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Summer Cooking Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Lead Evening Cook

Forest City, IA · On-site

$15.75 - $20.25/hr

Summer catering opportunities are available based on operational needs. Typical schedule is 40 ... Provide clear communication and instruction to cooking staff. Must be self-motivated and focused.

Lead Evening Cook

Forest City, IA · On-site

$15.75 - $20.25/hr

Summer catering opportunities are available based on operational needs. Typical schedule is 40 ... Provide clear communication and instruction to cooking staff. Must be self-motivated and focused.

Cook 1

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$15.58 - $22.19/hr

Schedule follows standard school calendar Minimal opportunities to work during summer break. A ... Ability to lift food packages, serving trays, and industrial-sized cooking pans. Works and ...

Cook

Ames, IA

$13.75 - $18.25/hr

This is not a seasonal or summer-only role . * Position Summary * Under general supervision, prepares and cooks hot foods for patients, employees, visitors, community outpatient services and special ...

Cook

Ames, IA · On-site

$13.75 - $18.25/hr

This is not a seasonal or summer-only role . * Position Summary * Under general supervision, prepares and cooks hot foods for patients, employees, visitors, community outpatient services and special ...

COOK (FULL TIME)

Oskaloosa, IA · On-site

$13.25 - $17.50/hr

Previous supervisory and large batch cooking experience is preferred. * Pay Range: $16.00 per hour ... summer breaks when food service needs decline or cease). Any such periods during which you do not ...

COOK

Grimes, IA · On-site

$13.75 - $18.50/hr

Previous cooking and food service experience is required. * Pay Range: $15.00 per hour to $17.00 ... summer breaks when food service needs decline or cease). Any such periods during which you do not ...

COOK (PART TIME)

Grimes, IA · On-site

$13.75 - $18.50/hr

Previous cooking and food service experience is required. * Pay Range: $15.00 per hour to $17.00 ... summer breaks when food service needs decline or cease). Any such periods during which you do not ...

COOK (FULL TIME)

Oskaloosa, IA · On-site

$13.25 - $17.50/hr

Previous supervisory and large batch cooking experience is preferred. * Pay Range: $16.00 per hour ... summer breaks when food service needs decline or cease). Any such periods during which you do not ...

COOK (FULL TIME)

Oskaloosa, IA

$13.25 - $17.50/hr

Previous supervisory and large batch cooking experience is preferred. * Pay Range: $16.00 per hour ... summer breaks when food service needs decline or cease). Any such periods during which you do not ...

COOK (PART TIME)

Grimes, IA

$13.75 - $18.50/hr

Previous cooking and food service experience is required. * Pay Range: $15.00 per hour to $17.00 ... summer breaks when food service needs decline or cease). Any such periods during which you do not ...

COOK (PART TIME)

Grimes, IA · On-site

$13.75 - $18.50/hr

Previous cooking and food service experience is required. * Pay Range: $15.00 per hour to $17.00 ... summer breaks when food service needs decline or cease). Any such periods during which you do not ...

Cashier

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$11.50 - $15.50/hr

Looking for a summer gig that doesn't tie you down? Imagine soaking up the sun and making cash ... cook! Day to day as a Cashier As a Seasonal Cashier at Campbell Concessions in Des Moines, Iowa ...

COOK

Oskaloosa, IA · On-site

$13.25 - $17.50/hr

Previous supervisory and large batch cooking experience is preferred. * Pay Range: $16.00 per hour ... summer breaks when food service needs decline or cease). Any such periods during which you do not ...

Food Service Workers

Forest City, IA · On-site

$13.75 - $16.75/hr

... the summer for catering events or conferences. Part-time hours are available during meal service and catering events. Positions/work available includes areas production cook or preparation ...

Food Service Workers

Forest City, IA

$13.75 - $16.75/hr

... the summer for catering events or conferences. Part-time hours are available during meal service and catering events. Positions/work available includes areas production cook or preparation ...

CASHIER/FOOD SERVICE WORKER

Vinton, IA · On-site

$13.75 - $16.50/hr

... cooks if food temperatures are not within acceptable limits. * Serves hot and cold items to ... summer breaks when food service needs decline or cease). Any such periods during which you do not ...

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Summer Cooking information

See Iowa salary details

$9

$16

$20

How much do summer cooking jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for summer cooking in Iowa is $16.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $17.84 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the summer cooking position, and why are they important?

To thrive in a Summer Cooking position, strong culinary skills, knowledge of food safety, and experience working in a kitchen environment are essential, often supported by a food handler's certificate. Familiarity with kitchen tools, basic cooking equipment, and food preparation systems is commonly required. Effective teamwork, adaptability, and strong time management help individuals excel in high-paced environments and ensure a positive experience for guests or participants. These skills are important to deliver quality meals efficiently and maintain safety standards during busy summer operations.

What is a typical day like for someone working in a summer cooking job?

A typical day in a Summer Cooking role often involves preparing ingredients, cooking meals or snacks, following set menus or recipes, and maintaining a clean kitchen area. Depending on the setting, you may also serve food, interact with campers or guests, and assist in planning themed meals or special events. Collaboration with other kitchen staff and clear communication with supervisors are crucial for smooth daily operations. You'll need to adapt to varying group sizes and dietary needs, keeping the work dynamic and rewarding for those who enjoy a fast-paced, community-oriented environment.

What is a summer cooking job?

A Summer Cooking job typically involves preparing and cooking meals in a seasonal setting, such as a summer camp, resort, or restaurant. Responsibilities may include food prep, following recipes, maintaining kitchen cleanliness, and ensuring food safety. These jobs are often fast-paced and require teamwork. They provide great experience for those interested in the culinary field or looking for temporary seasonal work.

What are the most commonly searched types of Cooking jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Cooking jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Summer Cooking jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Summer Cooking job openings:
Infographic showing various Summer Cooking job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, 32% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $33,421 per year, or $16.1 per hour.

Prep Cook - Part-time

Creative Dining Services

Sioux Center, IA • On-site

$16 - $18/hr

Other

Retirement

Posted 12 days ago


Creative Dining Services rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

31st of 68 rated caterers


Job description

Come Join Us and Be Creative!

Creative Dining Services located on the Dordt University Campus is looking for a Part-time Prep Cook. We are looking for someone who is enthusiastic about cooking and serving people. The hours will be 6 am - 2:30 pm or 9 am - 6 pm, Monday - Friday. Summer hours are reduced and flexible. At Dordt University, we delight in making the best food we can with authentic recipes. Each day is different and exciting. The Prep Cook works within the Dining Services Department to ensure that high quality nutritious food is being provided throughout the operation in a safe manner. The Prep Cook works cooperatively as a valued member of the dining services team, assisting with any aspect of the dining services program necessary.

Core Responsibilities:

  • Prepares food such that all food is ready for use within the established timeframe.
  • Prepares food items according to established recipes and menus in a manner in which preserves food freshness, quality and appeal.
  • Stores and handles food items according to established standards of practice; utilize proper labeling and dating.
  • Maintains production records and temperature logs
  • Maintains a safe, clean and sanitized work area.
  • Communicates needs and concerns regarding food production and kitchen operation to supervisor appropriately, and in a timely manner.
  • Assists in ordering and inventory procedures
  • Puts away/Pulls stock as needed
    The Ideal Candidate Will Have:
  • High School diploma or equivalent, preferred
  • Minimum of 1 year food service experience, preferred
  • ServSafe Certification, preferred but not required
    We Offer:
  • $15 - $18/hour, depending on experience
  • 401(k) with a company match
  • Free meals during your shift
  • Free Dordt Events/Fitness Pass
    About Creative Dining Services
    Creative Dining Services partners with college, universities, Fortune 100 companies, full-service senior living communities, conference centers and K-12 schools and camps to provide a different kind of hospitality and facility management services experience – one that’s fun, innovative, and focused on your community. Why? Because that’s how it should be.
    Creative Dining Services is an Equal Opportunity Employer and Veteran-Friendly!



What Creative Dining Services employees say

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