ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Temp Cook Jobs (NOW HIRING)

TRI-COUNTY COMMUNITY ACTION AGENCY

TEMP COOK

Woodbine, NJ · On-site

$18.65 - $19.75/hr

A parent or member of the target area who shows the potential for performing duties of a cook. * High School diploma or equivalent. ServSafe a plus. * Previous experience in food preparation and ...

TRI-COUNTY COMMUNITY ACTION AGENCY

TEMP COOK

Woodbine, NJ · On-site

$18.65 - $19.75/hr

A parent or member of the target area who shows the potential for performing duties of a cook. * High School diploma or equivalent. ServSafe a plus. * Previous experience in food preparation and ...

State of Oregon

Temporary Cook

Albany, OR · On-site

$3.7K - $5.1K/wk

... Temp Cook Albany, Oregon - Oak Creek YOUTH CORRECTIONAL FACILITY The Oregon Youth Authority is seeking dedicated and skilled Cook to join our team at Oak Creek Youth Correctional Facility where you ...

University of San Diego

Temporary Cook

San Diego, CA · On-site

$17.75 - $19/hr

Temporary Cook Posting #: 5485 Position Status: Part-time temporary Location: San Diego Position Type: Staff, Hospitality Services Position Title & Department: Temporary Cook; Student Affairs ...

University of San Diego

Temporary Cook

San Diego, CA

$14.75 - $20/hr

Temporary Cook Apply now Posting #: 5485 Position Status: Part-time temporary Location: San Diego Position Type: Staff, Hospitality Services Position Title & Department: Temporary Cook; Student ...

SpaceX

Cook - 2nd Shift (Temporary)

Cape Canaveral, FL

$11.75 - $16/hr

COOK - 2ND SHIFT (TEMPORARY) Cook is an entry level line cook position for individuals who are familiar with basic cooking principals and techniques, have a firm understanding of all basic food ...

Datawize Technologies LLC

Cook

Milford, DE · On-site

$13.50 - $18/hr

Record food/refrigerator temperatures and the number of meals prepared each day. · This individual will function as temporary cooks and must be willing to assist with any kitchen duties, including ...

Ocean Beach Health

Cook

Ilwaco, WA

$14.50 - $19.25/hr

Join Our Team as a Part-Time Temporary Cook at Ocean Beach Health! Are you someone who enjoys creating great food and making a difference in people's day? At Ocean Beach Health, our Dietary team ...

Ocean Beach Health

Cook

Ilwaco, WA · On-site

$21 - $33.90/hr

Join Our Team as a Part-Time Temporary Cook at Ocean Beach Health! Are you someone who enjoys creating great food and making a difference in people's day? At Ocean Beach Health, our Dietary team ...

Ocean Beach Health

Cook

Ilwaco, WA · On-site

$21 - $33.90/hr

Join Our Team as a Part-Time Temporary Cook at Ocean Beach Health! Are you someone who enjoys creating great food and making a difference in people's day? At Ocean Beach Health, our Dietary team ...

State of Vermont

Cook C - Temporary

Berlin, VT · On-site

$17 - $23/hr

Overview The Vermont Psychiatric Care Hospital (VPCH) is seeking a Temporary Cook C to work at their Berlin, Vermont location. The kitchen prepares and cooks meals for patients in a 25-bed hospital ...

Casa Angelica

Part-Time Temporary Cook

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$13.50 - $18.25/hr

Description The Daughters of Charity of Canossa are seeking a dependable, caring, and experienced Temporary Cook to join our Convent community for a 90-day assignment , with the possibility of ...

Compass Group

COOK (TEMPORARY)

Saint Peters, MO · On-site

$20/hr

* We are hiring immediately for temporary COOK positions. * Location : Barnes-Jewish Saint Peters Hospital - 10 Hospital Drive, Saint Peters, MO 63376. Note: online applications accepted only.

Compass Group

COOK (TEMPORARY)

Saint Peters, MO

$20/hr

* We are hiring immediately for temporary COOK positions. * Location : Barnes-Jewish Saint Peters Hospital - 10 Hospital Drive, Saint Peters, MO 63376. Note: online applications accepted only.

Compass Group

COOK (TEMPORARY)

Danbury, NC

$17/hr

* We are hiring immediately for a temporary COOK position. * Location : Community Hospital of Stokes - 1570 NC-8, Danbury, NC 27016. Note: online applications accepted only. * Schedule : Temporary ...

Casa Angelica

Part-Time Temporary Cook

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$20/hr

The Daughters of Charity of Canossa are seeking a dependable, caring, and experienced Temporary Cook to join our Convent community for a 90-day assignment , with the possibility of extending the ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsCook JobsTemp Cook Jobs

Temp Cook information

See salary details

$8

$16

$22

How much do temp cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for temp cook in the United States is $16.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.46 and $18.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a temp cook?

Temp cooks are culinary professionals who work on a temporary basis, often filling in for permanent staff at restaurants, catering companies, hotels, or other food service establishments. They may be hired through staffing agencies or directly by businesses to cover short-term needs such as staff shortages, special events, or busy seasons. Temp cooks are expected to quickly adapt to different kitchens, follow recipes and safety standards, and maintain high food quality. Their work can vary from basic food prep to full meal preparation, depending on the assignment. This role offers flexibility and exposure to different culinary environments.

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

To thrive as a Temp Cook, you need solid culinary skills, knowledge of food safety standards, and prior kitchen experience, often supported by a food handler certification. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, point-of-sale (POS) systems, and basic inventory management are commonly required. Strong time management, adaptability, and effective communication help temp cooks excel in varied, fast-paced environments. These skills ensure consistent food quality, safe kitchen operations, and seamless integration into different teams and settings.

How do I become a temp cook with no experience?

To become a temp cook with no experience, start by gaining basic cooking skills through online tutorials or cooking classes. Apply to staffing agencies or temp agencies that place cooks, and be willing to work flexible hours; some positions may require food safety certifications like ServSafe. Demonstrating a positive attitude and willingness to learn can help you secure entry-level temporary cooking jobs.

What is the difference between Temp Cook vs Part-Time Cook?

AspectTemp CookPart-Time Cook
CredentialsFood Handler’s Permit, basic culinary skillsFood Handler’s Permit, basic culinary skills
Work EnvironmentTemporary assignments, varied locationsConsistent schedule, same location
Employment TypeShort-term, project-basedRegular, scheduled hours
Industry UsageEvent catering, seasonal workRestaurants, cafes, catering

Temp Cooks typically work on short-term assignments at various locations, often for events or seasonal needs, requiring similar credentials as part-time cooks. Part-Time Cooks have a regular schedule at a specific establishment, providing consistent service. Both roles require basic culinary skills and food safety certifications, but differ mainly in employment duration and work setting.

What are some common challenges temp cooks face when adapting to new kitchens and teams?

Temp Cooks often work in unfamiliar kitchens with varying equipment, menus, and workflows, which can make it challenging to quickly integrate and perform efficiently. They must be able to learn new procedures rapidly, adapt to different team dynamics, and maintain high standards under time constraints. Strong communication skills and flexibility are essential, as Temp Cooks regularly collaborate with permanent staff and must uphold consistency in food quality despite changing environments.
More about Temp Cook jobs
What cities are hiring for Temp Cook jobs? Cities with the most Temp Cook job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Cook jobs? The most popular types of Cook jobs are:
What states have the most Temp Cook jobs? States with the most job openings for Temp Cook jobs include:
Temp Cook jobs near you
Infographic showing various Temp Cook job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $33,340 per year, or $16 per hour.

TEMP COOK

TRI-COUNTY COMMUNITY ACTION AGENCY

Woodbine, NJ • On-site

$18.65 - $19.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

JOB FUNCTION:

Carry out responsibilities, which ensure that the Center meets Head Start Performance Standards regarding nutrition, CACFP guidelines, and the NJ/PA Licensing Regulations.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

  1. Prepare and serve meals that conform to menus provided by the Nutrition Coordinator, including demonstrating accuracy in weighing, measuring, and portioning food. Also includes thawing and advance preparation of food. Works with the Nutrition Manager/Coordinator regarding substitutions, leftovers, and emergencies; records changes.
  2. Maintain and ensure proper food storage and food handling practices, including fire safety. Works cooperatively with other Food Service staff to evaluate leftovers and plans for use; labels, dates, and store leftovers properly.
  3. Plan and initiate at least one learning activity per week per classroom with the children, which is to be appropriately documented and coordinated with the educational objectives of the week. Learning activities are to be sent to Central Office weekly.
  4. Involve parents in planning and implementation of the Nutrition Program on the local level: Development of local nutrition committee at center level
  5. Semi-annual nutrition education program with parents
  6. Participate in planning session with center staff during weekly staff meeting.
  7. Will be responsible for the cleanliness of the food service area, such as the kitchen, dining area and food storage area.
  8. Maintain food and supply receiving system.
  9. Responsible for accurate monthly equipment and food inventory so reflection may be noted in the purchasing program. May be responsible for placing authorized orders.
  10. Coordination of a volunteer program at the center level for assistance in nutrition program activities.
  11. Meal inventories which reflect the number and type of meals served must be submitted no later than the fifth of the following month.
  12. Ensures the safety of all children by participating in monitoring of center, implementation of child safety procedures, reporting accidents, reporting child abuse or neglect, following Standards of Conduct and reporting any child health/safety concern to supervisor
  13. Hours of position will be based on center location and time of operation.
  14. Wear required uniform, as provided< or similar clothing
  15. Other Head Start duties as required.

QUALIFICATION:

  1. A parent or member of the target area who shows the potential for performing duties of a cook.
  2. High School diploma or equivalent. ServSafe a plus.
  3. Previous experience in food preparation and service.

Apply