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Short Order Cook Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Tailgate Grill

Cook

Waynesboro, VA · On-site

$13/hr

Looking for hard working, team players with short order cook experience on flat top grill and gas fryers. Candidates should be goal oriented with great time management. We are looking for individuals ...

Crater Youth Care Commission

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Detention Cook

Disputanta, VA · On-site

$35K - $40K/yr

Proven experience as a Line Cook, Prep Cook, or Short Order Cook. * Certification: Active Food Handler certification or ServeSafe certification is highly preferred. * Knowledge: Strong understanding ...

Crater Youth Care Commission

Be Seen First

Detention Cook

Disputanta, VA · On-site

$35K - $40K/yr

Proven experience as a Line Cook, Prep Cook, or Short Order Cook. * Certification: Active Food Handler certification or ServeSafe certification is highly preferred. * Knowledge: Strong understanding ...

Riverside Health System

Cook - Mathews

Mathews, VA · On-site

$16.80 - $21.83/hr

Demonstrate the competence to complete prep work including, but not limited to slicing deli meat, chopping vegetables, preparing salads and sandwiches, short order grill cook, specialty pizza prep ...

Riverside Health System

Cook

Hampton, VA · On-site

$17.50 - $22.75/hr

Demonstrate the competence to complete prep work including, but not limited to slicing deli meat, chopping vegetables, preparing salads and sandwiches, short order grill cook, specialty pizza prep ...

Sentara Healthcare

Cook

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$12.75 - $16.25/hr

Sentara Leigh Hospital is hiring a Full-time Cook to work Rotating Shifts for the Food Services ... Short-Term Disability, and Critical Illness plans • Life Insurance • 401k/403B with Employer ...

Sentara

Cook

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$14.50 - $18.50/hr

Sentara Norfolk General Hospital is hiring a Full-time Cook for the Food Service Department Shift ... Short-Term Disability, and Critical Illness plans Life Insurance 401k/403B with Employer Match ...

Sentara Healthcare

Cook

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$14.50 - $18.50/hr

Sentara Norfolk General Hospital is hiring a Full-time Cook for the Food Service Department Shift ... Short-Term Disability, and Critical Illness plans • Life Insurance • 401k/403B with Employer ...

Sentara

Cook

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$14.50 - $18.50/hr

Sentara Norfolk General Hospital is hiring a Full-time Cook for the Food Service Department. Shift ... Short-Term Disability, and Critical Illness plans Life Insurance 401k/403B with Employer Match ...

Sentara Healthcare

Cook

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$14.50 - $18.50/hr

Sentara Norfolk General Hospital is hiring a Full-time Cook for the Food Service Department. Shift ... Short-Term Disability, and Critical Illness plans • Life Insurance • 401k/403B with Employer ...

Sentara

Cook

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$14.50 - $18.50/hr

Sentara Norfolk General Hospital is hiring a Full-time Cook for the Food Service Department. Shift ... Short-Term Disability, and Critical Illness plans Life Insurance 401k/403B with Employer Match ...

Sentara

Cook

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$14.50 - $18.50/hr

Sentara Norfolk General Hospital is hiring a Full-time Cook for the Food Service Department Shift ... Short-Term Disability, and Critical Illness plans Life Insurance 401k/403B with Employer Match ...

Sentara Healthcare

Cook

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$14.50 - $18.50/hr

Sentara Norfolk General Hospital is hiring a Full-time Cook for the Food Service Department Shift ... Short-Term Disability, and Critical Illness plans • Life Insurance • 401k/403B with Employer ...

Sentara

Cook

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$14.50 - $18.50/hr

Sentara Norfolk General Hospital is hiring a Full-time Cook for the Food Service Department Shift ... Short-Term Disability, and Critical Illness plans Life Insurance 401k/403B with Employer Match ...

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All JobsShort Order Cook JobsShort Order Cook Jobs in Virginia

Short Order Cook information

See Virginia salary details

$8

$16

$23

How much do short order cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for short order cook in Virginia is $16.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.04 and $18.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a short order cook?

Short order cooks are kitchen professionals who specialize in quickly preparing simple dishes that are typically easy to assemble and cook, such as breakfast items, sandwiches, burgers, and salads. They usually work in diners, cafes, or fast-food restaurants where speed and efficiency are essential. Short order cooks must be able to multitask, work well under pressure, and maintain high food quality and safety standards. Their role is crucial for establishments that offer quick service to customers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a short order cook, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Short Order Cook, you need solid knowledge of food preparation, safe handling practices, and the ability to work quickly in high-pressure kitchen environments, often requiring a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with kitchen equipment such as grills, fryers, and point-of-sale (POS) systems is typical, and food safety certification is highly valued. Strong multitasking, communication, and teamwork skills help you excel during busy service times. These abilities are crucial for maintaining food quality, safety, and efficient service in fast-paced restaurant settings.

What are some common challenges short order cooks face during busy meal periods, and how can they manage them effectively?

Short order cooks often experience fast-paced, high-pressure environments, especially during peak meal times. Managing multiple orders simultaneously, maintaining consistency and speed, and communicating efficiently with waitstaff can be challenging. Successful short order cooks prioritize organization, keep their workstations prepped, and use clear short-hand with team members to stay on top of orders. Adapting quickly and staying calm under pressure are essential for delivering quality food and ensuring customer satisfaction.

What is the difference between Short Order Cook vs Line Cook?

AspectShort Order CookLine Cook
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; food safety certification often preferredHigh school diploma or equivalent; food safety certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentFast-paced, quick-service restaurants, diners, cafesRestaurants, cafes, hotels, often working on specific station
Job DutiesPrepare quick, simple dishes like burgers, sandwiches, breakfast itemsPrepare a variety of dishes on a specific station, often more complex
Industry UsageCommon in casual dining and fast-food settingsCommon in full-service restaurants and hotels

Both roles require similar certifications and work in fast-paced environments, but a Short Order Cook focuses on quick, simple dishes in casual settings, while a Line Cook handles more complex dishes on a specific station in full-service restaurants.

How do you become a short order cook?

To become a short order cook, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and some experience in food preparation. Many employers provide on-the-job training, and skills such as multitasking, knife handling, and knowledge of food safety are important. Some may pursue culinary courses or certifications to enhance their prospects.

How much does a short order cook make?

A short order cook typically earns an average hourly wage between $10 and $15, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $20,000 to $30,000. Wages can vary based on experience, location, and the establishment's size and type.

Is being a short order cook hard?

Being a short order cook involves fast-paced work, multitasking, and attention to food safety and cleanliness. The job requires quick decision-making, stamina, and the ability to work under pressure, often during busy meal times. Experience with kitchen tools and basic cooking skills are helpful for success in this role.

What are popular job titles related to Short Order Cook jobs in Virginia?

For Short Order Cook jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Short Order Cook jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Short Order Cook jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Short Order Cook jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Short Order Cook job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Short Order Cook jobs in VA?

For Short Order Cook jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Short Order Cook jobs near you
Infographic showing various Short Order Cook job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,692 per year, or $16.2 per hour.

Line Cook - Short Order Cook

Galaxy Strikes Bowling Center LLC

Warrenton, VA • On-site

$15/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

Benefits:
  • Employee discounts
  • Free uniforms
  • Training & development

Job Summary
We are seeking a part-time Short Order Cook to join the team at our Café at Galaxy Strikes Bowling Center.  In this position, you will be responsible for using high-quality ingredients to prepare our enticing menu items for our customers. The ideal candidate is experienced, a team player, and committed to creating an excellent experience for patrons. 
Duties and Responsibilities: 

  • Prepare food and present it in an appealing manner
  • Maintain appropriate levels of inventory and restock when necessary
  • Follow all food safety regulations
  • Participate in daily kitchen opening and closing procedures
  • Performs other duties as assigned by the Café Manager or Center management  
Qualifications: 

  • Previous experience in a similar role is preferred
  • Applicant must be at least 18 years old
  • ServeSafe or Food Handler’s Certification not required but should be willing to obtain.  Materials to study and cost for testing provided by Galaxy Strikes
  • Ability to remain calm and thrive under pressure
  • Excellent time management skills