production and Operations Supervisors or to Management in charge of the cooking and overall responsibility of the assigned position which includes food preparation, presentation and service.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS 

  • Meets with Chef Assistant and/or management to discuss needs of the shift or position
  • Gives clear instructions to supervised subordinates in all phases of food preparation and cooking
  • Determines amounts of food to be prepared according to formula to meet menu requirement
  • May reassign job duties among kitchen production personnel in order to complete the necessary production
  • Consults with supervisor to requisition food supplies as needed
  • Utilizes leftovers effectively daily
  • Inspects kitchen to insure proper preparation and utilization of food to maintain high standards of sanitation
  • Insures that NYS health codes are adhered to in all food preparation and food service areas
  • May perform other related tasks. These may include but are not limited to:  working on the serving line, washing dishes or pots and pans, operating a cash register, putting away food stock
  • Trains personnel and may personally perform cooking duties and related tasks as required including special projects
  • May be required to secure building at the end of the shift or to unlock it at the beginning of a work shift which includes all lights to be turned on or off
  • May assist with providing guidance/direction to the other employees.  This includes those in lower grades as well and casual and student employees.
  • The Grade 12 Cook is expected to fill the duty of a Grade 14 Chef Assistant in the absence of that position
  • Other duties may be assigned to reach individual and organizational goals.

SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES

  • Customer service
  • Interpersonal skills
  • Oral communication
  • Attendance and punctuality
  • Dependability
  • Sound and accurate judgment
  • Planning and organizational skills

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE 

  • Minimum – High School Diploma/GED or equivalent combination education and/or experience
  • Has knowledge of at least four production departments
  • Is actively able to give clear concise directions. Leads and delegate tasks.
  • Has two years’ experience as a Grade 10 Food Production Worker or one year experience as a Grade 11 Food Production Assistant
  • ServeSafe certification within six months of position

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS  

  • Ability to stand or sit for prolonged periods of time
  • Ability to lift and move up to 50 pounds occasionally
  • Occasional computer use (Microsoft word/Excel)

SCOPE AND DIRECTION 

  • Reports to: CAS Restaurants and Cafes Management
  • Direct Reports: None
  • FSLA Status: Hourly
  • Rate of Pay: $17.30 per hour

BENEFITS PACKAGE

  • Comprehensive health and wellness including health, dental, vision, FSA or HSA for full time employees 
  • Retirement savings
  • Life/Disability Insurance 
  • Generous paid time off 
  • Complimentary dining at our on-campus restaurants and cafes 
  • Career growth opportunities 
  • My Better Benefits discount services 
  • Complimentary uniform and shoe allowances when applicable

In support of the ADA, this job description lists only the responsibilities and qualifications deemed essential to the position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Campus Auxiliary Services is an Equal Opportunity Employer. This policy prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex, race, color, religion, creed, national origin, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender expression and/or identity, disability, genetic predisposition, veteran status or status as a member of any other protected group or activity